Here is a list of events happening at across the Geopark during the school summer holidays, Saturday 20th July 2024 to Sunday 1st September 2024. Click ‘Info’ for more information.
The Stove R Coach number 2886 was bought by the Severn Valley Railway in the early 1970s. After a few years in service it stood unused for many years but recently it was reconditioned as a Display Vehicle for the Falling Sands Viaduct Repair Project as part of a Heritage Lottery Grant. In particular it was to commemorate the men [Navvies] who built the railway. The coach is equipped with Audios and Books about Navvy life and the men who financed it all. Two short videos help to tell the story.
There are interactive items especially for children to smell and feel related objects. A Victorian Mutoscope is installed which shows trains going over viaducts or barrels being loaded onto wagons. Our most recent addition is a display board showing the different types of stone used in the built structures on the line.
The Coach will be at Kidderminster Station for visitors to look around during August.
Explore the Past with Worcestershire Archive and Archaeology Service
8th July 2024: Body on the Bromyard Line (evening talk) 7pm-8pm, The Hive, Worcester, WR1 3PD Free (booking required) Join County Archaeologist, Emma Hancox, to explore the story behind a human skeleton found buried within an embankment of the Worcester, Bromyard and Leominster railway line in 2021.
13th July 2024: Dig Hartlebury Open Day 11am-3pm, Hartlebury Castle Free (entrance fees to Hartlebury Castle do apply) Come along to see what this year’s Dig Hartlebury excavation has uncovered about the castle’s lost Civil War defences. Excavation tours will be running regularly throughout the open day.
National Trust Croome Estate
There are wonderful views to be seen from the Panorama Tower at National Trust Croome Estate on special open days. The dates are 28th June, 20th July, 15th August, 10th September, 16th October and 8th November – all 12-2:30pm. Check the National Trust website for more details. The photo shows one of the views.
Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum Events and Activities related to the exhibition: Dinosaurs on our Doorstep
Exhibition listing:
DINOSAURS ON OUR DOORSTEP
13th July – 8th September 2024
Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum
This summer, come face to face with the dinosaurs that used to roam Britain, from harmless herbivores to terrifying tyrannosaurs.
From teeth to tail bones, jaws and claws, food to fossilised poo, and giant skeletons, encounter real fossil bones from 100 million years ago, and find out who ate whom!
Event: Opening Day Family Fun: Dinosaurs on our Doorstep
Saturday 13 July, 10.30am – 12:30pm
Say hello to our resident dinosaur Magnus, check out the brand-new summer show Dinosaurs on our Doorstep! and enjoy fun family activities from 10.30am – 12.30pm! Free entry, no booking required; £1 for family trail available from the shop.
Event: Roaring with Dinosaurs!
Thursday 18 July, 4 – 5pm
Spend a ‘roarsome’ evening with us and our dinosaur friends, be introduced to the cutest baby dinosaurs that you will ever meet and learn some fun facts about them. Then be prepared to come face to face with a full-size walking, roaring Velociraptor who is hopefully not too hungry!
£6 per ticket.
Event: Museum After Hours: Dinosaur Rock!
Friday 26 July, 6.30 – 8.30pm
Come and join us for a rocktastic evening of music and cocktails to celebrate our fabulous Dinosaurs on Our Doorstep! exhibition. Dress up as your favourite dinosaur, cave man or cave woman, best dressed wins a prize!
Free entry; cash bar.
Event: Roaring with Dinosaurs!
Thursday 15 August, 4 – 5pm
Spend a ‘roarsome’ evening with us and our dinosaur friends, be introduced to the cutest baby dinosaurs that you will ever meet and learn some fun facts about them. Then be prepared to come face to face with a full-size walking, roaring Velociraptor who is hopefully not too hungry!
£6 per ticket.
Event: Museum After Hours: Jurassic Jam!
Friday 23 August, 6.30 – 8.30pm
Come and join us for a Jurassic evening of music and cocktails to celebrate our fabulous Dinosaurs on Our Doorstep! exhibition. Dress up as your favourite dinosaur, cave man or cave woman, best dressed wins a prize!
Free entry; cash bar.
Family Sessions: Back in Time: Age of the Dinosaurs Hands-on History
Wednesdays 10 and 26 August, 10:30 – 11am
Get up close to real fossils from the museum’s natural history collection! Discover fascinating creatures of the past in this half-hour session.
Bring along all your biggest questions!
These sessions are on weekly through the summer holidays and are £2.50 per child. The exhibition is free to visit.
These sessions are aimed at 7- to 11-year-olds.
Family Sessions: Back in Time: Age of the Dinosaurs Art Sessions
Thursdays 15 and 22 August, 10:30 – 11.30am
It’s the summer of DINOSAURS at the Art Gallery and Museum!
Inspired by the dinos and their habitats you discover in the exhibition, experiment with lots of different art materials to create your own dinosaur scene. Make stamps to print onto your designs too!
These workshops are on weekly through the summer holidays and are £4.50 per child. The exhibition is free to visit.
Activity: Back in Time: Age of the Dinosaurs Family Trail
Saturday 13 July – Sunday 8 September
Do you know the difference between a diplodocus and a t-rex? Put your dinosaur knowledge to the test and see if you can match the dinosaurs to their silhouettes.
£1; purchase from the shop. Free entry to Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum (closed Mondays).
Activity: Back in Time: Age of the Dinosaurs Bags of Fun
Saturday 13 July – Sunday 8 September
Get creative with these bags of fun and make your own Flapping Pterodactyl, T-Rex Peg Puppet and Ichthyosaur fossil art.
Each bag has multiple themed activities inside, and the Activity Space in the museum is fully equipped for young creatives to get going on their making.
Severn Valley Country Park Children’s craft DROP IN session. Join in at the visitor centre for a FREE drop in craft session. There’s no need to book, just drop in any time between 11am-12.30pm.
Severn Valley Railway Engine House ‘Ask the Experts’ and specimen display with the West Midlands Regional Group of the Geological Society. Learn about rocks and fossils with the experts and bring your own specimens for identification
AUGUST
Arley Arboretum This summer is all about dinosaurs! Do you have what it takes to be an Arley Dinosaur Ranger. Come and put your dino knowledge to the test and earn yourself a Dinosaur Ranger Certificate.
Severn Valley Country Park Rock and fossil hunt. 11am-12.30pm (meet outside the visitor centre) These ranger-led events are a super fun way to get kids exploring. Have a dig on our old coal spoil and see if you can find fossils from 320 million years ago! There is so much to discover!
Wed 9th Aug
Arley Arboretum ‘Ask the Experts’ with the Geologists in the Geopark. Learn about rocks and fossils with the experts and bring your own specimens for identification
Sat 12th Aug
Severn Valley Country Park Family Fun Day including rock and fossil hunt. There will be ranger led events throughout the day as well as a family orienteering competition! From 11am-3pm for a fun family wildlife day!
Wed 16th Aug
Severn Valley Country Park Pond Dipping. These ranger-led events are a super fun way to get kids exploring wildlife. Join in for a pond dip from our dipping platform at Elfin Pool. See if you can catch a slippery fish, a massive diving beetle or a dancing pond skater!
Wed 16th Aug
National Trust Croome ‘Ask the Experts’ with the Geologists in the Geopark. Learn about rocks and fossils with the experts and bring your own specimens for identification and a rock and fossil detective trail based in The Hub.
Fri 18th Aug
Severn Valley Country Park. The Comedy of Errors. Rain or Shine Theatre Company are celebrating their 25th year with a national tour of The Comedy of Errors! 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Sat 19th Aug
National Trust Croome Panorama Tower open day including landscape interpretation viewing cards.
‘Ask the Experts’ with the Geologists in the Geopark. Learn about rocks and fossils with the experts and bring your own specimens for identification and a rock and fossil detective trail based based in The Hub.
Sun 20th Aug
National Trust Dudmaston River Severn walk. At the banks of the River Severn, along the southern tip of the Dudmaston Estate sits Hampton Loade. Starting and finishing from Hampton Loade car park, join this self-guided 7km walk along the river towards Severn Valley Country Park and back.
Wed 23rd Aug
Severn Valley Country Park Bushcraft. Join that ranger in Hall Close Coppice and help build an outdoor shelter. See how to make a fire and then toast some marshmallows and enjoy some hot chocolate around the camp fire!
Wed 30th Aug
Severn Valley Country Park Mini Beast Hunt. These ranger-led events are a super fun way to get kids exploring wildlife. Join in for a mini beast safari and see which creepy crawlies you can find! Will it be a lovely ladybird, a slimy snail, or a beautiful butterfly? There is so much to discover!
Sun 3rd Sept
National Trust Dudmaston Outdoor Theatre: The Secret Garden. This summer, join young Mary Lennox on a journey of discovery as she is sent to her uncle’s house in the countryside, where mysteries and secrets lurk round every corner. 14:30 – 16:00.
Up until the 30th of August Worcester Cathedral is running a Fossils in the Geopark event including displays from Lapworth Museum and a detective trail to discover the geology of the cathedral.
This summer GeoFest partners are running plenty of events to take your family along to. Many of these are crafts and geology based but others include things like theatre shows and garden parties! There is something from GeoFest for everyone and any age to help you make the most of the beautiful weather this summer. Continue reading “Summer Events 2022” »
The Panorama Tower at Croome will be open from 12 noon until 2.30pm on these dates 2022: Thurs 7th and Wed 27th July, Tues 16th August, Sat 3rd and Wed 21st September.
These open days include info on the geology of the hills and what people can see from the view!
Severn Valley Railway at Kidderminster Station has a geology display, with rocks and fossils. The display will be on the station from Saturday 11th June and will run until 19th June. There are free leaflets and a trail guide about geology on the train, and there is a rock and fossil quiz to test your knowledge. Entry to the display is free.
Half term is back again and there’s lots to do as this half term coincides with the Queens Platinum Jubilee! Many of our partners are running events to celebrate the 70 years since the Queen was coronated.
Bewdley Museum as usual, have half term crafts Monday through Friday. This week the crafts will be primarily Jubilee themed. £6 per person no time slot needed. Bewdley Museum will also be running a Jubilee Boogaloo on Saturday 4th as well as a Jubilee Party in the Park on Sunday 5th.
We’re pleased to present GeoFest 2022. For more details check with the venue. Events are free unless stated, although normal admission charges (if applicable) may apply. Keep checking the calendar on www.geopark.org.uk and our Facebook page for lots more events and latest news.
Half term is here, and there are plenty of places to visit and things to do in the Geopark.
Although it’s February we can still wrap up warm and get out into the countryside. The Malvern Hills are always worth a visit, and if visiting you can pop into the Malvern Hills GeoCentre to find out more about the hills and get refreshments from the café. National Trust properties including Brockhampton, Croome and Dudmaston are open too. Severn Valley Country Park will be open all week as well.
There’s lots of activities and places to visit this half term.
Bewdley Museum and Severn Valley Country Park have family activities during half term. Bewdley Museum’s Halloween themed activities run Monday to Friday, with half hour slots bookable in advance, costing £5. Their Pumpkin Trail, £2, requires no booking, and you get a spooky treat at the end. Then on Saturday they have Dippy’s Outdoor Halloween Extravaganza – An outdoor show in the Green Theatre area. Please be aware of social distancing. Please bring your own picnic chairs and be prepared for all weather. Prizes for fancy dress and carved pumpkins. Refreshments available from the Garden Kitchen – 4:45-5:30pm or 6:15-7pm. Booking essential.
There are Spooky Crafts and Spooky Lantern Walk at Severn Valley Country Park. The Spooky Crafts is Wednesday 27th October- 11am-12pm – Make some spooky Halloween creatures. £3 per child. The Spooky Lantern Walk is Fri 29 October 4:30-6pm – Make your own scary lantern and join Rangers for a spooky twilight walk in the dark woods. Price (£9) includes a snack pack for children (sandwich, drink, snacks).To book places, please call 01746 781192
Dare you take the Frightful Night Trail at Cob House? Take a walk through the dark park, around our ponds and along the trees. Stay alert and stay together… there are some frightful experiences coming.
Bringing children along is at the parents discretion… however, be mindful that you may encounter things that nightmares are made of.. It runs Wednesday to Saturday and time slots need to be booked in advance.
Explore the Rock n Roll Cycle at Lapworth Museum of Geology on Sunday 24 October 11am. Performance company Lynnebec will lead a fun and engaging dance workshop for families to explore the Rock n Roll Rock cycle! Hosted at the Lapworth Museum of Geology.
Autumn is a fantastic time for getting out an about. Arley Arboretum looks lovely this time of year, and opening hours this week are 10am until 5pm, Wednesday to Sunday.
The Malvern Hills are well worth a visit, as are the Wyre Forest and the National Trust sites of Croome, Brockhampton and Dudmaston. Dudmaston have an Autumn Explorer trail 24 – 28 and 31 October, 11am-3.30pm. Follow a family trail around the grounds and discover the sights and sounds of autumn. Catch a falling leaf, look out for fungi and make a bark rubbing of your favourite tree. Trail sheets are £2 each. Collect yours from the welcome tent near reception. There’s also a Halloween cats trail in the galleries, a free trail to follow in the house.
Severn Valley Railway have trains running, including the special Ghost Train 28-30 October, for those brave enough to take it!
If you’re looking for exhibitions, Hereford Museum and Art Gallery have Grayson Perry: The Vanity of Small Differences (£5) and Herefordshire Gets Creative. Over at Worcester Cathedral there is Angels: an Exhibition by Jacqui Parkinson until 28 October.
There is a great deal of mystery surrounding these heavenly-beings. In this exhibition, the textile artist, Jacqui Parkinson, explores some of the passages in the Bible that mention angels.
There are some fantastic events at Geopark venues this Half Term, with special family activities at Bewdley Museum, Hartlebury Castle, Lapworth Museum of Geology, Worcester Cathedral and The Hive, Worcester.
Bewdley Museum as usual have special holiday activities each day Monday – Friday:
Monday – Cotton Summer Caps; Tuesday – Ceramic Dog Planters; Wednesday – Set of 3 Wooden Coasters; Thursday – Dinosaur Sand Art; Friday – Fabric Waist Aprons
£5 per activity per child, limited spaces available.
We’re pleased to present GeoFest 2021. As you would expect the programme is more fluid than usual, and events will continue to be added as Government guidance changes. For more details check with the venue. Events are free unless stated, although normal admission charges (if applicable) may apply. Keep checking the calendar on www.geopark.org.uk and our Facebook page for lots more events and latest news.
There are many geology and landscape trails throughout the Geopark and all come with an explanation leaflet. Take some time this summer to explore some wonderful countryside, towns and interesting visitor sites. Most places are freely accessible.
Many of the leaflets are free and can be downloaded from the website; others can be purchased online or from the Malvern Hills GeoCentre
During GeoFest there will be three detective trails to have a go at this summer at Geopark partner visitor centres. We’ll be sharing details of the dates shortly.
There are exciting events over half term at Geopark partner venues.
Bewdley Museum has another great set of half term activities (prebooking required), plus a Halloween trail (£2 – no booking needed). Dippy’s outdoor extravaganza takes place on Saturday 31 October (with fancy dress and pumpkin judging) – tickets only available for the 2nd performance at 6:15pm
Severn Valley Country Park has a self-led pumpkin trail. The refreshment kiosk is open to keep your energy levels up! There are 8 pumpkin patches – made of colourful pumpkin pictures – around the park. Maps are available from outside the visitor centre, 10.30pm-3pm. The trail does follow hard surface paths around the park, but it could be muddy in places!
In Worcester Cathedral’s new Undercroft Learning project has arts events for the family, book at artsandwonder.co.uk. They also have new family friendly, covid-safe ways to explore Worcester Cathedral. As well as their popular Safari Trail they also have a brand new torch trail and we’re trailing a new digital trail (smartphone and data connection required). Find out more: https://sites.google.com/view/dukeofhamilton/introduction
The Wyre Forest is a great place to go to get out and about. Before you go download their free autumn activity pack for kids. Teach them how to… Forage for forest fruits, Explore autumn colours, Create leaf fireworks, Hunt for seeds, Start a helicopter race, Make a bookmark, Get in touch with how autumn makes them feel. Download the pack here
Herefordshire Museum has their Ice Age exhibition on still. A great place to visit and discover about mammoths and other animals which called Herefordshire home thousands of year ago.
There are some glorious autumnal views when you travel on the Severn Valley Railway at the moment. They also have some Halloween specials this week too.
If you’re looking for other ideas Cob House is open, as are many of the National Trust properties, although booking is required.
Can you imagine mammoths roaming Herefordshire? Or a landscape on the edge of a massive ice sheet? How long did the Ice Age last and did people live here? Come and find the answers, discover the stories about King Arthur’s Cave and meet a life size mammoth model. Plenty for the family to explore including a child friendly science lab, making a cave painting, dressing up as wolf or reindeer, and helping to create a baby woolly mammoth!
Did you know at it’s height the ice sheet during the last ice age was at least twice the height of the Cathedral tower, and may have been as deep as 180m – over 3 times as high as the tower?
Ice Age Herefordshire, curated by Herefordshire Museum Service will be at Hereford Museum & Art Gallery until 28 November 2020.
The exhibition is free but we suggest a donation of £2.50.
Hereford Museum and Art Gallery is open Tuesday and Wednesday 1pm to 4pm and Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10am to 1pm. Extended half-term opening times – Tuesday 27 October and Wednesday 28 October, 10am to 4pm.
Strict social distancing measures are in place at this venue. Learn more.
An exhibition developed by Worcester Museums has been recreated here with a Herefordshire focus. It features the bones of extinct animals, animals that survived the Pleistocene Ice Age, and artefacts made by early humans. It outlines the geology and landscape of Ice Age Herefordshire and beyond, including investigating the remains of Herefordshire’s Ice Age Ponds. Artwork created by students at Hereford College of Arts brings things up to date with their exploration of the meaning and effect of modern day Climate Change.
What’s going on with our National Trust partners …
Our partners at the National Trust still have things going on as more things are opening up but there are still some restructions with some sites though there is plenty to see and do still.
Here is a list of things to do so be sure to book your ticket, take a mask and enjoy the day out.
Note: I am afraid, there is a policy of no BBQs and do please read their “Hands on or Hands off” policy
Please ensure you ensure you book your ticket for the timed entry (21 Sept – 27 Sept)
Estate, Grounds, Granary food kiosk, car park and toilets. A limited range of takeaway drinks and light snacks will be on sale
There are walks available for all abilities and time scales, so you can choose to go on a short, gentle walk up to the Hillfort or a longer ramble to find Nanny’s Rock in the woods
If you have not had a chance to get out or book tickets, the Hereford museums and Art Gallery is available as a virtual tour online so you need not miss out but you can get a preview until you get a chance to get there in person.
Experience the Cathedral out of hours by candlelight!
Their exciting ‘Cathedral at Night’ event takes place this coming Saturday 12th September. The cathedral will be open until 10pm and it is a wonderful opportunity to experience this inspiring, captivating, and historic space in a different way.If you are coming may we suggest arriving later than the advertised start time, because as darkness falls the cathedral will look splendid in the evening light with candles and lower light-levels inside than usual.
Explore a torch-light family trail. Find Inspiration through atmospheric music – organ scholar and choral scholars will be providing music throughout the evening. Enjoy a glass of wine (or soft drink) in the medieval Cloister.
With GeoFest being most virtual this year, we are sharing some more activity sheets on fossils. Who isn’t fascinated by fossils? Discover more about them as you colour some in.
Several of the visitor centres in the Geopark are taking part in the Government’s Eat Out To Help Out scheme. Monday – Wednesday get half price food, up to £10 each. Another great reason to visit them!
With some restrictions easing a few of our partners are starting to offer family activities again. Please check before going as some need booking and there may be late changes due to guidance.
At Bewdley Museum they are running their summer craft activities, but in a slightly different way. They cost £5 and need to be pre-booked
Worcester Cathedral have online family activities. Enjoy learning about the Cathedral at home through downloadable video’s and crafting ideas. Or print off and bring them along and have fun exploring this great historic building. Activities will be added to this page during the month.
“Play Tudor Games” – Have fun learning how to play some Tudor Games with help from Lady Matilda Grey, lady-in-waiting to Jane Seymour
“Prince Arthur Family Tree” – Learn about the boy who would have been king. Henry VIII’s big brother – Prince Arthur who is buried at Worcester Cathedral
“Chantry Chapel History Hunt” – Can you find all the clues in Prince Arthurs Chantry Chapel. The Chapel tells us about the life of the boy who would have been king
“Six Wives of Henry VIII” – Investigate interesting and unusual facts about the six wives of Henry VIII – explained to you by Lady Matilda Grey, Lady-in-Waiting to Jane Seymour.
“Manuscript Writing” – Have fun learning to write like a monk, or Harry Potter! Make calligraphy, and if you have access to a goose or similar feather you could even have a go at making your own quill.
“Prayer Stones” – Design your own prayer stone using symbols from the Cathedral. It can be used to aid contemplation, prayer or mindfulness.
Hartlebury Castle has VJ Day events on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th August. Discover more about VJ Day and nurses during World War II in fascinating displays. Enjoy seeing Classic World War II vehicles in the Carriage Circle and relax in the grounds listening to 1940s music as you sip a drink from Schoonersbar, have a picninc and test your luck on our Covid friendly tombola. Please be aware that for your safety this is a small scale event, and your arrival must be prebooked.
Then on Bank Holiday Monday they have a swahsbuckling pirate event! Dress up as you favourite pirate and enjoy Swashbuckling Fun at Hartlebury Castle! Join Captain Sharkbreath and his First Mate, Ruby Cutlass for a Swashbuckle Session as you learn how to talk like a pirate, learn about the cannon drill and listen to pirate tales. However, beware the pirate curse and keep yer distance, less you wants to catch the black spot! Swashbuckle Sessions at 11.30 am, 1.00 pm, 2.00 pm & 3.00 pm.
Lapworth Museum is continuing their family activity days on Wednesdays. Next Wednesday (19th), they’re focusing on the magnificent Meganeura, a giant dragonfly-like arthropod (above) from the Carboniferous period! Create your own Meganeura with crafts and activity resources shared throughout the day by joining the event on their Facebook page. Check out the page for their past events and resources too
If you’re planning on going to the Wyre Forest, other woodland, or just staying at home, Forestry England have Highway Rat worksheets to colour in and ideas for things to do.
Here on our Geopark website we have several activity sheets for families
First of all the list of interesting geological sites that are publicly accessible can be found under ‘Explore Geology & Landscape – Geological Sites’. Here you will find the name of the site and its grid reference. Most are always open. If you click on the site name you will get a full description of what is there. When visiting these locations always take care and consider the health and safety of yourself and family. Always wear proper clothing and protect yourself against the weather.
Secondly the walking trails that you can download are to be found under ‘Explore Geology & Landscape – Walking Trails’. Chose one of Northern, Central or Southern trails. Here you will see a brief description of each trail and how you can get a copy. Many can be downloaded from the page. Please note that some of the locations that are on private estates will be closed during the current restrictions but some are open and readily accessed; so check before you set out.
Thirdly the trail guides that you can order are in the same sections.
Enjoy your summer and the great Gepark landscapes.
Join Lapworth Museum of Geology on their facebook page to explore our weird and wonderful world every Wednesday! Each week they will be sharing a short video about a fantastic creature or our incredible planet as well as a craft activity and colouring sheet. All videos and activities will be uploaded to the event page, so stay tuned.
Join Lizzy, their Learning and Community Engagement Officer for the first session as she explores the amazing ammonite, from how they lived to where they got their name!
Ammonites are a type of prehistoric animal known only from fossils. They were cephalopods, like modern squids and octopuses, but unlike these creatures, they had a hard outer shell like a snail’s shell. As a result, ammonites have been well preserved in the fossil record. Ammonites were around from the beginning of the Jurassic period to the end of the Cretaceous period. They were common in the oceans of the Earth for 143 million years, before disappearing at the K-T boundary extinction event 65 million years ago, when 70% of all animal species suddenly
became extinct.
1. Print the image on card and colour in the ammonite (you can also download the Ammonite here (Ammonite colouring page)
2. Carefully cut around the shape
3. You can make the ammonite stand-alone by attaching a piece of folded card
to the back of the ammonite using tape or glue
The Cretaceous period is a geological period that lasted from 145 to 66 million years ago. It was generally a warm period and one which included the well known dinosaurs Tyrannosaurus Rex and Triceratops.
Down the sheets here dinosaurs-cretaceous or print them below and colour them in.
Geopark Forum member the Malvern GeoCentre is helping to organise this great fun event, with Dr Adrian Burdan your host for the day.
Due to the current situation this is going virtual this year. Join them for free from your own home or garden for our fourth annual fun and exciting day exploring the wonders of science and technology. Try out some experiments for yourself guided by our live science demonstrators, ask those burning science questions, and find out what it’s like to be a scientist working in a lab.
This includes geology and fossil related events, with sessions on Malvern fossils at 11am and 2pm, which will be great. A local paleontologist will be sharing some of the fossils he’s collected from the Malvern Hills
At 3:30pm there’s a session on The Rock Cycle and the origins of the 3 main types of rocks.
Register to join the event as a webinar attendee on Zoom (numbers are limited, but for some of the talks you’ll be able ask our speakers questions).
Volcanoes fascinate people, being very dramatic when they blow. Find out more with these leaflets from the British Geological Survey, including a colouring page, model and word search. You can also download it here Volcanoes
As part of our different approach to GeoFest this year we are putting various activities up on the website on a weekly basis. We hope you can do these at home and that they will give the family plenty to interest you all over the summer. Look out for paper and cardboard models you can make and lots of fossil images that you can colour. We will have lots about fossils, minerals and rocks. And there will be rock and fossil detective trails soon. Perhaps younger viewers might like to build a scrap book over the coming weeks.
In addition to these we have highlighted a lot of walks that you can go on using rock and landscape guides. Many are located in quiet and remote areas. They are listed on the ‘News’ page of the website.
GeoFest would normally be starting, but for obvious reasons is on hold.
As an alternative activity why not print out and have a go at making this volcano, thanks to the British Geological Survey. Download here, and the images are also below.
Croome’s Panorama Tower will open monthly again this year. You can get fantastic views of the Malvern Hills and north to Abberley and Clee Hill (on a good day!). The geology information sheets produced by Geologists in the Geopark are available for visitors to use to understand the surrounding landscape better.
Parking for Panorama Tower open days: parking at main visitor car park at Croome, then 1.5 mile walk to the tower (Walks Map available from Croome shop). There is limited parking on the verge near the tower, then a short walk across the field to the tower itself.
Cob House have various events on in the run up to Christmas. Bewdley Museum and Severn Valley Country Park have weekend crafts too. Hartlebury have wreath making workshops, with a few places currently left on 13th December. Severn Valley Country Park have Wreath workshops on the 13th using greenery from the park and a Table Decoration workshop on 19th December. At The Hive children can make a Pomander with Worcestershire Archive & Archaeology Service
Unsurprisingly Worcester Cathedral have various carol services over Christmas. Their main carol services are 6:30pm on 22nd and 23rd December, with the usual Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services too. They also have concerts, and The Snowman and Snowdog on Saturday 21st December has 3 performances and ideal to take children to a few days before Christmas. There is also their popular Christmas tree festival in the cloisters.
Carols will also be at Croome in the church on various dates, and at Brockhampton on Sunday 22nd December.
Former Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, will be at Hartlebury Castle on 13th December performing ‘A Thousand years of Christmas‘, with readings, and singing folk carols with Sally Bradshaw.
Want to get out and about?
Brockhampton have Elvish trails at weekends, and Croome have their own trail later over the Christmas holidays. Dudmaston’s 10K run is on 22nd December, and Severn Valley Country Park’s Parkrun is on additionally on Christmas Day and New Years Day for the keen runner! And Wyre Forest is also open everyday apart from Christmas day if you want to stretch your legs including over the Christmas holidays if you want to walk off the excesses of turkey and mince pies.
Severn Valley Railway have various Christmas themed trains. Many are sold out but check out their website to see what is available.
Please check as some events have limited places and/or require booking. Venue websites, and our calendar, have more details.
Wednesday 6 November
This inside/outside day is aimed particularly at those for whom reading rocks
and landscape is something new, although all are welcome. There will be an
indoor session in the morning, followed by lunch in the cafe (at your own
expense) and then we’ll take a stroll to see some local rock outcrops and take
in the wider landscape.
Meeting: Severn Valley Country Park, Highley, Worcs at 10.30 Cost: £10.00
Rocks of all kinds explained!
Wednesday 27 November
How do we distinguish different rocks? What’s the difference between a
granite and basalt, or a slate and shale? This inside/outside day will combine a
classroom session with an outdoor visit around Bewdley where we’ll be able to
see natural rocks ‘in the street’. There’s an onsite cafe where you can buy
lunch. This day is aimed particularly at beginners, but all are welcome.
Meeting: Bewdley Museum at 10.30 Cost: £10.00
Rockstars, a celebration of famous rocks
Wednesday 11 December
There are some rocks that everyone has heard of, like Portland Stone or Shap
Granite. But why are they famous, what makes them so special? We’ll be
examining some famous rocks in a practical session and then learning more
about them in a lively teaching session during this day of two parts. Hot drinks
and biscuits are included.
Meeting: Lapworth Museum, Birmingham University at 10.30 Cost £20.00
To book for any Day Trip go to: www.geosupplies.co.uk and enter the online
shop. Alternatively ring 0114 245 5746
Marking 50 years since mining ceased in the Severn Valley. Join us for this family friendly day to celebrate the past and present of Severn Valley Country Park!
Throughout the day there will be: Landy Train rides, pony rides, coal shovelling competitions*, FREE self-led activity trails – including one which is part of the Unlocking the Severn Project, FREE geology themed craft activities, and a drop-in memory sharing station.
The Visitor Centre will be officially open and from there you will also be able to purchase £5 return Severn Valley Railway tickets to travel between the Country Park Halt and Highley Station, including entrance to The Engine House, where a Highley Mining Company wagon is on display.
Scheduled activities include:
Talks by the Granville Miners, FREE pond dipping sessions, Rock & Fossil Hunts (booking required), Highley Colliery Band will play, the showing of a short film, the unveiling of a new sculpture dedicated to those who work at Highley and Alveley Collieries.
There will be a small charge for some activities
For more information, or to book onto the Rock & Fossil Hunts, please call 01746 781192
(The event is part of the Severn Valley Lives in the Landscape Project and organised in partnership with the Alveley Mining Heritage Group, the Unlocking the Severn Project, and the Geologists in the Geopark. The Lives in the Landscape project is supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Shropshire Council and The Jean Jackson Charitable Trust.)
*Coal has been very kindly provided by Mansell Fuels (01746 762265)
Fill your boots with an explosion of crafts, fossils and rocks. Wyre Forest are having another craft day on Wednesday 21 August when you can be inspired by rocks, fossils and dinosaurs. You can also visit the quarry here too. It’s all free (just pay for parking), just come along!
After the success of the Geology Craft Days last year they are returning to Worcester Cathedral on Thursday 15th and Monday 19th August.
Come along to join us for this great free event/ See some real fossils, chat to the experts and ask your questions, and be inspired to create your own great crafts. There are plenty of different activities to choose from.
The event takes place in the Chapter House 10:30-12:30 and then 2;30-3:30. Just come along!
Lapworth Museum of geology, based at Birmingham University, joined the Geopark Forum last year. It’s a great day out, especially for anyone interested in dinosaurs and geology. They have various events and exhbitions over the summer
at the Lapworth Museum of Geology, University of Birmingham . This exhibition by PhD student Jack Richardson gives a personal insight into what it is like to do research and study for a PhD. Admission free
Jack’s Adventures with Salt. Temporary Exhibition
Follow the adventures of geologists as they investigate the secrets of salt using magnets! Jack’s PhD is coming to a close in 2019 and during that time his adventures have taken him all around the world to collect samples, fly drones and study Earth’s history. This exhibition tells the story of Jack’s field work and gives you the chance to get a behind the scenes view of a researcher’s life. 16th July – 25thOctober
3rd instalment of the Lapworth Lates. 7-10 pm 15th August.
Prepare for an ADVENTURE into inspiring arts and cutting-edge research at the third Lapworth Lates!
Meet the pioneering people exploring the unknown! From Antarctic survival to great escapes, uncover the incredible journey of plants, people and plastics.
Adventure through the Museum’s collections to spark your imagination and get creative with clay and recycled materials in our artist led workshops.
Drinks and light nibbles will be available on the night.
This event is free of charge but booking is essential. Tickets will be available from the 29th of July.
Cob House Country Park is once again a great place to visit during the summer holidays. Three miles out of Worcester, you can come and visit Reindeer, Alpacas, Pigs, Goats, Chickens and Ducks and walk round the parkland free of charge. The Mayfly Cafe provides drinks and great food.
There are also special events for the holidays too, some of which have charges. For full details visit www.cobhouse.org/events/
Now the summer holidays are here many families are looking for things to do, especially if free or cheap! Many of our partner visitor centres have family friendly events over the coming weeks.
Cob House Country Park is a great place to take the family. As well as visiting the animals there they have special events throughout the summer including angling, pony rides and craft activities. Check out their diary to see what’s on offer.
Hartlebury Castle has lots on over the summer to keep children occupied. As well as visiting the museum at the castle there are craft sessions, magic themed activities, falconry, willow weaving and guided walks. Check our more at https://hartleburycastle.com/events/
Lapworth Museum of Geology over at Birmingham University have free family fun days every Wednesday in the holidays 10am-5pm. On other days you can explore the refurbished museum for free.
There are opportunities to get close to nature at Severn Valley Country Park with pond dipping and mini-beast safaris. They’re also running regular craft activities, many of them free. Check out what’s available on their website.
We have a wide range of activities in GeoFest, with partner venues running talks, tours, walks, trails and craft activities. Amongst these are are a number of event where our experts will be attending. We’ll have special crafts and activities, and you can also bring along your questions.
Rock and Fossil Hunt at Severn Valley Country Park
Thursday 8th August 1.30-3pm
(Please note the planned event on Thursday 25th is cancelled due to expected extreme heat)
Join rangers & local experts to try finding your own fossil! After an introduction we’ll set out to see what we can discover, with experts on hand, then return to examine your finds under a microscope. Please bring a small trowel & plastic tub with you to aid your fossil hunting. Booking required on 01746 781 192. Child £4, adult free, all children must be accompanied by an adult. Suitable for age 5+
Rock and Fossil Challenge in Comer Woods – NT Dudmaston
Thu 1st & 22nd August 11:00-3:00
Take a closer look at ancient rocks and fossils. Meet at Heath Barn in Comer Woods.
Free, just drop in
Craft Activities – Printing, Stencilling & Stamping at Severn Valley Country Park
Join us for some fun printing, stencilling and stamping, inspired by the Geology of Severn Valley Country Park and its present-day flora and fauna. Use paint, crayons and ink stamps to create your own picture to take home and keep.
Free, all materials are provided. Drop in anytime between 12pm and 3pm.
7th August (12-3pm) – Leaves and Ferns
28th August (12-3pm) – Dragonflies and Butterflies
Rock & Fossil Challenge at Hartlebury Castle
Wed 13th to Thu 15th August 11:00-3:30
Come and take part in this free rock & fossil challenge. Usual Castle admission applied.
Geology Craft Days at Worcester Cathedral
Thu 15th & Mon 19th August 10:30-12:30 & 1:30-3:30
Come along and join us for this great event. See some real fossils and be inspired to make some great crafts. Free
Craft Geology for the Family at Wyre Forest
Wed 21st Aug 10:30-12:30 & 1:30-3:30
Fill your boots with an explosion of crafts, fossils and rocks. Delve in to the past and create your own 3D ancient environment or stencil and stamp away and let your imagination fun free. Then you can create your own masterpiece by paint you own plaster of Paris dinosaurs and fossils.
Worcester Cathedral are running another exciting series of events this August with their annual Discover Something Different series. Tours, talks and family activities including two rock and fossil craft events on 15th & 19th August as part of GeoFest.
