Chedham's Yard re-opens on Easter Saturday

In readiness for the opening, volunteer Margaret Taylor has made 100 fabric mice to be given to children who complete the mouse trail around the old workshops, the forge and the wildlife garden.

Last year, more than 150 youngsters were rewarded for their search.

Margaret says: "I have great fun making the mice, and really enjoy watching them scampering off to new homes with our young visitors."

The yard, considered by English Heritage to be ‘an almost unique site’, offers visitors a rare glimpse into our nearly lost rural past. Blacksmiths and woodturners bring the site to life with their demonstrations, and tour guides show visitors round the fascinating collection of tools and equipment left by five generations of the Chedham family. Tea and cake served from the visitor centre rounds off a visit for most people.

The Saturday events are led by invited experts and are designed to appeal to anyone interested in rural life or traditional crafts. Events range from bee keeping to longbow making, and from traditional wheel tyring to saving hedgehogs.

The yard is run entirely by volunteers: some have contact with visitors; others work behind the scenes. All share an enthusiasm for seeing that this important site lives on into the future. There are a variety of roles open to new volunteers, and anyone who might like to get involved is welcome to call in on a Saturday to find out more. Opening hours are 11am to 4pm with last entry at 3pm. Entry is free of charge.

For further information about the yard and the programme of special Saturday events, please see chedhamsyard.org.uk.