Avoncroft Museum is a unique home for historic buildings which have been rescued from demolition and rebuilt in a beautiful corner of Worcestershire’s rural countryside.

Avoncroft was established as England’s first open-air museum to rescue a 15th-century merchant’s house. Since then 25 historical buildings, including a 19th-century windmill, a 1940s prefab and Victorian tin church, have been dismantled and rebuilt with great care. These buildings now show how we used to live, work and play over the past 700 years.

Set in a picturesque location, you can also enjoy the beautiful rural site with gardens, duck pond and orchard. The tea room offers an excellent place to take a break or you can savour a family picnic in one of the leafy designated areas. Avoncroft also has an outdoor play area for little ones to enjoy.

The events throughout the year make Avoncroft a memorable place for a family day out – with historical re-enactments, craft demonstrations and hands-on activities for mums and dads as well as the children.

The buildings and site are a great opportunity to explore the fascinating world of the past.

So take a step back in time, and open the door on history.

For more information, call the museum on 01527 831363.

evesham vale light railway


Enjoy the views as you travel for more than a mile through the old apple orchards on a miniature steam train at Evesham Country Park. Take a walk down to the river Avon after your ride. Train operates weekends only during September. Call 01386 422282.

the orchard cafe


The Orchard Cafe has been celebrating since winning Best Worcestershire Breakfast at the Worcestershire Welcome Awards. The fantastic seasonal menu is organic, locally sourced and sustainable wherever possible. It’s based at the Worcester Woods Country Park, set within 100 acres of woodland and meadows to explore. Call 01905 766492.

the worcester story


A new, guided walking tour of Worcester researched and delivered by historians in period clothing. It’s a perfect opportunity to hear the history of Worcester and see some of its historic gems. Tour lasts 90 minutes from the Guildhall, Worcester, daily at 6pm. Booking is essential. Call 07949 222137.

bowl xtreme


There are 16 state-of-the-art fully computerised lanes, so you’re sure to get strikes every visit. The glow track helps bowlers adjust their shots, resulting in higher scores. Music and lights from 9.30pm means you’re sure to have an enjoyable night. Call 01905 757475.

even more things to do!


Summer Safari Animal Hunt, Avoncroft Museum of Buildings, Wythall Transport Museum, Forge Mill Needle Museum and Jinney Ring Craft Centre. Safari animal hunt packs cost £5, or £19.95 for a family pack. Packs can be bought from participating venues and include vouchers. Runs until Saturday, September 5.

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

In the thick of the action, The Commandery, Worcester. Mark the anniversary of the final battle of the English Civil War with a range of activities, including visits by Worcester’s own re-enactors. Free. Runs until Thursday, September 3.

Ugly Bugs, Hanbury Hall, Hanbury, near Droitwich Spa. Take part in a themed trial around the gardens and in a fun make-and-take activity. With a face-painter, children’s play area, giant games and 400 acres of park. £2.50-£5. Tuesday, September 1.

Busy Thursdays! Dig this, The Almonry, Evesham. Your chance to be an archaeologist by taking part in a mystery object session, being a pottery detective and digging for finds. Booking recommended. Free. Thursday, September 3.

Worcester Feast, Worcester Cathedral and The Commandery, Worcester. Runs over three days and includes champagne garden, kids corner, food theatre, wine school, entertainment hotspots, more than 120 exhibitors plus more features and attractions. £2-£6. Friday, September 4, to Sunday, September 6.

Seaside Special, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley. The seaside comes to the Severn Valley with loads of fun for all the family. Attractions include a beach, donkey rides and Punch and Judy shows. £7-£14. Saturday, September 5, and Sunday, September 6.

Family Fun and Football Race Day, Worcester Racecourse, Worcester.

Charity raceday with appearances from Lazy Town's Sportacus. Seven races, children’s entertainment and a jockeys’ football match. Accompanied children under 16 go free. Sunday, September 6.

Hanbury Steam Rally, Hanbury, near Bromsgrove. Steam engines, vintage cars, fairground rides and arena events. £2-£6. September 18-20.

The Malvern Autumn Show, Malvern County Showground, Malvern. A celebration of nature’s harvest. A charming mix of autumn flowers, harvest produce, native livestock and family entertainment. £5.50-£15.50. September 26-27.

Go Ape! High Wire Forest Adventure, Bewdley. Call 0845 0949641.

Harvington Hall, Kidderminster. Call 01562 777846.

Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley. Call 01299 403816.

Swan Theatre, Worcester. Call 01905 611714.

The Commandery, Worcester. Call 01905 361825.

The Greyfriars, Worcester. Call 01905 23571.

The Worcester Porcelain Museum, Worcester. Call 01905 21247.

Witley Court & Gardens (English Heritage), Great Witley. Call 0121 6256826.