Bath Abbey is running a half-term event in February which will give children a chance to experience what it was like to have been a medieval monk in the days when the Abbey was a monastery.
On Tuesday 17 February from 10.45am to 2.30pm, children aged 7-11 years will be able to take part in a variety of activities inspired by monastic traditions and crafts. These include candle making, learning about medieval herbs, making lavender bags, writing with a quill and illuminating a manuscript. All materials will be provided and children will get to take home what they make! Curious kids will also get the opportunity to meet and chat with Father Christopher, a Benedictine monk from Downside Abbey who will be happy to answer questions about what it’s like to be a monk today.
Dawn Farmer, Visitors’ Officer at Bath Abbey, said: “There was a Benedictine monastery where today’s Abbey now stands for at least several hundred years – dating back to as early as 757 AD. So, you can just imagine a bustling monastic community with a priory kitchen, infirmary and herb garden, and the city of Bath growing up around it. This is a fun and light-hearted way of finding out more about the history of the Abbey and about what it was like to have lived and worked here when it was a monastery.”
Oliver Taylor, Interpretation Officer at Bath Abbey, said: “The ‘Day in the Life of a Monk’ half-term event is just one of the activities we’ll be trialing as part of the Abbey’s Footprint project, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund. One of Footprint’s key objectives is a new interpretation programme to inspire and encourage Bath residents along with our visitors to help them explore and make connections with the Abbey, past and present. Keep an eye out for more events throughout the year including exhibitions, education and learning workshops, as well as further activities for families.”
‘Day in the Life of a Monk’, which is supported by Ora et Labora and Downside Abbey, is taking place at Bath Abbey on Tuesday 17 February, 10.45am-2.30pm. Those taking part will also be able to enjoy lunch in the Abbey’s magnificent surroundings – you’ll have to bring your own lunch, but samples of delicious medieval pudding will be available to try! There are still spaces available but booking is essential, so please contact the Abbey Office on 01225 422462 or office@bathabbey.org to book a space in advance. Suitable for children 7-11 years, £5.00 per child (parents free).
