Some of the world's most remarkable wildlife photographs are coming to Whitehaven. The acclaimed Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition opens at The Beacon Museum on Saturday 24 October 2026, bringing 100 extraordinary images of animals, landscapes and the natural world to the Cumbrian coast.
The exhibition is on loan from London's Natural History Museum and runs until Sunday 31 January 2027, although the museum will close for a period over Christmas. It's a brilliant reason to make a return visit to The Beacon, especially if you're looking for an indoor activity during October half-term or a winter weekend.
What will you see at Wildlife Photographer of the Year?
There are 100 photographs to discover, chosen by an international jury from more than 65,000 entries submitted by photographers in 121 countries and territories. The collection offers everything from unexpected animal behaviour and intimate encounters to striking scenes that reveal the diversity of life around the planet.
Some photographs celebrate the beauty of wild places; others prompt questions about the pressures facing wildlife and its habitats. It's the sort of exhibition that encourages you to slow down and look closely, rather than hurry past a wall of pictures.
The competition, which began in 1965, is now in its 62nd year. Its touring exhibition is developed and produced by the Natural History Museum, London. The Whitehaven display is in The Beacon's Harbour Gallery.
When is the exhibition in Whitehaven?
Wildlife Photographer of the Year opens on Saturday 24 October 2026 and is scheduled to run until Sunday 31 January 2027. This isn't a one-day event. You can visit during the museum's normal opening sessions while the exhibition is on display.
Important for Christmas visitors: The Beacon says the museum will be closed over Christmas, with the exact dates still to be confirmed at the time of writing. Check the official opening times before setting off, particularly during school holidays and around New Year.
Tickets and admission prices
The Beacon's published standard museum day admission is:
- Adults: £7.50
- Concessions: £6 for eligible students and visitors aged over 60
- Children aged 4 to 16: £4
- Family ticket: £19 for two adults and two children
- Children under 3: free
These are the museum's general admission prices, not a separately published ticket tariff for this exhibition. Confirm any exhibition-specific booking or charging arrangements on the official booking page before travelling. Annual passes are also available.
Opening times
The Beacon normally opens Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4.30pm, and Sunday, 11am to 4pm. It is generally closed on Mondays. Last admission is 45 minutes before closing, and opening hours may change during school holidays.
If you're planning to visit on a Monday during half-term, check directly with the museum rather than assuming it will be open. The museum's phone number is 01946 592302.
Is the exhibition suitable for children?
Yes, this is an appealing option for families, photographers, nature lovers and anyone who enjoys discovering something unexpected. Some of the photographs may touch on environmental threats and difficult subjects, so parents may want to explore the exhibition together with younger children.
The Beacon has four floors of local history and hands-on displays beyond the temporary exhibition, making it easy to turn the photography visit into a longer indoor outing. For more information about the permanent galleries, facilities and accessibility, see our guide to The Beacon Museum.
Where is The Beacon Museum, and where can you park?
You'll find the museum on West Strand, Whitehaven, CA28 7LY, beside the historic harbour. There is limited pay-and-display parking at the museum, plus further pay-and-display spaces at Quay Street Car Park, around a minute's walk away. Check current tariffs and restrictions on arrival.
Whitehaven railway station is approximately a 15-minute walk around the harbour. If you're visiting by train, the route along the waterfront makes a pleasant start to the day, weather permitting.
It's also easy to combine the exhibition with a wander around the harbour, a stop for coffee or other local attractions. Our Whitehaven destination guide has ideas for exploring the town before or after your museum visit.
Another exhibition is coming to The Beacon
From 31 October 2026, The Beacon also plans to host Pillar 200: 200 Years of Climbing in England and Wales in its Light and Dark Gallery. That exhibition explores two centuries of climbing heritage and offers another reason to return. Check the museum's What's On programme for the latest details.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year, Whitehaven: frequently asked questions
When does Wildlife Photographer of the Year start in Whitehaven?
The touring exhibition begins at The Beacon Museum on 24 October 2026.
When does it finish?
The advertised final date is 31 January 2027, although the museum will close for a period over Christmas.
Is Wildlife Photographer of the Year free?
No, normal museum admission charges apply. Under-3s are admitted free. Check with the museum for any additional exhibition-specific arrangements.
Can I book tickets?
Use The Beacon's official booking service or contact the museum to confirm the right admission option for your chosen date.
How long should I allow?
Allow enough time to enjoy the 100 images without rushing. If you also want to explore the museum's other floors and displays, it's worth planning a longer visit rather than a quick stop.
Plan your visit
For the exhibition dates, current admission information and any changes to holiday opening, head to the official Wildlife Photographer of the Year page. You can also save our Wildlife Photographer of the Year event listing for practical details in one place.
Details verified 23 October 2026 using The Beacon Museum and Cumberland Council. The images in the exhibition are copyright works: any general photograph of the museum shown with this article is illustrative and does not depict the exhibited entries.
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Gallery
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