Houses and Homes

Who would live in a house like this? Find out in this interactive workshop which examines authentic buildings and original furnishings to gain a deeper understanding of how people built their homes and cared for their belongings in the past.

There’s a chance to explore how the environment influenced the home, and how houses and furnishings served the needs of families and the wider community. Children will be encouraged to compare and contrast the buildings they visit with modern homes, paying attention to elements such as heat, cooking, waste and water. They can also engage directly with mystery items from our collections. Can they discover their use and identify the modern equivalent? They will consider the reasons why museums preserve the past and collect objects and will be encouraged to share their thoughts and observations throughout.