Beamish Museum launches appeal for help due to impact of COVID-19 pandemic

Your Museum Needs You! Beamish Museum is today launching a fundraising appeal in response to the major impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

The open air museum is a charity that relies on visitors for 95 per cent of its income, including ticket sales and catering and retail purchases. The museum is due to reopen on 23^rd July, however with no visitors since March due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this has had a significant effect. Beamish is appealing for support to help get up and running again and secure its future for generations to come.

The museum, which celebrates its 50^th anniversary this year, is appealing for donations – click here to donate.

Rhiannon Hiles, Beamish’s Deputy Director, said: “The coronavirus pandemic has had a huge impact on the museum and we hope that people can help by making a donation – we’re incredibly grateful for any support people can give.

“As a charity, 95 per cent of our income is from visitors. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, we’ve had no visitors since March, through some of what would usually be our busiest months of the year, which has had a major impact.

“We’re extremely proud to have been a part of our region for the past 50 years and we are working hard on our plans to welcome visitors once again. We know these are difficult times for everyone but whatever people can do to help is hugely appreciated, it really does mean such a lot to us.”

People can also support the museum by becoming a Friends of Beamish member, buying or renewing a Beamish Unlimited Pass or giving a gift voucher. The museum has also launched a new online shop, with unique Beamish items, inspired by its exhibits and collection, including a special edition of board game Monopoly. Find out more here.

The museum is planning for reopening on 23^rd July, following the Government’s announcement about the opening of museums. The safety of visitors, staff and volunteers is the top priority, and additional health and hygiene measures will be in place across the museum site. Entry will be by pre-booked time slot for all visitors, and the opening of exhibits will be based on COVID-19 safety guidance. More details are due to be announced in early July.