Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.10, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Historic Stafford ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Izaak Walton's Cottage Temporary Closure](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/izaak-waltons-cottage-temporary-closure/) - Izaak Walton's Cottage Temporary Closure Due to repair works, Izaak Walton’s Cottage will be closed this Sunday the 5th July 2026. Our garden will be open as usual and you can still sit and enjoy a cup of tea too. 1pm to 5pm as usual.We hope to open fully again for the following Sunday the - [Wildlife at the Castle Highlights](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/stafford-history-day-2026-recap/) - Wildlife at the Castle Highlights A look back at our popular ‘Wildlife at the Castle’ Event at Stafford Castle. We love this short film and we hope it brings back great memories of the day for you too!A huge thank you to local production company Fresh Shoots who are following us for a year long - [Stafford Castle Temporary Site Closure due to High Wind](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/__trashed/) - Stafford Castle Temporary Site Closure due to High Wind Please be aware that Stafford Castle will be closed on Thursday 12th March due to high wind gust speeds. We will assess the Stafford Castle site and reopen as soon as it is safe to do so.Please follow our social media for updates. Both sites should - [We need your feedback!](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/stafford-castle-the-keep-is-now-open/) - Event and workshop feedback form Have you attended one of our Events or Workshops this year? Please help us out by clicking on the button below and spending just 1 minute completing a feedback form. Thank you! Give Feedback - [Stafford Castle - Temporary Gate Opening Times](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/stafford-castle-temporary-gate-opening-times/) - Stafford Castle - Temporary Gate Closing Changes Please be advised that Stafford Castle site opening times have currently changed to 10.30am until further notice. ## Pages - [Home](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/) - The Ancient High House, Stafford Castle, Izaak Walton's Cottage - [Contact Us](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/contact-us/) - CONTACT US You can contact us via email, phone or by dropping in to see us during our opening hours. All of our sites are free admission but we kindly accept donations.Opening Hours:Ancient High House: 10.00am to 4.00pm, Tuesday through Saturday Izaak Walton’s Cottage (4th May 2025 through 31st August 2025): 1.00pm to 5.00pm every SundayStafford - [Group Tours](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/venue-tours/group-tours/) - Group Tours At both Stafford Castle and the Ancient High House we offer bespoke group tours. These include a several hour walking tour and discussion about the history of the sites.We also have a regular Stafford Town Tour, running in two different forms: ‘Greengate and Beyond’ and ‘People, Power and Pleasure’. Make sure you keep - [Volunteer](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/get-involved/volunteer/) - Volunteer Volunteer with Historic Stafford!We have history in our hands, and you can too! From our impressive Norman earthworks to our Tudor timber town house and our tranquil 16th century country cottage, Historic Stafford looks after 950 years of local history. We have volunteering opportunities across all three of our sites with varied roles to - [School Tours Enquiry Form - Stafford Castle](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/school-tours-booking-form-stafford-castle/) - School Tours Enquiry Form – Stafford Castle Please fill out all details and click ‘Submit’. The tour date you have chosen will not be confirmed until our Tour Coordinator gets back to you via email. Contact Name*School Name*School Address* Street Address Address Line 2 Town/City Postcode Telephone*Email* Enter Email Confirm Email Please specify the timeframe - [School Tours Enquiry Form - Izaak Walton's Cottage](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/school-tours-booking-form-izaak-waltons-cottage/) - School Tours Enquiry Form – Izaak Walton’s Cottage Please fill out all details and click ‘Submit’. The tour date you have chosen will not be confirmed until our Tour Coordinator gets back to you via email. Contact Name*School Name*School Address* Street Address Address Line 2 Town/City Postcode Telephone*Email* Enter Email Confirm Email Please specify the - [School Tours Enquiry Form - Ancient High House](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/school-tours-booking-form-ancient-high-house/) - School Tours Enquiry Form – Ancient High House Please fill out all details and click ‘Submit’. The tour date you have chosen will not be confirmed until our Tour Coordinator gets back to you via email. Contact Name*School Name*School Address* Street Address Address Line 2 Town/City Postcode Telephone*Email* Enter Email Confirm Email Please specify the - [Birthday Party Enquiry Form](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/birthday-party-booking-form/) - Birthday Party Enquiry Form Please fill out all details and click ‘Submit’. The birthday party date you have chosen will not be confirmed until our Tour Coordinator gets back to you via email. Contact Name (Adult)*Contact Address* Street Address Address Line 2 Town/City Postcode Telephone*Email* Enter Email Confirm Email Name of Birthday Child*Age of ChildExpected - [Community Groups](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/get-involved/community-groups/) - Community Groups We work with local community groups in order to ensure that we are meeting our local communities’ needs. If you have a community project you think we can help with, we would love to hear from you.Contact us at info@historicstafford.co.ukHave a look below at some of the projects that groups have helped us - [Get Involved](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/get-involved/) - Get Involved There are a variety of ways in which you can get involved with our work and our sites. Whether it be volunteering and sharing your love of history, taking part in one of our local community projects or even working with us, there are plenty of ways for you to deepen your connection - [Jobs at Historic Stafford](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/get-involved/jobs-at-historic-stafford/) - Jobs at Historic Stafford Our small and dedicated team look after three historic sites; The Ancient High House, Stafford Castle and Izaak Walton’s Cottage. If you share our dedication in helping to preserve these sites, engaging with visitors and providing the best service we can, we would love to hear from you. See the latest - [Birthday Parties](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/venue-tours/child-page-3/) - Birthday Parties We offer brilliantly fun birthday parties at Stafford Castle which last 1.5 hours. For this time, the central area of the Visitor Centre is closed off for your celebrations.Join one of the knights of Stafford Castle as they lead a party to retake the keep. Get your shields and swords, pop on your - [Educational Tours](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/venue-tours/educational-tours/) - Educational Tours Ancient High House Our award winning Ancient High House tours include: Tudor, Time-walk, Monarchy and Great Fire of London. We can also cater to the topics and needs that are directly relevant to your students. ANCIENT HIGH HOUSE TOUR ENQUIRY FORM Stafford Castle Our award winning Stafford Castle tours can be altered as - [Tours](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/venue-tours/) - Tours We have tours available across all three of our sites; whether you are a teacher looking for a brilliant educational experience for your class or just hoping to learn more about our historic venues, we have you covered. Stafford Castle also has birthday parties available to book. Educational Tours Group Tours Birthday Parties - [Weddings](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/weddings/) - Weddings Book a wedding or civil ceremony with Historic Stafford for your special day to be surrounded by rich history and ties to the local area.Both Izaak Walton’s Cottage and the Ancient High House are approved venues for small Weddings and Civil Ceremonies. We can cater to your needs and make the day just how - [Accessibility](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/accessibility/) - ACCESSIBILITY Due to the age of our sites, physical accessibility can be difficult. Wherever possible, we have made an effort to ensure your visit is comfortable and accessible. Guides are always willing to give any possible assistance and you can contact us at the Ancient High House on 01785 619131 for further information and to - [Basket](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/basket/) - [Volunteer Enquiry Form](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/volunteer-enquiry-form/) - Volunteer Enquiry Form Please fill out all details and click ‘Submit’. Our volunteer organiser will get back to you via email. Contact Name*Age* Adult (18+) Contact Address* Street Address Address Line 2 Town/City Postcode TelephoneWhich of our sites would you be interested in getting involved with?* The Ancient High House Stafford Castle Izaak Walton's Cottage - [Venues](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/venues/) - [Join Our Mailing List](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/join-our-mailing-list/) - Join Our Mailing List First name: Last name: Email: Sign Up - [Checkout](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/checkout/) - [Booking](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/booking/) - [Tour Booking Form](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/tour-booking-form/) - [About Us](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/about-us/) - Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur magni dolores eos qui ratione voluptatem sequi nesciunt. Neque - [My Account](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/my-account/) - [Join Our Mailing List Success](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/join-our-mailing-list-success/) - Thank you for joining our mailing list! - [What's On](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whats-on/) - [Website Javascript Options](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/website-javascript-options/) ## What's On Events - [Home Educators Day - KS1 and KS2 Tour](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/home-educators-day-ks1-and-ks2-tour-3/) - BOTH THE KS2 AND KS1 SLOTS ARE NOW FULLY BOOKED. A day exclusively for home educated children. Spend the day with our guides exploring and learning the history of Stafford Castle’s 950 year old Norman motte and bailey castle. Discuss the Battle of Hastings and learn about knights, weapons and armour. The day will - [The Magic Faraway Tree Museum Adventure](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/the-magic-faraway-tree-museum-adventure/) - Kids and their families are invited on a very special adventure at the Ancient High House this summer holiday. The Magic Faraway Tree is a free spotter trail from Kids in Museums and Blyton Books, celebrating Enid Blyton’s much loved children’s book series. The book has recently inspired a hit family film, which sees children - [Workshop - Children's Nature Loom Workshop](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-childrens-nature-loom-workshop/) - Come along to our new summer craft workshop and try your hand at twig weaving. Choose your favourite stick and colours to create a colourful loom weaving. No pre-booking required. Drop in any time between 11.00am and 3.15pm. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This workshop takes place in Stafford Castle Visitor Centre which - [Workshop - Festive Embroidery](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-autumn-embroidery/) - THIS WORKSHOP IS NOW FULLY BOOKED. Choose from a wide variety of threads, colours and designs to create a festive design of your choice; this could be something autumnal themed or why not get ready for Christmas early! Our resident seamstress will be on hand to help you learn some basic hand sewing techniques whilst - [Workshop - Festive Embroidery](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshops-christmas-embroidery/) - Choose from a wide variety of threads, colours and designs to create a festive design of your choice; this could be something Christmas or Winter themed. Our resident seamstress will be on hand to help you learn some basic hand sewing techniques whilst making your items, including attaching a button and making a buttonhole, sewing - [Workshop - Festive Embroidery](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-christmas-sewing-embroidered-tree-decoration/) - Choose from a wide variety of threads, colours and designs to create a festive design of your choice; this could be something Christmas or Winter themed. Our resident seamstress will be on hand to help you learn some basic hand sewing techniques whilst making your items, including attaching a button and making a buttonhole, sewing - [Teddy Bear's Picnic](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/teddy-bears-picnic/) - Bring a picnic and spend the day relaxing with us and spending time with all the family...and Teddy Bears! Join us for all sorts of fun and entertainment in the tranquil garden's of Izaak Walton's Cottage. Aimed at our younger visitors and families, we will have magic shows, storytelling, a bear hunt, face painting, cakes, - [Exhibition - Twenties Takeover](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/exhibition-twenties-takeover/) - The ‘Twenties Takeover’ exhibition offers a glimpse into different aspects of the decade, including everyday items like clothing, art and homeware. Items on display include a Georgette evening dress, purchased by a member of Eccleshall’s Hudson family, that captures the ornate and iconic styles that swept the 1920s. There are also numerous medicines of the - [Exhibition - Midlands Landscapes - Drawings and Paintings by Mark Lippett](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/exhibition-midlands-landscapes-drawings-and-paintings-by-mark-lippett/) - An exhibition of drawings and paintings by professional artist Mark Lippett. The show will feature several landscapes from across the West Midlands. Mark Lippett is an award winning Fine Artist from Staffordshire in the West Midlands. He is mostly known for his architectural work depicting abandoned buildings which have been exhibited across the UK in - [Bat Walk at Stafford Castle](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/bat-walk-at-stafford-castle/) - THIS EVENT IS NOW FULLY BOOKED. Come along for our annual, popular, evening walk on the wild side with an expert from Stafford Bat Group. You will be guided, listening and watching out for furry friends as they dart through the woodland and you will learn about these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat! Parking - [Stafford Heritage Trail - Greengate Street and Beyond](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/stafford-heritage-trail-greengate-street-and-beyond-3/) - Take a gentle stroll around Stafford with our knowledgeable guide to see the town in a new light with this tour taking a particular focus on Greengate Street (the High Street) and onwards onto Crabbery Street. Learn about the secrets of the buildings and hear about colourful characters from the past. The tour will last - [Stafford Heritage Trail - People, Power and Pleasure](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/stafford-heritage-trail-people-power-and-pleasure-2/) - Take a gentle stroll around Stafford with our knowledgeable guide to see the town in a new light with this tour taking a loop that looks at St Marys Church, the Alms Houses and Victoria Park amongst other locations. Learn about the secrets of the buildings and hear about colourful characters from the past. The - [Stafford Heritage Trail - Greengate Street and Beyond](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/stafford-heritage-trail-greengate-street-and-beyond-2/) - Take a gentle stroll around Stafford with our knowledgeable guide to see the town in a new light with this tour taking a particular focus on Greengate Street (the High Street) and onwards onto Crabbery Street. Learn about the secrets of the buildings and hear about colourful characters from the past. The tour will last - [LGBTQ+ Time-Warp: 1500's to the Present](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/lgbtq-time-warp-1500s-to-the-present/) - Gross indecency, cross-dressing and scandal. Our LGBTQ+ Tour is back! 'LGBT Time-Warp: 1500s to the Present' is an interesting look at the progression of LGBT existence from the 1500s to the modern day, using the fascinating Ancient High House to facilitate the storytelling of queer history. Moving through the house, where each room is dedicated - [Haunted High House Week](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/haunted-high-house-week/) - This years events are subject to change. The below schedule is provisional: With spooky entertainment across the whole week for all ages, there will be something for everyone to enjoy! The Ancient High House will be decorated for the whole week with a children's spooky 'Find the Ghosts' trail, available to visit during our opening - [Stafford Heritage Trail - Greengate Street and Beyond](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/stafford-heritage-trail-greengate-street-and-beyond/) - Take a gentle stroll around Stafford with our knowledgeable guide to see the town in a new light with this tour taking a particular focus on Greengate Street (the High Street) and onwards onto Crabbery Street. Learn about the secrets of the buildings and hear about colourful characters from the past. The tour will last - [Stafford Heritage Trail - People, Power and Pleasure](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/stafford-heritage-trail-people-power-and-pleasure/) - Take a gentle stroll around Stafford with our knowledgeable guide to see the town in a new light with this tour taking a loop that looks at St Marys Church, the Alms Houses and Victoria Park amongst other locations. Learn about the secrets of the buildings and hear about colourful characters from the past. The - [Workshop - Willow Swallows](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-willow-swallows/) - Celebrate the start of summer by creating your own beautiful Willow Swallow. At our Willow Swallows workshop at Stafford Castle, you will weave your own beautiful swoop of Swallows by creating a frame and weaving between. This is a simple willow project, suitable for beginners. You will be given help and expert guidance to produce - [Workshop - Christmas Wreath](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-christmas-wreath/) - THIS EVENT IS NOT YET FOR SALE Create your own bespoke wreath for Christmas! All materials supplied to decorate your very own moss ring with fresh greenery, ribbon, dried fruit, baubles or whatever you fancy. Inspiration photos are provided and staff are on hand for advice. This is an ideal pre-Christmas social for adults only, - [Workshop - Halloween Craft and Trail](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-halloween-craft-and-trail/) - This fun Children’s Halloween Craft Workshop at Stafford Castle is the perfect treat to get ready for Halloween. Come along to get spooky and create your very own Halloween craft to take home. Why not also follow our spooky trail around the Castle site! No pre-booking required. Drop in any time between 11.00am and 3.15pm. - [Home Educators Day - KS3 Tour](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/home-educators-day-ks3-tour/) - A day exclusively for home educated children. Spend the day with our guides exploring and learning the history of Stafford Castle’s 950 year old Norman motte and bailey castle. Discuss the Battle of Hastings and learn about knights, weapons and armour. The day will include coin minting, hands-on armour and weapons, role play and much - [Home Educators Day - KS1 and KS2 Tour](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/home-educators-day-ks1-and-ks2-tour-2/) - BOTH THE KS2 AND KS1 SLOTS ARE NOW FULLY BOOKED. A day exclusively for home educated children. Spend the day with our guides exploring and learning the history of Stafford Castle’s 950 year old Norman motte and bailey castle. Discuss the Battle of Hastings and learn about knights, weapons and armour. The day will - [Workshop - Aromatherapy Wellbeing Mini's](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-aromatherapy-wellbeing-minis/) - An introduction to the benefits of nature's own medicine is followed by you making a blend to meet your personal needs. You will create 2 roller ball bottles of your personal blend which will fit perfectly into your pocket or bag. These bottles are refillable and with the skills you learn you will be able - [Summer Trail at Stafford Castle](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/summer-trail-at-stafford-castle/) - Can you find all seven mythical creatures hiding around Stafford Castle? Starting at Stafford Castle Visitor Centre, pick up your free trail and work your way around the site. Using Professor Whiteletter's instructions, try to locate all of the creatures and complete some fun activities along the way! Finishing in the Herb Garden, take your - [Workshop - Children's Make a Mini Viking Longboat](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-childrens-make-a-viking-shield/) - As part of our Viking Re-Enactment event, younger audiences can come along to the Visitor Centre and design their very own wooden mini Viking Longboat! This workshop is a part of our Viking Re-Enactment event. Come along, watch the battles, learn about the Viking way and head in to the Visitor Centre to do a - [Viking Re-Enactment](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/viking-re-enactment/) - An entertaining, educational and interactive day out suitable for all the family and fans of Vikings alike! Stafford Castle is once again being invaded by a Viking Horde! The Vikings are setting up camp for the weekend with a rival Saxon camp in the woodland, with both sides ready to blow their horns, march up - [Workshop - Aromatherapy Eco Cleaning Products](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-scented-aromatherapy-room-spray/) - Come along to this Aromatherapy workshop hosted at Stafford Castle. Learn how to avoid harsh chemicals and create an environmentally friendly way to make your home smell amazing. This workshop is perfect or you to learn how to create your own household products. You will learn about the benefits of aromatherapy oil before getting hands - [Workshop - Autumn Wreath](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-autumn-wreath/) - At our Autumn Wreath Workshop at Stafford Castle, you will weave your own beautiful willow garland by making a simple hoop and then choose from our collection of gorgeous dried flowers and grasses, ribbon and hessian to decorate it. This workshop is suitable for beginners and is a perfect introduction to willow weaving; you will - [Explorer Backpacks](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/explorer-backpacks/) - Looking for something to do in the outdoors? Why not try one of our explorer backpacks at Stafford Castle! We also have a neurodivergent explorer bag - feel free to specify which one you would like to take out by talking to the staff at the desk. Ask at the Visitor Centre to borrow one - [Ghost Tour at the Ancient High House](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/ghost-tour-at-the-ancient-high-house-3/) - Please be aware that this event is provisional and subject to change. As the night draws in learn about the history of the ghosts that haunt the Ancient High House with this night time, lamp-led tour (over 18's only). In the past the Ancient High House has been a residential home, a civil war prison, - [Exhibition - The Lost and Found](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/exhibition-the-lost-and-found/) - An exhibition showcasing a collection of archival 35mm slide film photographs. This presentation consists of a stranger's mountaineering adventures across the Alps from the 1970s to the 2000s. The exhibition is free to visit and is located on the first floor of the Ancient High House. Available during the Ancient High House’s opening hours: Tuesday - [Exhibition - Making a Mark](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/exhibition-making-a-mark/) - An art exhibition featuring drawings and paintings by the students of professional artist and tutor Mark Lippett. The exhibition is free to visit and is located on the first floor of the Ancient High House. Available during the Ancient High House’s opening hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 10.00am to 4.00pm Please be aware that this exhibition - [Home Educators Day - KS3 Tour](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/home-educators-day-ks1-and-ks2-tour/) - THIS DAY IS NOW FULLY BOOKED A day exclusively for home educated children. Spend the day with our guides exploring and learning the history of Stafford Castle’s 950 year old Norman motte and bailey castle. Discuss the Battle of Hastings and learn about knights, weapons and armour. The day will include coin minting, hands-on armour - [Exhibition - If Walls Could Talk](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/exhibition-if-walls-could-talk/) - Learn more about the traces of the past that remain on the walls of the house, left by its past inhabitants. The Ancient High House has witnessed hundreds of years of history and has featured in the lives of many different people. Discover more about the markings, decorations and graffiti that they have left behind. - [Workshop - Easter Craft and Trail](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-easter-craft-and-trail/) - Come along to our Easter Craft and Trail this Easter weekend and see some of the trees and flowers starting to blossom. All Children welcome! Come along and drop in to our Stafford Castle Workshop to make a fun Easter themed craft. Included is a woodland trail and quiz giving you a chance to win - [Home Educators Day - Tudor Tour Ages 12-14](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/home-educators-day-tudor-tour-ages-12-14/) - A day exclusively for home educators. Spend the day with our guides exploring and learning the history of the 430 year-old Ancient High House. Discuss what Stafford was like in the Tudor period through learning about social history and the construction of the house whilst discussing The Wars of the Roses, .Stafford during the Tudor - [Home Educators Day - KS1 and KS2 Tour](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/home-educators-day-5/) - THIS DAY IS NOW FULLY BOOKED A day exclusively for home educated children. Spend the day with our guides exploring and learning the history of Stafford Castle’s 950 year old Norman motte and bailey castle. Discuss the Battle of Hastings and learn about knights, weapons and armour. The day will include coin minting, hands-on - [Workshop - Festive Knitting](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-throw-knitting/) - Never have cold coffee again! Under the guidance of our knitting expert you will learn the skills necessary to create a cute, festive mug cosy and coaster. Ideal as a hand crafted Christmas gift or keep it for yourself! £30 pp includes pattern, yarn, knitting needles, cloth workbag and refreshments. This workshop is ideal for - [Workshop - Blackwork Project, Session 1](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-blackwork-project-session-1/) - Join our in-house seamstress at the Ancient High House for another delve into Blackwork embroidery. This time, across two workshops, you will use stitches and patterns, learnt in the introductory sessions, to create a design of your choice which upon completion can be framed in a black frame creating a bold piece of art for - [Workshop - Blackwork Project, Session 2](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-blackwork-project-session-2/) - Join our in-house seamstress at the Ancient High House for another delve into Blackwork embroidery. This time, across two workshops, you will use stitches and patterns, learnt in the introductory sessions, to create a design of your choice which upon completion can be framed in a black frame creating a bold piece of art for - [Workshop - Introduction to Blackwork, Session 1](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-introduction-to-blackwork-session-1/) - This workshop is a brilliant introduction into Blackwork embroidery for beginners. Across two workshops, you will be taught the basic stitches and aims when working in this medium. This is suitable for beginners, with no or little experience, or those with experience wanting to refresh their memory or learn different stitches. It is great for - [Workshop - Introduction to Blackwork, Session 2](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-introduction-to-blackwork-session-2/) - This workshop is a brilliant introduction into Blackwork embroidery for beginners. Across two workshops, you will be taught the basic stitches and aims when working in this medium. This is suitable for beginners, with no or little experience, or those with experience wanting to refresh their memory or learn different stitches. It is great for - [Workshop - Embroidery for Beginners, Session 2](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-embroidery-for-beginners/) - A great introduction into embroidery with our resident seamstress at the Ancient High House. Across two workshops, you will learn a variety of basic embroidery stitches on to an Aida bookmark to create a unique and useful stitch sampler. This is suitable for beginners, with no or little experience, or those with experience wanting to - [Workshop - Embroidery for Beginners, Session 1](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-embroidery-for-beginners-2/) - A great introduction into embroidery with our resident seamstress at the Ancient High House. Across two workshops, you will learn a variety of basic embroidery stitches on to an Aida bookmark to create a unique and useful stitch sampler. This is suitable for beginners, with no or little experience, or those with experience wanting to - [Exhibition - The High Sheriff's Art Competition](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/exhibition-all-that-jazz-from-rehearsal-to-performance/) - Our first art exhibition of the year is now on display until February. 'The High Sheriffs' Prison Art Competition' showcases various pieces art done by prisoners, from memory, with the given theme being 'All Things Staffordshire'. Come along to have a look at this and the adjacent 'Borough Broderers' Exhibition which is running simultaneously. The - [Exhibition - The Borough Broderers](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/exhibition-ve-day-stories/) - Join us at the Ancient High House for a small exhibition which showcases some of the work done by the Borough Broderers. This group created most of the fantastic embroidery work seen around the Ancient High House, from bedsheets to curtains and footstools. Come along to peak behind the scenes and learn about this group. - [Workshop - Craft, Catch-up and Coffee](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-embroidery-catch-up-and-coffee/) - Enjoy a relaxed social space with our new catch-up sessions for crafts, chatting and enjoying hot drinks. Bring along any unfinished embroidery or knitting projects that you are working on, or bring something new that you would like to start. Guidance and refreshments will be provided; however, attendees will need to bring their own materials - [Workshop - Craft, Catch-up and Coffee](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-craft-catch-up-and-coffee/) - Enjoy a relaxed social space with our new catch-up sessions for crafts, chatting and enjoying hot drinks. Bring along any unfinished embroidery or knitting projects that you are working on, or bring something new that you would like to start. Guidance and refreshments will be provided; however, attendees will need to bring their own materials - [Workshop - Craft, Catch-up and Coffee](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-craft-catch-up-and-coffee-2/) - Enjoy a relaxed social space with our new catch-up sessions for crafts, chatting and enjoying hot drinks. Bring along any unfinished embroidery or knitting projects that you are working on, or bring something new that you would like to start. Guidance and refreshments will be provided; however, attendees will need to bring their own materials - [Workshop - Craft, Catch-up and Coffee](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-craft-catch-up-and-coffee-3/) - Enjoy a relaxed social space with our new catch-up sessions for crafts, chatting and enjoying hot drinks. Bring along any unfinished embroidery or knitting projects that you are working on, or bring something new that you would like to start. Guidance and refreshments will be provided; however, attendees will need to bring their own materials - [Workshop - Craft, Catch-up and Coffee](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-craft-catch-up-and-coffee-4/) - Enjoy a relaxed social space with our new catch-up sessions for crafts, chatting and enjoying hot drinks. Bring along any unfinished embroidery or knitting projects that you are working on, or bring something new that you would like to start. Guidance and refreshments will be provided; however, attendees will need to bring their own materials - [Workshop - Craft, Catch-up and Coffee](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-craft-catch-up-and-coffee-5/) - Enjoy a relaxed social space with our new catch-up sessions for crafts, chatting and enjoying hot drinks. Bring along any unfinished embroidery or knitting projects that you are working on, or bring something new that you would like to start. Guidance and refreshments will be provided; however, attendees will need to bring their own materials - [Workshop - Craft, Catch-up and Coffee](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-craft-catch-up-and-coffee-6/) - Enjoy a relaxed social space with our new catch-up sessions for crafts, chatting and enjoying hot drinks. Bring along any unfinished embroidery or knitting projects that you are working on, or bring something new that you would like to start. Guidance and refreshments will be provided; however, attendees will need to bring their own materials - [Workshop - Craft, Catch-up and Coffee](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-craft-catch-up-and-coffee-7/) - Enjoy a relaxed social space with our new catch-up sessions for crafts, chatting and enjoying hot drinks. Bring along any unfinished embroidery or knitting projects that you are working on, or bring something new that you would like to start. Guidance and refreshments will be provided; however, attendees will need to bring their own materials - [Workshop - Craft, Catch-up and Coffee](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-craft-catch-up-and-coffee-8/) - Enjoy a relaxed social space with our new catch-up sessions for crafts, chatting and enjoying hot drinks. Bring along any unfinished embroidery or knitting projects that you are working on, or bring something new that you would like to start. Guidance and refreshments will be provided; however, attendees will need to bring their own materials - [Workshop - Craft, Catch-up and Coffee](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-craft-catch-up-and-coffee-10/) - Enjoy a relaxed social space with our new catch-up sessions for crafts, chatting and enjoying hot drinks. Bring along any unfinished embroidery or knitting projects that you are working on, or bring something new that you would like to start. Guidance and refreshments will be provided; however, attendees will need to bring their own materials - [Workshop - Craft, Catch-up and Coffee](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-craft-catch-up-and-coffee-9/) - Enjoy a relaxed social space with our new catch-up sessions for crafts, chatting and enjoying hot drinks. Bring along any unfinished embroidery or knitting projects that you are working on, or bring something new that you would like to start. Guidance and refreshments will be provided; however, attendees will need to bring their own materials - [Pancake Race!](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/pancake-race/) - We will be competing in the annual Stafford Pancake Day race! Come and watch us compete against our rivals, including the Gatehouse Theatre. After coming in last place the last two years, hopefully we will do a little better this time around! Come along and watch the race in Victoria Park, starting at 12.00! - [Home Educators Day - Early Years Tour Ages 4-5](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/home-educators-day-early-years-tour-ages-4-5/) - A day exclusively for home educated children. Spend the day with our guides exploring Stafford Castle’s 950 year old Norman motte and bailey castle whilst learning the story of Beowulf! Creep through the woodland and hunt for the legendary dragon eggs! This tour will be held on Wednesday 6th May 2026, 11.00am to 3.00pm and - [Home Educators Day - Tudor Tour Ages 6-11](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/home-educators-day-2/) - A day exclusively for home educators. Spend the day with our guides exploring and learning the history of the 430 year-old Ancient High House. Discuss what Stafford was like in the Tudor period through learning about rich and poor life, fashion, food and drink, social history and the construction of the house. The day will - [Home Educators Day - Tudor Tour Ages 6-11](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/home-educators-day/) - A day exclusively for home educators. Spend the day with our guides exploring and learning the history of the 430 year-old Ancient High House. Discuss what Stafford was like in the Tudor period through learning about rich and poor life, fashion, food and drink, social history and the construction of the house. The day will - [Christmas Through the Ages](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/christmas-through-the-ages/) - Our popular event returns as the Ancient High House is decorated for Christmas. Each room will be decorated accordingly for the era which it showcases, with our guides dressed in period clothing providing lots of information and showing you all about Christmas through the ages! Come along and discover how Christmas was celebrated during the - [Father Christmas at the Ancient High House](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/father-christmas-at-the-ancient-high-house/) - THIS EVENT IS NOT YET FOR SALE Book your slot for a visit to see Santa during Stafford Town Light Switch On day! Alongside seeing Santa in his beautifully decorated grotto, write a letter with a guaranteed reply following your visit. There will also be a Christmas Sweet Shop and a Christmas tree to hang - [Ghost Tour at the Ancient High House](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/ghost-tour-at-the-ancient-high-house/) - Please be aware that this event is provisional and subject to change. As the night draws in learn about the history of the ghosts that haunt the Ancient High House with this night time, lamp-led tour (over 18's only). In the past the Ancient High House has been a residential home, a civil war prison, - [Haunted High House](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/haunted-high-house-2/) - Please be aware that this event is provisional and subject to change. This Halloween something spooky is haunting the Ancient High House! Come along for some family-friendly spooks! Before 7.00pm things will be a little less spooky. Families may want to book a slot after this if you're willing to brave the dark when things - [Tarot Reading in the Haunted High House](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/tarot-reading-in-the-haunted-high-house/) - Please be aware that this event is provisional and subject to change. Book a slot for your very own tarot reading with a local professional, set within the historic Ancient High House. Several local proffesional Tarot readers will be setting up in the Ancient High House for the night, sitting in beautiful atmospheric and decorated - [Historical Halloween Evening](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/historical-halloween-evening/) - Please be aware that this event is provisional and subject to change. Join us at the Ancient High House after dark for an evening of history, discussing both the origins and evolution of Halloween before looking at the buildings many witch marks. Arrive at 7pm for the first talk on the History of Halloween at - [Workshop - Medieval Inspired Embroidery](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/workshop-medieval-inspired-embroidery/) - Immerse yourself in history whilst creating your own embroidered keyring with a medieval theme. Join us at Stafford Castle for a relaxed, social evening with refreshments provided. Feel free to bring your own food if required, there will be a break. (Hot pastries are also available to purchase.) Materials and equipment are included, with guidance - [Mouse Trail](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-event/mouse-trail/) - Join us during our opening hours and see if you can find all of the High House mice! Pick up a free mouse trail from the High House desk to see if you can answer all of the questions. Available during the Ancient High House's opening hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 10.00am to 4.00pm Please be ## What's On Venue - [Izaak Walton's Cottage](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-venue/izaak-walton-cottage/) - Izaak Walton, the celebrated author of the 'Compleat Angler', owned this charming cottage that nestles in the tiny hamlet of Shallowford, between Stafford and Eccleshall. His charming thatched 16th century half-timbered cottage will be of interest to anglers and non anglers alike. It offers a marvellous insight into the history of fishing and the literary - [Stafford Castle](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-venue/stafford-castle/) - This prominent vantage point and strategic site was quickly recognised by the Normans, who built a huge timber fortress here by 1100 AD. Originally built by Robert de Toeni, (later known as Robert of Stafford), in the Norman period, Stafford Castle has dominated the local skyline for over 900 years. In the years shortly after the - [Ancient High House](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-venue/ancient-high-house/) - The Ancient High House is one of the finest Tudor buildings in the country which once dominated the skyline of Stafford. Built in around 1595 for the wealthy Dorrington family, the ornate timber framed building is reputed to be the largest surviving timber framed town house in England from the Tudor period. In 1986 the ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/category/uncategorized/) - [News](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/category/news/) ## Event Category - [Other](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-categories/other/) - [Exhibitions](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-categories/exhibitions/) - [Workshops](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-categories/workshops/) - [Events](https://www.historicstafford.co.uk/whatson-categories/events/)