Looking for somewhere to take the kids for a free day out this Easter?
One County Durham museum, which aims to bring the area's rich industrial heritage to life and is surrounded by stunning scenery, is set to reopen this Friday after its winter break. The North of England Lead Mining Museum, better known as Killhope, offers visitors the chance to see how the region's lead miners would have lived.
It is the first time the museum has been open since winning the Best Told Story accolade from VisitEngland in November 2021. Killhope is no stranger to awards, with its trophy cabinet packed with various prizes commending everything from the engineering of its waterwheel to its educational element.
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The iconic working waterwheel and Victorian crushing mill are two of Killhope's most famed sites, but visitors can also experience the life and work of lead mining families of the area from past times by dropping into the exhibition at the visitor centre or taking an underground mine tour. Thanks to its location in Upper Weardale in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the museum is also popular for scenic walks and the chance to watch red squirrels from wildlife hides.
Councillor Elizabeth Scott, Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: "It is the type of attraction that is integral to our bid to be named UK City of Culture 2025, having reached the final four of the competition. Harnessing the fascinating heritage of County Durham and showcasing our extensive cultural offering to residents and visitors alike is one of the things that we do best."
County Durham moved a step closer to being named the UK City of Culture 2025 last week when it made it onto the final four of the shortlist, along with Southampton, Wrexham and Bradford. The winner is set to be announced by Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries in May.
Killhope Lead Mining Museum reopens on Friday April 1. Admission is free and the museum will offer an events programme, including blacksmith workshops and demonstrations.
For more information, visit Killhope's website.
