Grosvenor Museum, Chester

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2 01 02 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events Exhibitions Grosvenor Museum, Chester Grosvenor COVER: Buildings, Museum, 27 Battles Grosvenor and Bodies: Street, Chester, A History CH1 of 2DD Heronbridge Located in England s most picturesque city, the Grosvenor Museum s nationally important collections celebrate Chester s cultural heritage. The Roman Galleries explore life in the Roman fortress of Deva and display the largest group of inscribed and sculpted Roman stones from a single site in Britain. The paintings and sculpture in the Art Gallery span half a millennium of art in Cheshire, while the Silver Gallery presents the definitive collection of Chester silver. Nine period rooms show furniture and other decorative arts from the 17th century to the 1920s. Further galleries explore the area s natural history and display highlights of the costume collection. Admission free, suggested donation 3 Monday Saturday 10.30am-5pm, Sunday 1-4pm. Closed 25 March. Telephone Find us on Facebook: Grosvenor Museum and Stretton Watermill Follow us on Website: Support us The Grosvenor Museum Society provides vital support for the museum. Members of the society enjoy a full and varied programme of events, including lectures and outings. See museumsociety.co.uk or ring Ruth Marshall Volunteers Please see all West Cheshire Museums volunteering roles on the website cheshiremuseums.co.uk Cover: Inspired by Gothic Disabled access Full independent access to the ground floor, including Exhibition Gallery One, and accessible toilet. Art Gallery, Costume Gallery and Exhibition Gallery Two on 1st floor: no lift.

3 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events 03 Exhibitions Grosvenor Museum, Chester Until 21 February Samurai Arms and Armour Exhibition Gallery One A Samurai s arms and armour were more than just necessities for protection on the battlefield; they represented the strict codes of honour, discipline and loyalty that governed how this warrior class lived. This exhibition showcases exceptional pieces made by some of the greatest Japanese swordsmiths and armourers from the 16th century to the present day, reflecting both the military history of Japan and the extraordinary lives of the Samurai. Until 17 April Revelation: The Art of Marcus Usherwood Exhibition Gallery Two The paintings of Chester-based artist Marcus Usherwood proclaim his Christian faith and his understanding of the prophecies in the Bible. His work contrasts the ugliness of evil with the beauty of holiness, seeking to convey the seriousness and truth of the life and goodness to be found only on the path of faith. His techniques aim to render a convincing vision apparently devoid of any human touch, so that his paintings appear almost divinely created. Come and be awed by his apocalyptic visions! 23 April 17 July Anne Lever: The Poetic Landscape Exhibition Gallery Two Anne Lever lives and paints in rural Cheshire, which inspires her love and knowledge of the British landscape and its history. Her work is ordered by geometry and infused with feeling for the spirit of place. Her painting engages mind and heart but speaks also to the soul. Working in the imaginative Neo-Romantic tradition she is a frequent collaborator with the poet Michael Fox, whose responses to her painting form part of this exhibition. 5 March 26 June Inspired by Gothic: Ruins, Romance, Revival Exhibition Gallery One The medieval past has often been seen in romantic terms idealised as an age of faith and chivalry, its evocative remains stirring the emotions and feeding a fascination with tradition. It has been a rich source of inspiration for the arts in Cheshire. This exhibition includes depictions of medieval buildings and subjects by artists, the restoration of medieval buildings and the creation of new ones in the Gothic Revival style, the re-creation of medieval practices and the celebration of Cheshire s history. Supported by the Megan Gwynne- Jones Charitable Trust and the Chester Archaeological Society

4 04 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events Family Events Children s activities are aimed at 4 to 12 years unless otherwise stated. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please contact the Museum Shop for group bookings. Grosvenor Museum, Chester Monday 15 February My Neighbour Totoro pm Free, booking required through the What's On section of our website. The animated story of two young Japanese sisters and their interactions with friendly wood spirits in post-war rural Japan has become a cultural icon for its beautiful images and fantastical story. Dubbed into English. Rated PG. Supported by CH1ChesterBID Tuesday 16 February Japanese Teatime Newstead Gallery 2-4pm, drop-in Decorate your own Japanese style tea cup, try some Japanese tea, and taste some traditional Japanese red bean paste treats. Wednesday 17 February 130 Years of Objects Museum Galleries 11am-4pm, drop-in The Grosvenor Museum celebrates its 130th birthday this year. Have a look at, and handle, some of the huge variety of objects we have collected over these years; and then have a go at our special celebration craft and discovery activities. Thursday 18 February Kimono Peg Dolls Newstead Gallery 2-4pm, drop-in Learn about traditional Japanese dress and make your own kimono peg doll to take home. Friday 19 February Japanese Headwear Newstead Gallery 2-4pm, drop-in Make your own Samurai helmet with antlers as seen in our Samurai exhibition or a decorated Japanese style hair comb. April The Word Thing: Gothic Chester Library, Northgate Street. Take a free word every month it s yours to keep and use! All we ask is that you show us what you do with it. It might inspire a painting, a poem, a story, a play, a sculpture or even a song. Wherever The Word Thing takes you, send a postcard to Chester Library, Northgate Street, Chester, CH1 2EF, and we will display it during May. Tuesday 5 April Make a Gothic City Newstead Gallery 2-4pm, drop-in Our foyer display case is going to be the portal to a miniature Gothic world, so come and help us make some looming buildings, soaring spires and black-clad inhabitants.

5 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events 05 Family Events Grosvenor Museum, Chester Wednesday 6 April Big Weather Day Museum Galleries 11am-4pm, drop-in Come and join us for Big Weather Day, inspired by the paintings of Marcus Usherwood. Enjoy creating a scientific storm in a bottle, use coloured fabrics to make textured sunset pictures, have a go at presenting an historical weather report, and follow our weather trail through the galleries. Thursday 7 April Stained Glass Rose Windows Newstead Gallery 2-4pm, drop-in Capture the glowing colours of a cathedral window using cellophane and laminated card. Tuesday 12 April Angels Wings Newstead Gallery 2-4pm, drop-in Make your own pair of beautiful wings to wear. Wednesday 13 April 130 Years of Toys Museum Galleries 11am-4pm, drop-in People s daily lives have changed significantly since the museum opened in To celebrate our birthday, you can have a look at how toys have changed over the past 130 years thanks to advances in manufacturing and technology. Handle and play with our toy collection before making some historic toys to take home. Thursday 14 April Creepy Tales by Candlelight Art Gallery pm, pm & pm Free, suggested donation Join our costumed interpreter and listen to familyfriendly extracts from spooky Gothic stories. Tuesday 31 May Gothic Feast Museum Galleries 2-4pm, drop-in Help us celebrate our Gothic exhibition in style with a feast. There will be all sorts of interesting and unusual medieval food to see and smell. Plus music, costume, entertainment, and children s crafts. More information available on our website nearer the time. Wednesday 1 June 130 Years of Fashion Museum Galleries 11am-4pm, drop-in In this special birthday event, take a look at how much fashion has changed in the 130 years since the museum opened. You can see some historical outfits, handle and dress up with our costume collection, before making your own historic fashion doll to take home. Thursday 2 June Mad Gothic Hats Newstead Gallery 2-4pm, drop-in Make a fabulous black hat with lace, skulls, a looming castle or a flock of crows on it. Friday 3 June Tissue Paper Landscapes Newstead Gallery 2-4pm, drop-in Take inspiration from the work of artist Anne Lever and create your own dramatic landscape picture using tissue paper.

6 06 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events Adult Events Grosvenor Museum, Chester Every day of the year Guided Walking Tours of Chester Meet at Visitor Information Centre, Town Hall Square 7, 6 concessions, tickets from guide. Daily: The Chester Tour: discover Chester s glorious heritage with the Guild of Chester Tours Guides am-12noon daily, plus pm Easter to October. Also, themed tours, 11.30am-1pm, Easter to October. Sunday: Secret Chester: King Charles Tower, Water Tower and Shropshire Union Canal. Monday & Thursday: The Rows Revealed. Tuesday: Secret Chester: the west walls and the Castle. Wednesday & Saturday: The Walls Walk. Friday: Secret Chester: The Castle, riverside and St John s Church. Secret Chester, The Rows Revealed and Walls Walk include steps. Routes may vary subject to conditions. Saturday 30 January How the Samurai Prepared for Battle pm Free, suggested donation 3. See how a high-ranking Japanese warrior dressed for battle in the 16th century. This demonstration will involve a model being dressed piece by piece in a full suit of original samurai armour, and includes a detailed explanation of the cultural and historic background to each piece. Saturday 30 January Martial Arts Demonstration pm Free, suggested donation 3. Wearing replica Samurai armour, Yanagi Ryu Jujutsu will give a demonstration of Samurai fighting techniques, including the use of wooden and bladed weapons, accompanied by a full explanation throughout. Saturday 6 February Traditional Music of Japan 2-3pm Free, suggested donation 3. The haunting sound of the koto, Japan s national instrument, comes to the museum. Wearing traditional costume, Sumie Kent will sing and play music which explores the full range of the koto from the time of the Samurai to its use in modern Japanese music. Thursday 18 February Faith, Belief and Spirituality in Modern Art: Apocalypse Postponed pm 3, pay at the door. The 20th and 21st centuries have seen the genesis of some memorable religious images. Full of surprises, this lecture by Adrian Sumner examines the wealth of formal or official religious art, but also uncovers Existentialists, Spiritualists, Theosophists, Rosicrucians, New Apocalyptics, Jedi and the Golden Dawn.

7 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events 07 Adult Events Grosvenor Museum, Chester Friday 26 February A Charity Evening with So Rahman pm 5, students 2.20, plus a complimentary glass of wine. Book via westcheshiremuseums. Award winning journalist and TV presenter So Rahman was born and educated in Chester. He worked for ITV Granada News and won the Royal Television Society Award before joining Al Jazeera International in With 25 years in TV, including Channel 4, CNN and the BBC, he has a wealth of experiences to share. So Rahman speaks frankly about his past, the story behind his portrait in the Grosvenor Museum, and why he is giving this presentation to raise funds for the Alzheimer s Society and the museum. Friday 11 & Monday 21 March Chester Town Hall Tours Meet at Visitor Information Centre, Town Hall Square 11am-12.30pm 7, 6 concessions, tickets from guide but book in advance at Grosvenor Museum Shop The Town Hall is the most important Gothic Revival building in Chester. Designed by William Henry Lynn and built in , it is a High Victorian reinterpretation of the 13th century Cloth Hall at Ypres in Belgium, its interior enriched with sculpture, civic portraits, silver and stained glass. Join an expert from the Guild of Chester Tour Guides to explore this great monument to civic pride. Saturday 12 March Cheshire Castles in Context pm Chester Archaeological Society members free; non-members 4, pay at the door. The military and strategic role of Cheshire s medieval castles, and the display of personal power, played a part in the choice of locations and the purposes to which the castles were employed. This lecture by Dr Rachel Swallow explores the initial purpose of Cheshire s castles in their contemporary contexts. Organised by Chester Archaeological Society Tuesday 15 March Memories of the Museum 2-4pm Free, suggested donation 3. With the Grosvenor Museum celebrating its 130th birthday, we want to hear your stories, experiences and memories of the museum. Join us for a talk on the history of the museum, followed by a chance to share your stories and memories of the Grosvenor Museum through our oral history project and museum memory box. Wednesday 16 March, Saturday 30 April, Wednesdays 11 & 25 May, Saturday 4 June Chester Cathedral Tours Meet at admissions desk, Undercroft, Chester Cathedral 2-3pm, except 30 April 11am-12noon 6, book at Chester Cathedral admissions desk or Constructed between c.1260 and 1537, Chester Cathedral is the fourth church on this site. Built as a Benedictine abbey, it became a cathedral in 1541 and was restored and embellished in the following centuries. Join Nick Fry, the cathedral s Bedesman, for a unique insight into this fascinating building and its wonderful furnishings.

8 08 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events Adult Events Grosvenor Museum, Chester Sunday 20 March Gothic Tales by Candlelight Art Gallery pm: Jane Austen s Northanger Abbey pm: Mary Shelley s Frankenstein pm: Robert Louis Stevenson s Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde Free, suggested donation 3. Join our costumed interpreter for atmospheric extracts from three classic Gothic tales. Saturday 26 March Revelation: Exhibition Tour Exhibition Gallery Two 2-3pm Free, suggested donation 3. Join Chester-based artist Marcus Usherwood for a guided tour of his exhibition Revelation, and meet the author of these apocalyptic visions! Wednesday 13 April Tombs in Beowulf 1-2pm 3, pay at the door. Why was the hero Beowulf cremated and a mound raised over his ashes? This talk by Professor Howard Williams introduces the epic Anglo-Saxon poem Beowulf, its funerals and its tombs, before exploring archaeological evidence that sheds light on the material world in which the poem was composed and performed. Organised by the University of Chester Wednesday 13 April The Chester Cathedral Estate pm Chester Civic Trust members free; non-members 3, pay at the door. The Vice-Dean of Chester Cathedral, the Revd Canon Peter Howell-Jones, reflects on the reintroduction of free admission, special exhibitions, and other initiatives such as Cathedral at Height and the Falconry, which are changing the way the congregation and citizens think about the Cathedral. Organised by Chester Civic Trust Tuesday 19 April Dead Relevant? Mortuary Archaeology in Contemporary Society. The 2016 University of Chester Archaeology Student Conference 9am-5pm Free. Is it ethical to dig up and display human remains? What do people learn from meeting ancient people in museums and heritage sites? University of Chester archaeology students have conducted their own research to explore the relevance of mortuary archaeology to contemporary society. Presentations, videos, posters and artwork together with special guest speaker Dr Ing-Marie Back Danielsson will examine how the archaeological dead influence contemporary society.

9 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events 09 Adult Events Grosvenor Museum, Chester Wednesday 20 April Tombs of Terror: The Hunt for Weland 1-2pm 3, pay at the door. Professor Howard Williams s talk introduces the literary and archaeological evidence for early medieval smiths and the significance of the story of the magical smith Völundr or Weland, his imprisonment and violent revenge on his captors. It also sheds new light on why a Neolithic chambered tomb in Berkshire became known as Wayland s Smithy. Organised by the University of Chester Thursday 21 April Inspired by Gothic: Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte Chester Library, Northgate Street pm, drop-in Free. Join us for a group reading of this classic Gothic novel of the thwarted love and passionate obsession of Cathy and Heathcliff. The evocative descriptions of the lonely moorland setting and the poetic grandeur of vision combine to make this unique novel a masterpiece of English literature. Come along to take part or just to listen. Monday 25 April 5000 years of land-use in upper Glen Almond, Perthshire pm Chester Society for Landscape History members free; nonmembers 4, pay at the door. Professor Richard Oram explores the landscape of upper Glen Almond in Perthshire, a multilayered record of over 5000 years of human settlement and land-use. Successive modes exploitation and settlement, which are evidence of of profound changes in climate or in global economic systems, are reflected in the glen s historic environment. Organised by Chester Society for Landscape History

10 10 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events Adult Events Grosvenor Museum, Chester Wednesday 27 April Powerful Tombs: The Medieval Living Dead 1-2pm 3, pay at the door. Professor Howard Williams explores the power of tombs in the medieval world, their destruction, translation and restoration in the modern era, and how antiquaries and archaeologists make and remake the medieval dead as powerful components of popular culture from the 19th to the 21st centuries. Organised by the University of Chester Thursday 28 April Inspired by Gothic: Gothic Literature Workshop Chester Library, Northgate Street 5-7pm 3 including refreshments, book at Chester Library Gothic literature combines horror, mystery, romance, suspense and the supernatural in an atmospheric setting, triggering strong emotions in the reader. Explore the Gothic style and the history of Gothic literature with local writer Chris Mapp. There will also be an opportunity to create your own piece of writing. Thursday 5 & Monday 23 May Tours of Gothic Revival Chester Meet at Visitor Information Centre, Town Hall Square 11am-12.30pm 7, 6 concessions, tickets from guide but book in advance at Grosvenor Museum Shop The Gothic Revival appeared in the context of medieval buildings, and was also used to remarkably varied effect in new ones, ranging from the grandeur of the Town Hall and the vigour of the Welsh Presbyterian Church to the austerity of the Newgate and the fairy-tale quaintness of Bath Street. Join an expert from the Guild of Chester Tour Guides to explore this fascinating aspect of Chester s townscape. Wednesday 18 May Commanding Views: A History of Landscape Art pm 3, pay at the door. The history of landscape painting is like a map of our attitude to, and relationship with, nature. Naturally, our current preoccupations with climate change, the Earth s diminishing resources, and ecology in general, make these concerns increasingly topical. Join Adrian Sumner to explore the arc of our love-affair with landscape.

11 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events 11 Chester History & Heritage St Michael s Church, Bridge Street Row East, Chester, CH1 1NW This local and family history resource centre is housed in the historic St Michael s Church in Chester s world-famous Rows. Our resources enable you to research your family history and look at old photographs of Chester. You can also watch a film show, or see our latest exhibitions. We are passionate about Chester s rich and varied history, so visit us and talk to our friendly and knowledgeable team about your memories of growing up, working and socialising in Chester. We offer free computer access, including Ancestry and Findmypast library editions. On Tuesdays and Fridays our volunteer family history researchers offer a free service helping you to trace your ancestors. Admission free, donations welcome Monday Friday 10am-12noon & 1-4pm. Closed 25 & 28 March, 2 & 30 May. Telephone Find us on Facebook: Chester History and Heritage Centre Follow us on Website: Disabled access Stairs at entrance, no wheelchair access.

12 12 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events Exhibitions Chester History & Heritage Until 31 March A War-Torn Parish: The effects of the Great War upon the families of St Werburgh s, Chester From initial fervent patriotic responses to gradual realisation that the war would not be over by Christmas, and from young men s dreams of glory to the harrowing sorrows heaped upon the women left behind, the stories of these parishioners are as surprising as they are interesting. The parish became home to Belgian refugees and Australian munitions workers, and although people tried to continue as normal, war-related work occupied everyone. Life in families, schools and parish societies would never be the same again. Discover how parishioners responded to the trauma of the war years and how the parish rose, like a phoenix from the ashes, to play its part in Chester s post-war revival. 5 April 8 July Day Tripper: The Story of George Taylor Coach operator George Taylor aimed to make Chester the hub of a nationwide service from his base on the Market Square, and many local people will fondly remember his excursions to Barmouth, Llangollen and Blackpool. This fabulous collection of photographs and information about his thriving businesses, including a car dealership and driving school, has been donated by his great-nephew, Michael Priestley. 5 April 8 July That s Life: Working Days at Western Command We recently received a donation of a lovely collection of photographs that belonged to a lady who worked at the Chester headquarters of the Army's Western Command. These wonderful images show the social element of working life, including bowling, weddings and Christmas celebrations, as well as internal and external views of the Western Command complex.

13 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events 13 Events Chester History & Heritage Family Events Chester History & Heritage provides activities for children during the school holidays. We have four brass rubbings (cost 10p per A3 sheet of paper). For older children we have a family fun trail round the city centre. We also have colouring activities based on our current exhibitions. Adult Events Wednesday 10 February St Werburgh s Revealed: Guided Tour Meet at Chester History & Heritage 2pm Free, but booking essential at Chester History & Heritage Join Gerry Tighe and Ann Marie Curtis for a stroll down to the beautiful church of St Werburgh, looking at associated sites of interest along the way before they unlock the doors to its fascinating interior. Wednesdays 24 February & 30 March All Quiet on the Western Front pm Free, donations Welcome. Booking essential at Chester History & Heritage In partnership with Film Chester, we present this epic 1930 film. Following an impassioned speech about the glory of serving in the army and saving the Fatherland, a group of young men are moved to join the German army. Their romantic delusions are quickly broken during their rigorous training under an abusive corporal, who bluntly informs them, You're going to be soldiers and that's all. Thursday 28 April From Workhouse to City Centre Meet at Hoole Community Centre, Westminster Road 6.30pm 3, book at Chester History & Heritage Led by guide John Whittingham, this walk from Hoole starts at the paupers grave in the grounds of the old workhouse then along the canal into the city, finishing at the Lock Keeper pub.

14 14 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events Stretton Watermill, Farndon Mill Lane, Stretton, Farndon, SY14 7JA Step back in time and visit one of the country s best preserved water powered corn mills. First recorded in 1351, Stretton Watermill was a working mill until its last miller retired in Visit the 19th century stable block to learn about the history of the mill and explore models of the building and its machinery. One of our millers will then take you on a fascinating tour to see the ancient wooden machinery in action, listen to stories, and have a go at milling grain. Bring a picnic and enjoy the idyllic rural setting with beautiful views of the pond and mill buildings. Disabled access Accessible toilet, ramp to first floor of mill. Telephone Find us on Facebook: Grosvenor Museum and Stretton Watermill Follow us on Website: museums.co.uk Volunteers Please see all West Cheshire Museums volunteering roles on the website Admission Adult 3, child 1.50, family 8. April & September: Saturday & Sunday 1-5pm. May August: Tuesday Sunday & Bank Holiday Mondays 1-5pm. Saturday 2 & Sunday 3 April Wake Up, Stretton 1-5pm. Join us for the first weekend of the season after waking up the mill for Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 April A Wartime Mill 12noon-5pm. Discover how Stretton Watermill played an important role in the war efforts of the First and Second World Wars, as it milled night and day to keep people fed during rationing. Try some 1940s games, work a stirrup pump and Dig for Victory, as the working mill is brought to life with wartime memorabilia. Saturday 14 & Sunday 15 May National Mills Weekend: Vintage Power 1-5pm. Hydrams, cogs, cams, clutches, hoists, gears, torque and talk: join us in the national celebration of wind and watermills and expect a more technical tour with a focus on vintage power.

15 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events 15 Weaver Hall Museum & Workhouse 162 London Road, Northwich, CW9 8AB Weaver Hall Museum & Workhouse is full of displays and tales of the history and industry of West Cheshire. The stories are told through films, reconstructions, models and vivid displays of intriguing artefacts, which relate to local industry, market towns, transport, archaeology, and the building s former history as the old Northwich Union Workhouse. An exhibition in the former workhouse schoolroom explores life for the paupers. Around the rest of the museum you can find out about workhouse food, discover some of the people who lived here, and visit the recreated Master s sitting room. Admission Adult 3, concession 2, child 1.50, family (2+2) 7, pre-booked groups 2 per person. Season tickets: adult 6, concession 5, 2 senior citizens & up to 3 children 12, 2 adults & up to 3 children 15. Free to view special exhibitions (suggested donation 3) and to visit the gift shop and coffee shop. Tuesday Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday-Sunday 2-5pm, Bank Holidays, Good Friday and school holiday Mondays 10am-5pm. Support us The Friends of Weaver Hall offer vital support for the museum. Members of the Society enjoy a full and varied programme of events including evening talks and film nights. See for more details. Volunteers Please see all West Cheshire Museums volunteering roles on the website museums.co.uk Disabled access Full independent access is available throughout the museum. Telephone Find us on Facebook: Weaver Hall Museum and Lion Salt Works Follow us on Website:

16 16 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events Exhibitions & Family Events Weaver Hall Museum & Workhouse, Northwich Exhibitions Until 7 February A Prehistoric Landscape: Archaeology of the Mid-Cheshire Ridge Cheshire s Sandstone Ridge, the backbone of Cheshire, is one of the most distinctive landscapes in the county. This exhibition explores the earliest human history of the Ridge up to the Roman invasion of AD 43. The museum s important prehistoric collections are displayed alongside new research from the Habitats and Hillforts Landscape Partnership Scheme and several community projects. 13 February 5 June Motherhood This exhibition explores the role of motherhood between 1860 and Recognising that the role is not always fulfilled by the biological mother, the exhibition examines the themes of baby and child-care, home-making and time out. Through objects, costumes and ephemera, the exhibition considers the roles of motherhood, labour-saving equipment, and the implications of social developments during a time of enormous change. Family Events Children s activities are aimed at 4 to 12 years unless otherwise stated. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please contact for group bookings. Wednesday 17 & Thursday 18 February Sock Puppet Dinosaur 10am-4pm, drop-in 1.50 per child. Dig out those odd socks (clean) and transform them into a sock-a-saurus. Wednesday 6 & Thursday 7 April Whirly Wizzers and Balancing Clowns 10am-4pm, drop-in 1.50 per child. Create your own Victorian-inspired toy. Wednesday 13 & Thursday 14 April Plague Rats 10am-4pm, drop-in 1.50 per child. Kill or cure? Discover old medieval remedies and adopt a fluffy rat to take home. Tuesday 12 Friday 15 April Norton Priory Pop-Up Museum Our friends at Norton Priory are visiting to tell tales of a medieval monastery and a lost Georgian house. Discover nine centuries of history through storytelling, ancient artefact handling, games and dressing up, in preparation for their major new museum opening in Summer Saturday 21 May Workhouse Living History Day 11am-4pm, drop-in 1.50 per child. Join us for a fun packed day of family activities. Follow in the footsteps of paupers, take a lesson in the schoolroom, and help inmates with chores. Wednesday 1 & Thursday 2 June T-Shirt Upcycling 10am-4pm, drop-in 1.50 per child. Bring along an old T-shirt to upcycle into a catwalk creation.

17 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events 17 Adult Events Weaver Hall Museum & Workhouse, Northwich Adult Events Saturday 6 February Writing for Absolute Beginners 10am-4pm 7 including a light lunch. Book in advance by ing info@vrwg.co.uk. This writing day has been organised by Vale Royal Writers Group in association with Weaver Hall Museum and Cheshire Community Development Trust. Thursday 11 February David Cummings: The Story of a Street 7 for 7.30pm Friends of Weaver Hall Museum free; non-members 2, book on Thursday 25 February Motherhood 3-4pm 1.50 including tea or coffee. Between 1860 and 1960 improvements in travel, power and communications allowed mothers to aspire to a life outside the home, while developments in political equality, philanthropy, the workforce and fashion nurtured these ambitions. In this talk, Kate Harland will highlight the objects in our current exhibition and show how they demonstrate the changes and similarities of a hundred years of motherhood. Regalette Film Shows Doors open 7pm, films start 7.30pm 5, or 4 for the Friends of Weaver Hall Museum & Workhouse. Supported by the Friends of Weaver Hall Museum & Workhouse Thursday 25 February Everest Director Baltasar Kormákur, 2h 30m Thursday 31 March Woman in Gold Director Simon Curtis, 1h 50m Thursday 28 April A Walk In the Woods Director Ken Kwapis, 1h 44m Thursday 26 May The Danish Girl Director Tom Hooper, 2h Join David Cummings to discover the story of Chester s Bridge Street over two thousand years of history. Organised by the Friends of Weaver Hall Museum & Workhouse Wednesday 27 April From Monastery to Museum: nine centuries of stories at Norton Priory 3-4pm 1.50 including tea or coffee. Join Tom Hughes to explore how Norton Priory developed from a medieval priory to a Tudor country house, then a Georgian mansion, illustrated with images of artefacts from the excavations and how the new museum will look when it opens in Summer 2016.

18 18 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events Lion Salt Works, Northwich Ollershaw Lane, Marston, Northwich, Cheshire, CW9 6ES The Lion Salt Works is a restored historic open-pan salt making site in the village of Marston, beside the Trent and Mersey Canal and close to the remarkable Anderton Boat Lift. This 10 million project opened in 2015, offering a fascinating journey through the life of the country s last open-pan salt works. When exploring the site and its restored buildings, you will discover how the Salt Works operated and the impact of salt on mid-cheshire s people, economy and landscape. Your visit will also set the scene for a wider exploration of the footpaths, waterways and attractions of the adjacent Northwich Woodlands and the wider Weaver Valley. Admission Adult 6.25, concession 5.50, child 4, family (2+2) 15.20, concession family (1+3) 14, adult annual pass 18, family annual pass (2+2 or 1+3) 50. Free access to café, gift shop, butterfly garden, play area, canal towpath and car park. Tuesday Sunday & Bank Holiday Mondays, Lion Salt Works 10.30am-5pm, play area and butterfly garden 9am 5.20pm. Telephone Find us on Facebook: Weaver Hall Museum and Lion Salt Works Follow us on Website: Support us The Lion Salt Works Trust offers vital support including technical and historical advice, project development, grounds development, visitor tours and a regular publication. To become a Saltie contact ngkhunt@ yahoo.co.uk. Volunteers Please see all West Cheshire Museums volunteering roles on the website museums.co.uk. Disabled access Full independent access is available across the whole site.

19 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events 19 Family Events Lion Salt Works, Northwich Family Events Children s activities are aimed at 4 to 12 years unless otherwise stated. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please contact for group bookings. Tuesday 16 & Wednesday 17 February Love Bugs and Stained Glass Hearts 10.30am-12.30pm & 2-4pm, drop-in We get lots of insects visiting our Butterfly Garden. Make your own Valentine themed bug which also doubles as a card. Plus have a go at making your own tissue paper stained glass heart. Saturday 19 March Super Salt Saturday 10.30am-12.30pm & 2-4pm, drop-in Come and join us to celebrate British Science Week with all things salty. See how salt is made, make your own salt, and have a go at our salty science activities. Tuesday 5 & Wednesday 6 April Spring Animal Rockers 10.30am-12.30pm & 2-4pm, drop-in Have a go at creating your own lamb and chick rockers to celebrate the arrival of spring. Friday 8 April Story Time with Northwich Library Lion Salt Works am, 11.30am-12noon, pm & pm Get into spring with crafts and storytime from Cheshire West and Chester Libraries. There will be seasonal crafts, and a Very Hungry Caterpillar may even make an appearance! Tuesday 12 & Wednesday 13 April Salt Sacks Printing 10.30am-12.30pm & 2-4pm, drop-in Salt from the Lion Salt Works went all over the world, and special sacks were made for each country. Choose somewhere in the world and design a salt sack based on that country.

20 20 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events Family & Adult Events Lion Salt Works, Northwich Saturday 16 April Victorian Nature Collectors at Northwich Library Northwich Library, Witton Street 10.30am-12.30pm, drop-in Free. Sunday 1 & Monday 2 May Steam Transport Weekend 10.30am-5pm, drop-in Experience a collection of traction and steam engines, evoking memories from times past. Take a walk down memory lane and see how we used steam power to start to build the modern world. Tuesday 31 May & Wednesday 1 June Hammering Woodpeckers 10.30am-12.30pm & 2-4pm, drop-in We get lots of Greater Spotted Woodpeckers in the grounds of the Lion Salt Works. They love to hammer holes in the trees and telegraph poles! Come along and make your own hammering woodpecker toy. Adult Events Come and join us at Northwich Library and find out more about Victorian naturalists and the types of things they collected. See some Victorian life cycle boxes and be inspired to make your own. Saturday 20 February Art and Industry pm Free, but booking essential at art-industry-tickets or telephone Three speakers share their fascination with the connections between Industry and Art. Art historian Adrian Sumner discusses artists who have taken inspiration from the world of industry. Artist Rebecca Gouldson previews her public artwork for the Barons Quay development in Northwich. And Northwich painter Diana Bernice Tackley gives an insight into the ideas behind her beautiful paintings.

21 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events 21 Adult Events Lion Salt Works, Northwich Friday 18 March Publick Transport Theatre: We Are Brontë pm 8 for adults, 6 for 16 and under (show suitable 12+): book at Lion Salt Works, telephone or visit cheshireruraltouringarts. This is no ordinary Brontë adaptation. Comic, irreverent, visual theatre inspired by the real and imaginary worlds of Yorkshire s literary family. Physical theatre collides with stand-up, clowning and improvisation as two performers deconstruct not only Gothic themes of love, madness, repression and revenge, but also themselves. Supported by Cheshire Rural Touring Arts Saturdays 16 April, 21 May & 18 June Get Going Together: Wearpurple Creative Walks Meet in the café at Lion Salt Works 10-11am Free, for over 50s. Ever feel it would be good to be a bit more active and creative and get some fresh air? Whatever your interest sketching, painting, writing, photography or just collecting things this is a chance to be creative whilst exploring the outdoors and meeting new people. Join us for a gentle walk for about an hour, followed by a drink in the café and a look at what s been created. Saturday 16 April Introduction to Fossils 3-4pm Free. Come and join Cheshire RIGS, the local geoconservation group, and discover the wonderful world of fossils and their links to the Weaver Valley. Saturday 28 May Rebecca Perry: Confessions of a Redheaded Coffeeshop Girl pm 8 for adults, 6 for 16 and under (show suitable 9+): book at Lion Salt Works, telephone or visit cheshireruraltouringarts. Meet Joanie Little feisty redhead, recent anthropology graduate, ready to take on the world. But she's stuck working as a barista. Determined to use her vocational skills, Joanie reports on the creatures (customers) of the shop, and in her Coffee Shop Jungle hilarity ensues, with jazzy tunes, co-worker showdowns and a little bit of romance! Supported by Cheshire Rural Touring Arts

22 22 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events Diary Key January Saturday 30 How the Samurai Prepared for Battle Saturday 30 Martial Arts Demonstration February Saturday 6 Writing for Absolute Beginners Saturday 6 Traditional Music of Japan Wednesday 10 St Werburgh s Revealed: Guided Tour Thursday 11 David Cummings: The Story of a Street Monday 15 My Neighbour Totoro Tuesday 16 Love Bugs and Stained Glass Hearts Tuesday 16 Japanese Teatime Wednesday 17 Sock Puppet Dinosaur Grosvenor Museum Chester History & Heritage Stretton Watermill Weaver Hall Museum & Workhouse Lion Salt Works Wednesday 17 Love Bugs and Stained Glass Hearts Wednesday Years of Objects Thursday 18 Sock Puppet Dinosaur Thursday 18 Faith, Belief and Spirituality in Modern Art Thursday 18 Kimono Peg Dolls Friday 19 Japanese Headwear Saturday 20 Art and Industry Wednesday 24 All Quiet on the Western Front Thursday 25 Motherhood Thursday 25 Everest Friday 26 A Charity Evening with So Rahman March Friday 11 Chester Town Hall Tour Saturday 12 Cheshire Castles in Context Tuesday 15 Memories of the Museum Wednesday 16 Chester Cathedral Tour Saturday 19 Super Salt Saturday Friday 18 Publick Transport Theatre: We Are Brontë Sunday 20 Gothic Tales by Candlelight Monday 21 Chester Town Hall Tour Saturday 26 Revelation: Exhibition Tour Wednesday 30 All Quiet on the Western Front Thursday 31 Woman in Gold April Saturday 2 Wake Up, Stretton Sunday 3 Wake Up, Stretton Tuesday 5 Spring Animal Rockers Tuesday 5 Make a Gothic City Wednesday 6 Whirly Wizzers and Balancing Clowns Wednesday 6 Spring Animal Rockers Wednesday 6 Big Weather Day Thursday 7 Whirly Wizzers and Balancing Clowns Thursday 7 Stained Glass Rose Windows Friday 8 Story Time with Northwich Library Saturday 9 A Wartime Mill Sunday 10 A Wartime Mill Tuesday 12 Norton Priory Pop-Up Museum

23 West Cheshire Museums I Exhibitions and Events 23 Diary Tuesday 12 Salt Sacks Printing Tuesday 12 Angels Wings Wednesday 13 Norton Priory Pop-Up Museum Wednesday 13 Plague Rats Wednesday 13 Salt Sacks Printing Wednesday Years of Toys Wednesday 13 Tombs in Beowulf Wednesday 13 The Chester Cathedral Estate Thursday 14 Norton Priory Pop-Up Museum Thursday 14 Plague Rats Thursday 14 Creepy Tales by Candlelight Friday 15 Norton Priory Pop-Up Museum Saturday 16 Get Going Together: Wearpurple Creative Walk Saturday 16 Victorian Nature Collectors at Northwich Library Saturday 16 Introduction to Fossils Tuesday 19 Dead Relevant? Mortuary Archaeology in Contemporary Society Wednesday 20 Tombs of Terror: The Hunt for Weland Thursday 21 Inspired by Gothic: Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte Monday years of land-use in upper Glen Almond, Perthshire Wednesday 27 Powerful Tombs: The Medieval Living Dead Wednesday 27 From Monastery to Museum: nine centuries of stories at Norton Priory Thursday 28 Inspired by Gothic: Gothic Literature Workshop Thursday 28 From Workhouse to City Centre Thursday 28 A Walk In the Woods Saturday 30 Chester Cathedral Tour May Sunday 1 Steam Transport Weekend Monday 2 Steam Transport Weekend Thursday 5 Tour of Gothic Revival Chester Wednesday 11 Chester Cathedral Tour Saturday 14 National Mills Weekend: Vintage Power Sunday 15 National Mills Weekend: Vintage Power Wednesday 18 Commanding Views: A History of Landscape Art Saturday 21 Get Going Together: Wearpurple Creative Walk Saturday 21 Workhouse Living History Day Monday 23 Tour of Gothic Revival Chester Wednesday 25 Chester Cathedral Tour Thursday 26 The Danish Girl Saturday 28 Rebecca Perry: Confessions of a Redheaded Coffeeshop Girl Tuesday 31 Hammering Woodpeckers Tuesday 31 Gothic Feast June Wednesday 1 T-Shirt Upcycling Wednesday 1 Hammering Woodpeckers Wednesday Years of Fashion Thursday 2 T-Shirt Upcycling Thursday 2 Mad Gothic Hats Friday 3 Tissue Paper Landscapes Saturday 4 Chester Cathedral Tour Saturday 18 Get Going Together: Wearpurple Creative Walk

24 Grosvenor Museum 27 Grosvenor Street, Chester, CH1 2DD Chester History & Heritage St Michael's Church, Bridge Street Row East, Chester, CH1 1NW Stretton Watermill Mill Lane, Stretton, Nr. Farndon, SY14 7JA A55 A483 Chester A41 A49 Tattenhall Farndon A534 Broxton Roundabout BLACKFRIARS Wrexham Shocklach Bangor is-y-coed Tilston B5069 Malpas Whitchurch A525 Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse 162 London Road, Northwich, Cheshire, CW9 8AB CHESTER M56 J9/20 M56 MANCHESTER M6 Lion Salt Works Ollershaw Lane, Marston, Northwich, CW9 6AS A49 A49 A533 A559 A556 3 NORTHWICH Anderton Boat Lift Witton Brook River Weaver A556 A54 A533 A556 A54 M6 J18 Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse Accessing Cheshire West and Chester Council information and services Council information is also available in Audio, Braille and Large Print formats. If you would like a copy in any of these formats or in another language, please us at equalities@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk We are also able to provide a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter to support customers with accessing Council services. Tel: Textphone: equalities@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk web: