North Hertfordshire Museum and Hitchin Town Hall spring back into action!

The recent lockdown has been a busy and productive time for the team at North Hertfordshire Museum and Hitchin Town Hall. Lockdown was used to plan some exciting events for the new season and they are now welcoming visitors like you, through their doors again. So, what’s going on? Let’s find out!

North Hertfordshire Museum has now reopened and has a series of fascinating free exhibitions planned between now and the autumn:

Open until 27 June, 'Frozen in Time' is a display of 48 photographs of Victorian and Edwardian North Hertfordshire. The photographs are from the museum’s extensive archives and offer a snapshot into the daily lives of people who lived and worked in the district during those times. Featured photographs include Barley Supply Stores from about 1910, a one-stop shop where you could buy anything from shoes to chocolate, medicines to rugs; and a photo of Katherine Francis, the postal delivery woman in Hexton during the Second World War.

The Tiger Who Came to Tea will run from 7 July to 4 September. This interactive exhibition is based on the classic children’s story book by Judith Kerr and brings the story to life.

Featuring a play version of Sophie’s kitchen, a reading corner and of course, a friendly 5-foot tiger! Tiger themed craft activities and story sessions will keep little ones entertained over the summer holidays and The Tiger Who Came to Tea themed afternoon teas complete with stripy cakes (yes, stripy cakes!) and Tiger Bread sandwiches will ward off any grumbly tummies. Copies of illustrations from the book will also be on display and have kindly been loaned by Seven Stories, the National Centre for Children’s Books. Afternoon teas must be booked in advance here.

Nature in Focus; Brian Sawford’s photographs of the landscape and wildlife of North Hertfordshire opens on 18 September. Brian Sawford (1940 - 2020) was a well-known local naturalist and a gifted photographer, who spent much of his long career as Senior Keeper of Natural History at the former Letchworth Museum. Brian contributed much to the natural history of Hertfordshire through his talks, guided walks and publications. These included The Butterflies of Hertfordshire, Wildflower Habitats of Hertfordshire and Wildlife of the Letchworth Area, all illustrated with his own photographs. The exhibition shows many of the rare and beautiful wildflowers and endangered birds we have on our doorstep and reminds us of the rich biodiversity of the district.

Brian contributed much to the natural history of Hertfordshire through his talks, guided walks and publications.

Don’t forget, the museum also has permanent displays that bring the history of North Hertfordshire to life. With something for everyone - art, archaeology, nature, football, toys, even a Victorian chemist’s shop counter. The museum has an on-site café with delicious freshly made produce, and a shop selling exclusive local cards and gifts.

Museum opening times are 10.30am to 4.30pm, Tuesday to Saturday, and 11am to 3pm on Sunday. Admission is free. North Hertfordshire Museum is located on Brand Street, Hitchin, Herts SG5 1JE.

For more information visit the museum website.

Hitchin Town Hall takes pride of place in the centre of Hitchin. A stunning Grade II listed building nestled right next to the North Hertfordshire Museum, it’s at the beating heart of the local community. Hosting everything from wedding parties to fitness classes, fencing and ballroom dancing.

Now restrictions are easing, the Town Hall has a number of events planned (all dates are subject to change in line with Government coronavirus guidance):

July 22 and 23 sees ‘Mostly Comedy’ hit the stage. An evening full of much needed belly laughs and chuckling, this comedy night is hosted by Hitchin’s Mostly Comedy Club. Mostly Comedy was established in 2008 and have become so popular that they have since outgrown five different venues in town before ending up in residency at Hitchin Town Hall. Doors open at 7.15pm. Click here to book.

If we said to you ‘I took her to a supermarket, I don’t know why, But I had to start it somewhere, So it started, there,’ would those lyrics ring a bell with you? If the answer is yes, then you will love Hitchin Town Hall’s 90’s Common People Indie Night on 11 September. With the best indie music out there, you’ll be transported to a time of freedom by DJ Ed the Saint who will be playing wall to wall 90’s indie tunes all night. The set kicks off at 8pm, £11 entry. Click here to book.

It’s a Sin 80s Night launches at Hitchin Town Hall on 9 October. Inspired by the free spirit of the recent 80’s namesake television show.

It’s a Sin 80s Night launches at Hitchin Town Hall on 9 October. Inspired by the free spirit of the recent 80’s namesake television show, It’s a Sin sets out to revel in the fun and freshness of 1980’s music. Step back in time to a world of pure wonder and (break) dance your socks, and leg warmers, off. Keep an eye on Hitchin Town Hall’s social media for more information nearer the time.

The hall’s spectacular Mountford Hall with its barrel-vaulted ceiling and original sprung floor is also available for private hire, along with the more intimate Lucas Room. For more information visit the museum website.