It’s party time at the mill

A Christmas trail will weave its way through Quarry Bank Mill this December leading families to a festive party after they have unravelled a secret code.

Clues will lead visitors through the mill and, once they have all the letters, will give them a password to access the party room.

“Christmas will be felt throughout the mill this year making it one of the best celebrations we have ever put together,” said Visitor Experience Officer Kate Picker.

“Children will love collecting the clues and then, when the work is done, they will be able to join in the party.”

Artist Catherine Jackman – who illustrated Quarry Bank’s popular Apprentice Adventure earlier this year – has helped create the festive trail.

It will start in the Power Gallery and lead visitors to pockets of Christmas such as the decorated chimney as well as staff and volunteers who will bring historic characters back to life.

Children will also be asked to make their own paper clogs, which traditionally were used instead of a stocking and provided a place for a present to be left.

There will be the chance to dress as a Victorian for a souvenir photograph and to hear about Christmas for the pauper child workers at the Apprentice House.

There will be chores for everyone to complete before they can join the Christmas party, but every step of the way there will be fun to enjoy.

“We will be inviting families to find out about the Quarry Bank workers and apprentice children and they will be under strict instruction to help finish the chores before the Christmas can begin,” said Kate.

Quarry Bank’s Christmas celebrations will be on December 5, 6 and 12, 13 from 11am to 3pm.

Children will also be able to tell Father Christmas what’s on their list (£4) and there will be carols and tasty festive food.  Normal admission applies.