Local history sessions

a group of children on a school visit

Discover the stories of the house and the people who lived and worked at Knightshayes.These sessions focus on the local history aspect of the new curriculum From learning about the family, to what inspired the design of the house, we have a range of workshops which we can fit around your needs as a group.

Image of the Heathcoat Amory family outside the North porch of the house.

Who were the Heathcoat-Amorys? 

Upper KS1 and KS2 - history- Discover all about the Heathcoat family, and how the first John Heathcoat was a pioneer in the lace industry. Learn all about this significant local man, and his family as well as how his work impacted Tiverton and the local area. There will also be the chance to handle and investigate antique lace and create a reverse lace design. 2 hours, £2.00 per pupil.

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A picture of the ceiling in the library, showing a talbot dog carving on a corbel

Be the designer session 

Upper Ks1 and Ks2 – history and art - Learn about the eccentric and talented designer William Burges. Tour Knightshayes Court to find his repeating pattern designs and discover their links with nature. Design and make a block print in the Burges style to take home, 2hrs, £2.00 per pupil.

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Knightshayes' interior dressed for Christmas

Christmas traditions  

Upper Ks1 and Ks2 - Discover the Victorian origins of many of our Christmas traditions. Tour our beautifully decorated house to see how Christmas was celebrated in a grand country home. Make a Victorian inspired Christmas decoration to take home, 1.5hrs including tour, £2 per child.

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