Heritage Open Weekend
Come along to visit the Workhouse and Infirmary with free entry as part of the Heritage Open Days Festival.
- Booking not needed
- Free event
Behind every door is a story and The Workhouse and Infirmary bears witness to over 160 years of changing social policy and attitudes towards the poor and vulnerable in society.
Explore why people came here in our 1921 census exhibition in partnership with Findmypast and trace their physical route. Chat to a room guide, take an external tour of the buildings, complete the Whodunit trail, dress up and write on a slate in the school room.
Look out for the workhouse mice scenes, play some old-fashioned games, have a wander outside in the kitchen garden, walk in the historic infirmary wards and relax in our second-hand bookshop and café.
There is so much here to discover and learn.
ARCHITECTURE ACTIVITY We're asking visitors to get involved and support us in raising vital funds for the property through our Infirmary model project.
Tying in with this year's theme of architecture, help us build a scale model of the Infirmary, which will go on display once finished. Come and be part of the build and leave your mark for future visitors to see.
Visitors can also enjoy building their very own creations with lego.
Times
The basics
- Suitability
Family friendly
- Accessibility
Some areas might not be fully accessible to all visitors. The ground floor of The workhouse is accessible via ramps. There are stairs to all other floors, cellars and exercise yards. A virtual tour and photos are available in the Upstairs/Downstairs room. There is an accessible lift to the first floor of the Infirmary. For full access details please visit our website.
Upcoming events
Workhouse Whodunit
The Curious Case of a Workhouse Wrongdoing
Becher Walk
Step back in time and join Reverend John T. Becher, founder of The Workhouse, on a tour of Southwell.
Workhouse Wellbeing Walks
Come and enjoy a social walk around Southwell and discover more of the local area surrounding The Workhouse.
A Victorian Gentlemen's Guide to Self Defence
Come and discover the art of self defence Victorian style. An experience where elegance meets empowerment.