The Beacon Museum in Whitehaven is gearing up for a lively March 2026, with a programme that blends heritage, creativity and family‑friendly activities – all building towards the launch of a major new exhibition.
Opening on 28 March, the next major exhibition; I Grew Up 90s, brings the era of Britpop, Cool Britannia and unforgettable pop‑culture icons vividly back to life.
Curated by collector and cultural commentator Matt Fox, the exhibition showcases more than 200 original objects and artworks that defined the decade. From the Spice Girls and Pokémon to Lara Croft, Power Rangers, Trainspotting and the Teletubbies, it offers an immersive journey through the music, fashion, games and characters that shaped a generation.
In the lead‑up to the exhibition launch, there’s plenty happening across the museum, with a lively mix of events and workshops
Vintage Day on 7 March features textile historian Becks Skinner, whose talk The New Mrs Davidson explores a 1911 wedding dress from the museum’s collection and her recreation of a period outfit using a 1905 sewing machine. Visitors can also join her hands‑on workshop and try vintage sewing machines from the 1890s to the 1950s.
The exploration of the region’s heritage continues with Talking Tuesdays on 10 March, when Alan Bell will chart the dramatic rise and gradual decline of maritime West Cumberland, tracing how Whitehaven grew to become England’s second‑busiest port.
A free Family History Day follows on 14 March at The Beacon Portal, where specialist Bryan Cooper will be on hand with friendly, drop‑in advice on beginning a family tree and exploring ancestry research tools.
It’s also the final chance to catch The Comics: The Famous and Forgotten Exhibition, which continues in the Harbour Gallery until 15 March 2026. The exhibition traces the birth of the comic strip and journeys through the anarchic worlds of Beano, Viz and 2000AD, alongside iconic superheroes and the work of legendary artists such as David Lloyd and Bryan Talbot, whose creativity helped cement Britain’s reputation as a powerhouse in the world of comics.
Young visitors can enjoy spring‑themed Beakid workshops on 21 and 22 March, planting their own sunflowers and exploring nature through creative activities. Easter sessions follow on 30 March, 1 April and 3 April, with families crafting crowns and decorative birdhouses.
The Beacon’s monthly Book Club meets again on 26 March with a theme inspired by International Women’s Day. The session will spotlight inspirational women past and present, with a particular focus on those who have shaped or been shaped by Cumbria.
Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
“I’m pleased to see a programme that reflects the depth of our local heritage.
“The events planned for March offer a varied balance of learning, creativity and community engagement, and it’s encouraging to see opportunities for residents and visitors of all ages to take part.”
Heather Holmes, Customer and Visitor Experience Manager added:
“Here at The Beacon Museum, we are proud to present a programme that celebrates creativity and nostalgia, while continuing to position The Beacon Museum as a vibrant cultural hub for West Cumbria.”