Historic DAYS OUT
Now that summer’s arrived, this is the best time to plan an adventure with all the historians in your life.
Hever Castle & Gardens Over the summer holidays children can take part in a series of hands-on activities to learn to be a knight or princess in medieval times. On select weekends The Knights of Royal England return to battle it out at the annual jousting tournament. Explore different periods in history with encampments, re-enactments and stalls over the bank holiday. 01732 865224 àà www.hevercastle.co.uk
Felixstowe Museum Throughout August, come along and follow our fun Lego trail around the museum. Check out our treasure trove of varied and interesting exhibits covering local, social and military history of the area. There are 14 galleries showing everything from Roman artefacts up to the 1960s. Felixstowe Museum is not open every day so check our website for details. àà 01394 674355 www.felixstowemuseum.org
Melbourne Hall & Gardens Melbourne Hall and Gardens in South Derbyshire has been the home of two Prime Ministers, Lord Melbourne (Queen Victoria’s friend and confidant) and Lord Palmerston. The Garden is one of the best known formal gardens in the country noted for its long tunnel of Yew and its wrought iron pagoda created by Robert Bakewell. For opening times please contact - 01332 862502 àà www.melbournehall.com
Blackwell, The Arts & Crafts House Overlooking Windermere, Blackwell is a masterpiece of twentieth century design and showcases the very best of the Arts and Crafts Movement alongside contemporary craft exhibitions. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the beauty and craftsmanship of the original features designed by the architect Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott. àà 01539 446139 www.blackwell.org.uk
Valentines Mansion Discover historic Valentines Mansion & Gardens –a grade II* listed country house, dating back to 1696, with its enchanting gardens. Discover restored period rooms, including Victorian kitchen, Georgian bedchamber and Regency Parlour. Don’t forget to enjoy a cream tea in the charming Gardener’s Cottage Café set on the mansion’s beautiful grounds. Free entry. àà 020 8708 8100 valentinesmansion.com
Bentley Priory Museum New for the Summer Holidays - an exciting, interactive Pilot School for families! Learn about radar, parachutes & essential RAF language. Complete your training log & win a prize. Visit our website for open days/times. Included in museum admission (children aged 5 & under are free with accompanying adults). àà 020 8950 5526 bentleypriorymuseum.org.uk