Beamish, The Living Museum of the North
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Beamish, The Living Museum of the North transports you through open-air history with recreated streets, vintage tram rides and immersive experiences.
Step into the past
Set in 350 acres of rolling County Durham countryside, Beamish invites you to explore life in North East England from the 1820s to the 1950s. Wander through cobbled Edwardian streets, visit a 1950s cinema, or explore a Georgian pottery and tavern. Each area is packed with character and detail.
Get hands-on with history
Ride on a vintage tram or bus, go underground in a coal mine, or visit pit cottages, a farm and heritage shops. With costumed staff and volunteers on hand to share real stories, the past is brought to life in vivid, memorable ways.
Explore at your own pace
Beamish is easy to explore on foot or by hopping on free heritage trams and buses. With signposted trails, picnic areas, family-friendly spaces and cosy cafés, it’s a place to slow down, discover and connect with history in an immersive setting.
As a Museum of the Year 2025 finalist, Beamish is offering all Art Fund members 10% discount in their retail outlets on presentation of their National Art Pass between 29 April and 26 June.
Why you should go
Travel on vintage trams and buses
Explore authentic period streets and buildings
Hear captivating stories from costumed staff
Visitor information
Address
Beamish Museum, Beamish, County Durham, DH9 0RG
0191 370 4000
Opening times
31st March to 24th October 2025, open daily 10am to 5pm
Visitor information
The more you see, the more we do.
The National Art Pass lets you enjoy free entry to hundreds of museums, galleries and historic places across the UK, while raising money to support them.