Heritage Open Days: A Closer Look at Lace

Drop in for a chance to look at some of our collection of Bedfordshire lace, and learn a bit about the industry, how it developed and some of the beautiful lace that was made.

In the collection at Wardown House, there is a large amount of English Revival Lace, which was produced from the late 1800's in an effort to try and build up the declining handmade lace industry.

We will have live lace-making demonstrations by local lace-makers Aragon Lacemakers, showing the intricate crafts of this highly detailed art form. Our head of collections will also be talking through the history and showing different examples of lace from the museum's collection.

And don't forget, we have our very own "Lace Lady" (mannequin) which has been scaring locals for generations! Can you find her sitting in her lace-making room near the ladies' loo?

Whilst you're here, why not have a browse around the rest of the museum? It's free entry and there's plenty to look at while you're here. Formerly the home of the Scargill family, then a World War I military hospital, the house is now a museum. But not just any museum, this house transports you back in time, to a Victorian family home. Every room tells a story, with interactive displays, a treasure trove of local curiosities and the largest hat industry and headwear collection in the UK!

Max 10 people per tour/session. 2 hours Contact for the day: Elise Naish - 01582 546722