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Morning
The Museum of Childhood at Sudbury Hall will delight visitors of all ages. Eight galleries of memories follow the history of childhood (not just toys!) from the 19th century to the present day. Children can experience the horrors of life as a chimney sweep and the strict discipline of the Victorian School Room, while grandparents can re-kindle their childhood days by playing jacks and marbles. Everyone will delight in the inspirational collections, archive film of playground games and the chance to create stories and rhymes. The museum features additional exhibitions and themed evenings throughout the year so check out the website before visiting to ensure that you don't miss out on the fun!
Extend your visit by exploring the imposing 17th century Sudbury Hall with its lavish interiors and magnificent decorative plasterwork; the grounds, gardens and adjacent Church of All Saints.
Lunch
A light lunch is available just a short drive away, at the Lavender Patch in Hilton from mid-June to September; or for something more substantial, why not try the Tea Room at Mercia Marina, a new 585-berth canal boat marina in Willington or one of the village's local pubs.
Afternoon
Highfields Happy Hens at Etwall is a brilliant hands-on small animal farm where you can collect your own eggs and feed the animals. There are three great play areas to burn off some of that excess childhood energy and a scarecrow nature trail with quizzes and puzzles along the way.
At Rosliston Forestry Centre near Swadlincote, orienteering, laser games and archery are just some of the things that can be arranged if you book at least one day in advance and if you visit during the school holidays, bouncy castles, mini beast hunting and pond dipping are amongst the additional activities that take place. The quieter side of Rosliston is the woodland itself. Between 1994 and 1996 120,000 trees were planted on the site, creating new young woodland, but you will also find mature trees in the rich and varied hedgerows. Spend the afternoon exploring the site using the way-marked walking and cycling trails.
Evening
Rosliston Forestry Centre's brand new outdoor arena 'The Glade' will be hosting lots of drama and music performances, check out their website for a list of forthcoming events.
