Ancient House Museum to reopen following successful school visits

Tomorrow will see the reopening of the Ancient House - Museum of Thetford Life to the general public.

Visitors can book their tickets online now for Tuesday 22^nd June onwards. Early birds will have the chance to catch the Studio Ceramics exhibition which features some of the best example of British pottery from the last 150 years.

Pupils from The Bishops C of E Primary Academy in Thetford were some of the lucky few who have been able to visit ahead of public reopening.

Their visit saw year 6 children learn about life in Thetford during the Second World War.

Pupils were able to see how the British public recycled and reused valuable materials. They tried their hand at rag rugging (as the name suggests, turning rags into rugs), and learnt about the secrets of Thetford Pulpware which used natural fibres to create a durable, waterproof material.

They also learned how to build a Morrison shelter and did some training with the Home Guard.

Miss Laws, Year 6 teacher at The Bishops C of E Primary Academy said:
“It has been lovely to see our friends at the museum again. We felt safe and well looked after as we returned to WW2 times and had the past brought back to life for us.”

Melissa Hawker, Learning Officer for the Norfolk Museum service said:
“We are thrilled to have pupils back learning in the museum. It’s been lovely seeing pupils learning about the Normans, Victorian Civic Life, Britain’s first Black mayor and life during the World War. We are looking forward to welcoming more pupils back, right up to the end of the summer term.”

Members of the public hoping to visit can be assured that full safety measures are in place, including hand sanitising facilities and clearly signed visitor routes.

In line with government guidance, face coverings must be worn, except by those with an exemption.

Tickets need to be booked in advance and are available online at https://norfolk-museums.arttickets.org.uk/  

Thetford’s Ancient House is a 500 year old Tudor gem in the heart of the old town. Visitors can enjoy exploring the ancient building and browsing the displays about Thetford and the area. You can learn about local heroes Maharajah Duleep Singh and Thomas Paine, find out about the town’s history highlights and discover displays about life at the Ancient House over the years including the 1901 kitchen and the 1490 Hall complete with intricately carved woodwork.