Our writer, Rachel McAlley stepped back in time recently, into Pickering’s heritage at Beck Isle Museum. Where she had an interesting journey, through the evolution of time learning about this North Yorkshire market town’s history.
Everyone is instantly taken back in time when visiting Beck Isle Museum in Pickering. The museum is dedicated to sharing the history of this lovely little market town on the outskirts of the North Yorkshire Moors.
The museum itself is located in a Grade II Listed Building, the only one of its kind in Pickering. A leading agriculturalist, William Marshall inherited the building from his brother John in 1816. He passed it on to his sister, Elizabeth Wells. After Elizabeth’s time in the house, it was taken on by numerous practicing doctors until 1966.
In 1967 a number of Pickering locals decided to preserve the history of Pickering and open it as a small museum and art gallery. Over the next almost 60 years until today, the museum has grown into a well-known part of Pickering’s past. Today’s volunteers are knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and can answer almost any question that is about Pickering and the collection of artifacts within the museum.
Beck Isle Museum
There is plenty to see and do whilst visiting Beck Isle. You will find over 50,000 objects within the museum’s collection. Everything you see and touch within the collection has been used by people in the town, built by a Pickering resident, or invented in Pickering. It’s very interesting to see the likes of the Barber’s chair, the Blacksmith, the printing press, and the traditional pub.
Visitors can even explore the weird and wonderful world of toilets, where you can take part in a trail throughout the entire venue. You will find a composting toilet, a prison cell toilet, a bed pan, and even learn about an enema! This is so much fun for the kids – because well, anything poo-related is a win win for the little ones!
The traditional pub was a favourite for me and my daughter, we spent ages playing with the historical games. Great fun was had by all in the pub. Equally, we enjoyed seeing what a Victorian living room would have looked like, and how they set their dining table.
Another interesting find was the Gentleman’s Outfitters, with original clothing from the store in the 1850s.
For 2025 there is a special exhibition, showcasing rarely seen objects from Pickering’s past. I won’t give anything away about this, but will say that you can have your say and take part in the ‘Vote for Me’ campaign.
More at Beck Isle
Outside you will find the Blacksmith, and the Printers, along with horse drawn carriages and so much more.
Furthermore, it is open for all visitors including, school trips, college historical groups, community groups, and anyone interested in Pickering. The museum also offers Illustrated Group Talks within the venue or a guest speaker can be booked for external talks. It is open between 29th March and 31st October this year.
Prices start at just £4 – £20, see the Beck Isle Museum website for pricing structure.
Beck Isle Museum Pickering A Great Day Out – Words by Rachel McAlley @LadyRach
