Make some toys this Christmas

In the workshops, children will be able to make one of a number of Victorian wooden toys which they can take home at the end.

They can choose from tumbling acrobats and soldiers, little dogs or a somersaulting monkey who balances between two sticks.

The events are run by historical toy making interpretation experts, Heuristics, who will also intersperse the serious business of toy making with light hearted presentation on the history of Christmases past, and the associated traditions that we continue today.

There will also be traditional games at the workshops, including bagatelle – a game dating back to the 17th century using a seven-foot long board, table skittles and tiddledy winks.

Traditional music will also be playing in the background.

Karen Pike, English Heritage’s regional events manager, said: “After all of the exciting build-up to Christmas, the gap between Christmas and New Year can seem rather dull, so this is a great way of getting all the family together to continue the fun. “For the Victorians, spending entertaining time with the family was such an integral part of their festive traditions and we hope to be recreating this at Kenilworth Castle – a fantastic escape away from the turkey left-overs and mad sale shopping.”

Each workshop lasts around two and a half hours, with sessions each day running from 10am to 12.30pm and 1pm to 3.30pm.

Tickets cost £20 for adults and £10 for children.

English Heritage members receive discounted admission of £15.00 for adults and £7.50 for children.

To book a place on one of the workshops call 0870 333 1183.