Warm welcome for museum visitors over Christmas period
A Lancashire museum is countering the frosty weather this winter by becoming a place for all seasons, offering a welcoming host of activities for people of all ages to get involved with.
With two floors and ten galleries, Clitheroe Castle Museum is inviting communities to enjoy its festive offerings throughout the season.
From medieval festive crafts and special exhibitions, to history courses with Lancashire Adult Learning, there's something for all ages to get involved with.
County Councillor Peter Buckley, cabinet member for Cultural and Community Services, said: "If you love heritage and you're interested in the history of your local area, the museum is a great destination all year round.
"There's lots to entertain the family on a wintery Lancashire weekend plus 16 acres of parkland to explore throughout the changing seasons."
Get involved with Christmassy reindeer crafts and a festive gnome hunt throughout December. Make a Christmassy reindeer decoration with twig antlers from the Castle grounds and learn about reindeers while you create.
For those who are looking for something equally creative, workshops on Friday, December 8 and Saturday, December 9 will fit the bill. On Friday, join Janet from Orange Pippin for a Christmas tapestry workshop, the oldest form of woven textiles, and make your own mini woven design using mixed fibres such as wool, cotton and linen. On Saturday, choose from different colours of felt then create and decorate your very own Medieval festive purse with a hidden surprise.
The fun continues in the New Year. Curated in partnership with Community Rail, this year's free exhibition in the Steward's Gallery is On Track – A Glimpse into Lancashire's Railways Past and Present. This is not to be missed before it closes on January 31. Alternatively, All Aboard with Ribble Valley Live Steamers will take place on January 20.
For more information on events, including times and admission, see the Castle's events page.
From November to February half term, the museum is open five days a week from 12.00pm to 4.00pm – closed Wednesday and Thursday – before reopening 7 days a week for the rest of the year.
Clitheroe Castle is managed by Lancashire County Council’s Museum Service on behalf of Ribble Valley Borough Council.