Lady Day

Lady Day, 25 March, is the Feast of the Annunciation and the first quarter day of the year.

This day celebrated the announcement of the birth of Christ to Mary by the angel Gabriel, and the conception of Christ. This was the most significant Lenten Feast Day and even rivalled Christmas in its importance.

This was traditionally one of the four quarter days that mark the beginning of each quarter of the year. With the start of spring, this was a day for paying rent, hiring workers, and the day on which contracts would begin and end. Lady Day was also the first day of the calendar year in England and Wales until 1752.

On this day at the Museum the Bayleaf Interpretation team will show how the household would have taken the opportunity to enjoy a respite from the Lenten restrictions. The “Master” and “Mistress” of the house will enjoy a leisurely stroll around the farm, chatting to their visitors explaining the significance of the Feast of the Annunciation, before joining their household for a meal.

Please note: This is not an event weekend, just an opportunity to see a special additional demonstration at the Museum over this weekend.

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Information for Visitors

The Museum’s 40 acres site, historic gardens and buildings are fascinating places to learn about rural history. Visitors can purchase grain from the Museum shop and feed the hungry ducks on the mill pond. Whilst enjoying the great outdoors and fresh air, look out for our working animals, which can include the Heavy Horses, Sheep and Ducks. There are a number of lovely woodland trails, including a woodland play area for children to explore.

Why not enjoy breakfast, brunch or lunch at our waterside café?  Visitors can also bring a picnic as there are plenty of picnic areas available on site.  Takeaway refreshments will also be available from our seasonal Shepherd’s Huts located around the Museum.

Dogs on short leads are welcome and there is ample free parking. Please note that the Museum is a no-smoking site. Visitors with access needs are advised to read our accessibility page in advance of their visit.

All activities are subject to change.