Free Festive Family Fun at The Clitheroe Castle Museum

Published: 22nd November 2023

Clitheroe castle and pendle hill
Clitheroe Castle and Pendle Hill are just two of Ribble Valley's many attractions.

If you are looking for some free family fun over the festive period, look no further than the Clitheroe Castle Museum.

The museum closes on 23 December, but reopens for ‘Betwixtmas’ from noon to 4pm on 29, 30 and 31 December, when the museum and castle grounds will host a bumper crop of free family festive activities, including:

  • Winter strolls in the castle grounds
  • Exhibitions in the museum’s labyrinthine galleries
  • Gnomes and their Homes competition hunt (museum admission charges)
  • Happy New Year badge workshop (£1 – no booking required)
  • Decorate a wooden animal keyring (£1.50 – no booking required)
  • Medieval festive competition quiz (museum admission charges)
  • Activity sheets and cosy reading corner
  • On Track: A Glimpse into Lancashire's Railways Past and Present (free exhibition in the Steward's Gallery)

Clitheroe Castle sits on top of a limestone knoll that has dominated the skyline for over 800 years. 

Its grounds, featuring stunning gardens, a skatepark and the only public labyrinth in Lancashire, are open daily and free to visit.

The award-winning museum is located in the former steward's house, an 18th Century Grade II-listed building.

Visitors to the museum are transported through 350million years of local history, including the formation of the landscape, folklore and industry.

Normal winter opening hours will resume after the festive period on Friday, January 4, when the museum will open from noon to 4pm, Friday to Tuesday.

Adult admission is £5.40 (concessions £4.10), with free entry for anyone aged 18 or under.

Further details of Betwixtmas activities are available from the museum on 01200 424568.