A wild afternoon out for all ages – whether you’re interested in woodland wildlife, uncovering the past or lending a hand bashing a bit of balsam. Drop in any time between 12pm and 4pm. Everyone welcome. (U18s must be accompanied by an adult).
Activities include:
Explore the ‘wild woods’ with us! Become a nature detective and find out which creatures call this special place home. You can learn about the trees and plants too – and how Engine Lonning might have looked when the Romans were in Carlisle.
The Romans were here! Learn about Roman life in Carlisle and dress up as a Roman!
- A table with objects for handling from the Roman site at Carlisle Cricket Club
- Costumes / replica kit for the kids and adults to wear
- Information on about the Roman site in Carlisle
Hidden Histories. Have a go at Stone Carving. – Experience a direct connection with the past by making your mark in stone. We’ll be re-using reclaimed materials to help bring history to life in a fun and creative way. Learn your craft with Tony Crellin, experienced stone mason.
Mosaic Making. – Become a ‘mosaicist’ (easy for some to say!), using a technique used by the Romans to celebrate what is special about Engine Lonning. Be guided by talented Mosaic artist Helen Clues
Steam Engine ‘Canal Shed’ history. Step back in time to the Victorian era when steam engines lived and breathed life into Engine Lonning. take a guided walk around the site of ‘Canal Shed’ with a local historian.
‘Bash the Balsam!’ Have fun, let off steam and do your bit for nature! Join Jenni, our Volunteer Coordinator and some of our ERT volunteers to help us clear Engine Lonning of Himalayan balsam. This invasive non-native species stops native plants from growing and contributes to the erosion of riverbanks. Never bashed balsam before? Don’t worry, we’ll show you how and it’s really easy!