Beamish, the Living Museum of the North - Stanley

David R.

Our first visit to the museum and certainly not our last even though we live nearly 300 miles north. We got there shortly after opening and were blessed with sunny weather and not too many other visitors. The site extends to about 350 acres and it is not realistic to "do it all" in one visit, but the entrance ticket is valid for one year so returning for another visit is easy. The trams and buses are an excellent way to rest your legs whilst going from one part of the museum to another. The buildings have been lovingly restored and are beautifully looked after. The staff, who are very knowledgeable, are dressed in period attire.
A wonderful day out and one which can be thoroughly recommended.

Gail

5 stars of you love social history. Definately takes more than a day to get around, fortunately your pass is valid for 12 months.
Look at the size of the iced buns! So much to see and talk about, there are 2 EV charging points in the car park ( chargeable). There are plenty of toilet stops, lots of buses and trams to get you around if you don't feel like walking. Friendly and informative staff in each area. Highly recommend.

Clay J.

This past weekend, my wife, our three teenage children, and I had the absolute pleasure of visiting Beamish, The Living Museum of the North. I can honestly say it was one of the most unique family days out we’ve ever had.

From the moment we arrived, we felt transported back in time. Beamish isn't just a museum; it's a living, breathing celebration of the North East’s rich history. Every corner of the massive location was bursting with authenticity, from the bustling 1900s Town to the charming 1940s Farm. The staff — dressed impeccably in period costume — were not just informative, but truly brought history to life. Their passion and friendliness added a depth to the experience that no ordinary museum could replicate.

Our children, theoretically past museum-going age, were absolutely captivated. They loved hopping aboard the vintage trams and buses. They even marvelled at the old-fashioned sweet shop (where, naturally, we indulged)! Seeing real blacksmiths, bakers, and printers hard at work using traditional methods was just remarkable. Our highlights included visiting the 1900s Pit Village and the incredible 1950s town, complete with its newly opened welfare hall and houses. Each area felt so alive and meticulously crafted, it was like stepping into a time machine. The attention to detail was just outstanding.

What really stood out for me, however, was the warmth and enthusiasm of everyone we met. The team at Beamish clearly love what they do, and it shows. They made us feel not like visitors, but like honoured guests in their historic world. Practicalities were also spot on — parking was easy and free, facilities were clean and well-signposted, and the food options were varied and reasonably priced, with delicious traditional treats on offer.

In short, Beamish is an absolute treasure. It offers a perfect blend of education, entertainment, and pure joy for all ages. We left with our hearts full, our minds enriched, and a strong desire to return (tickets are valid for the year). It’s a place that doesn’t just tell you about history — it lets you live it. Can’t wait for our next visit.

So if you find yourselves up North, make sure you go. Be prepared to spend the day there, it's that good. Consider booking ahead and, big piece of advice — you will want to take a family portrait — make sure you book ahead. It is truly a special day out.

Paul F.

Good bit of history to go back to the 1900s seeing how they lived. Bus and trams every 20 mins (free). Really nice fish and chip shop, pub and sweet shop. Went with my 12yr old son. He really enjoyed it

Sean M.

This was our 3rd visit. Absolutely love it! Firstly it is such a very well thought out experience as you are taken through the years. Secondly the way the staff 'live' in the character makes the whole place come alive. Going into someone's house or workplace and hearing them chat about what life was like is amazing. Highly recommend!

This time we also tried lunch and a pint in the Tavern. The staff serving were lovely, as was the food and drink.

Ebbs

Travelled 6 hours to get here but it was completely worth it! It's awesome to get immersed in the different time periods and travel around in the different areas. It was a bank holiday so quite busy but as it's such a large place it didn't feel packed.
Long queues for the fish & chip shop and sweet shop but again definitely worth it!
The staff live and breathe the time period they work in which just adds the the experience as well!
Can't wait to go again.

mcauley M.

Great day out for families! Lots to see : everything is in pristine order, and the staff in period clothes are helpful and friendly. Having trams and buses whizzing round the site makes visiting very easy and they have wheelchair adapted buses. Well worth a visit!

Bec G.

Great place to visit and take a trip back in time. It's fascinating to see and be immersed in the different time periods. The museum is a good surface level introduction and the staff knowledgeable about the area and time periods.

The facilities are good, toilets are not clearly signed posted and could do with a lot more outdoor seating. The two disabled toilets we used were clean and with plenty of space. It is tricky for wheelchair users as it's quite steep and spread out. Not all exhibits are disabled access but that's obvious as they're historical buildings.

We can't wait to come back.