Hall Place is closed for restoration until summer 2008. Find out more here.

Tudor groupGirls dressing in Tudor costumeTudor chair'Tudor' schools workshop

Life in Tudor Times

This session takes all day. It involves two 70 minute taught sessions and a Tudor house trail. Children learn about life in Tudor times on the Hall Place Estate and the differences between those who were rich and those who were poor. Suitable for KS2.

History Unit 8: What were the differences between the lives of the rich and poor in Tudor times?

The history of Hall Place and Tudor costume

Using Hall Place as primary evidence we look for clues in the architecture of the building to discover which sort of person built and lived in the house. Having discussed the types of housing for rich and poor, we then take a hands-on look at Tudor 'power dressing', why and how it was created, briefly looking at lifestyles as we go. The entire class are then able to dress in replica costume and learn a Tudor dance in the Great Hall. Masses of fun.

Tudor food, handling objects and manners

Discover the dreadful reality of Tudor foods, from the rich roast swan and peacock complete with feathers, to the poor persons pottage stew. Making modern comparisons we discuss the different food stuffs, hilarious table manners and play detective with replica Tudor domestic objects. We finish the session with a true Tudor craft - bees wax candle making for children to take home.

Tudor activity trail

This is a self led trail with children's sheets and teacher/adult guidance notes. The trail takes children around the house and associated buildings highlighting their Tudor features.

Activities:

  • Object handling
  • Dressing up in replica costume
  • Making a Tudor candle
  • Tudor dancing
  • Tudor activity trail around the house.

NEW Tudor discovery box

A shorter look at the Tudors for any age or ability. This session can last from 45 minutes to 60 minutes depending on the group. The session takes its pace from the group involved as they discover life a long time ago. We use touch, smells and sound with replica domestic objects, costume and toys. Dancing optional, learning through fun essential. Suitable for any age and ability. Good for SEN'S.