Discover the Magic of Christmas Through the Ages
Step into a festive journey through time and experience the wonder of Christmas from the Georgian era all the way to the fabulous 1950s.
From twinkling decorations to delicious seasonal treats, nostalgic music and hands-on activities, there’s something for everyone as we count down to the big day — the traditional way!
Begin your time-travelling Christmas adventure with the elegance of a 1820s Christmas at Pockerley. Soak in the scent of festive greenery, admire historical food displays, and see how Christmas was celebrated over 200 years ago.
Take a stroll down our stunning 1900s cobbled street, where homes and shopfronts are beautifully decorated for the season. Indulge in freshly baked festive treats from the bakery, pick up sweet delights from the sweet shop, and browse charming market stalls for unique gifts. Capture the moment with a festive photo in our Photography Studio – winter costumes available (small charge applies).
Our Christmouse Trail is back, but this time there’s even more to find in both our 1900s Town and 1900s Pit Village and Colliery! Pick up a trail card from the Co-op, emigration office or Town Stalls in our 1900s Town, or the school in the Pit Village. When completed, head up to The 1900s Town printers, and 1900s Pit Village School to receive your stamp.
Over in The 1900s Pit Village, experience a traditional miners’ Christmas with beautifully decorated cottages and the warm glow of community spirit.
Step into a wartime Christmas at The 1940s Farm, where the Land Girls are hard at work preparing for the holidays. Discover how people celebrated with ration recipes and handmade gifts.
Pop into The 1950s Spain’s Field Farm to find out how families of the decade marked the festive season – complete with period decorations and traditional touches.
Head to The 1950s Town for a retro Christmas like no other. Visit the 1950s toy shop, catch a film at the cinema, admire classic 1950s decorations, and even treat yourself to a hairstyle at the salon (additional charge applies). Don’t miss the warm community cheer in the Welfare Hall.
Keep warm and well-fed as you explore, with hearty festive food on offer – from hot sandwiches and steaming pies to rich hot chocolates and indulgent winter warmers.
Take a look at the museum map here.
Father Christmas’ Grotto – daytime visits
Grotto £10
Book Father Christmas’ Daytime Grotto
From 22rd November to 24th December, bring the whole family to experience the magic of the festive season at Beamish, with a visit to Father Christmas in his enchanting grotto at Rowley Station Goods Yard. Immerse yourself in the warmth and charm of Christmas, amid our traditional backdrop. Click here to see our full opening times.
Pre-booking essential. Museum admission applies. Under 5s do not require a ticket to enter the museum but will require a Grotto ticket if they wish to visit Father Christmas. Those aged 5 and over, will require a Beamish Unlimited Pass to enter as well as a Grotto ticket if they wish to visit Father Christmas. Accompanying adults do not need to purchase a Grotto ticket. Ticket includes a small, traditional gift.
We can’t wait to celebrate this magical time with you all!
Book Father Christmas’ Daytime Grotto
SOLD OUT Quiet Sessions
Sold out
Beamish is hosting three Quiet Santa Sessions in a sensory-friendly grotto, for visitors with additional needs.
These sessions will take place on 13th, 20th & 21st December 2025 and will cost £10 per person taking part in the experience, additional members of the party do not require a ticket to see Father Christmas. Only the person taking part in the experience will receive a gift (tickets subject to availability).
Father Christmas will be welcoming visitors to his sensory-friendly grotto at the 1820s Waggonway. These sessions are aimed at people with additional needs who may prefer to meet Father Christmas away from his busier grotto at Rowley Station.
The Quiet Santa Sessions must be pre-booked prior to your visit (subject to availability).
Quiet Santa Sessions tickets do not include admission to Beamish Museum. Visitors aged 5 and over require a Beamish Unlimited Pass or Friends of Beamish membership to enter the museum. Under 5s do not require a ticket to enter the museum but will require a Quiet Santa Session ticket if they wish to visit Father Christmas. Subject to availability.
