Sheffield Town Hall opens doors for family-friendly open day
Unique opportunity to explore the building's rich history
Visitors can take a tour around Sheffield Town Hall to discover more about the history of one of the city’s iconic buildings.
The open day takes place on Saturday, September 19 from10am to 3pm. Entry is free and there’s no need to book.
Publicity for the event says: “Step inside one of Sheffield’s most iconic civic buildings and discover the stories, treasures and hidden spaces of Sheffield Town Hall.
“As part of Sheffield Heritage Open Days, this free family-friendly event offers a unique opportunity to explore the building’s rich history through a range of activities designed for all ages.”
Sheffield Town Hall Ambassadors will be on hand to welcome visitors and share their knowledge of the building.
Visitors can discover hidden treasures in the Lord Mayor’s Parlour, follow a heritage trail and take part in a town hall quiz.
They can also explore family history records from Sheffield’s past and see the original building plans that are usually kept at Sheffield City Archives.
Graves Youth Theatre are exploring the building’s history through Victorian and Second World War costumes.
Children can make their own ‘mini mayor’ and enjoy story time with the libraries team.
Visitors can find out how Sheffield’s traffic control team helps keep the city moving.
A pop-up café will be open in the ground floor Silver Room.
The event also offers a chance for visitors to have their say about the future of the grade I-listed Victorian building. It requires extensive restoration work costing an estimated £340m to £450m.
Ideas for the future of the Town Hall can be shared by young visitors on a drawing wall.
The council’s town hall programme lead Rebecca Nixon said: “The town hall refurbishment project aims to secure the long-term future of the building for future generations, which is why we’re keen to welcome young people.”
Sheffield Heritage Open Days, which run from September 11 to 20, offers more than 100 free events taking place across the city. To find out more, go to the website, https://www.sheffieldhods.com/.
There are also brochures available for collection around the city, including at the town hall and at libraries.