Family-friendly things to do at The Workhouse and Infirmary
The whole family will be entertained at The Workhouse and Infirmary. Discover unique stories in the atmospheric buildings, go on an adventure in the grounds and stop for a bite to eat in the Infirmary cafe. You'll also find plenty of hands-on activities for everyone to enjoy and there are lots to opportunities to interact with objects and make new discoveries.
Trails
Throughout the year, there are many trails to take part in including the Curious Case of The Workhouse Wrongdoing Whodunnit Trail, an Easter Egg Hunt and an Autumn Adventures trail.
Storytelling
During school holidays, costume interpretation volunteers dress up and wander around the property captivating visitors with stories from the past.
On Thursdays and Saturdays, step back in time and learn what life was like for the inmates who lived here with Tales for The Workhouse.
To find out what activities and events are taking place during your visit, click here
Mice dioramas
Created by our dedicated team of talented volunteers, you'll find some very special little mice throughout the property which depict scenes from The Workhouse & Infirmary. How many can you spot?
Get hands-on
Have fun weighing ingredients in the kitchen, write on slate in the school room, and experience the jobs of the paupers who lived here. Visitors also have the opportunity to handle items, sit on the beds and dress up.
Encounter the sights and sounds of The Workhouse
Walk through the mens ward and hear snoring in the bedrooms. Step foot into the basements and see the shadows of rats scurrying around - they are sure to give you a surprise!
You can even pick up earphones to hear the childhood stories of the people who used to live in The Workhouse.
Pick up a digital device and get scanning
Older children will love picking up one of our special devices, as they look out for areas to scan and discover more about a particular person, room or object. There's so many to find across the whole property. See if you can find them all, and maybe even remember a thing or two!
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Visiting The Workhouse and Infirmary
Find out more about visiting The Workhouse and Infirmary, where guided tours, exhibitions and activities help bring to life the stories of the people who had to work to receive food, shelter and medical care here.
A history of The Workhouse and Infirmary
Learn about the concept and the history of The Workhouse and Infirmary and the role that they played.
Educational visits to The Workhouse and Infirmary
Bring your education or school group to The Workhouse and Infirmary in Nottinghamshire. Step back in time to the 1840s and find out what life was like inside this gruelling institution. All visits are self led, giving you the opportunity to design your day around your group's learning needs.