Unveil the secrets of one of the country’s oldest buildings here in the heart of Worcester this summer. A glorious grade one listed building dating back to the 12th century, the Commandery has had a long and varied history. Using state-of-the-art audio interpretation, a packed programme of historic themed events and fun family activities means history really does come to life.

Join us at the Commandery for In The Thick of The Action from August 24 to September 3 to mark the anniversary of the final Battle of the English Civil War. With a fascinating series of family activities, exhibitions, debates and guided tours of Worcester’s battlefields and archaeology, everyone can find out more about this important part of Worcester’s history.

In September the Commandery will be hosting a range of activities during the Worcester Feast, and gorgeous Georgians will be exploring the fashions and conventions of the age from September 19 to 27 with a host of family activities, dressing up games and activities for all the family. Entry to the Commandery is free for Worcester city residents (proof of address is required).

For more information, please contact the museum on 01905 361821.

Severn Valley Railway

The Severn Valley Railway runs from Kidderminster to Bridgnorth every weekend all year, daily from May 2 to October 4 and all other school holidays.

The valley can be enjoyed from the train, or stop off along the way and enjoy a riverside walk.

Call 01299 403816.

Worcester Porcelain Museum

The museum houses the world’s largest collection of Worcester porcelain, dating from 1751 to the closure of the factory.

The Georgian, Victorian and 20th-century galleries are decked in period theme and lead the visitor on a journey through time.

Free audio tour with entry. Call 01905 21247.

Dream Catcher Canal Trips

Relax and unwind along the Worcester- Birmingham canal.

Public and private charter available and catering and bar on request.

Join us for a children’s activity cruise on August 21 or August 26.

T-Shirt decorating and other activities are included. Adults £10 and children £7.50.

Call 01384 562358.

Worcester Festival

A fun-packed fortnight of activities and events for all ages.

There’s live entertainment, workshops, films, exhibitions and drama – anyone should be able to find an event they’ll enjoy.

The festival runs from August 15 to 31, culminating in a fantastic firework display. Call 01905 611427.

Even more things to do!

Kidderminster Art Festival, Kidderminster. Workshops, performances, exhibitions and demonstrations spread over two weeks. Runs until August 29.

Starstruck in the Cathedral, Worcester Cathedral, Worcester. Starstruck in the Cathedral features up to 100 costumes worn by major stars in films, TV and theatre productions. £5-£7.50. Runs until September 6.

Brilliant Buildings, The Greyfriars (National Trust), Worcester. Help us build a mediaeval model town. Make wattle and daub panels. Quiz and hands-on activities. Thursday, August 20. £2.20-£6.40.

Design and Print like the Victorians, Worcester City Art Gallery, Worcester. Create an etching based on printing techniques used by the Victorians. Thursday, August 20. £4.50-£6.50.

Tree-rific Family Trail, Croome Park (National Trust), Severn Stoke. Discover how to identify Croome’s trees with our self-guided family trail. August 22-30. Normal admission prices apply. Activity cost £1.

Jinney Ring Blues Festival, Hanbury near Bromsgrove. Nine hours of nationally acclaimed blues music, More than 30 performers. Doors open 1pm, music 2pm-11pm. Saturday, August 22. £5-£12.50.

Salwarpe Fete, Salwarpe, near Droitwich Spa. Attractions include stalls undercover, games, displays, displays in the church. Saturday, August 22. Free.

Music in the Garden, Bewdley Museum, Bewdley. Popular bands play in the delightful Jubilee Gardens. Bring along a picnic or enjoy tasty refreshments from the museum café. Sunday, August 23. Free.

Food Glorious Food, Hanbury Hall, Hanbury, near Droitwich Spa. Take part in a themed trial and in a fun make-and-take activity. With face painting. Tuesday, August 25. Activities cost £2.50-£5.

Droitwich Party in the Park, Droitwich Spa Lido Park, Droitwich Spa. Live bands, face painting, arts workshops, sport sessions etc. Tuesday, August 25, noon-4pm. Free.

Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Bromsgrove.Call 01527 831363.

BowlXtreme Ltd, Worcester. Call 01905 757475.

Forge Mill Needle Museum, Redditch. Call 01527 62509.

Honeybourne Pottery, Honeybourne, near Evesham. Call 01386 832855.

The Fold, Bransford. Call 01886 833633.

Waseley Hills Country Park, Rubery. Call 01562 710025.

West Midland Safari and Leisure Park, Bewdley. Call 01299 406397.

Wyre Forest Visitor Centre (Forestry Commission), Bewdley. Call 01299 266944.