Posted on Tuesday 22nd October 2024
Cllr Philip White outside the Ancient High House
Families looking for fun days out with a cultural twist during the October half-term holiday are being reminded that there’s lots on offer in Staffordshire.
Whether it’s a visit to a museum, a walk around a historic building or garden, researching family history, theatre trips, or making pottery, the county has plenty of choice.
Families can enjoy The World of Wedgwood and celebrate the very best of British industrial and design heritage. take a tour, visit the museum, throw a pot or simply learn more about Josiah Wedgwood and his company.
People can also visit the Museum of Cannock Chase, once home to the Valley Colliery It is free to enter and tells the fascinating story of Cannock Chase. From its industrial beginnings to its military role, famous local citizens, social history, domestic life and wildlife.
Lichfield Cathedral, the UK’s only medieval three-spired cathedral, forms the centrepiece of the heritage city and nearby the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas is the UK’s year-round centre for remembrance and a living, growing tribute. Also in Lichfield families can visit the Staffordshire Regiment Museum or find out more about their family history at the History Access Point in Lichfield Library.
In the Staffordshire Moorlands, families can explore the Nicholson Institute and gallery where collections and items relating to the history of the Staffordshire Moorlands will be on show. The collection includes paintings, textiles, ceramics and items representing everyday life.
Philip White, Deputy Leader at Staffordshire County Council said:
“What’s great about Staffordshire is that we have so much on offer, including a huge range of fun cultural activities and places to visit.
“Historic houses and gardens, visitor centres, and museums feature heavily in our portfolio of visitor attractions. These all tell the story of our fascinating history, pottery industry, brewing industry and rich industrial heritage.
“We’re very much the biggest and best playground in the UK. A place of fun and enjoyment. A place to make memories and a place that welcomes all. And if it’s culture you’re after this half term, we’ll have something for you.”
In Stafford, people can walk through time in the Ancient High House, the largest remaining timber-framed town house in England which was built in 1595. Explore through period room settings and find out more about the history of the house. The property also houses the museum of the Staffordshire Yeomanry.
People can also visit the Shugborough Estate, a Grade 1 listed parkland in the heart of the county which provides beautiful historic interiors, stunning formal gardens, peaceful woodland and parkland to explore at leisure.
Libraries across Staffordshire remain a vibrant hub in local communities and will be offering a range of cultural activities as part of the Staffordshire history Festival.
People can find out more on the Enjoy Staffordshire October half term webpage.