the Beacon visitor attraction

The Beacon visitor attraction contains galleries on four floors which bring to life the history of Whitehaven with audio visual displays.

The Weather Gallery

The top floor is the weather gallery and has interactive displays to explain the principles of meteorolgy. There is also a panaromic view across the harbour.

Whitehaven Looking Out

The third floor is Whitehaven looking out. This shows how Whitehaven as an important 18th century port which traded with the world. There are particular references to the numerous connections with America - These include the slave trade, John Paul Jones, and George Washington.

Whitehaven Looking In

The second floor is Whitehaven looking in. This illustrates the industry of Whitehaven - the mining, the ship building, the potteries - and the day to day life. Realistic life size figures and audio help to bring the past to life.

Lord Lowther A miner's cottage whitehaven pottery

The life of Lord Lowther, one of the richest men in the land, living in Whitehaven castle is compared with the ordinary mine worker in small terraced houses. Some of the produce of Whitehaven's manufacturing is also on display including a large collection of Whitehaven pottery.

The Exhibition Gallery and Shop

The lower floor contains a gallery which hosts a new temporary exhibition about once a month. There is also a well stocked shop with many gift ideas and craft items made locally. A cafeteria serves a range of snacks and drinks. It is also soon to host The Quest, a competition consisting of a series of town trails. Entrance to this floor is free.

The Beacon also acts as a host for the exhibits from the former Whitehaven Museum, some of which are on display, and many of which are stored at Haig Enterprise park. These are available for study on request.

For further information please visit the Beacon's website:

The Beacon