<![CDATA[Come Here!]]>4cd51b95-328b-5e60-b052-47e741c407d3Thu, 24 Sep 2026 04:00:41 +0000Captivate.fmLiz Druryhttps://artwork.captivate.fm/6bc65fa8-a667-4b92-b9bf-7ee7224601db/Liz-Drury-Heritage-Podcast.jpgCome Here!Liz DruryLiz DruryCome Here! — A Heritage Podcast with Liz Drury Looking for inspiring places to visit — and the stories behind them? Come Here! is the podcast that takes you inside the UK’s most fascinating heritage sites, museums, galleries, historic houses, parks and cultural spaces — in the company of the people who know them best. Hosted by voiceover artist and archaeology PhD Liz Drury, each weekly episode features a friendly, in-depth conversation with curators, site managers, rangers and heritage professionals from across the sector. Together, we explore the history of their sites, the hidden details visitors might otherwise miss, what makes each place special — and, of course, all the practical information you need to plan a visit. Whether you’re a heritage enthusiast, a day-trip planner, or simply curious about the stories behind Britain’s cultural spaces, Come Here! will introduce you to somewhere new. And if you work in the heritage sector yourself, this podcast is your invitation too — a chance to share your site, your passion, and your visitor experience with a wider audience. New episodes every week. Come and discover somewhere worth visiting.https://lizdrury.com/come-here/falseepisodicnopodcastCaptain Cook Museum, WhitbyCaptain Cook Museum, WhitbyStep into the only surviving building certainly linked to James Cook — a Grade I listed 17th-century house on Whitby's historic harbourside. Built in 1688, this was home to Captain John Walker, who took on a seventeen-year-old apprentice named James Cook in 1746. The rest is history.

Inside, you'll walk the same floorboards Cook once did. True to Quaker principles, there's no grandeur here — just an authentic, atmospheric glimpse into a master-mariner's world, its original colours restored to create a calm, evocative feel. Ground floor rooms are furnished exactly as they were in the 1750s. Look closely in the Blue Room: the original floorboards, and a door cleverly bent to match the panelling — a nod to Whitby's shipwrights and craftsmen.

Climb higher and follow Cook's journey from Whitby to Canada, and on to the far "Ends of the Earth." At the top, the attic where young Cook once slept now hosts a special exhibition that changes every year — with the harbour view getting better with every step up.

Outside, our Courtyard Garden blooms with 18th-century planting, including exotic South Seas species like flax and bottlebrush. And don't miss our collection of over 700 stunning botanical prints from the Joseph Banks Florilegium, drawn by Sydney Parkinson on Cook's first voyage.

There's always something happening:

• Tuesdays — Free guided Tours at 11am & 12pm (included with entry)

• Wednesdays — Storytime and Workshops for families

• Thursdays — Talks exploring Cook's life and legacy

• Every August — The Historical Maritime Society sails in! Meet Nelson-era sailors and

Royal Marines in full uniform, bringing the Age of Sail to life every Saturday and Sunday

Open 7 days a week, February to November. Come walk in the footsteps of a legend

https://www.cookmuseumwhitby.co.uk

]]>Step into the only surviving building certainly linked to James Cook — a Grade I listed 17th-century house on Whitby's historic harbourside. Built in 1688, this was home to Captain John Walker, who took on a seventeen-year-old apprentice named James Cook in 1746. The rest is history.

Inside, you'll walk the same floorboards Cook once did. True to Quaker principles, there's no grandeur here — just an authentic, atmospheric glimpse into a master-mariner's world, its original colours restored to create a calm, evocative feel. Ground floor rooms are furnished exactly as they were in the 1750s. Look closely in the Blue Room: the original floorboards, and a door cleverly bent to match the panelling — a nod to Whitby's shipwrights and craftsmen.

Climb higher and follow Cook's journey from Whitby to Canada, and on to the far "Ends of the Earth." At the top, the attic where young Cook once slept now hosts a special exhibition that changes every year — with the harbour view getting better with every step up.

Outside, our Courtyard Garden blooms with 18th-century planting, including exotic South Seas species like flax and bottlebrush. And don't miss our collection of over 700 stunning botanical prints from the Joseph Banks Florilegium, drawn by Sydney Parkinson on Cook's first voyage.

There's always something happening:

• Tuesdays — Free guided Tours at 11am & 12pm (included with entry)

• Wednesdays — Storytime and Workshops for families

• Thursdays — Talks exploring Cook's life and legacy

• Every August — The Historical Maritime Society sails in! Meet Nelson-era sailors and

Royal Marines in full uniform, bringing the Age of Sail to life every Saturday and Sunday

Open 7 days a week, February to November. Come walk in the footsteps of a legend

https://www.cookmuseumwhitby.co.uk

]]>ac34852e-e3a9-4a53-9427-5c23b2ef51ebThu, 24 Sep 2026 05:00:00 +010030:53falsefull2828Thornton Abbey & St Peter's Church, North LincsThornton Abbey & St Peter's Church, North LincsThornton Abbey and St Peter's Church are both in the care of English Heritage and are located a few miles apart.

Both sites are only open once a month, but on the same day, so you can visit both together. Use the links below to find the dates.

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/thornton-abbey-and-gatehouse/#

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/st-peters-church-barton-upon-humber/

]]>Thornton Abbey and St Peter's Church are both in the care of English Heritage and are located a few miles apart.

Both sites are only open once a month, but on the same day, so you can visit both together. Use the links below to find the dates.

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/thornton-abbey-and-gatehouse/#

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/st-peters-church-barton-upon-humber/

]]>b0306b33-b551-4c83-861f-cf05f2e6754bThu, 17 Sep 2026 05:00:00 +010031:04falsefull2727Whitby MuseumWhitby MuseumHere at Whitby Museum, we are surrounded by cabinets filled with curiosities. As you wander through, footsteps echo on the creaky floorboards, the magic seeps, history pours and discoveries are made; revealing the life of our historic coastal town from the Jurassic era to the present day, our collections are fascinating – even quirky. Come and see our fossils, our costumes, our model ships and our curiosities for yourself. Whatever your age, whatever your interests, Whitby Museum is a precious treasure trove.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCky-laXLuVwI1mGjzY6KP0g

https://www.instagram.com/whitbymuseum/

https://www.facebook.com/WhitbyMuseum/

https://whitbymuseum.org.uk/category/library-archives-blog/

https://redcircle.com/shows/24175188-fab1-4f63-91e1-e144e3064573

]]>Here at Whitby Museum, we are surrounded by cabinets filled with curiosities. As you wander through, footsteps echo on the creaky floorboards, the magic seeps, history pours and discoveries are made; revealing the life of our historic coastal town from the Jurassic era to the present day, our collections are fascinating – even quirky. Come and see our fossils, our costumes, our model ships and our curiosities for yourself. Whatever your age, whatever your interests, Whitby Museum is a precious treasure trove.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCky-laXLuVwI1mGjzY6KP0g

https://www.instagram.com/whitbymuseum/

https://www.facebook.com/WhitbyMuseum/

https://whitbymuseum.org.uk/category/library-archives-blog/

https://redcircle.com/shows/24175188-fab1-4f63-91e1-e144e3064573

]]>d41c7589-817f-4944-ba73-d66c11892ebbThu, 10 Sep 2026 05:00:00 +010028:10falsefull2626Louth Museum, LincolnshireLouth Museum, LincolnshireLouth Naturalists' Antiquarian and Literary Society was established in Louth almost 140 years ago, later becoming a charity and a company running our local independent museum.

Louth Museum is an award winning visitor attraction in the historic market town of Louth, nestling at the foot of the Lincolnshire Wolds. There are four galleries, a library and a gift shop.

Discover:

  • The back-lit panoramic bird’s-eye view of Victorian Louth
  • Rocks and fossils of the Lincolnshire Wolds
  • 200,000 years of local archaeology
  • Brickmaking and printing
  • The disastrous Louth Flood of May 1920
  • The story of the Ghost of the Green Lady
  • Carpets made in Louth
  • The largest national collection of Victorian woodcarvings by Thomas Wilkinson Wallis

Whilst the museum is closed - why not take a virtual tour.

https://www.louthmuseum.org.uk

]]>Louth Naturalists' Antiquarian and Literary Society was established in Louth almost 140 years ago, later becoming a charity and a company running our local independent museum.

Louth Museum is an award winning visitor attraction in the historic market town of Louth, nestling at the foot of the Lincolnshire Wolds. There are four galleries, a library and a gift shop.

Discover:

  • The back-lit panoramic bird’s-eye view of Victorian Louth
  • Rocks and fossils of the Lincolnshire Wolds
  • 200,000 years of local archaeology
  • Brickmaking and printing
  • The disastrous Louth Flood of May 1920
  • The story of the Ghost of the Green Lady
  • Carpets made in Louth
  • The largest national collection of Victorian woodcarvings by Thomas Wilkinson Wallis

Whilst the museum is closed - why not take a virtual tour.

https://www.louthmuseum.org.uk

]]>def9dcf2-728c-45d7-9d68-f9090e91e49eThu, 03 Sep 2026 05:00:00 +010031:52falsefull2525The Walks of Life Museum, Tuxford, NottinghamshireThe Walks of Life Museum, Tuxford, NottinghamshireThe Walks of Life is UK's only museum dedicated to the collection of handcarts, and was established in the 1990s by the late Dorothy Harrison. The collection includes wheeled mobility throughout life - from birth, through childcare, work and old age, and in addition to carts the museum also has a comprehensive social history collection. The site encompasses, a historic farmhouse, three exhibition halls, Tuxford's last telephone box, a pick-your-own fruit orchard, and a special wartime exhibition.

Website: https://walksoflifemuseum.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/walksoflifemuseum

mail address: admin@walksoflifemuseum.org

]]>The Walks of Life is UK's only museum dedicated to the collection of handcarts, and was established in the 1990s by the late Dorothy Harrison. The collection includes wheeled mobility throughout life - from birth, through childcare, work and old age, and in addition to carts the museum also has a comprehensive social history collection. The site encompasses, a historic farmhouse, three exhibition halls, Tuxford's last telephone box, a pick-your-own fruit orchard, and a special wartime exhibition.

Website: https://walksoflifemuseum.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/walksoflifemuseum

mail address: admin@walksoflifemuseum.org

]]>90bc6c1d-a08f-464d-843a-3845e5525b1bThu, 27 Aug 2026 05:00:00 +010027:38falsefull2424International Bomber Command CentreInternational Bomber Command CentreThe International Bomber Command Centre (IBCC) is a world-class facility to serve as a point for recognition, remembrance and reconciliation for Bomber Command. Providing the most comprehensive record of the Command in the world, the IBCC ensures that generations to come can learn of their vital role in protecting the freedom we enjoy today.

Links:

https://internationalbcc.co.uk

https://www.facebook.com/InternationalBomberCommandCentre

https://www.instagram.com/intbcc

https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-bomber-command-centre

https://www.tiktok.com/@intbcc

]]>The International Bomber Command Centre (IBCC) is a world-class facility to serve as a point for recognition, remembrance and reconciliation for Bomber Command. Providing the most comprehensive record of the Command in the world, the IBCC ensures that generations to come can learn of their vital role in protecting the freedom we enjoy today.

Links:

https://internationalbcc.co.uk

https://www.facebook.com/InternationalBomberCommandCentre

https://www.instagram.com/intbcc

https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-bomber-command-centre

https://www.tiktok.com/@intbcc

]]>783e51f1-5038-474d-986f-adfc8d55dc79Thu, 20 Aug 2026 05:00:00 +010026:53falsefull2323Gainsborough Heritage CentreGainsborough Heritage CentreThe Gainsborough Heritage Centre is located in a historic 1904 building that originally served as the town's Post Office and Telephone Exchange. Run entirely by passionate volunteers, this local museum preserves and showcases the town’s rich past spanning from Roman times to the modern industrial era.

Visitors can explore three distinct floors featuring:

  • Industrial Exhibits: Showcasing machinery made by world-famous local manufacturers like Marshall Sons & Co.and Rose Brothers.
  • Recreated 20th-Century Street Scene: Featuring vintage shops, a period post office, and a detailed backyard scene.
  • Research Library & Archives: A comprehensive hub housing local newspaper archives, oral histories, and genealogical records for family history tracking.
  • Exchange Tearoom & Shop: A cozy space to enjoy homemade cake or buy local history books and replica memorabilia.

Location & Hours

  • Address: 12 North Street, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, DN21 2HS
  • Opening Hours: Tuesdays and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  • Admission: £3 for adults, Free for under-16s and members.


]]>The Gainsborough Heritage Centre is located in a historic 1904 building that originally served as the town's Post Office and Telephone Exchange. Run entirely by passionate volunteers, this local museum preserves and showcases the town’s rich past spanning from Roman times to the modern industrial era.

Visitors can explore three distinct floors featuring:

  • Industrial Exhibits: Showcasing machinery made by world-famous local manufacturers like Marshall Sons & Co.and Rose Brothers.
  • Recreated 20th-Century Street Scene: Featuring vintage shops, a period post office, and a detailed backyard scene.
  • Research Library & Archives: A comprehensive hub housing local newspaper archives, oral histories, and genealogical records for family history tracking.
  • Exchange Tearoom & Shop: A cozy space to enjoy homemade cake or buy local history books and replica memorabilia.

Location & Hours

  • Address: 12 North Street, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, DN21 2HS
  • Opening Hours: Tuesdays and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  • Admission: £3 for adults, Free for under-16s and members.


]]>54383552-bb10-41da-b6b4-18f9e723cbc6Thu, 13 Aug 2026 05:00:00 +010028:03falsefull2222Dinostar Dinosaur Museum, HullDinostar Dinosaur Museum, HullHull’s interactive, hands-on, dinosaur museum, Dinostar is celebrating its 22nd anniversary in 2026. The museum in the Fruit Market area of the Old Town was officially opened by Tony (now Sir Tony) Robinson (of Time Team and Blackadder fame) in June 2004. Since then the museum has grown to become a popular attraction for visitors to Hull.

Highlights of the exhibition include full-size Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops skulls, dinosaur bones you can touch and numerous interactive, child-friendly exhibits. One of the most popular exhibits is an interactive sandbox where children can build dinosaur landscapes and even make a volcano!

The museum is designed with children and families in mind. Exhibits can be touched, buttons can be pressed and young palaeontologists can dig for dinosaur bones in sand. The museum is complemented by a gift shop offering dinosaur toys as well as genuine and replica fossils.

More recent additions include an exploration of feathers on dinosaurs – look out for the feathered Velociraptors stalking the upper floor. Three large Velociraptor models overlook visitors from their perches. The famous dinosaurs, stars of Jurassic Park and Jurassic World, are represented as feathered in line with the latest scientific research. There is also an Augmented Reality exhibit where visitors appear alongside wandering dinosaurs.

Dinostar is on the corner of Humber Street and Queen Street in Hull’s Fruit Market creative quarter. It is just two minutes' walk from The Deep, Victoria Pier and Hull Marina. In recent years Dinostar has been joined in the Fruit Market by a range of cafes, restaurants, galleries and independent shops. A great place to explore.

The museum is open every Saturday and Sunday throughout the year. It also opens during school holidays, notably the summer school holiday from July to the start of September. School visits to Dinostar are very popular. As the museum is closed during school times groups have exclusive access to the venue. Groups of up to 60 children can be accommodated.

As an alternative, especially for schools further afield, Dinostar takes some of the more portable exhibits to schools for Dinosaur Workshops. Workshops have taken place in schools from Aberdeen to Southampton and from Cardiff to Norwich. Dinostar has also appeared at science festivals, visitor attractions, holiday parks and even racecourses across the country.

Dinostar – The Dinosaur Experience

28-29 Humber Street

Hull

HU1 1TH

Tel: 01482 320424

Websites: www.dinostar.co.uk and www.dinosaurworkshops.co.uk

Instagram: DinostarHull

X/Twitter: DinostarHull

]]>Hull’s interactive, hands-on, dinosaur museum, Dinostar is celebrating its 22nd anniversary in 2026. The museum in the Fruit Market area of the Old Town was officially opened by Tony (now Sir Tony) Robinson (of Time Team and Blackadder fame) in June 2004. Since then the museum has grown to become a popular attraction for visitors to Hull.

Highlights of the exhibition include full-size Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops skulls, dinosaur bones you can touch and numerous interactive, child-friendly exhibits. One of the most popular exhibits is an interactive sandbox where children can build dinosaur landscapes and even make a volcano!

The museum is designed with children and families in mind. Exhibits can be touched, buttons can be pressed and young palaeontologists can dig for dinosaur bones in sand. The museum is complemented by a gift shop offering dinosaur toys as well as genuine and replica fossils.

More recent additions include an exploration of feathers on dinosaurs – look out for the feathered Velociraptors stalking the upper floor. Three large Velociraptor models overlook visitors from their perches. The famous dinosaurs, stars of Jurassic Park and Jurassic World, are represented as feathered in line with the latest scientific research. There is also an Augmented Reality exhibit where visitors appear alongside wandering dinosaurs.

Dinostar is on the corner of Humber Street and Queen Street in Hull’s Fruit Market creative quarter. It is just two minutes' walk from The Deep, Victoria Pier and Hull Marina. In recent years Dinostar has been joined in the Fruit Market by a range of cafes, restaurants, galleries and independent shops. A great place to explore.

The museum is open every Saturday and Sunday throughout the year. It also opens during school holidays, notably the summer school holiday from July to the start of September. School visits to Dinostar are very popular. As the museum is closed during school times groups have exclusive access to the venue. Groups of up to 60 children can be accommodated.

As an alternative, especially for schools further afield, Dinostar takes some of the more portable exhibits to schools for Dinosaur Workshops. Workshops have taken place in schools from Aberdeen to Southampton and from Cardiff to Norwich. Dinostar has also appeared at science festivals, visitor attractions, holiday parks and even racecourses across the country.

Dinostar – The Dinosaur Experience

28-29 Humber Street

Hull

HU1 1TH

Tel: 01482 320424

Websites: www.dinostar.co.uk and www.dinosaurworkshops.co.uk

Instagram: DinostarHull

X/Twitter: DinostarHull

]]>0808cea7-f1c4-4e30-821d-f28b15dee788Thu, 06 Aug 2026 05:00:00 +010022:59falsefull2121Dogdyke Pumping Station, LincolnshireDogdyke Pumping Station, LincolnshireMuch of Lincolnshire is low-lying and, if left to nature, would be fenland and marsh, and difficult or impossible to farm.

From the seventeenth century landowners have tried many techniques to reduce seasonal flooding and to raise the water out of the land and into the rivers. At first, wind-powered pumps were built but in the nineteenth century, with the invention of steam engines, a new chapter began. Tall brick chimneys rose across the fenlands and hundreds of steam driven pumps were constructed to drain the wetlands and produce productive farmland. But they in their turn were replaced by diesel pumps and, in the later twentieth century, by electrically driven pumps.

Pretty much all of the old steam (and diesel) pumps were demolished and the engines sold off for scrap. But just a few remain as museum exhibits … one of the best is at Dogdyke Pumping Station near Tattershall, where an 1855 beam engine is still driven by steam and still turns its massive scoop wheel to lift water from the land into the river Witham. Right next to it, and now also redundant, is the 1940 Ruston diesel engine that replaced the steam. Both engines are maintained and demonstrated by volunteers.

These magnificent engines are cared for by the Dogdyke Pumping Station Preservation Trust and are demonstrated to visitors on the first Sunday of every month from May to October (12.30 – 4.30). The tea room serves splendid cakes and admission is free (although donations are appreciated).

www.dogdyke.com

]]>Much of Lincolnshire is low-lying and, if left to nature, would be fenland and marsh, and difficult or impossible to farm.

From the seventeenth century landowners have tried many techniques to reduce seasonal flooding and to raise the water out of the land and into the rivers. At first, wind-powered pumps were built but in the nineteenth century, with the invention of steam engines, a new chapter began. Tall brick chimneys rose across the fenlands and hundreds of steam driven pumps were constructed to drain the wetlands and produce productive farmland. But they in their turn were replaced by diesel pumps and, in the later twentieth century, by electrically driven pumps.

Pretty much all of the old steam (and diesel) pumps were demolished and the engines sold off for scrap. But just a few remain as museum exhibits … one of the best is at Dogdyke Pumping Station near Tattershall, where an 1855 beam engine is still driven by steam and still turns its massive scoop wheel to lift water from the land into the river Witham. Right next to it, and now also redundant, is the 1940 Ruston diesel engine that replaced the steam. Both engines are maintained and demonstrated by volunteers.

These magnificent engines are cared for by the Dogdyke Pumping Station Preservation Trust and are demonstrated to visitors on the first Sunday of every month from May to October (12.30 – 4.30). The tea room serves splendid cakes and admission is free (although donations are appreciated).

www.dogdyke.com

]]>cc597711-b09f-4960-a099-aa2a933aaf97Thu, 30 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +010022:41falsefull2020Sundown Adventureland, NottinghamshireSundown Adventureland, NottinghamshireThis week's episode is something a bit different. Sundown Adventureland isn't a museum, it's a theme park for young children, but it has a long history of almost 60 years.

Audrey and John Rhodes started the business almost by accident in 1968 when visitors to buy their homegrown produce were enthralled by a pet monkey they had acquired. This grew into a petting zoo and eventually a theme park.

The third generation are now running this family business which is a delight for children and their grown ups alike.

In 2022, Sundown Adventureland opened its new overnight accommodation, Wild Acre Village. Located next to the park, the 50 lodges provide a themed holiday experience for guests, with single or double lodges available.

www.sundownadventureland.co.uk

]]>This week's episode is something a bit different. Sundown Adventureland isn't a museum, it's a theme park for young children, but it has a long history of almost 60 years.

Audrey and John Rhodes started the business almost by accident in 1968 when visitors to buy their homegrown produce were enthralled by a pet monkey they had acquired. This grew into a petting zoo and eventually a theme park.

The third generation are now running this family business which is a delight for children and their grown ups alike.

In 2022, Sundown Adventureland opened its new overnight accommodation, Wild Acre Village. Located next to the park, the 50 lodges provide a themed holiday experience for guests, with single or double lodges available.

www.sundownadventureland.co.uk

]]>4e72393b-2f2c-4400-b0a5-37ca84bd871dThu, 23 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +010023:04falsefull1919Grantham House, Grantham LincolnshireGrantham House, Grantham LincolnshireGrantham House is a hidden treasure in the heart of Grantham, Lincolnshire. It has been in the care of the National Trust since the 1940's but was only opened to the public in 2025.

Only part of the house is permanently accessible (the downstairs with the cafe and book shop) but there are also rooms available upstairs for community classes and events.

There are also 5 acres of stunning gardens to enjoy.

Admission is free for everyone as part of the National Trust's strategy objective to end unequal access to nature, beauty and history.

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/nottinghamshire-lincolnshire/grantham-house

]]>Grantham House is a hidden treasure in the heart of Grantham, Lincolnshire. It has been in the care of the National Trust since the 1940's but was only opened to the public in 2025.

Only part of the house is permanently accessible (the downstairs with the cafe and book shop) but there are also rooms available upstairs for community classes and events.

There are also 5 acres of stunning gardens to enjoy.

Admission is free for everyone as part of the National Trust's strategy objective to end unequal access to nature, beauty and history.

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/nottinghamshire-lincolnshire/grantham-house

]]>b3648b3b-721f-4aea-865d-650284d5ecccThu, 16 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +010025:58falsefull1818Cottage Museum Woodhall SpaCottage Museum Woodhall SpaThe Cottage Museum at Woodhall Spa covers the history of the town and the Wield family who lived there from 1887 until the 1960s.

The house is a rare example of a Boulton and Paul bungalow constructed of corrugated iron on a wooden frame.

John Wield was a keen photographer and his photographic collection is a unique and valuable record of life at the time. Some of his photographs are on display at the museum, along with a reconstruction of his darkroom.

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/cottagemuseum

Instagram

@Cottage_Museum

Website

WWW.cottagemuseum.co.uk

]]>The Cottage Museum at Woodhall Spa covers the history of the town and the Wield family who lived there from 1887 until the 1960s.

The house is a rare example of a Boulton and Paul bungalow constructed of corrugated iron on a wooden frame.

John Wield was a keen photographer and his photographic collection is a unique and valuable record of life at the time. Some of his photographs are on display at the museum, along with a reconstruction of his darkroom.

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/cottagemuseum

Instagram

@Cottage_Museum

Website

WWW.cottagemuseum.co.uk

]]>9b9e45e5-f6cc-43c4-8167-4db8982b0dfaThu, 09 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +010025:27falsefull1717Sturminster Newton MillSturminster Newton MillPete Loosmore is the Miller at Sturminster Newton Mill, which is part of the Sturminster Newton Heritage Trust.

Sturminster water mill stands on the banks of the Stour River, 300 yards from a medieval, six arched bridge and the site of an even older ford few yards further on. The area is overlooked by “Sturminster Castle”, which is the ruined remains of a manor house once given to Katherine parr by Henry V111.( Now on private land)

There has been a mill on the riverbank for at least 1000 years, the site is mentioned in the Domesday Book. The current building has parts dating back to the 1500s. The atmosphere and scenery changes day to day, season to season, from substantial winter flooding to a picturesque, peaceful place to relax or observe the wildlife during spring, summer and autumn.

The Mill has played a key role in the history of the town, Sturminster Newton, just across the bridge. Milling of grain, whether for flour or animal feed has been a constant, but the mill was also pivotal in the production of a special fabric, Swan Skin. This was an important local industry. Woven woollen cloth would be brought to the Fulling wing of the mill to be beaten with urine and fullers earth to make a thick, warm, waterproof fabric which was then exported to the fishing trade in Newfound during 1600s to early 1800s. Even now, Newfoundland families are tracing their families back to Sturminster Newton. The full story is told in the mill.

The method of working inside of the mill has changed little during the passing centuries. A medieval miller would feel at ease milling grain today once he had mastered the “modern” under water turbine installed in 1904 to replace the two traditional undershot waterwheels. Today, the mill is kept working by a group of volunteers and is open during spring and summer months when the miller uses the traditional machinery to produce flour for sale.

Whether you want historical facts, the opportunity to soak up the peace and quiet of tranquil surroundings, or observe wildlife from the many footpaths, the mill is a special place to visit.

For opening times and more information

www.sturminsternewton-museum.co.uk

]]>Pete Loosmore is the Miller at Sturminster Newton Mill, which is part of the Sturminster Newton Heritage Trust.

Sturminster water mill stands on the banks of the Stour River, 300 yards from a medieval, six arched bridge and the site of an even older ford few yards further on. The area is overlooked by “Sturminster Castle”, which is the ruined remains of a manor house once given to Katherine parr by Henry V111.( Now on private land)

There has been a mill on the riverbank for at least 1000 years, the site is mentioned in the Domesday Book. The current building has parts dating back to the 1500s. The atmosphere and scenery changes day to day, season to season, from substantial winter flooding to a picturesque, peaceful place to relax or observe the wildlife during spring, summer and autumn.

The Mill has played a key role in the history of the town, Sturminster Newton, just across the bridge. Milling of grain, whether for flour or animal feed has been a constant, but the mill was also pivotal in the production of a special fabric, Swan Skin. This was an important local industry. Woven woollen cloth would be brought to the Fulling wing of the mill to be beaten with urine and fullers earth to make a thick, warm, waterproof fabric which was then exported to the fishing trade in Newfound during 1600s to early 1800s. Even now, Newfoundland families are tracing their families back to Sturminster Newton. The full story is told in the mill.

The method of working inside of the mill has changed little during the passing centuries. A medieval miller would feel at ease milling grain today once he had mastered the “modern” under water turbine installed in 1904 to replace the two traditional undershot waterwheels. Today, the mill is kept working by a group of volunteers and is open during spring and summer months when the miller uses the traditional machinery to produce flour for sale.

Whether you want historical facts, the opportunity to soak up the peace and quiet of tranquil surroundings, or observe wildlife from the many footpaths, the mill is a special place to visit.

For opening times and more information

www.sturminsternewton-museum.co.uk

]]>98be3123-d766-448d-a3b7-87f816bfb26eThu, 02 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +010023:27falsefull1616Websites for heritage attractionsWebsites for heritage attractionsHelen Reynolds is a freelance copywriter and her business, Ink Gardener Copywriting, specialises in writing copy for heritage attraction websites.

Helen has many years of experience of working in the heritage sector as she previously managed websites and social media for the Lake District National Park.

She is a font of knowledge when it comes to creating a great website for a heritage attraction, and she's passionate about history and heritage as you will hear.

Whether you work for a heritage attraction or not, this is a fascinating 'behind the scenes' episode, and if you do happen to work for a museum or other attraction, Helen has a free gift for you! To access her target audience top tips pdf, send an email to helen@inkgardener.co.uk with the secret code 'Come Here'.

www.inkgardnener.co.uk

https://www.linkedin.com/in/helencopywriter/

]]>Helen Reynolds is a freelance copywriter and her business, Ink Gardener Copywriting, specialises in writing copy for heritage attraction websites.

Helen has many years of experience of working in the heritage sector as she previously managed websites and social media for the Lake District National Park.

She is a font of knowledge when it comes to creating a great website for a heritage attraction, and she's passionate about history and heritage as you will hear.

Whether you work for a heritage attraction or not, this is a fascinating 'behind the scenes' episode, and if you do happen to work for a museum or other attraction, Helen has a free gift for you! To access her target audience top tips pdf, send an email to helen@inkgardener.co.uk with the secret code 'Come Here'.

www.inkgardnener.co.uk

https://www.linkedin.com/in/helencopywriter/

]]>fbbc16b6-40aa-44fb-ae3b-9e89b5b9c9ddThu, 25 Jun 2026 05:00:00 +010031:16falsefull1515Sleaford Museum, LincolnshireSleaford Museum, LincolnshireMark Bamford is the Chairman of Sleaford Museum in Lincolnshire.

The museum, which is located in an old Edwardian toilet block, is home to artefacts and stories that portray fascinating aspects of the town and area’s unique past. Exhibitions in its colourful interior change frequently and visitors are united in their praise. Admission is free, but your donations are welcomed and much appreciated to help us to cover essential costs and to fund new exhibitions. A range of local history books, booklets, postcards, pens, key-rings etc can be purchased.

The Museum is a completely volunteer-run organisation and a registered charity. Since opening in 2015, over 20,000 visitors have joined us to celebrate sharing the stories of Sleaford people.

Email: sleafordmuseum@btinternet.com

Mobile: +44 7518 972016

Website: https://www.sleafordmuseum.org.uk

Facebook: Sleaford Museum

Instagram: sleafordmuseum

]]>Mark Bamford is the Chairman of Sleaford Museum in Lincolnshire.

The museum, which is located in an old Edwardian toilet block, is home to artefacts and stories that portray fascinating aspects of the town and area’s unique past. Exhibitions in its colourful interior change frequently and visitors are united in their praise. Admission is free, but your donations are welcomed and much appreciated to help us to cover essential costs and to fund new exhibitions. A range of local history books, booklets, postcards, pens, key-rings etc can be purchased.

The Museum is a completely volunteer-run organisation and a registered charity. Since opening in 2015, over 20,000 visitors have joined us to celebrate sharing the stories of Sleaford people.

Email: sleafordmuseum@btinternet.com

Mobile: +44 7518 972016

Website: https://www.sleafordmuseum.org.uk

Facebook: Sleaford Museum

Instagram: sleafordmuseum

]]>69d3ce73-0358-456f-81ce-5eca4f38dce1Thu, 18 Jun 2026 05:00:00 +010024:09falsefull1414Dales Countryside Museum, North YorkshireDales Countryside Museum, North YorkshireDales Countryside Museum is a National Park museum sharing the stories of the people and places of the Yorkshire Dales. Our home is a light and airy contemporary extension of Hawes’ former Victorian railway station, which sets the friendly and welcoming tone of the whole experience. The added bonus of our loco and railway carriages generates great excitement for families. Object rich displays include hands-on activities and the voices of local people help bring collections to life. With changing exhibitions and over 70 events each year, come along and discover more about the Yorkshire Dales.

www.dalescountrysidemuseum.org.uk

Dales Countryside Museum | Hawes | Facebook

Dales Countryside Museum on Instagram • Photos and videos

Voices From The Dales | Podcast on Spotify

]]>Dales Countryside Museum is a National Park museum sharing the stories of the people and places of the Yorkshire Dales. Our home is a light and airy contemporary extension of Hawes’ former Victorian railway station, which sets the friendly and welcoming tone of the whole experience. The added bonus of our loco and railway carriages generates great excitement for families. Object rich displays include hands-on activities and the voices of local people help bring collections to life. With changing exhibitions and over 70 events each year, come along and discover more about the Yorkshire Dales.

www.dalescountrysidemuseum.org.uk

Dales Countryside Museum | Hawes | Facebook

Dales Countryside Museum on Instagram • Photos and videos

Voices From The Dales | Podcast on Spotify

]]>553619cb-afb3-4f42-84a3-c79ef9610bbeThu, 11 Jun 2026 05:00:00 +010022:12falsefull1313Far Ings Nature Reserve, Barton upon HumberFar Ings Nature Reserve, Barton upon HumberFar Ings

]]>Far Ings

]]>ea3da46d-cdec-44c7-92bd-99d50241b2c1Thu, 04 Jun 2026 05:00:00 +010023:00falsefull1212Sewerby Hall, BridlingtonSewerby Hall, BridlingtonSewerby Hall is a grade 1 listed country house set in over 50 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens on the clifftops just outside Bridlington in the East Riding of Yorkshire.

Once the home of the Lloyd Greame family, the hall has been restored to reflect life in a country house during the Edwardian Golden Age, circa 1910.

Today, visitors are invited to step back in time to visit the lavish family rooms and explore life in the service wing where they can get to grips with the museum’s handling collection. Younger visitors can be Edwardian children for the day in the Nursery and there is costume fun for everyone in the dressing room.

With regular exhibitions, and a permanent display about the life of pilot Amy Johnson there is plenty for everybody to enjoy.

Outside the award‑winning gardens offer lots of space to explore, with colourful flower beds, woodland walks, wide open parkland, and breathtaking coastal views. There is also a small zoo, play areas, and seasonal events for children and adults alike.

https://www.sewerbyhall.co.uk/

]]>Sewerby Hall is a grade 1 listed country house set in over 50 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens on the clifftops just outside Bridlington in the East Riding of Yorkshire.

Once the home of the Lloyd Greame family, the hall has been restored to reflect life in a country house during the Edwardian Golden Age, circa 1910.

Today, visitors are invited to step back in time to visit the lavish family rooms and explore life in the service wing where they can get to grips with the museum’s handling collection. Younger visitors can be Edwardian children for the day in the Nursery and there is costume fun for everyone in the dressing room.

With regular exhibitions, and a permanent display about the life of pilot Amy Johnson there is plenty for everybody to enjoy.

Outside the award‑winning gardens offer lots of space to explore, with colourful flower beds, woodland walks, wide open parkland, and breathtaking coastal views. There is also a small zoo, play areas, and seasonal events for children and adults alike.

https://www.sewerbyhall.co.uk/

]]>a48028f6-38ae-4c99-affd-f5cc36bdd765Thu, 28 May 2026 05:00:00 +010023:50falsefull1111Bekonscot Model Village and RailwayBekonscot Model Village and Railway

Step into a miniature world at Bekonscot Model Village & Railway, the oldest original model village in the world. Established in 1929 and set in 1.5 acres of manicured gardens it is the perfect day out for adventurers young and old. Wander through our miniature village scenes, marvel at our extensive Gauge 1 model railway and watch the trains whizz by, enjoy a ride on our 7 1/4” narrow gauge light railway and relax with some tasty seasonal treats from our tearoom after a busy day of discovery. Check out the website to see the full series of seasonal events and book online at - https://www.bekonscot.co.uk/ at least 48hrs in advance to enjoy 10% off your next adventure!


]]>

Step into a miniature world at Bekonscot Model Village & Railway, the oldest original model village in the world. Established in 1929 and set in 1.5 acres of manicured gardens it is the perfect day out for adventurers young and old. Wander through our miniature village scenes, marvel at our extensive Gauge 1 model railway and watch the trains whizz by, enjoy a ride on our 7 1/4” narrow gauge light railway and relax with some tasty seasonal treats from our tearoom after a busy day of discovery. Check out the website to see the full series of seasonal events and book online at - https://www.bekonscot.co.uk/ at least 48hrs in advance to enjoy 10% off your next adventure!


]]>2dbb1df7-223b-41f7-b293-1638ee468b11Thu, 21 May 2026 05:00:00 +010022:34falsefull1212Belvoir Castle, near GranthamBelvoir Castle, near GranthamNestled above the rolling Vale of Belvoir, Belvoir Castle is home to the Duke and Duchess of Rutland and their five children and is one of England’s most treasured historic homes. There is something for everyone at Belvoir Castle, whether it’s stepping back in time to experience the Regency Castle’s rich history or making special family memories in the Adventure Playground.

Open seven days a week, Belvoir Retail Village is a thriving shopping and dining hub, sitting at the foot of Belvoir Castle. The retail destination offers artisan shopping in the heart of the stunning Vale of Belvoir and celebrates local food and the best of country living. Restored from working estate buildings, it is home to the latest fashions and accessories from homewares, crafts and toys as well as a range of delicious produce from the Belvoir Estate available in the Farm Shop.

Down by Belvoir Retail Village, Animal Park is the perfect opportunity to make some furry farm friends and little ones can meet goats, donkeys, cows and sheep. Looked after by a dedicated team of experts, families can feed the animals and read about their care, natural environment and quirky personalities on information boards.

www.belvoircastle.com

Upcoming events

  • Looking ahead to 2026, Belvoir Castle has a host of season events running throughout the year.
  • One highlight of the calendar is the annual Flower and Garden Show, which will welcome back famous faces from the UK’s favourite gardening programmes including – BBC Gardeners’ World presenter Adam Frost and ITV’s Love Your Garden’s David Domoney.
  • New for this year, Belvoir Castle will be hosting a very special May Day event on 4 May). This special event brings the centuries-old British May Day traditions to life, blending heritage, music, and family-friendly fun in a truly picturesque setting.
  • Belvoir Castle will also be welcoming back Boom Circus during the May bank holiday (23-25 May) for special pirate themed performances, and a series of workshops open to the public.
  • Regular free community events will also run throughout 2026 in the Belvoir Retail Village, including a book club, hosted by the Belvoir Chaplain, Eddie Wynn MBE, and a monthly Vintage and Craft Market.

]]>Nestled above the rolling Vale of Belvoir, Belvoir Castle is home to the Duke and Duchess of Rutland and their five children and is one of England’s most treasured historic homes. There is something for everyone at Belvoir Castle, whether it’s stepping back in time to experience the Regency Castle’s rich history or making special family memories in the Adventure Playground.

Open seven days a week, Belvoir Retail Village is a thriving shopping and dining hub, sitting at the foot of Belvoir Castle. The retail destination offers artisan shopping in the heart of the stunning Vale of Belvoir and celebrates local food and the best of country living. Restored from working estate buildings, it is home to the latest fashions and accessories from homewares, crafts and toys as well as a range of delicious produce from the Belvoir Estate available in the Farm Shop.

Down by Belvoir Retail Village, Animal Park is the perfect opportunity to make some furry farm friends and little ones can meet goats, donkeys, cows and sheep. Looked after by a dedicated team of experts, families can feed the animals and read about their care, natural environment and quirky personalities on information boards.

www.belvoircastle.com

Upcoming events

  • Looking ahead to 2026, Belvoir Castle has a host of season events running throughout the year.
  • One highlight of the calendar is the annual Flower and Garden Show, which will welcome back famous faces from the UK’s favourite gardening programmes including – BBC Gardeners’ World presenter Adam Frost and ITV’s Love Your Garden’s David Domoney.
  • New for this year, Belvoir Castle will be hosting a very special May Day event on 4 May). This special event brings the centuries-old British May Day traditions to life, blending heritage, music, and family-friendly fun in a truly picturesque setting.
  • Belvoir Castle will also be welcoming back Boom Circus during the May bank holiday (23-25 May) for special pirate themed performances, and a series of workshops open to the public.
  • Regular free community events will also run throughout 2026 in the Belvoir Retail Village, including a book club, hosted by the Belvoir Chaplain, Eddie Wynn MBE, and a monthly Vintage and Craft Market.

]]>fe24f49b-12f1-4108-97c2-e13c9a421700Thu, 14 May 2026 05:00:00 +010027:08falsefull1010West Lindsey Churches FestivalWest Lindsey Churches FestivalThe 30th West Lindsey Churches Festival takes place on the 9th - 10th & 16th - 17th May and includes 120 churches in and around the West Lindsey District.

"Join in and celebrate 30 years of the West Lindsey Churches Festival supporting the many churches and chapels across the stunning Lincolnshire countryside and rural villages that make up the vibrant landscape. Many of the churches are still the focal point of the villages within the West Lindsey District and will provide you with an insight into the history and life of their parishes. Others offer a vibrant collection of stained glass, architecture, carvings and artefacts. Some of the smaller churches open their doors simply to provide you with an oasis of peace and spirituality, a place to relax and witness the Holy Spirit. And finally, the festival offers intrigue and mystery as hidden stories are uncovered after being kept so secret over the years!”

The sister festival, Lincolnshire Wolds & Coast Churches Festival takes place in September, and there are details for this on the same website.

Website: https://www.churchesfestival.info/

Social media: https://www.facebook.com/WestLindseyChurches, https://www.instagram.com/churches.festival/,

https://www.west-lindsey.gov.uk/events/west-lindsey-churches-festival

]]>The 30th West Lindsey Churches Festival takes place on the 9th - 10th & 16th - 17th May and includes 120 churches in and around the West Lindsey District.

"Join in and celebrate 30 years of the West Lindsey Churches Festival supporting the many churches and chapels across the stunning Lincolnshire countryside and rural villages that make up the vibrant landscape. Many of the churches are still the focal point of the villages within the West Lindsey District and will provide you with an insight into the history and life of their parishes. Others offer a vibrant collection of stained glass, architecture, carvings and artefacts. Some of the smaller churches open their doors simply to provide you with an oasis of peace and spirituality, a place to relax and witness the Holy Spirit. And finally, the festival offers intrigue and mystery as hidden stories are uncovered after being kept so secret over the years!”

The sister festival, Lincolnshire Wolds & Coast Churches Festival takes place in September, and there are details for this on the same website.

Website: https://www.churchesfestival.info/

Social media: https://www.facebook.com/WestLindseyChurches, https://www.instagram.com/churches.festival/,

https://www.west-lindsey.gov.uk/events/west-lindsey-churches-festival

]]>be1b9eb1-8a76-46fc-9a75-f0ec74b81125Thu, 07 May 2026 05:00:00 +010015:17falsefull1414The Museum of Dartmoor LifeThe Museum of Dartmoor LifeThe museum of Dartmoor life has been open for 45 years and covers 5000 years of Dartmoor history, stretched over three floors of an old mill building in the centre of Okehampton.

Our collections explore the people, industries, folklore and landscapes that make Dartmoor unique. Learn about the stone rows, hut circles and burial cairns. See how geology, flora and fauna have shaped these dramatic landscapes. Explore domestic life, including local crafts and traditions and what working on the moor was like in the quarries, down the mines and working the land. Travel and tourism, effects of wars and myths and legends are also covered.

We are a fully accessible museum and offer tours on request. We use QR codes to link visitors to films and further information. There are lots of great things for our younger visitors to enjoy too. Something for everyone, what ever their age. Our lovely volunteers are waiting to welcome you.

www.dartmoorlife.org.uk

]]>The museum of Dartmoor life has been open for 45 years and covers 5000 years of Dartmoor history, stretched over three floors of an old mill building in the centre of Okehampton.

Our collections explore the people, industries, folklore and landscapes that make Dartmoor unique. Learn about the stone rows, hut circles and burial cairns. See how geology, flora and fauna have shaped these dramatic landscapes. Explore domestic life, including local crafts and traditions and what working on the moor was like in the quarries, down the mines and working the land. Travel and tourism, effects of wars and myths and legends are also covered.

We are a fully accessible museum and offer tours on request. We use QR codes to link visitors to films and further information. There are lots of great things for our younger visitors to enjoy too. Something for everyone, what ever their age. Our lovely volunteers are waiting to welcome you.

www.dartmoorlife.org.uk

]]>f4aec068-30f4-41fd-b922-0106ac9600ebThu, 30 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +010024:26falsefull99Normanby Hall, North LincolnshireNormanby Hall, North LincolnshireMadi Gray is the Curator of Decorative Arts at Normanby Hall near Scunthorpe.

Normanby Hall is a Regency mansion featuring displays telling the history of the house and the Sheffield family for whom it was built. It sits within a beautiful country park that is also home to the Rural Life Museum, woodland walks, gardens, a cafe (featuring produce from the walled garden), playgrounds, and even Go Ape.

Children will particularly enjoy the land train, the miniature railway and deer feeding at certain times of the year.

There's plenty for the whole family. Check the website for opening times and prices at www.normanbyhall.co.uk

Social media links:

https://www.facebook.com/normanbyhall

https://www.instagram.com/normanbyhall?igsh=MWJpeTNmdTIzZTM1NQ==

]]>Madi Gray is the Curator of Decorative Arts at Normanby Hall near Scunthorpe.

Normanby Hall is a Regency mansion featuring displays telling the history of the house and the Sheffield family for whom it was built. It sits within a beautiful country park that is also home to the Rural Life Museum, woodland walks, gardens, a cafe (featuring produce from the walled garden), playgrounds, and even Go Ape.

Children will particularly enjoy the land train, the miniature railway and deer feeding at certain times of the year.

There's plenty for the whole family. Check the website for opening times and prices at www.normanbyhall.co.uk

Social media links:

https://www.facebook.com/normanbyhall

https://www.instagram.com/normanbyhall?igsh=MWJpeTNmdTIzZTM1NQ==

]]>b202f69b-41ba-4446-bdc3-9efcb1640b1cThu, 23 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +010026:42falsefull88The Appleby-Frodingham Railway, ScunthorpeThe Appleby-Frodingham Railway, ScunthorpeAndrew Plumtree is a volunteer at the Appleby Frodingham Railway-Scunthorpe (formerly preservation society). The society was formed in 1990 to preserve the industrial railway heritage of the Scunthorpe Steelworks and the surrounding local area.

The organisation provide rail tours & driver experiences at the British Steel Scunthorpe site - Britain's largest industrial Railway and the UK's last steelworks utilising blast furnaces.

They are a volunteer run charitable organisation.

Charity name: Appleby Frodingham Railway-Scunthorpe

Charity number: 1196958

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/AFrailway

Booking provider: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/afrps

Website: https://www.afrps.co.uk/

]]>Andrew Plumtree is a volunteer at the Appleby Frodingham Railway-Scunthorpe (formerly preservation society). The society was formed in 1990 to preserve the industrial railway heritage of the Scunthorpe Steelworks and the surrounding local area.

The organisation provide rail tours & driver experiences at the British Steel Scunthorpe site - Britain's largest industrial Railway and the UK's last steelworks utilising blast furnaces.

They are a volunteer run charitable organisation.

Charity name: Appleby Frodingham Railway-Scunthorpe

Charity number: 1196958

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/AFrailway

Booking provider: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/afrps

Website: https://www.afrps.co.uk/

]]>095bf358-9541-4794-93f6-8efacccf2873Thu, 16 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +010025:35falsefull77The Ropewalk, Barton on HumberThe Ropewalk, Barton on HumberLiz Bennet is the Managing Director of The Ropewalk Arts Centre in Barton on Humber, North Lincolnshire.

The Ropewalk is an arts centre, museum, café and studio space. It is housed in a Grade II listed former rope factory, Hall’s Barton Ropery, which was founded in 1801 and closed in 1989. Many of the artefacts on display in the museum and available in the archive were donated by former employees and their families.

The Ropewalk has been part of Barton’s story for more than two centuries, beginning life as a bustling rope‑making factory that once powered Britain’s maritime industries. Its long, narrow footprint—perfect for twisting hemp into rope—became a defining feature of the town’s industrial landscape.

Today, the building has been lovingly transformed into a vibrant cultural hub, home to galleries, studios, a café, and a thriving programme of arts, music, and community events. It’s a place where history and creativity meet, where the echoes of industry sit alongside the energy of modern makers and performers.

www.the-ropewalk.co.uk

]]>Liz Bennet is the Managing Director of The Ropewalk Arts Centre in Barton on Humber, North Lincolnshire.

The Ropewalk is an arts centre, museum, café and studio space. It is housed in a Grade II listed former rope factory, Hall’s Barton Ropery, which was founded in 1801 and closed in 1989. Many of the artefacts on display in the museum and available in the archive were donated by former employees and their families.

The Ropewalk has been part of Barton’s story for more than two centuries, beginning life as a bustling rope‑making factory that once powered Britain’s maritime industries. Its long, narrow footprint—perfect for twisting hemp into rope—became a defining feature of the town’s industrial landscape.

Today, the building has been lovingly transformed into a vibrant cultural hub, home to galleries, studios, a café, and a thriving programme of arts, music, and community events. It’s a place where history and creativity meet, where the echoes of industry sit alongside the energy of modern makers and performers.

www.the-ropewalk.co.uk

]]>6085d031-ecef-4380-a41e-dff5973c6a96Thu, 09 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +010025:24falsefull66The Museum of the Horse, TuxfordThe Museum of the Horse, TuxfordSally Mitchell has been collecting horse-related artefacts most of her life. In 2014 she opened a museum dedicated to the horse in a beautiful old coaching inn, in Tuxford, North Nottinghamshire.

She has curated a fascinating collection of artefacts that cover agriculture, warfare, coaching, racing, riding - every aspect of how horses have been used.

And the museum isn't just for horse lovers. As Sally rightly says, the history of the horse is the history of us all.

https://museumofthehorse.co.uk

]]>Sally Mitchell has been collecting horse-related artefacts most of her life. In 2014 she opened a museum dedicated to the horse in a beautiful old coaching inn, in Tuxford, North Nottinghamshire.

She has curated a fascinating collection of artefacts that cover agriculture, warfare, coaching, racing, riding - every aspect of how horses have been used.

And the museum isn't just for horse lovers. As Sally rightly says, the history of the horse is the history of us all.

https://museumofthehorse.co.uk

]]>d83da085-e656-438c-b010-8f05c46fb358Thu, 02 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +010017:26falsefull55The Cromwell Museum, HuntingdonThe Cromwell Museum, HuntingdonStuart Orme is curator at the Cromwell Museum in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire.

The Cromwell Museum is in the heart of this historic market town, and housed in the town’s oldest building. Part of a 12th century religious house, the building became the town’s grammar school in 1565, and was attended by Oliver Cromwell and Samuel Pepys in the 1600s. Today it houses the world’s largest collection of artefacts relating to Cromwell, and tells the story of this hugely significant and controversial soldier and statesman ‘warts and all’.

Web: www.cromwellmuseum.org

Bluesky: @cromwellmuseum.bsky.social

Facebook/Instagram: @thecromwellmuseum

TikTok: @cromwell.museum

Twitter/X: @museumcromwell

Youtube: /CromwellMuseum

]]>Stuart Orme is curator at the Cromwell Museum in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire.

The Cromwell Museum is in the heart of this historic market town, and housed in the town’s oldest building. Part of a 12th century religious house, the building became the town’s grammar school in 1565, and was attended by Oliver Cromwell and Samuel Pepys in the 1600s. Today it houses the world’s largest collection of artefacts relating to Cromwell, and tells the story of this hugely significant and controversial soldier and statesman ‘warts and all’.

Web: www.cromwellmuseum.org

Bluesky: @cromwellmuseum.bsky.social

Facebook/Instagram: @thecromwellmuseum

TikTok: @cromwell.museum

Twitter/X: @museumcromwell

Youtube: /CromwellMuseum

]]>4c7ef984-d5fa-45fa-bcc8-11b1525abc7aThu, 26 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +010027:13falsefull44Sherborne Castle and Gardens, DorsetSherborne Castle and Gardens, DorsetSherborne Castle in Dorset, has been the home of the Wingfield-Digby family since 1617. It was built by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594, and this historic house reflects a glorious variety of decorative styles from over 400 years of English History.

The Grade I listed Garden was one of Capability Brown’s first commissions and this magnificent English Landscape Garden survives largely unaltered to this day.

In the episode I chat to Maria Wingfield-Digby, wife of Edward Wingfield-Digby who is the current owner of the castle. She oversees the tourism side of the business and the garden is her pride and joy!

Find out more at https://www.sherbornecastle.com

VtFpCWHaHqpPDBgMSba1

]]>Sherborne Castle in Dorset, has been the home of the Wingfield-Digby family since 1617. It was built by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594, and this historic house reflects a glorious variety of decorative styles from over 400 years of English History.

The Grade I listed Garden was one of Capability Brown’s first commissions and this magnificent English Landscape Garden survives largely unaltered to this day.

In the episode I chat to Maria Wingfield-Digby, wife of Edward Wingfield-Digby who is the current owner of the castle. She oversees the tourism side of the business and the garden is her pride and joy!

Find out more at https://www.sherbornecastle.com

VtFpCWHaHqpPDBgMSba1

]]>ff3b3abb-0c2a-4fe6-9538-14a6d30cadc6Thu, 19 Mar 2026 05:30:00 +010023:52falsefull33The Barton Upon Humber Ghost WalkThe Barton Upon Humber Ghost WalkBarton Upon Humber in North Lincolnshire has a long history, and many historical buildings from the Saxon period onwards.

It also has its fair share of ghosts!

The South Bank Players have been performing the Ghost Walk since 2002 and it's still going strong.

Walks start from Baysgarth House Museum and run on Halloween, and then the last Fridays of November, January, February and March each year (check the website for changes).

The walk starts at 7.30pm and currently tickets are £5 per person (adults and children). The route is around a mile long and takes 75-90 minutes depending on the size of the group.

Book online at www.sbplayers.co.uk

]]>Barton Upon Humber in North Lincolnshire has a long history, and many historical buildings from the Saxon period onwards.

It also has its fair share of ghosts!

The South Bank Players have been performing the Ghost Walk since 2002 and it's still going strong.

Walks start from Baysgarth House Museum and run on Halloween, and then the last Fridays of November, January, February and March each year (check the website for changes).

The walk starts at 7.30pm and currently tickets are £5 per person (adults and children). The route is around a mile long and takes 75-90 minutes depending on the size of the group.

Book online at www.sbplayers.co.uk

]]>86ae0738-ea0b-4988-8c62-dba1a70efe53Thu, 19 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +010011:01falsefull22Introduction to Come Here!Introduction to Come Here!Welcome to my brand new podcast, Come Here! which is all about heritage attractions.

Each week I'll be chatting to someone from a different heritage attraction (museum, gallery, historic site etc) about why people should visit. I'll be asking them about the history of their site, what makes it special and what they love about it, as well as all the important visitor information that you want to know.

If you're a curator, collections manager, or someone who is passionate about your heritage attraction, and you'd like to be a guest, I'd love to hear from you.

And if you're a listener who would like me to feature a place that you're interested in visiting, then do get in touch too.

You can contact me on liz@lizdrury.co.uk or via my website www.lizdrury.com

]]>Welcome to my brand new podcast, Come Here! which is all about heritage attractions.

Each week I'll be chatting to someone from a different heritage attraction (museum, gallery, historic site etc) about why people should visit. I'll be asking them about the history of their site, what makes it special and what they love about it, as well as all the important visitor information that you want to know.

If you're a curator, collections manager, or someone who is passionate about your heritage attraction, and you'd like to be a guest, I'd love to hear from you.

And if you're a listener who would like me to feature a place that you're interested in visiting, then do get in touch too.

You can contact me on liz@lizdrury.co.uk or via my website www.lizdrury.com

]]>dea66ab0-392e-4545-aade-debeffabeefeThu, 12 Feb 2026 05:00:00 +010003:23falsefull11