Younger generations can explore the past, present and future at The Story, a new cultural venue for County Durham.

Home to ancient archives and archaeological finds, records of bravery and life-changing events, The Story brings together five historic collections for the first time.

Located in the recently restored Grade II listed Mount Oswald manor house on the outskirts of Durham City, The Story celebrates the area’s fascinating heritage but, as the new home of the County Registration Service, it will be a place where current and future generations can add their story to the county’s history.

Accessing local and personal histories is easier than ever before with free exhibitions, enhanced search facilities, and cutting-edge digital tools, as well as an exciting programme of activities for visitors and families. Story telling sessions, kids’ takeover days, behind the scenes tours, volunteering opportunities and community projects are just some of the highlights in store thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Here are just some of the events happening at The Story this summer:

Small Stories (Under 5s)

A bookable family event that takes place every Thursday from 10.30am to 11.30am. Through play and movement or arts and crafts activities, Small Stories is designed to help little ones develop their motor skills and coordination.

Mini Archaeologists

Children can discover what the county’s archaeologists have found through fun and practical activities hosted by The Story’s learning team. Sessions are free, with no need to book.

Sunday 21 July at 11am to 1pm, and 2pm to 4pm.

(Image: Durham County Council)

Making a Living: Jobs and industries through Durham's history

Discover the local jobs and industries of the past and find out how people used to make their living. Visitors can dress up in clothes for different industries, read census records of past careers, and find out what were people’s first and dream jobs back in the day.

Tuesday 13 and Wednesday 14 August, 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm

The Forgotten Battle

There will be a day of family activities and a child friendly approach to the current temporary exhibition, The Forgotten Battle, which is available to see until October. Discover the history of the Battle of Kohima, including looking at the culture of the Naga people, who live in the region.

Sunday 18 August, 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm

Hidden Treasures: Spotlight objects

What makes an object special? Inspired by the hidden treasures in The Story’s collections, discover and hold special objects and unexpected treasures in these interactive sessions.

Tuesday 27 and Wednesday 28 August, 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm

Back to School

September is always about school, so let’s find out what school looked like in the past using The Story’s collections, with fun activities to help children imagine themselves in a Victorian schoolroom.
Sunday 15 September, 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm

Visit www.thestorydurham.org for more details.

(Image: Durham County Council)

Learning at The Story

Bring the history of County Durham to life with a school or group visit to The Story.

The venue offers workshops for schools which are designed and delivered by an experienced team to cover a range of topics across the national curriculum, inspired by the treasures in The Story’s collections.

Workshops can be experienced during a visit to The Story or arranged to take place in the familiarity of the school’s own classroom.

The Story also offers Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) provision workshops, which can be adapted to best suit the needs of the class.

Find out more about workshops, and how to arrange a visit, at www.thestorydurham.org/learning