At the Ancient High HouseStafford Castle and Izaak Walton’s Cottage

EVENTS 2015

Stafford Borough is steeped in history, from its Stone Age origins, through Roman and Medieval times to modern industrial life. Admission to explore the sites is free. For opening times and a full list of events visit www.staffordbc.gov.uk/heritage.

Stafford’s Museums

Stafford CastleNewport Road, Stafford | 01785 257 698First built by William the Conqueror to subdue the rebellious population, the Castle has dominated the Stafford skyline for over nine hundred years. Uncover the secrets of the site through Norman times, the medieval period, the English Civil War, right up to the present day.

The Ancient High HouseGreengate Street, Stafford | 01785 619 131Four hundred years of history are waiting to be discovered within the walls of England's largest timber framed townhouse. Step inside and embark on a journey from Elizabethan days through the turbulent Civil War era to the more refined Edwardian period.

Izaak Walton’s CottageWorston Lane, Shallowford | 01785 760 278This thatched cottage was once owned by Izaak Walton, the celebrated author of the Compleat Angler. The cottage has witnessed over three hundred years of rural life. Nestled in beautiful countryside, its tranquil environment is perfect for a quiet, rewarding afternoon. Please call before visiting to check seasonal opening hours.

17 March - 25 April Hoof-Prints in the Desert history exhibition

Ancient High HouseFollowing the men and horses of the Staffordshire Yeomanry as they prepared for War in East Anglia and then joined the Cavalry Division in Egypt and Palestine. See how soldiers coped with looking after horses at sea and in the harsh environment of the Middle Eastern Desert as they pursued Turkish forces through a barren and inhospitable landscape.Supported by the Trustees of Staffordshire Yeomanry Museum.

Saturday 4 April | 10am - 4pm Easter Bunny Hunt

Ancient High HouseSearch for the Easter Bunny to claim your chocolate surprise. Hunt activity including children’s craft workshop £2. No booking necessary. Free admission to the Museum.

Sunday 5 April | 11am - 4pm Easter Dinosaur Hunt

Stafford CastleSeek out the hidden dinosaurs’ eggs around the Castle site and claim a chocolate treat. Hunt activity including children’s craft workshop £2. No booking necessary. Free admission to Visitor Centre and Castle.

First Sunday of the Month April to October | 11am - 4pm Have a Go Archery

Stafford CastleLearn the ancient skills of the bowman.No booking necessary. Six arrows for £2.Supported by Itz Archery.

Friday 17 April | 7pm - 9.30pm Murder at White Bell Hall: Murder Mystery

Ancient High HouseThe hall has traditionally hosted the local village fair to celebrate the coming of spring. But the Lord of the Manor and the villagers have different ideas of what activities should be included. Jealousy and unease develops and when hidden secrets come to light a dastardly murder ensues. Will you uncover the name of the murderer? £19.95 per person pre-booking essential. Reception 7pm with complimentary wine, two part performance, buffet supper, coffee and mints.Performed by the Creative Arts Theatre

Saturday 25 April | 10am - 4pm St. George’s Day Celebrations

Ancient High HouseMeet St. George England’s patron saint. Learn how to ‘arm a Knight’ and try on arms and armour and period costumes. Children’s fun activities including ‘drop in’ dragon making. Workshops £2. Free admission.

Sunday 26 April | 11am - 4pm St. George’s Day Celebrations

Stafford CastleMeet St. George England’s patron saint. Learn how to ‘arm a Knight’ and try on arms and armour and period costumes. Children’s fun activities including ‘drop in’ dragon making. Workshops £2. Free admission.

Sunday 3 May | 1pm - 5pm Life in the 17th Century

Izaak Walton’s CottageLearn about life and times in the Stuart and Commonwealth periods through the eyes of our period lady in residence. And for our first open day of the season join us on a guided walk from the Cottage to Shallowford House at 1.30pm and 3pm.No booking necessary. Free admission.

Tuesday 5 May to Saturday 18 July | 10am - 4pm VE Day 70th Anniversary Commemoration: Stafford’s Role in the Victory in Europe history exhibition

Ancient High HouseA look back at the vital role played by the county town and its inhabitants during the dark days of the Second World War. Highlighting the work of local people on the Home Front and within the armed services.Supported by local collections.

Sunday 10 May | 11am - 5pm Wildlife and Country Craft Fair

Stafford CastleShire horses and ponies, sheep dogs, ducks and birds of prey. Meet the experts from the Wildlife Trust, the Bat group, RSPB, and other environmental organisations. Enjoy country craft demonstrations and activities. With children’s workshops and pets corner, craft stalls and traders. Join themed guided walks along the Woodland Trail. Enter your dog in the PADS dog show. Event admission free. Car Park £3.Supported by PADS dog training.

Saturday 16 May | 8.30pm to 1am Ghost Hunt!

Ancient High HouseDen Siegertsz and the PPI team invite you to spend a night at the Ancient High House, the largest surviving Elizabethan timber framed town house in England. Investigate paranormal activity using ouija boards, séances, live EVP, scrying, and other paranormal experiments. Face your fears with a team you can trust… £30 per person (over 18s only). Free refreshments. Pre-booking essential. Call 07838 435 646 or visit www.ppistoke.co.uk.

Saturday 23 May | 11.30am and 1.30pm The Treasure Trial

Stafford CastleWhat happens when children find treasure on somebody else’s land? See the New Vic Youth Theatre (aged 10 - 15 )perform in the Castle Keep. The production playfully explores the politics of ‘finders keepers’ and some of the history of Stafford Castle, seen from a child’s perspective. Free tickets. Limited availability. Pre-booking essential.Call 01785 257 698 or ask at the Visitor centre A New Vic Theatre Production.

Saturday 23 May | 8.30pm start Bat Walk

Stafford CastleSearch for bats in the Castle grounds with experts from Staffordshire Bat Group. Pre-booking essential. Call 01785 257 698. Adults £3, Children £2.Supported by Staffordshire Bat Group.

Saturday 6 June | 10am - 4pm Mouse Hunt

Ancient High HouseChildren’s mouse trail and arts and crafts workshops.Can you find the mice hidden in the museum mouse-holes?Mouse trail free. Workshops £2. Free admission to museum.In support of the Stafford Cheese and Ale Festival.

Sunday 7 June | 1pm - 5pm Meet the ‘Compleat’ Editor

Izaak Walton’s CottageProfessor Marjorie Swann editor of the latest publication of Izaak Walton’s The Compleat Angler is available at the Cottage to talk about Stafford’s most famous son. No booking necessary. Free admission

Staffordshire Bat Group

©Hugh Clark / www.bats.org.uk

STAFFORD

Cheese and Ale Festival

Saturday 27 June | 10am - 4pm Vintage Fair

Ancient High HouseMid-century, vintage, retro and kitsch. Browse the stylish range of clothing and accessories, gifts and collectables. With pop up make up sessions, 20s to 70s music, vintage tea room; and period fashion parade. Free admission

Thursday 25 June to Saturday 11 July 2015. Much Ado About Nothing stafford festival shakespeare

Stafford CastleMuch Ado About Nothing will be performed against the striking background of Stafford Castle, in a purpose-built auditorium under the stars.Tickets available from Stafford Gatehouse Theatre Box Office on 01785 254 653, or book online at www.staffordfestivalshakespeare.co.uk.

Sunday 12 July | 12noon - 10pm Live @ the Castle, Music Event part of stafford festival

Stafford CastleEnjoy the very best of local live music on the main stage and in the acoustic marquee. Admission £2. Car park £5. For details visit www.staffordbc.gov.uk/staffordfestival.

Sunday 12 July | 12noon - 5pm Teddy Bears’ Picnic

Izaak Walton’s CottageEnjoy family fun and games in the cottage garden, with puppet show, face painting, teddy making workshops, story telling, craft stalls and a bouncy castle for the younger family members. Bring along a picnic and don’t forget your teddy! Free admission if accompanied by a teddy bearSupported by the Izaak Walton Cottage Chapter.

Saturday 17 July | 7pm - 9.30pm Murder at Stamford House: Murder Mystery

Ancient High HouseThe owner of this historic house decides to sell a family heirloom and invites renowned collectors to bid. When they gather to open the sealed bids one of the guests is missing, and then discovered murdered! Can you deduce who the killer is? £19.95 per person pre-booking essential. Reception 7pm with complimentary wine, two part performance, buffet supper, coffee and mints.Performed by the Creative Arts Theatre

Sunday 2 August | 11am - 5pm Classic Car Show: 11th Anniversary

Stafford CastleA classic car treat and vintage fun for all the family. Classic, vintage and collectors cars on display, with trophies for best vehicle in class. Children’s games, quizzes and activities, including mini Land Rover rides. Vintage cycles, auto mart and craft stalls. Free admission. Car Park £3.Sponsored by: RPH Motor Repairs Ltd.: www.rphmotorrepairs.co.uk 01785 253 999 and AA Sport: www.aasport.co.uk Tel. 01785 213 500.

Sunday 2 August | 1pm - 5pm Fly-casting and Fly-tying

Izaak Walton’s CottageExpert angling tips and tuition for visitors of all ages. Free admissionSupported by the Izaak Walton Cottage Chapter.

From 5 August | 1.30pm - 3.30pm Wednesdays (5 - 7 years) | Thursdays (8 - 12 years) August Summer Fun

Stafford CastleChildren’s summer holiday workshops at Stafford Castle. £5 per session including refreshments. Pre-booking essential.For details visit www.staffordbc.gov.uk/stepinto.

Sunday 16 August | 11am - 5pm Magna Carta: 800th Anniversary

Stafford CastleGlimpse the medieval world with costumed characters and hands on activities. Witness the sights and sounds of the medieval world; with sword play, music, dancing and games. Meet peddlers, peasants, knights and damsels. History trail, guided tours, hands on arms and armour, coin minting and brass rubbing. Create your own medieval document in our calligraphy workshops. Free admission. Car parking £3.

Saturday 1 August to Sat 5 September Resonance: Reflections on the Great War

through artworks inspired by Staffordshire collections

Ancient High HouseCeramicist and printmaker Stephen Dixon’s new ceramic work inspired by objects, photographs and documents relating to the First World War from archive and museum collections in Staffordshire. Stephen's work explores our responses to the Great War a hundred years on. Free admission.Funded by Arts Council England.

Saturday 5 September | 10am - 4pm Stafford Arts Festival 2015

Ancient High HouseA programme of exhibitions, artists in residence, adult’s and children’s arts and crafts workshops. Now celebrating its 5th year. The town’s arts festival has over 40 town centre venues with a full programme of arts, crafts, music and literary workshops and activities. Free admission.Supported by Stafford Town Partnership

Saturday 5 September | 10am - 4pm Resonance: Reflections on the Great War

through artworks inspired by Staffordshire collections. Family workshops.

Ancient High HouseStephen Dixon is artist in residence for the day. Help contribute to an installation of commemorative mugs, which will feature in the touring exhibition. Participants are encouraged to bring along historic photographs and documents of family members who took part in the Great War (whether on the Front Line or on the Home Front) to be printed onto ceramics. Free admission. Funded by Arts Council England.

Saturday 5 September to Saturday 13 October The Changing Face of the Ancient High House

exhibition

Ancient High HouseAn exhibition revealing the history of the Ancient High House and the story of its rescue and renovation. Free admission.

Saturday 12 September | 10am - 4pm History of the High House heritage open day event

Ancient High HouseTo support ‘The Changing Face of the Ancient High House’ exhibition, the author of the House’s guide book will be on hand to answer questions about the building and sign copies of her book. No booking necessary. Free admission.In support of Heritage Open Days.

Sunday 13 September | 11am - 4pm Hands on Arms and Armour heritage open day event

Stafford CastleTry on armour and costumes from the medieval period. With guided tours of Stafford Castle’s Keep. No booking necessary.Free admission.In support of Heritage Open Days.

Tuesday 15 September to Saturday 31 October The 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain: A Salute to the Few

Ancient High HouseBringing into sharp focus the role of Fighter Command's finest and illustrating stories of local pilots and air crew. Free admission.Supported by local collections.

Friday 2 October | 7pm - 9.30pm The Evil Face of Murder: Murder Mystery

Ancient High HouseA retired film star and his flibbertigibbet mistress, new owners of an Elizabethan house, feel they need to get to know their neighbours. They arrange a masked party but the animosity between the couple and their local guests develops into arguments and then murder! Can you detect the identity of the culprit? £19.95 per person pre-booking essential. Reception 7pm with complimentary wine, two part performance, buffet supper, coffee and mints.Performed by the Creative Arts Theatre.

Saturday 17 October | 10am - 4pm Chocoholics Fair

Ancient High HouseA delicious treat for all the family. Indulge your senses in our chocolate heaven, including the irresistible chocolate fountain. Free admission.

Saturday 24 October | 10am - 4pm Hallowe’en ‘at the Haunted High House

Ancient High HouseGo bats at our childrens 'drop in' Hallowe'en workshops. £2 per session.

Wednesday 28 to Saturday 31 October | 11am - 4pm Hallowe’en Hands on Horror

Stafford Castle

Wednesday 28 and Thursday 29 OctoberCreepy creations ‘drop in’ craft activities. £2 per session.

Friday 30 and Saturday 31 OctoberChildren’s ‘drop in’ pumpkin carving workshops. £3 per session.

Saturday 31 October | 10am - 4pm Hallowe’en Festival of Fortune

Ancient High HouseIs there anybody there? Visit our spiritualists, mediums, crystal ball, rune and tarot card readers. Practitioners of various disciplines will be on hand to give you their interpretation of the past, the present, and the future. This event is for entertainment purposes. Free admission. Charges for readings apply.

Saturday 31 October | 6pm - 7.30pm A Night of Fright!

Ancient High HouseA spine chilling and thought provoking talk by Den Siegertsz from Potteries Paranormal Investigations. Learn about the reported supernatural happenings in one of Stafford’s most iconic buildings. And visit some of the notorious rooms!Be there if you dare! £5 per person (over 18s only). Pre-booking essential 01785 619 131.

Saturday 31 October | 8.30pm - 1am Ghost Hunt!

Ancient High HouseJoin Den Siegertsz and the PPI team for a night at the High House, one of Stafford’s oldest and most prominent properties, the largest surviving Elizabethan timber framed town house in England. Investigate paranormal activity using ouija boards, séances, live EVP, scrying, and a range of other paranormal experiments. Face your fears with a team you can trust… £35 per person (over 18s only). Free refreshments. Pre-booking essential call 07838 435 646 or visit www.ppistoke.co.uk.

Tuesday 3 to Saturday 21 November | 10am - 4pm Stafford Arts Festival ‘Artists in Residence’ Exhibition

Ancient High HouseA show of works by various artists depicting scenes from the town’s annual arts festival submitted for the annual competition.Organised by the Ancient High House and sponsored by Stafford Town Centre Partnership.

Tuesday 3 November to Saturday 2 January 2016 10am - 4pm Stafford Through the Ages

Ancient High HouseA look at some of the people and events that helped to shape Stafford’s history. Free admission.Supported by SAHS, County Records Office, the Trustees of the William Salt Library and local collections.

Saturday 21 November | 10am - 6pm Christmas Craft Fair

Ancient High HouseBrowse the wide range of traditional craft stalls for that exclusive festive gift. Visit Santa in his grotto and try our mince pies and mulled fruit punch. Free admission.

Saturdays and Sundays 28 November to 20 December | 11am - 4pm Christmas Tree Sales and Christmas Family Fun at the Castle

Stafford CastleCombine a visit to the Castle with choosing your Christmas tree from the dozens of ‘real’ examples on display at the visitor centre. See the wide range of traditional and unusual gifts in the Visitor Centre. Take a walk through the castle woodland and solve our Christmas riddle (answers can be entered into the free prize draw). Children’s Xmas decoration workshops £2. Cookies and hot chocolate available in the visitor centre throughout this period. Free admission to museum and Castle site.Supported by Greenways - All trees are from sustainable sources.

Tuesday 1 December to Saturday 2 January (2016) 10am - 4pm VITs: Very Important Toys

Ancient High HouseCherished childhood toys from the early to mid 20th century. On loan from local dignitaries and influential members of the local community.

Saturday 5 December | 10am - 4pm Christmas Through the Ages

Ancient High HouseMeet our costumed characters and learn about Christmas in the Tudor, Stuart, Georgian and Victorian periods. Stir a traditional pudding and sing carols in the Victorian Room. Meet Father Christmas in his grotto. Children’s Christmas craft workshops and family entertainment. Mince pies and hot fruit punch available in the Edwardian Shop. No booking necessary. Free admission.

Sunday 6 December | 11am - 4pm Christmas at the Castle

Stafford CastleAdult holly wreath making and children’s Christmas decoration making workshops. Cookies and hot chocolate available. ‘Drop in’ sessions throughout the day. Adult workshops £10, Children's Workshops £3.

The Ancient High House Greengate Street, Stafford, ST16 2JAtel 01785 619 131email heritage@staffordbc.gov.ukweb www.staffordbc.gov.uk/heritage

Stafford CastleNewport Road,Stafford, ST16 1DJ tel 01785 257 698email heritage@staffordbc.gov.ukweb www.staffordbc.gov.uk/heritage

Izaak Walton's CottageWorston Lane, Stone ST15 0PA tel 01785 760 278 email heritage@staffordbc.gov.ukweb www.staffordbc.gov.uk/heritage

If you need this information in large print, Braille, other language or in audio format please contact 01785 619 000 or email info@staffordbc.gov.uk

All information correct at time of going to print.

Stafford's Heritage Sites

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