Families visiting Locomotion, the National Railway Museum at Shildon this summer will not only be able to enjoy seeing the fantastic locomotives on display but also spend some time in the fresh air following refurbishment of the museum’s popular play and picnic areas.
Over the past two months the museum has been making improvements to existing facilities at the free entry museum, including refurbishment of existing play equipment and the introduction of a new balancing beam in the play area, as well as the addition of new picnic tables (made from recycled plastic bottles) in the cherry tree orchard adjacent.
George Muirhead, Museum Manager said, “We have lots of things for families to see and do this summer and the improvements really enhance the family offer. The improvements to the outdoor family areas mean that local families can make the most of their visit whatever the weather – either by enjoying time in the open air or indoors.
“However on a rainy day there is still lots for families to see and do inside the museum buildings in addition to enjoying the displays. We have introduced popular activities such as giant games, wagon-plate rubbings and free arts and crafts, which will once again play a major part in the museum’s programme for the summer”.
Over the holidays there will be free family arts and crafts activities at the museum, themed around the Commonwealth Games; railway posters, mosaic art sessions (based on block world computer games) holiday postcards; Loco bands (using loom band and crazy band techniques); making leaf signs; design your own train; animal masks and animals and the railways. The arts and craft sessions have different themes on different days – see the full programme on www.nrm.org.uk/locomotion to find out when specific activities are available or call 01388 771439.
In addition there will be many special events to enjoy throughout the holidays, including live performances from a competition winning brass band at part of BRASS 2014 (www.brassfestival.co.uk).
Go and see guest vintage buses which would have served the local area at the Vintage Bus Rally on 27th July. On 10th August you can rock up and enjoy the Bikes and Trikes Rally with many motor cycles on display.
Throughout August The Beach sand play area will be available for seaside fun (weather permitting) and keeping with the seaside theme go along and enjoy Pirate ‘Train’ING! During the Bank Holiday weekend (24th and 25th August) you can listen to stories from notorious pirate Captain Raggybeard. Storytelling sessions are available on both days. Become a real pirate and hunt for treasure in the giant sand-pit (if you find a gold doubloon you will get an official pirate certificate).
Pirate costumes are also welcome at port Locomotion!
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
