EVENTS 2016 At the Ancient High House Stafford Castle and Izaak Walton’s Cottage
Stafford’s Museums 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 Castle Newport Road, Stafford | 01785 257 698 First 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.
Ancient High House Greengate Street, Stafford | 01785 619 131 Four hundred years of history are waiting to be discovered within the walls of England's largest timber framed town house. 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 Cottage Worston Lane, Shallowford | 01785 760 278 This 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.
First Sunday of the Month April to October | 11am - 4pm
Have a Go Archery
Stafford Castle Learn the ancient skills of the bowman. No booking necessary. Six arrows for £2. Supported by Stafford Archers.
Tuesday 5 April to Saturday 28 May | 10am - 4pm
Staffordshire’s Millenary Exhibition history exhibition
Ancient High House
This year marks the 1000th anniversary of the first documented mention of the County of Staffordshire. The county’s story and that of the county town are told through a selection of rare documents and artefacts. Free admission. Supported by Staffordshire Arts and Heritage Service, The Trustees of the William Salt Library and local collections.
Thursday 7 April Performances at 6.30pm, 7pm and 7.30pm
The New Vic Youth Theatre (senior group) Presents: Secrets of the High House
Ancient High House
The rich and fascinating history of the ancient house inspires this performance. Meet some of the characters that may have passed through its doors, from its inception as the Dorrington family home to its modern incarnation as a museum. Free entry, limited availability so pre-booking is essential call 01785 619 131 or ask at the museum. A New Vic Theatre production.
Friday 15 April | 7pm - 9.30pm
The Deadly Dinner Party
Ancient High House September 1955, in the village of Trumpington, Midshire. Welcome to ‘Elsinore Grange,’ the mansion of Sir Cedric Ffoulkes. Sir Cedric and his mistress, Babs Trevethick, are holding an exclusive dinner party attended by a handful of local dignitaries. The evening progresses and soon the private lives of the guests are revealed; what happens next is murder! Cost is £19.95 per person and pre-booking is essential. Reception 7pm with complimentary wine, two part performance, buffet supper, coffee and mints. Performed by the Creative Arts Theatre.
Saturday 23 April | 10am - 4pm
St. George’s Day Celebrations
Ancient High House Help St. George name the dragon (competition), and make your own dragon in our ‘drop in’ craft workshops Workshops £2, Competition entry 50p. Free admission.
Sunday 24 April | 11am - 4pm
St. George’s Day Celebrations
Stafford Castle Meet 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. Workshops £2. Free admission.
Sunday 1 May | 11am - 2pm
Staffordshire Day Guided Walk
Ancient High House to Stafford Castle A free guided walk between two of Stafford’s most iconic buildings. Learn something about the history of the county town and the Norman fortress that dominates the skyline. Meet at the Ancient High House at 11am. Free admission: Limited numbers, pre-booking essential 01785 619 131.
Sunday 1 May | 1pm - 5pm
Welcome to the Cottage
Izaak Walton’s Cottage Visit Izaak’s timber framed cottage on Staffordshire Day, also the first open day of our season. Join us on a guided walk from the cottage around Shallowford House at 1.30pm and 3pm. No booking necessary. Free admission.
Sunday 8 May | 11am - 5pm
Wildlife and Country Craft Fair
Stafford Castle Shire horses and ponies, ferret racing 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, Morris dancing and art installations. 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 21 May | 10am - 4pm
Mouse Hunt
Cheese and Ale Festival STAFFORD
Ancient High House Children’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.
Saturday 4 June | 8pm - 1am
Ghost Hunt with Haunted Heritage
Ancient High House Fascinated by ghosts? Then join us on this paranormal investigation at one of England’s most haunted venues. Dating back to 1595 this house has seen many residents; but who is still there after the residents have gone? Tickets £35 per person (strictly over 18’s). Free refreshments. Pre-booking essential visit www.hauntedheritage.co.uk or call 07340 239 294.
Sunday 5 June | 1pm - 5pm
A 17th Century Officer’s Household
Izaak Walton’s Cottage Learn about life and times in the Stuart and Commonwealth periods through the eyes of our resident officer. With live musket displays at 2pm and 4pm. No booking necessary. Free admission.
Supported by the English Civil War Society.
Tuesday 7 June to Saturday 30 July | 10am - 4pm
The Age of Sheridan history exhibition
Ancient High House A glimpse into the world of Stafford MP and playwright Richard Brinsley Sheridan. Free admission. Supported by SAHS, the Trustees of the William Salt Library and local collections.
Saturday 25 June | 10am - 4pm
Home and Garden Craft Fair
Ancient High House Visit the traders, artisans and creatives in residence in the House and browse the quality items on display. Ideas and inspiration for decorating your home and garden. Free admission.
Sunday 23 June to Saturday 9 July
Othello
stafford festival shakespeare
Stafford Castle Open air Shakespeare returns with one of the Bard’s greatest plays. With a brand new creative team and a tragedy never staged before at Stafford Castle, Othello promises to be Stafford Festival Shakespeare’s boldest production yet. Enjoy Shakespeare under the stars in fully covered grandstand seats. Call Stafford Gatehouse Theatre Box Office 01785 619 080 or book online www.staffordfestivalshakespeare.co.uk
Tuesday 5 July to Saturday 10 September | 10am - 4pm
Treasure! The Discovery of the Staffordshire Hoard history exhibition
Ancient High House An interactive exhibition telling the fascinating story of how the Hoard was found and saved for the nation. Free admission. Supported by Staffordshire County Council with the help of the Mercian Trail Partnership.
Thursday 7, Friday 8, & Saturday 9 July
Sheridan Weekend
Ancient High House A programme of events and activities throughout the town commemorating the 200th Anniversary of the death of playwright and MP for Stafford Richard Brinsley Sheridan. Friday 8 July | 1pm - 1.45pm An illustrated talk by Fiona Sheridan ‘Georgian Stafford’. Free admission. Saturday 9 July | 10am - 4pm Children’s Georgian mask making workshops. Workshops £2. Various town centre venues | 11am to 2pm Selected scenes from The Rivals, Performed by the Creative Arts Theatre (outside the Ancient High House at 12noon). Supported by Staffordshire County Council.
Sunday 10 July | 12noon - 9pm
Live @ the Castle, Music Event part of stafford festival
Stafford Castle Enjoy 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 10 July | 12noon - 5pm
Teddy Bears’ Picnic
Izaak Walton’s Cottage Enjoy 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 bear
Supported by the Izaak Walton Cottage Chapter.
Sunday 31 July | 11am - 5pm
Classic Car Show: 12th Anniversary
Stafford Castle A classic car treat and vintage fun for all the family. Classic, vintage and collectors cars on display, with trophies for best car in class. With children’s games, quizzes and activities, including mini Land Rover rides. Slot car racing, 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 & AA Silencers: www.aasilencers.co.uk, 01785 213 500.
From 3 August | 1.30pm - 3.30pm Wednesdays (5 - 7 years) | Thursdays (8 - 12 years)
August Summer Fun
Stafford Castle Children’s summer holiday workshops at Stafford Castle. £5 per session including refreshments. Pre-booking essential. For details visit www.staffordbc.gov.uk/stepinto.
Sunday 14 August | 11am - 5pm
Norman Re-enactment (pre- Battle of Hastings Anniversary)
Stafford Castle An end to the Dark Ages - visit the dawn of Norman England with costumed characters and hands on activities. Witness the sights and sounds of the 11th century; with sword play, music, dancing, and games. Meet peddlers, peasants, knights and damsels. Enjoy a ‘hands on’ history talk in the Visitor Centre and a guided tour of one of the largest surviving Norman fortifications in England. Free admission. Car parking £3.
Saturday 10 September | 10am - 4pm
History of the High House heritage open day event
Ancient High House Try on period costumes and learn about how the rich and poor dressed through the ages. Free admission. In support of Heritage Open Days.
Sunday 11 September | 11am - 4pm
Hands on Arms and Armour heritage open day event
Stafford Castle Try 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.
Saturday 17 September | 10am - 4pm
Stafford Arts and Crafts Day
Saturday 1 October | 10am - 4pm
Ancient High House Visit us for a programme of exhibitions, artists in residence, adult's and children's arts and crafts workshops. Free admission.
Sewing Bee to Material Zee
Ancient High House Meet the Borough Broderers, and other experts from the world of stitching and sewing, embroidery and knitting, and a range of other material crafts. Demonstrations and craft workshops. Free admission. Charges for workshops apply.
Friday 7 October | 7pm - 9.30pm
Murder at Haywood Hall: Murder Mystery
Ancient High House Welcome to Hayward Hall, the country residence of Mrs Ringland, a wealthy widow, the occasion, her daughter Vanessa’s birthday. The Year is 1892 and the day is spoilt by a murder! £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.
Wednesday 26 to Sunday 30 October | 11am - 4pm
Hallowe’en Hands on Horror
Stafford Castle
Wednesday 26, Thursday 27, Friday 28 October | 11am - 4pm Creepy creations ‘drop in’ craft activities. £2 per session. Saturday 29, Sunday 30 October | 11am - 4pm Children’s ‘drop in’ pumpkin carving workshops. £3 per session.
Saturday 29 October | 10am - 4pm
Hallowe’en ‘at the Haunted High House
Ancient High House Go bats at our childrens 'drop in' Hallowe'en workshops. £2 per session.
Saturday 29 October | 8pm - 2am
Ghost Hunt with Haunted Heritage: Hallowe'en Special
Ancient High House Join us on this paranormal investigation in the run up to All Hallows Eve, the spookiest night of the year, at one of England’s most haunted venues. Dating back to 1595 this house has seen many residents; but who is still walking its corridors at night? Tickets £40 per person (Strictly over 18’s). Free refreshments. Pre-booking essential book online at www.hauntedheritage.co.uk or call 07340 239 294.
Tuesday 1 to Saturday 19 November | 10am - 4pm
Student Open Art Competition
Ancient High House Creative Industries students at Stafford College showcase selected art work inspired by Stafford town centre. Organised by the Ancient High House and sponsored by Stafford Town Centre Partnership.
Saturday 19 November | 10am - 6pm
Christmas Craft Fair
Ancient High House Browse 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.
Tuesday 29 November to Saturday 31 December 10am - 4pm
Toy Town: from wooden blocks to Lego
Saturdays and Sundays 3 December to 24 December | 11am - 4pm
Ancient High House A colourful exhibition of building and construction toys from yesteryear. Displayed with associated memorabilia. Free admission.
Christmas at the Castle
Stafford Castle Take a walk through the castle woodland and solve our Christmas riddle (answers can be entered into a free prize draw). Children’s Christmas decoration workshops £2. Cookies and hot chocolate available in the visitor centre throughout this period. See the wide range of traditional and unusual gifts in our shop. Free admission to museum and Castle site.
Saturday 3 December | 10am - 4pm
Christmas Through the Ages
Ancient High House Meet 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 and adults Christmas craft workshops and family entertainment. Mince pies and hot fruit punch available in the Edwardian Shop. No booking necessary. Free admission.
Sunday 4 December | 11am - 4pm
The Holly and the Ivy
Tuesday 6 December to Saturday 31 December 10am - 4pm
Stafford Castle Adult holly wreath making and children’s Christmas decoration making workshops. Drop in sessions throughout the day. Adults £10, Children £2. Cookies and hot chocolate available.
Views of Stafford Castle history exhibition
Ancient High House Images of one of Stafford’s most important and iconic buildings: with paintings, prints, photographs and postcards. Free admission.
Stafford Gatehouse Theatre and Stafford Borough Council Leisure and Culture Present...
THURS 23RD JUNE SAT 9TH JULY 2016 STAFFORD CASTLE “A true midsummer delight” THE DAILY MIRROR
“An absolute triumph” BIRMINGHAM MAIL
Box Office 01785 619080 www.staffordfestivalshakespeare.com
The Ancient High House Greengate Street, Stafford, ST16 2JA tel 01785 619 131 email heritage@staffordbc.gov.uk web www.staffordbc.gov.uk/heritage Stafford Castle Newport Road,Stafford, ST16 1DJ tel 01785 257 698 email heritage@staffordbc.gov.uk web www.staffordbc.gov.uk/heritage Izaak Walton's Cottage Worston Lane, Stone ST15 0PA tel 01785 760 278 email heritage@staffordbc.gov.uk web www.staffordbc.gov.uk/heritage
SBC_Heritage Stafford's Heritage Sites
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.