Beamish Museum chief Rhiannon Hiles recognised by King in birthday honours
“I am deeply proud to have received this honour”
Beamish, The Living Museum of the North’s Chief Executive Rhiannon Hiles has been appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the King’s Birthday Honours.
Rhiannon was awarded the honour for services to the museums, culture and heritage of North East England.
Rhiannon joined Beamish in 1995 as a volunteer and engager and went on to make Beamish her career.
She has been Chief Executive since 2021, leading the museum’s team of 520 staff and 400 volunteers.
After being informed of her honour from the King, Rhiannon said: “I am deeply proud to have received this honour for services to museums and to the culture and heritage of North East England. To be recognised in this way for my passion for the region, and for representing its people and their stories, means a great deal to me and has had a profound impact.
“I feel this honour also belongs to everyone who has supported me in my commitment to placing heritage and culture at the centre of people’s lives. I love leading Beamish and working with our fantastic team of staff and volunteers, championing the role of museums at the heart of communities.
“I feel privileged to be recognised for this work and I will continue to ensure the cultural heritage of the North East remains at the forefront of social and economic life, and I accept this honour with humility and sincere gratitude to those who have placed their faith in me.”
Beamish Museum is the region’s most visited attraction and among the top paid-for attractions nationally, welcoming over 815,000 visitors last year (2025).
Beamish was named Art Fund Museum of the Year 2025, the world’s largest museum prize.
Rhiannon has guided the museum through major expansion projects and regeneration, majorly impacting on the tourism, skills and economy of the region.
Following the completion of the Remaking Beamish project, the biggest capital development in the museum’s history, Beamish is about to launch its ambitious strategy for the future.
Chris Loughran, Chair of Beamish, said: “This honour is a testament to Rhiannon’s dedication to Beamish and the North East. She is a phenomenal leader across the UK and internationally. As a powerhouse of inspiration, values and commitment to people, it is a pleasure to work alongside her.
“I know she will consider this an award for all staff and volunteers at Beamish.”
Beamish Museum works closely with its partners to “champion the North East and create opportunity, including through health and wellbeing, learning and skills”.