Five festive things to do at The Beaney

There’s lot’s of reasons to visit the museum at this time of year so here’s a handy round up of what’s happening at The Beaney this festive season…

1. Book a LEGO workshop

Christmas and LEGO is a winning combination… Remember our 2022 Merry Brickmas exhibition!? This year we’re running our popular LEGO workshops in December.

Build fantastic robots and bring them to life using motors, sensors and coding using LEGO® Education SPIKE Essentials!

There will be workshops on Saturday 9, Saturday 16 and Tuesday 19 December.

Find out more and book a workshop (spaces expected to fill up fast!)

2. Climb aboard the Hornby Train Trail

The Beaney is part of the Hornby Train Trail, a whistlestop tour of Canterbury organised by Canterbury BID.

There are 40 festive Hornby Train displays hidden in local businesses around the city. You can find The Beaney train under our tree, upstairs in The Study. Make sure to talk to a ‘station master’ who will stamp your ticket! Collect 5 stamps and head to the final destination, Fenwick Toy Department in St George’s Street, to collect your prize.

Running from 18 November – 22 December 2023

The Study, First Floor The Beaney (Closed Mondays)

Please note: On Mondays you can get your ticket stamped at The Beaney Visitor Information Desk!

3. Indulge in some seasonal music

Join us on Tuesday 12 December for some seasonal music in a sensational setting. Soak up the atmosphere in the Explorers & Collectors gallery during a special performance by the Canterbury Cantata Choir and Monday Music Folkestone.

Free admission, donations encouraged

Explorers & Collectors, First Floor The Beaney

4. Enjoy art and storytelling

Our new special exhibition opens on Saturday 5 December. Storytellers is a captivating group exhibition that celebrates the profound connection between art and storytelling.
Through the works of 23 Kent based contemporary artists across various disciplines, Storytellers explores the idea that artworks convey narratives, trigger emotions and inspire discussions.

Free admission, donations encouraged

Special Exhibitions Gallery, First Floor The Beaney

Saturday 2 December 2023 to Sunday 25 February 2024 (Closed Mondays)

Find out more

5. Christmas shopping!

Toys, games, books and more, from stocking fillers to unique gifts, we’ve got a range of items for all ages!

We’re particularly pleased with our Smallfilms items… where else can you meet the real Bagpuss and then pick up your own!?

Every purchase made at The Beaney helps support the museum. We offer free exhibitions, events and activities for the community all year round so you can feel good about every purchase made with us.

Feeling especially generous this Christmas? Make a donation to The Beaney online and let us know!