What's On

Purrrfect May Half-term Family Fun

Join us at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House this May for some family fun.

Get your cat ears on and bring your favourite cat toy to follow Cranford the Cat through the House on trail of games and puzzles.

Then head to the Servants’ Hall for some self-led cat craft activities – available from 11am until 4pm.

In the Servants’ Hall you will get the chance to get creative and make your own Cranford the Cat adventure.

Whilst you’re there, stop by our Tea Room for a tasty milkshake (saucers can be provided for those in character) or a slice of cake.

Dressing-up for all ages can be found throughout the House, getting into character is very much recommended!

All these activities are drop-in and self-led, so there’s no rush to the finish line, take your time and spend all day with us.

The important stuff for grown-ups

Both trails are free and children under-16 are free with a paying adult.

Adults are £9 per person and tickets are valid for 12 months, so you can return as many times as you want within the year.

Booking is required as it helps us plan how many volunteers we need for the day to make sure you have the best time possible. (You can book on the morning of the day you visit).

The half-term activities are available on open days (Wed/Thurs/Sun) from Sunday 24 May – Sunday 7 June.

Buggies and prams are welcome throughout the House and garden (we have a lift and ramped entrance), there are baby change facilities and the House is breastfeeding friendly.

We also have a ‘do touch’ policy so the majority of items in the House can be touched and chairs sat on.

Drinks (including cordial with free refills), cakes and snacks are available to buy from the Tea Room. We have a limited food offer so you are welcome to bring a picnic – we just ask that you buy a drink.

We also have a small shop with pocket money items from £1 upwards including quill pens, cat toys, and colouring books. We also have a small selection of second-hand children’s books on sale.

We are approximately a 10-15 minutes walk from The Pankhurst Centre, Manchester Museum and the Whitworth Art Gallery on Oxford Road.

The House is open every Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday 11am-4.30pm (last entry 3pm).

For more information on how to find us