Published: 24/08/2020
A ‘ROARSOME’ reopening is promised when The Beacon Museum welcomes the public back through its doors this weekend.
The Whitehaven harbourside museum has remained closed since March in line with other similar attractions, but the team is looking forward to Saturday’s reopening with the previously-delayed family exhibition, Bears!
Bears! is a vibrant exhibition full of original sketches and storyboards from some of the world’s best known children’s and young adult authors. Adults will also enjoy the experience as they see original versions of the stories that they themselves grew up with. Add to that a range of interactives and storytelling activities, and a memorable day out is in store.
Alan Irwin, The Beacon Museum’s Business Development Manager, said: “We have taken the time during lockdown to refresh some of our exhibition spaces and review what we do. The landscape for tourism and days out has changed massively and, like many businesses, we have to adapt and improve our offering to the public.
“Now that we are reopening, we need locals and tourists alike to support us in coming to visit, but we also owe it to our audiences to do more in reaching out into the community, and also offering access to local heritage remotely.”
An digital redevelopment of the museum was ongoing prior to lockdown and will now be introduced during the autumn months. Visitors will see a much fresher museum with regular updates and creative things to do. In contrast for 2021, temporary exhibitions will give way to a focus on the Copeland Collection, with new digital exhibits promising exciting changes that tell local stories in new ways.
Mr Irwin added: “I believe this reflects changing demands and we want to see locals reconnect with us once again, and we will listen to them for direction on how they want the unique heritage of Copeland to be passed on.
“And as we recognise the importance of good places to eat for days out, we have also renovated our bistro space to welcome a new hospitality operator during the autumn months, and we will be releasing details of this unique harbourside business opportunity in coming weeks.”
The Beacon Museum reopens at 10am on Saturday, August 29, with last entry each day at 3pm. Social distancing protocols will be in place, and facemasks must be worn, for those who can, within the museum. Capacity restrictions may be enforced in busy times, and a one-way system will be in place.
For up-to-date information on what is on offer at the museum, visit www.thebeacon-whitehaven.co.uk. Please note that events and exhibitions may differ from those described in the previously-distributed annual programme.
Media invitation:
Between August 24 and 28, we welcome any filming, photography or interview enquiries from the media concerning the reopening of the Beacon Museum, including new exhibitions and preparations for reopening.
Reporters will have full access to the museum galleries and a staff representative by arrangement. Please RSVP to alan.irwin@copeland.gov.uk to arrange directly. Please be aware that COVID track and trace, face covering and social distancing protocols will apply to all external visits.
