Beamish is back indoors
VISITORS to Beamish Museum are be able once again to hop on a period bus, enjoy table service in its tea room and step back inside the schoolroom.
That’s just some of what will be on offer from today as the County Durham museum reopens its indoor attractions.
The aim is to reopen as many of its interior spaces as possible, including the pit village school and the town’s Edwardian dentist, Co-op, chemist and bank.
But the much-loved trams still remain off limits.
The museum is looking to expanding its attractions even further, as it unveils a whole programme of events, including Meet the Georgian days, brewing demonstrations, flower shows and classic car rallies.
Step three of the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown is hugely welcomed by the museum, a charity, which relies upon visitors for 95% of its income.
Deputy director Rhiannon Hiles said: “We are so looking forward to being able to open our indoor exhibits and attractions and run our 1950s buses.
“We’ve been putting a lot of work into getting everything ready and can’t wait to be able to welcome everyone back.”
She added: “Beamish is a charity and having to close our doors three times due to the pandemic has been extremely difficult and has had a devastating impact.
“We’re so incredibly grateful for everyone’s ongoing support as we look ahead to our recovery.”
So far, she has been glad to see visitors, despite the restrictions, turn out to enjoy its grounds where they have been able buy takeaways from Davy’s fish and chip shop, the Jubilee Confectioners sweet shop, Herron’s Bakery and – non-alcoholic drinks only – from The Sun Inn.
Timeslots for visiting are available up to June 20 at beamish.org.uk