Worcestershire County Museum at Hartlebury Castle will be running a series of walks and talks and one-day workshops throughout 2011 giving residents the chance to learn more about the building and its surroundings or gain a useful new skill.
Rachel Robinson, Worcestershire County Council’s Visitor Services Officer, said: “Following the success of our annual Bat Walks, which allowed people to peruse the site after dark in search of wildlife, staff have decided to organise more walks and talks throughout 2011 on subjects inspired by the museum and its site. For those of you who like the outdoors the Walks & Talks programme includes a chance to explore how country estates traditionally managed their woodlands and a look the folklore and legends surrounding British woods and trees”.
Other talks look at the site itself including a tour of the magnificent Hurd Library and a fascinating look at the archaeological and architectural features of the Castle. Some of the programme also link to the Museum objects, including a look around the main museum stores and a fascinating talk on Worcestershire’s Home Guard which links with the museum’s main exhibition this year about the Home Front.
Walks and talks happen throughout the year on different days of the week. They begin at 11am and end at 1pm where participants will be treated to a tasty lunch in the museum cafe. Afterwards they are free to view the rest of the museum at their leisure. Tickets for walks and talks cost £16 including lunch and must be booked in advance.
The Museum is also launching a series of One-Day Workshops where participants can learn a new skill and create something wonderful to take home inspired by the beautiful surroundings. The opportunities this year include a chance to learn watercolour painting, rag-rugging, felt jewellery making and digital photography skills. For the more adventurous amongst you there is also a day devoted to the art of close-up magic where you can learn to amaze your friends! The Saturday workshops cost £55 each including tuition, materials and lunch and must be pre-booked (01299 250416).
A full list of walks and talks, workshops and other events on offer this year is available now on the museum’s website www.worcestershire.gov.uk/museum