Visitors are in for a full month of exhibitions, talks and hands-on activities at The Beacon Museum in May.
The museum is offering a full programme, exploring everything from Roman Britain to 1990s pop culture.
Councillor Anne Quilter, executive member for vibrant and healthy places at Cumberland Council, said: "The Beacon’s programme this May reflects what The Beacon does best, combining local heritage with engaging exhibitions and learning opportunities.
"Alongside the continuing exhibitions, events like Talking Tuesday and our half-term activities offer visitors new ways to connect with history, culture and the world around them."
Two major exhibitions are running throughout the month.
In the Light and Dark Gallery, visitors can explore the work of John Dalzell Kenworthy, a local artist and civic leader.
The exhibition features portraits of West Cumbrian residents, offering a glimpse into life during that era.
Meanwhile, the Harbour Gallery is hosting the I Grew Up 90s exhibition, celebrating youth culture in Britain during the 1990s.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the era’s music, films, fashion, video games and childhood toys.
The museum’s programme of talks continues on Tuesday, May 12, with Talking Tuesday: Uncovering Our Ancient Past – the Soutergate Skull.
The talk will examine the discovery of a human skull on the banks of the Furness peninsula in 2021, later found to be from the Roman period (130–340 AD).
The skull, now part of The Beacon Museum’s collection, has helped researchers learn more about the individual and their life.
For book lovers, The Beacon Book Club returns on Thursday, May 28, with a session titled Portraits in Words, inspired by the Kenworthy exhibition.
The club will discuss literary portraits including James Joyce’s A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, Dylan Thomas’s A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Dog and Henry James’ The Portrait of a Lady.
Families will find plenty to enjoy during the May half-term, with three Beakid Days scheduled for Monday, May 25, Wednesday, May 27 and Friday, May 29.
Designed for children and families, the workshops include sessions at 11am and 1pm.
Activities will focus on the impact of plastic pollution and offer ways to help protect the oceans.
The museum will round off half-term with its popular Pet Encounters on Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31.
With sessions at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, visitors will have the chance to meet and interact with a variety of friendly animals.
Heather Holmes, customer and visitor experience manager at The Beacon, said: "This May’s programme at The Beacon Museum is about giving people a reason to spend time together – whether that’s discovering something new, revisiting familiar memories, or simply enjoying the museum.
"From exhibitions and talks to half-term activities, we’ve focused on creating experiences that feel engaging and relevant to our communities in West Cumbria and beyond."
Full details, booking information and ticket prices can be found on the museum’s website at thebeacon-whitehaven.co.uk/.
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