What's On

Silly and Spooky Sill-Haunters: October Half-Term

Join us at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House for some spookily good family fun this October Half-Term.

Explore the House with our Cranford the Cat trail, where our fluffy familiar will lead you through the rooms with lots of games and puzzles along the way.

Then head down to the Servants’ Hall, where you can make your own sill-haunter. These little monsters of your creation can guard your window-sills, welcoming the treaters and scaring off the tricksters.

Finally, don’t forget to stop by our Tea Room where there’s hot chocolate with plenty of whipped cream and marshmallows.

All these activities are self-led, so there’s no rush to the finish line, take your time and spend all day with us. Just remember to book so we know you are coming!

The important stuff for grown-ups

Admission

The trail and craft 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 activities are available on open days (Wed/Thurs/Sun) from Sunday 25 October – Sunday 1 November.

Access

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.

Refreshments

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 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.

Location and Opening Times

We are approximately a 10-15 minute 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