Michaelmas

Michaelmas, on September 29th, marks the beginning of autumn and is one of the four ‘quarter days’ in England, alongside Lady Day, Midsummer, and Christmas. Traditionally, it was a time for settling debts, hiring servants, and starting new leases.

The day is associated with St. Michael, the archangel who protects against darkness, symbolizing a shift towards the longer, colder nights. Customarily, people ate goose for prosperity, a tradition linked to Queen Elizabeth I and the defeat of the Spanish Armada.

In Scotland, a special scone called Struan Micheil is made for good fortune. Michaelmas also marks the end of harvest, and in folklore, blackberries should not be picked after Old Michaelmas Day (October 10th), as it is said the devil cursed them. The Michaelmas Daisy, blooming late in the season, is another symbol of protection and the closing of the harvest.

On this day you can see the Museum interpretation team as they prepare and celebrate a meal across the Bayleaf Farmstead. Demonstrations will show how members of the household would have different tasks to carry out in the preparations and then you can see them sit down to enjoy their meal.

You will be welcome to ask the team about their work, what they are doing (and why) and chat with them as they enjoy their hard work.

 

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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.