The Beacon Museum
Whitehaven's harbourside museum explores local history, industry, people and science across four floors, with changing exhibitions, family activities and harbour views.
Photos
Tap any photo to open the full gallery.
About The Beacon Museum
The Beacon Museum stands beside Whitehaven Harbour and tells the story of the town and west Cumbria across four floors. Permanent displays cover local people, work, trade, industry and community life, while temporary exhibitions and family activities give visitors reasons to return.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year: 24 October 2026 to 31 January 2027
The Beacon's Harbour Gallery is hosting 100 remarkable nature photographs from the Natural History Museum's internationally recognised competition. Opening just in time for October half-term, the exhibition runs into January 2027, with a planned Christmas closure (exact dates to be confirmed). See our full guide to Wildlife Photographer of the Year in Whitehaven and the exhibition event listing.
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Current standard museum admission: adults £7.50, children aged 4 to 16 £4, concessions £6, family £19; under-3s free. Check official opening hours and booking conditions before visiting.
Opening times
- Tuesday-Saturday: 10am-4.30pm
- Sunday: 11am-4pm
- Monday: closed
Parking
The museum is on West Strand. Beacon Car Park is very close but small; Senhouse Street and North Shore provide useful alternatives for a longer harbour visit. Always check the current tariff and maximum stay on arrival.
Plan a Whitehaven half-day
Allow time for the museum as well as any fixed workshop. The harbour, town centre and nearby parking make it straightforward to combine The Beacon with a wider Whitehaven visit.
Our local note
One of Whitehaven's best all-weather attractions. This weekend is especially strong for families because Heritage Week ends with Viking activities, family-history help and Carboniferous handling sessions.
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