A Very Victorian Trail
Saturday 14 to Sunday 22 February
Step back in time this February half term and explore the Museum with our Very Victorian Trail. The trail will be available from Saturday 14 to Sunday 22 February. The interactive family activity packed with hands-on fun, fascinating history and a chance to win a prize.
Travel through our historic buildings as you visit eight Victorian-themed stations, each bringing an aspect of Victorian life vividly to life. At every stop, children can take part in a different activity and collect a rubbing of a Victorian penny to complete their trail sheet.
Once you have finished the trail, simply hand in your completed sheet at the Museum Gift Shop for the chance to win a Victorian toy bundle. There are three chances to win, with winners drawn at the end of the week.
What You will Discover on the Very Victorian Trail
As you follow the trail, you’ll explore some of the most curious, creative, and downright revolting parts of Victorian history, including:
- Very Victorian Inventions
- The Victorian Penny Black
- Revolting Victorian Food
- Very Victorian Schooling
- Victorian Superstitions
- Bothersome Bedbugs
- The Great Victorian Stink
- Victorian Chimney Sweeps
Each station is designed to be interactive, educational, and fun for children and adults alike, making this the perfect February half term activity for families.
How to Take Part
Trail sheets are provided on arrival at the Museum. As you explore, keep an eye out for the hidden Victorian pennies and take a rubbing at each station to complete your sheet.
We recommend pre-booking to visit the Museum during the school holidays; you can also book online and save 10% on your entry tickets.
Then just turn up, explore, and enjoy a Very Victorian adventure this half term.
Please note that the Museum is open 10am to 4pm. The half term trail is included in an annual Museum membership, no need to pre-book just present your valid membership on arrival and collect your trail sheet to take part!
Information for Visitors
Discover 40 acres of history, nature, and countryside charm at the Weald & Downland Living Museum near Chichester, West Sussex. Explore our collection of historic buildings, working farm animals, and heritage gardens, and experience what rural life was like in centuries past.
Come Rain or Shine You Can Explore and Enjoy
Stroll through our beautiful open-air museum, where you can see authentic period homes, workshops, and barns set within the stunning South Downs landscape. Enjoy peaceful woodland walks, spot wildlife, or visit the woodland play area — perfect for children to explore and learn through play.
Meet Our Working Animals
Look out for our Heavy Horses, Sheep, and Ducks, who help bring the Museum to life. Visitors can even feed the ducks on the mill pond — grain can be purchased in the Museum shop.
Relax and Refuel
Take a break at our waterside café, serving delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. You’re also welcome to bring a picnic, with plenty of scenic spots around the site to enjoy. During the warmer months, Shepherd’s Hut kiosks offer takeaway drinks and snacks around the Museum.
Useful Visitor Information
- Dogs on short leads are very welcome across the site.
- Free parking is available for all visitors.
- Please note: the Museum is a no-smoking site.
- Visitors with accessibility needs can find detailed information on our Accessibility page.
Please note that all activities and demonstrations are subject to change and may vary depending on the weather or season.
