Hereford Medieval Festival and children go free into its chained library and Mappa Mundi
Children can discover strange creatures and learn how to write their name in the letters of the Hereford Gospels as Hereford Cathedral invites opens children to explore its Mappa Mundi & Chained Library Museum for free this summer holidays.
The Mappa Mundi & Chained Library Museum, which sits alongside the cathedral, houses some of the cathedral’s greatest treasures as well as special exhibitions curated by the library and archives team.
The latest exhibition, Shaping Early Medieval Faith: The Hereford Gospels, celebrates the oldest manuscript in the cathedral’s collection and how it was created.
As well as viewing The Hereford Gospels, families can also see the Anglo-Saxon sword, which is on loan from Herefordshire Museums and Galleries, Herefordshire Council and learn how to write their name in the letters of the Hereford Gospels on the new magnetic wall.
Jennifer Dumbelton, Cathedral Librarian, said:
“I am delighted that we will be welcoming children of all ages into the museum for free this summer! It’s always wonderful to hear children’s questions about the Mappa Mundi & Chained Library, which can be very inspiring to curious young minds.”
Marc Leppard, Chief Operating Officer, said:
“We all know the challenge of finding, and budgeting, for activities to keep children entertained throughout the school holidays; offering free children’s entry to the museum is our small gesture to try and support families to have fun this summer. The main cathedral, as always, remains free to visit meaning that families can have a really affordable day out and discover the whole of the cathedral. We look forward to welcoming you!”
A selection of free family guides and trails are also available to help discover the hidden history of the cathedral.
Children under the age of sixteen can visit the Mappa Mundi & Chained Library Museum for free from Friday 26 June – Tuesday 1 September (Monday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm). Tickets are still required and children must be accompanied by a responsible adult throughout their visit.
In August, Hereford will be inviting guests to step back in time as part of the city’s Medieval Festival when it hosts a Medieval Feast on Friday 14 August with entertainment from The Plantagenets Medieval Society and an historical dining experience. Costume is optional!!
The Medieval Feast will open the city’s Medieval Festival which takes place in the city and Cathedral Close on Saturday 15 & Sunday 16 August.
The festival has been organised by Hereford City BID in partnership with the Cathedral with an exciting weekend of events.
The Medieval Feast will take place on Friday 14 August at 7pm in the cathedral nave. Tickets cost £60, which includes a welcome drink, and are available to purchase here or by calling 01432 374 202.
