This half-term visitors can get involved in a host of fun activities at The Beacon Museum in Whitehaven.
The harbourside attraction is home to the ‘Romans – Are We There Yet?’ exhibition, which runs until 1 October.
Roman oil lamp making sessions will run on 28 May and 2 June, at 11am and 2pm. Participants can find out how Roman people lit their homes, then make their own lamp, personalised with a unique pattern.
Roman mosaic tile making sessions will take place on 30 May at 11am and 2pm. Families can discover why the Romans used mosaics to decorate their homes, and create a tile to bring some ancient splendour to their home.
These activities cost £5 per child, in addition to the normal admission fee. Annual pass holders can purchase discounted tickets at £4 each.
A parent or guardian must be present at all times. Places are limited, and booking is essential. Everyone visiting the museum must have a valid general entry ticket, or an annual pass. This can be bought in advance online, or on arrival at the museum.
As well as the special activities above, there are daily handling sessions in the Harbour Gallery. Visitors can discover Roman armour and children can try on uniforms and become soldiers. There are replicas of soldiers’ equipment and guests will hear about the Roman army’s daily routines when on the march.
There are real artefacts that can be handled, and staff will be on hand to explain why the Romans came to Britain, and how Roman inventions have changed how we live.
The 550-year-old Verrocchio masterpiece, Tobias and the Angel, is also on show at The Beacon Museum as part of the National Gallery’s touring scheme. It can be seen in the Light and Dark Gallery until June 4.
Find out more, or buy tickets, at https://thebeacon-whitehaven.co.uk/, or by calling 01946 592302.
The Beacon Museum is a family-friendly attraction on West Strand next to Whitehaven’s picturesque harbour. It has four floors of interactive fun including touring exhibitions, the Sellafield Story and fascinating galleries that bring local history to life.