Traditional Craft Demonstrations, Heritage Stories, Specialist Talks and Activities and Experiences for All Ages
We provide visitors with the opportunity to immerse themselves in traditional skills and techniques. Whether it's learning the art of blacksmithing, trying their hand at straw plaiting, or discovering the intricacies of woodworking, participants can engage with the rich history of craftsmanship in a hands-on and interactive setting. Our expert artisans and educators ensure that each workshop or experience day is both informative and enjoyable, offering a unique glimpse into the past while honing practical skills that have stood the test of time.
Talks and Demonstrations
Learn more about heritage crafts with our engaging talks and demonstrations. From insightful discussions on historic farming techniques to demonstrations of traditional woodworking or cooking methods, our programs offer a fascinating insight into bygone eras.
On every Standard Admission weekend day, you’ll find a traditional craft demonstration taking place on our site. Our craft practitioners range from spoon carvers, lace makers, chair makers, and straw plaiters. You can also catch the blacksmith, wheelwright, leatherwork, spinning, natural dyeing, weaving and flint knapping demonstrations.
On the fourth Friday of every month we also have a specialist talk.
Houses Inhabited
On selected days you’ll find our volunteer costumed interpreters inhabiting some of the historic buildings on our site.
Our dedicated team of volunteers breathe life into history, creating an engaging and immersive experience for our visitors. They love talking about the history of our buildings and what life would have been like for the past occupants.
We have a volunteer sewing team who make all of the costumes for our interpreters on site. When they’re on-site you can see and ask what they’re up to.
Heritage Stories
Embark on a captivating journey with our Campfire Heritage Stories, where community members with diverse heritages share tales around the crackling flames, of life, travel and community. Listen to our recordings or pop along to one of our Campfire Heritage Events and explore narratives of home, culinary delights, memorable journeys and cherished traditions.
Adventure awaits at every turn with a ton of engaging activities for visitors of all ages.
Explore our woodland trails and discover the nature found on our site. For a bit of interactive fun, pick up an eye spy activity sheet from our ticket office and embark on a spotter trail around the buildings and gardens. Construct model buildings in our Northolt Barn, and step into the shoes of a World War I soldier with our authentic costumes. Don't miss the chance to capture memorable moments in our Victorian hats, perfect for striking a pose and snapping selfies. Delve into the past with our collection of historic toys and games, offering entertainment reminiscent of days gone by. And for our little adventurers, we have a Family Room with toys, games and crafts and our adventure playground promises hours of outdoor fun and excitement.
At weekends and in school holidays you can also make a beeswax candle on-site.
Be sure to check out our events page for a complete list of scheduled activities and events.
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