Plan Your Visit to The Beaney, Canterbury

Plan Your Visit

We are thrilled to welcome you to The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge!

Accessible Visiting Times

For those wanting to visit the museum at less busy times, we recommend the first* and last hour of each day as the quietest times to visit.

*During school term time we regularly welcome prebooked groups so the museum may be busier than usual. If you would like more specific advice on quieter times to visit please get in touch.

Full Opening Hours

Museum & Galleries

Monday: Closed
Tuesday to Saturday: 10.00am to 5.00pm
Sunday: 11.00am to 4.00pm

For more info visit our Museums & Galleries page.

Visitor notice: The Explorers & Collectors gallery will be closed for a private event from 10.00am to 12.30pm on Friday 8 May. All other galleries will be open as usual.

Visitor Information

Monday to Wednesday: 10.00am to 5.00pm
Thursday: 10.00am to 6.00pm
Friday to Saturday: 10.00am to 5.00pm
Sunday: 11.00am to 4.00pm

For more info visit the Visitor Information page.

Library

Monday to Wednesday: 10.00am to 5.00pm
Thursday: 10.00am to 6.00pm
Friday: 10.00am to 5.00pm
Saturday: 10.00am to 4.00pm
Sunday: Closed

Closed Bank holidays.

For more info visit the Library page.

Visitor FAQs

For answers to some of your most frequently asked questions, please visit our FAQs page.

Admission

Entrance to The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge is free. However, a charge may apply for certain special exhibitions and events. Please see our events listings for full details.

Getting Here

Our Location

18 High Street
Canterbury
Kent
CT1 2RA

Contact Us

General Enquiries and Visitor Information 01227 862 162

Email: beaney@canterbury.gov.uk

Accessibility

We have a wide range of services and resources for our visitors with access requirements.

Find out how to make the most of your visit on our Accessibility at The Beaney page.

For resources, advice and information for people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) visiting The Beaney go to SEND at The Beaney.

School and Group Visits

The Beaney offers an exciting programme of learning workshops, activities and tours.

To find our more visit our Learning page.

Spotlight Tours

Explore Canterbury’s award-winning museum with a Spotlight Tour led by our Front of House Team. These bitesize tours are a great introduction for first time visitors and a way for regular visitors to delve a little deeper into the museum collection. From nationally significant artworks to curious objects from around the world, discover something fascinating in Canterbury!

Timings: Thursdays and Saturdays at 2.30pm

Duration: Up to 30 minutes

Meeting point: Garden Room, ground floor.

Suggested donation: £3

Suitability: The tours are suitable for adults and children.

Tour size: Each tour has a maximum capacity of 12 people.

Accessibility: The tour passes through several galleries located on two floors of the Museum. Step-free access is available via lifts.

Booking:

Book your place online

Or book in person at The Beaney Visitor Information desk.

Highlights Tours

Looking for a unique experience for your group? Explore The Beaney with a guided Highlights Tour. Get curious about a mummified cat; investigate a medieval murder; explore nationally significant artworks and learn about Dr Beaney’s lasting legacy. This tour will give you an overview of Canterbury’s unique collection and leave you feeling inspired.

The tours are delivered in English and are suitable for adults, children, community groups, overseas visitors and enthusiasts of art and history.

Timings: During opening hours/ at your choice

Duration: Up to 1 hour

Price: £6 adult/ £3 child (minimum booking fee £48)

Group size: Each tour has a maximum capacity of 30