HERITAGE WEEK 2026
FAMILIES
11 September – 20 September
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HERITAGE WEEK
Forensic Archaeology Workshop
Saturday 12 September 2026 | 11am & 2pm | £5 per child
Help to uncover the secrets of the past by finding evidence and artefacts that can be used to recreate the past and help us to understand how people live.
This interactive hands-on workshop will use different archaeological techniques to help enhance our knowledge of the archaeology found in our region.
Not only a Coal Town Walk & Talk
Tuesday 15 September 2026 | 10.30am FREE
Whitehaven is often remembered as a coal town, but our waterfront tells a much bigger story. Discover how shipbuilding, whaling, pottery and tobacco industries all relied on the harbour, shaping the town and connecting Whitehaven to the wider world.
Join us on this fascinating Walk & Talk and uncover the stories behind the industries that helped put Whitehaven on the map.
Heritage Pop-up Talks
Thursday 17 September 2026 | 11am – 3pm | Museum Admission
Throughout the day, our wonderful volunteers will be bringing local history to life with a variety of pop-up talks around the museum. Discover fascinating stories, surprising snippets and hidden gems from our collections and local heritage. Included with museum admission. Just drop in, listen and discover something new!
Beakid: Viking Workshop
Saturday 19, Sunday 20 September 2026 | 11am & 2pm | £5 per child
Step back in time and discover the world of the Vikings! We’ll begin with a short, fun introduction to the Vikings and their connections to Cumbria, before getting hands-on with some Viking-inspired crafts. Young explorers will have the chance to: Create and personalise their very own Viking shield. Learn the Viking runes and make a personalised pendant and tablet. Design a Norse-inspired brooch to take home.
From Viking shields to ancient runes, there’s plenty to discover, make and take home. Come along and unleash your inner Viking! Perfect for young history lovers and budding Viking warriors!
Family History Expert
Saturday 19 September 10am – 3pm
Pop in and meet Bry Cooper, our family history expert, for a free informal session packed with helpful hints, tips and advice to help you uncover your family story.
Whether you’re just starting your research or looking to overcome a stumbling block, Bry will be on hand to offer guidance and answer your questions.
If you missed him back in March & June make sure you drop in this time!
This event is FREE.
No booking required, just turn up to The Beacon Portal.
Handling Sessions
Saturday 19, Sunday 20 September | 10am – 4pm | Museum Admission required
Get hands-on with history!
Join our knowledgeable volunteers for a special handling session linked to Carboniferous Monsters. Get up closed to fascinating speciments and objects, discover more about the creatures that lived hundreds of millions of years ago, and find out what life was like during the Carboniferous period.
A fantastic opportunity to touch, explore, and ask questions!