Museum revamp highlights city's history

A new exhibition space explores the diverse history of the border city

A museum has reopened fully after a major refurbishment to enhance the visitor experience.

Tullie, in Carlisle, temporarily closed at the end of 2023 for a £4.5m revamp, and after a series of delays it partially reopened in November.

Visitors now have full access to its new exhibition space dedicated to Carlisle's "diverse and rich history", with themes such as wild, industrial and revolutionary.

The entrance has also been developed, and there is a cafe, shop and events space.

Funding came from the government's Town Fund and Future High Streets Fund, Arts Council England and Cumberland Council.

The Grade I listed Gatehouse has also been restored with funding from Historic England, allowing for its removal from the Heritage at Risk register.

Driggsby, the giant whale skeleton, is back after being in storage for the duration of the works

The 130-year-old museum's full reopening was pushed back four times, after "complex" redevelopment work had overrun.

Items back on display include a 46ft (14m) fin whale skeleton - named Driggsby - which was discovered by a dog walker when it was washed up on the west Cumbrian coast in 2014.

Council cabinet member Anne Quilter described Tullie as one of Carlisle's "flagship attractions".

"These exciting developments will provide a lasting legacy for both locals and visitors, enriching the cultural landscape of Carlisle for years to come," she said.

Emmie Kell, from Arts Council England, added: "It's a pleasure to continue supporting Tullie in its mission to offer a vibrant and inclusive cultural experience to all."

The entrance has also been redeveloped