Midsummer

Midsummer is one of the quarter days in the ritual year calendar. It has been celebrated for thousands of years, with roots in both pagan and religious traditions.

Midsummer, like May Day, was an ancient seasonal festival with no clear Christian origins, though it was later tied to the Feast of Saint John the Baptist. Medieval celebrations often featured bonfires, with activities like dancing, fire processions, and rolling flaming wheels downhill. Folklore linked midsummer fires to warding off dragons and disease, a practical custom that may have helped prevent illness by burning rotting animal remains.

Over this weekend you will be able to 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.

Also on this weekend we will be welcoming back the History Re-enactment Workshop group as they will be demonstrating their Elizabethan Law & Order in the Market Square.

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

Book online and save!

Book now

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.