The Framework Knitters Museum, Ruddington, will be hosting two Christmas events this year – each with their own little twist. On Saturday 3 December visitors can create a unique take on a Christmas stocking using historic hand-knitting machines, and on Saturday 10 December the museum’s annual Victorian Christmas experience will take place.
Paul Baker, museum manager, said, “We absolutely love Christmas at the Framework Knitters Museum. For us it is all about family, fun and festivity. The museum provides the perfect place to provide an intimate festive atmosphere for events, but of course we have to do things a bit differently!”
The first event, on Saturday 3 December, is the perfect way to start your family Christmas celebrations. Using the hand-powered knitting machines children will be able to knit their own tube of material which, with the help of the museum volunteers, will be sewn at one end. The children will then be able to personalise their stocking with festive sparkle.
The opportunity to create one of the unusual stockings will be available between 12 pm and 6 pm, and will cost £5 per stocking. Normal admissions prices for the museum apply which, along with the tea room and shop, will be open from 11 am to 4 pm.
The event is part of a larger programme of activities planned for the Ruddington Christmas Fayre; which will take place across the village from 12 pm to 5 pm and culminate with the Christmas lights being switched on at St Peter’s Church. For more information search ‘Ruddington Events’ on Facebook.
The following Saturday (10 December) is the museum’s annual Victorian Christmas event. Step back in time and enjoy the Victorian surroundings as they are brought to life with traditional music, food and activities. There will be roast chestnuts and crumpets toasted on an open fire to enjoy, while you listen to Christmas carols and music from a traditional barrel organ. Children can even visit Father Christmas in his grotto and receive a special Christmas gift. After dark the museum site will be lit by lantern light to add to the magical atmosphere.
This popular event will take place from 10 am to 5 pm and is free to attend. If you wish to visit Father Christmas there is a charge of £6 per child and it must be booked in advance by calling 0115 984 6914.
During both events The Textile Emporium, the museum’s shop, will be open selling a wide variety of unusual gift items made by local makers so you can find the perfect Christmas gift with a difference.
For more information about the museum visit www.frameworkknittersmuseum.org.uk