Weald and Downland Living Museum set for a summer of activities

The Weald and Downland Living Museum is holding historic life weekends, exhibitions, courses in traditional trades and crafts and seasonal activities and open-air theatre.

The museum in Chichester features more than 50 historic buildings representing almost 1,000 years of rural life in South East England.

Photo: Weald & Downland Living Museum

Visitors are invited to explore the collection which includes homes, shops and public buildings such as a medieval farmstead, a market hall, Victorian school, smithy a church.

There are daily demonstrations of rural craft and trades such as blacksmithing, scything, stonemasonry and thatching. 

Families are invited to see the working watermill in action and the 17th century bakehouse.

Photo: Weald & Downland Living Museum

They can also explore the grounds, seeing traditional farm animals such as the heavy horses at work and other farming activities.

The museum’s "Wonderful Weeks" is returning throughout August, celebrating the theme of traditional games and pastimes.

There will be a programme of activities and crafts that changes weekly, including nature trails, orienteering, singing and puzzles plus a new nature school with forest-themed fun.

Photo: Weald & Downland Living Museum

Visitors can feed the ducks at the mill pond, have a picnic, visit the waterside cafe or take part in one of the self-led trails.

The museum will also be hosting outdoor theatre events, ranging from family favourites such as Awful Auntie, Peter Rabbit and The Wind In The Willows to Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. Theatre tickets are not included with entry.

Photo: Weald & Downland Living Museum

The museum offers a family membership from £8 per month.

Entry to the museum is by pre-booked ticket unless you are a member. Visitors can choose an entry time that suits them and can stay as long as they like.