Many museums offer trails and treasure hunts for little ones, but I thought the recently redeveloped Clitheroe Castle Museum did it particularly well. As well as the tick list of objects to find and draw, they provided some great props to get children into the theme, in the form of an explorer’s hat and a brightly coloured rucksack containing a magnifying glass, pencil and sharpener (useful addition). This certainly kept my children happy – the four year old was volunteered by the other two to wear the hat and carry the backpack while they helped her find everything on the list.
In addition, there are so many activities for children in this compact and informative space - objects to feel, clothes to dress up in, metal to rub, paper to emboss, recordings of workers at t’mill to listen to and a film to watch on the history of the castle narrated by the thick Lancashire-accented Bernard Wrigley. My children’s favourite exhibit was one of the touch screens which highlights over 50 landmarks which can be seem from the castle on a moving panoramic strip; touch one and further information and images pop up.
We ended the day with a treat for the adults – a trip to Cowman’s Famous Sausage Shop for some pork and chestnut sausages complimented by an expensive bottle of claret from wine merchants D Byrne & Co!
Cheers - Barbara Howorth
With a three and a six year old with a zest for life, we're always looking for something to keep them both amused and enthralled. Clitheroe castle was a perfect choice. They both enjoyed dressing up, doing brass rubbings and interacting with the hands on exhibits. Following the refurbishment at the castle, it's clear to see that this is a good quality visitor attraction and the food was great too. Definitely recommended - go soon.
Posted by: Tim Dixon | 23 November 2009 at 01:12 PM