Bellingham Heritage Centre

The Heritage Centre, Bellingham, is the local museum of the North Tyne and Redesdale areas of Northumberland, situated in the former railway station. We have exhibits on the Border Reivers, the Border Counties Railway, mining and farming. The Centre holds the fascinating collection of W P Collier - a local photographer who recorded the history of the area between the two world wars - accessible to visitors by computer. Find out more by listening to our Chatterboxes and dial-up 'Voices from the Past' in an old red GPO telephone box, which shares our central space with the reconstructed historic Stannersburn Smithy, brought alive by video. Our extensive database of local family names and the interactive panel about Reiver families proves popular with visitors from the UK, Europe, USA, Canada and Australasia seeking information about their ancestors. Two railway carriages, recently restored by volunteers, present the only exhibition about the 'Wannie Line and provides interpretation of the nearby stunning walk up Hareshaw burn to the waterfall through the site of an extensive early 19th-century iron foundry - an area of SSSI within Northumberland National Park. To complement your visit, our converted buffet car offers vistors a refreshing and nostalgic 'journey' back to the glorious days of steam and diesel. (Both carriages open March 2012.)
We also host visiting exhibitions of historical or artistic interest and stage a series of heritage events throughout the year for different interest groups.

Additional info

We ask that all groups contact us in advance as space is limited. Groups are also welcome out of normal opening hours by prior arrangement. Please contact us by email in both instances.