University of Cambridge Museums promise summer of fun

Summer at the Museums invites visitors to explore the world and discover amazing things through a series of interactive workshops and museum tours. The project runs throughout the summer until September 7 with over 100 different activities, from robot construction to a 1930’s Tea Party. The eight museums based in Cambridge are all within easy walking distance of the city centre and many of the Summer at the Museums events are free. Other activities include: digging for buried treasure at the Museum of Classical Archaeology, art workshops at Kettle’s Yard, and storytelling and games at The Polar Museum. Meanwhile, the University Botanic Garden will be throwing its gates open. Visitors can discover the story of the Magic Brick Tree and join the magical modelling workshop; perfect with a picnic and some sunshine. Just outside the city Denny Farmland Museum and Abbey offers history, adventure and creativity. One of the activities offered is Clay Day, where kids of all ages can roll up their sleeves and make clay creations of their very own. For any aspiring Sherlock Holmes, The Mystery of the Abbey is the place to be. Follow the clues and ask the nuns and monks for help to solve the mysterious goings on; a must for any young detective. Ely Stained Glass Museum will offer an exciting opportunity with a series of two glass fusing workshops in which visitors can learn the alchemy of glass and precious metals and make a piece of artwork to take home. Visitors will be taught how to cut glass and be given inspiration by the museum’s own collection. For each of the glass workshops’ pre-booking is required at the cost of £8.50 per child. The University of Cambridge Museums offers the unique opportunity to build a Victorian seaside setting at Castle End Mission Hall. Visitors can take a step back in time and enjoy a real Punch and Judy show, life size sea bathers and a seaside snack stand. Other highlights include the Origins of the Afro Comb exhibition at the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, with live demonstrations of hair styling and braiding.