Step Back in Time at Beamish, The Living Museum of the North

Explore life in the North East from the 1820s to the 1950s with a day out that brings history to life.

Save up to 25% on entry to Beamish Museum when you take the bus

If you’re looking for a day out that’s a bit different, Beamish – The Living Museum of the North is hard to beat. Located in County Durham, it’s not your typical museum as everything is set up so you can walk straight into the past and see what life was like in the North East across different time periods, from the 1820s through to the 1950s.

Experience the unforgettable sights, sounds, smells and tastes of the region as you explore. You can wander through old streets, pop into shops, and even grab freshly made bread in the Edwardian bakery. There are trams to hop on, farmyards to explore, and plenty of little details that make it feel real.

There’s loads to see across the site, from Georgian landscapes and pit villages to a 1940s farm and a 1950s town. Staff in costume bring it all to life, so it feels less like reading about history and more like stepping into it.

Because it’s so spread out, no two visits are ever quite the same and there’s usually something new going on, especially during special events.

Beamish Museum is a genuinely engaging day out, where you can discover the stories of North East communities and experience the past in a way that feels real and memorable. Whether you’re going with family or just fancy doing something a bit different, it’s worth a visit.