11 Sep 2024
by Charlotte Tindle

Restart the clock

The Grade II Guildhall in Liskeard is certainly a landmark to behold, as is its clock. Go behind the scenes with this film to see how they restarted the 150 year old timepiece after it stopped during the pandemic. Discover the hard work it takes just getting to the winding mechanism, never mind the effort put in to wind it! (Image: Liskeard Town Council)

The Town Clock (Online)


Down South...

  • Cheers - Is there truly a better way to enjoy a visit to a museum than free entry PLUS real ales and ciders? Head over to the Milton Keynes Museum this weekend, and alongside a refreshing drink, step back in time and browse their historic street of shops, join a lesson in the Victorian Schoolroom or maybe ride the world's largest steam tramcar. (Milton Keynes Museum, Buckinghamshire)
  • Print and paper - Discover the rich heritage of print and papermaking. Meet the local artists and learn about their work in the community. There will even be the chance to get hands-on and try various printing techniques yourself, using a range of papers to see how traditional processes can be used in contemporary ways. (Double Elephant Print Workshop, Devon)

Soak it all up

Meander on down to Dapdune Wharf to 'soak up' the heritage of craftsmen demonstrating their skills. Enjoy music and dance performances and get stuck in to activities like bushcraft and den building. There is even the opportunity to enjoy an interactive augmented reality sandbox and discover more about the features of the River Wey. Then, stay and top it all off with the magical illuminated pageant at dusk. (Image: National Trust Images/John Millar)

River Festival (Surrey)


To the Midlands...

  • The moved museum - Did you know the structures you see today once stood elsewhere? This site, which houses two of Birmingham’s oldest buildings, is only here thanks to George Cadbury (yes, that Cadbury), who saved them from demolition in the early 20th century. This weekend, it will be brought to life once again with a day of Tudor extravagance. Join in games, try on armour and enjoy a visit from the Regal Roses re-enactment group. You may even have a chance to meet Henry VIII, but mind what you say; he's historically known for his short temper. (Selly Manor Museum & Bournville Village Trust, West Midlands)
  • A potter's delight - At Moorcroft, they are breaking the mould this year and throwing open their doors to bring you behind the scenes of this historic heritage craft. On your visit, learn about the distinctive slip-trailing process pioneered by William Moorcroft and the labour-intensive process of producing such colourful and intricate designs. (Moorcroft, Staffordshire)

3... 2... 1... Action

3...2...1...ACTION! Head on over to the Broadcast Engineering Museum for an opportunity to see behind the small screen. From their vintage collection including a camera that televised the late Queen's coronation. To the history of the site, which was once the Sergeants mess at RAF Hemswell. For budding enthusiasts there is also the opportunity to get hands-on experience and present the weather - what will your forecast predict? (Image: Broadcast Engineering Museum)

Broadcast Engineering (Lincolnshire)


To the East...

  • Buzzing with excitement - Routes and networks come in all shapes and sizes, even for buzzing animals, as you can discover here. Embark on a family-friendly trail to learn about the life of bees, exploring the different paths they take to and from the hive when pollinating flowers. Did you know they have deep roots in sacred scripture and that several saints have strong associations with bees? From miracles performed to nicknames and quotes associated with them, this trail will put a new spin on our honey-loving friends! (The Catholic Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, Norfolk)
  • Too warm, too cold... just right! - For those who fancy a career in law, here is your chance to get first-hand experience of the other side of the justice system. Try your hand (or Gavel) in mock sentencing exercises at Ipswich Magistrates Court - will you find Goldilocks guilty?! Or go behind the scenes to tour court cells and have the opportunity to speak to magistrates. (His Majesty's Court and Tribunals Ipswich, Suffolk)

Strike a pose

Perhaps wander (or slither) on over to the Boleyn Gardens and contribute to Chelmsford's first history-themed rock snake. Here, in perhaps the most unique way possible, you will be able to immortalise your favourite site, story or aspect of history via a rock. Paints and pens are all provided; the only thing needed is your creativity! Add your rock to the snake and let's see how far you will make it grow! (Image: Paul Mclean)

Rock Snake (Essex)


In Yorkshire... 

  • Fish, ships & chips - From sails to rails, our ancestors certainly had to adapt fast to the changing world of the Industrial Revolution. In this exhibition, delve deep into the depths of Scarborough's fishing industry, from a medieval boom to the impact of the Steam age on the local fishing community and Scarborough as a tourist attraction. (Old Parcels Office Artspace & Scarborough Maritime Heritage Centre, North Yorkshire)
  • A grand reopening  - See history in action and experience the long-awaited re-opening of Barnsley's iconic Eldon Street entrance, a milestone moment in their regeneration project. Following its closure in 1998, this entrance has remained sealed off, its elaborate mosaics and original ceiling hidden from public view – but not anymore! This is your chance to be one of the first few to walk through these doors and see this iconic building, steeped in heritage, culture and community, in a different light. (Barnsley Civic, South Yorkshire)

The art of British war comics

Why not stop by the touring exhibition of British war comics and see original comic covers and panel art on public display for the first time. From satirical comic strips and patriotic illustrations to authentic and emotionally charged stories, this colourful exhibition will provide an insight into how this creative medium has changed over time and how they reflected or responded to the world around them. (Image: York Army Museum)

War Comics (North Yorkshire)


Up North...

  • Back to nature - For those seeking an event to satisfy the outdoor enthusiast or just a family day out, why not consider Dobcroft Nature Reserve? Join in on guided walks and family-friendly activities. Discover hidden routes and participate in interactive workshops. Connect to the world around you and learn more about the importance of preserving these natural habitats. (The Intact Centre & Heritage Lottery Fund, Lancashire)
  • Apples and pears and plums… oh my!  - There is still a chance to get fruity at Brimstage Heritage Orchard. On this guided walk you can try different heritage varieties of fruits and sample some of the treats made from them. Come and swap advice about planting, bees and orchard crafts, or even bring your apples to crush in a reconstructed 18th-century cider press to make juice and cider! (Wirral Pomona, Merseyside)

Be more zen...

Are you looking for a new way to relax? Well, we have just the thing for you - Zentangle: a wellness activity where you fill an object or shape with patterns (tangles) with ink, a process that helps you relax. This session is open to all ages and is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your creative talents AND be part of a library exhibition. If you enjoy meditation, you won't want to miss it! (Image: Berwick HODs)

Drop in Zentangle (Northumberland)


PLEASE NOTE - These events were accurate at the time of publication, but details are subject to change. Check the individual entries for more information, including any booking details needed.


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