Knitting Up Some Fun at the National Civil War Centre

The National Civil War Centre is welcoming visitors back with an extra treat this month. The naughty knitted soldiers in their window display have escaped and they’re asking families to come along and find them, hiding in the museum’s fascinating galleries.

Visitors can pick up a Knit A Battlefield Trail sheet on entry and check off the woolly warriors to assemble their army. All as they explore the brilliant main Civil War gallery and fantastic new Conflict and Creativity exhibitions, opened in September 2019.

The trail is running until Saturday 12th June and is free with admission; currently half price for all visitors. There are COVID-secure measures in place to ensure your visit is as safe as possible with timed entry slots which can be booked in advance at www.nationalcivilwarcentre.com/visit alongside a video detailing the new museum journey.   

All of the adorable soldiers taking part have been made by volunteers who've got involved with the Centre’s Knit A Battlefield project. If you'd like to join in and have a go at knitting your own fields and soldiers, you're in luck as they are running free online social sessions demonstrating tips and techniques. Join in on Saturday 12th June for an 11am session knitting fields and a 1pm session to help you make your own soldier. The sessions are aimed at complete beginners or those who can knit already but would enjoy knitting along with the team in a friendly, supportive setting. All are welcome and a free materials pack will be provided. You can find more information about the sessions and register to attend for free at www.nationalcivilwarcentre.com/seedo/events.

This year, the National Civil War Centre is also seeking support from visitors past and present in a bid for a Family Friendly Museum Award.

Business Manager Carys Coulton-Jones, said: “We love our family visitors; our Learning Team and wonderful volunteers work hard to make sure that their visits, especially in the school holidays, are always enjoyable with unique opportunities to get creative and discover more about the fascinating past. If you've enjoyed visiting with family, we'd hugely appreciate it if you'd like to nominate us for Best Small Museum. Equally, if you've enjoyed any of our Learning From Home activities over the past year, there is also a category for Best Digital Activity.”

Nominations for the awards can be made at www.kidsinmuseums.org.uk.