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Educational visits to the Workhouse and Infirmary

Children in costume at The Workhouse, Southwell, Nottinghamshire, a c19th institution for paupers
Children in costume at The Workhouse | © National Trust Images/Ian Shaw

Step back in time and discover how the poor were treated in the 1840s at the Workhouse and Infirmary. Bring your school or educational group to learn about the gruelling conditions inside the workhouse and how these institutions played a significant role in the development of the welfare state. Read on to find out what we offer and how you can book your visit.

What is included in an educational visit to the Workhouse?

As one of the best-preserved workhouses in the country, the Workhouse and Infirmary offers a unique opportunity to teach your students what life was like for the poor in the 1840s. All of our educational visits are non-facilitated and self-led, which means you can design your visit to suit the individual needs of your students.

During your visit, you will have the opportunity to explore the main Workhouse building, built in 1824, and Firbeck Infirmary, which joined the Workhouse in 1871. You can also walk around the Vegetable Kitchen Garden, which was once used to supply food to the inmates.

View of the New School Room and yard at the Workhouse, Nottinghamshire
New School Room and yard at the Workhouse | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

How many students can I bring?

You can book for up to 50 students on the same day. Due to conservation guidance and floor loading, you will be asked to split your students into smaller groups on the day to walk around the house.

When can I book?

Educational visits are welcome on a Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Familiarisation Visits

We strongly recommend group leaders visit the site for a familiarisation visit prior to a booking. These visits are free of charge and will give you the opportunity to familiarise yourself with the layout and history of the property.

The Childrens Dormitory at The Workhouse, Nottinghamshire
The Childrens' Dormitory at the Workhouse | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

How much do educational visits at the Workhouse cost?

Prices for group admission are:

  • Adults: £14.25
  • Students (under 18): £7.13
  • NT member: Free

Visits are free for National Trust Educational Group Members. This covers all the children in your school for 1 year across all properties in the National Trust. Click here for more information on EGM.

How Do I Book an Education Visit to the Workhouse?

To book a visit for your students or to find out more about our offer, please email sarah.shipley1@nationaltrust.org.uk or give us a call on 01636 817260.

A group of male and female people in a large room that has a black and white tiled floor and exhibition panels saying Vita in the background
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Education Group Access Pass 

If you’re planning educational group visits to National Trust places, then you could benefit from an Education Group Access Pass, which gives you free admission for a year.