Bellingham Heritage Centre — Attraction in Bellingham

This is an edited review as my previous one gave the Heritage Centre one star because it was shut, without saying why, or if they were likely to open or had closed for the season. We were visiting the area in September and had been for a nice walk to the waterfall. It was a lovely day and we saw the Tea on the Train on Google maps and thought we would call in there afterwards for some refreshments. We didn’t realise that the railway carriage with the Tea on the Train cafe was part of the Heritage Centre, and this part was open. We had a lovely afternoon tea selection and the staff were very nice and friendly. At the other side of the car park was a building which said Heritage Centre and Gift Shop. This was shut. Whilst having our tea we saw a man come and tidy up some planters outside, and then go into the Heritage Centre. After having our tea we walked across to the Heritage Centre. The man had just come out and got in his car. The building was back in darkness, no sign to say if or when open, what hours or days of the week or even seasonal opening. The man in the car saw us, but just drove off. That is why, if I could rate that side of the Heritage Centre separately, I would still give it one star. The Tea on the...

Fascinating place for local history. Ignore the people standing around outside as it’s apparently a bus stop as well as the entrance! Enter into a small shop and then follow the route through a surprisingly large free museum. Everything local is in there, the old iron works and train station being particularly interesting to me. There was a guy wandering around who was extremely knowledgeable about everything and as we were the only ones in was very happy to talk. There’s a large selection of toy Thomas the tank engines to play with towards the end. You can dump your kids there (supervised of course!) whilst you look around in peace. After having done the walk to the waterfall the day before it was interesting to read up about the old iron works and the history around it all. Bought a couple of souvenirs on the way out. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone, not just people interested in...

The Bellingham Heritage Centre gives a fascinating overview of the area, the people, the industries, and the changes that have occurred over the centuries. There is a marvellous collection of memorabilia and loads of items where you'll either have no clue about them, or, if you're a little older, you'll go "Oh, I remember those!" There is something for everyone - children are well catered for (I liked the look of the children's exhibits and activities!) and you come away feeling that you know and understand the surrounding area so much better than before you went in! They also have a delightful collection of souvenirs and novelties - make sure you buy a lovely cuddly sheep! The exhibits change regularly so a return visit is a must! Thoroughly...