Just a short stroll from Pickering’s bustling Market Place, you’ll discover a true local treasure: Beck Isle Museum. Housed within a Grade II listed watermill, nestled on the picturesque banks of Pickering Beck, this museum is famously like a ‘Tardis’ inside – much bigger than it seems! Prepare to delve into a surprisingly vast collection of local history and engaging, interactive exhibits when you visit.

What to explore inside

Step into a world of discovery with the museum’s engaging activity trails. On our visit, one trail explored the quirky history of toilets! Children especially love this fun, historical learning adventure. The museum holds over 50,000 objects, brilliantly sharing Pickering’s rich history across 25 gallery spaces.

Wander through a fascinating array of themed rooms. Highlights include an authentic pub, complete with traditional games, inviting you to try your hand at a bygone era’s entertainment. Explore many charming shop fronts: see a gentleman’s outfitters, a barber’s, a chemist, and a grocery store. Many rooms offer hands-on activities. You can hunt for quiz answers or spot hidden items, ensuring each visit is unique.

Head out to the lively courtyard for more discoveries. Here, you can watch live blacksmith demonstrations or view the impressive historical printing press and stables. A wide range of agricultural equipment is also proudly displayed outside. Don’t miss the new activity and craft room off the courtyard, which hosts regular events during the holidays.

Historic Pickering Guided Walking Tours

Uncover Pickering’s rich, hidden past on a fantastic guided town walk. Setting off from outside Beck Isle Museum, these popular tours run every Wednesday and Thursday. Learn about historic buildings, famous landmarks, royal connections, and the notable people who shaped our town. This fascinating journey spans from the Ice Age to modern times!

The tour lasts about 75 minutes and covers roughly one mile. Please note: there are some steps and a slight hill. All tours start at the museum and finish at the NYMR Station.

Combined museum and tour tickets are available for a fuller experience. Booking is essential for your place, so secure your spot online today. 

Monthly artisan markets: a treat by the Beck

Discover Pickering’s vibrant artisan market, held in the picturesque grounds of Beck Isle Museum. This Little Piggie hosts these wonderful markets every last Saturday of the month, from March to November.

Browse a fantastic selection of stalls. Look for local spirits, delicious cakes, or fresh quiches. You might even find unique garden ornaments, or that perfect handcrafted gift. There’s always something interesting to take home!

When you’ve finished browsing the market’s delights, why not pop into the museum shop? Explore their selection of unusual and unique gifts, cards, pottery, or jewellery. Then, treat yourself to a leisurely stroll around the museum itself for a complete day out!

Plan Your Visit

Planning to return to Pickering? Your museum ticket is valid for 12 months! This means you can explore different seasons and changing exhibitions throughout the year.

Please note, the museum has no on-site catering. However, a short stroll leads to the Market Place. Grab a delicious picnic from one of the fabulous local bakeries or cafés. Enjoy it in the museum grounds by the babbling Pickering Beck – a perfect riverside picnic spot!

Even better, dogs on a lead are welcomed inside the museum too.