Rural Life Centre

The Rural Life Centre is a country life museum, assembled by the late Mr & Mrs Henry Jackson and now run by a charitable trust. It is pleasantly distributed over ten acres of field, woodland and barns, and comprises a large number of implements and devices marking over 150 years of farming. Many aspects of village and rural life are also displayed in realistic individual settings. There is so much to explore!

Our events are a brilliant way to experience the museum as our team of volunteers set about to bring the museum alive, with costume, crafts, demonstrations and hands-on activities.

For families we offer 'step back together' activities so there is lots of stuff for kids to keep them amused. Also, children can really get involved at events and on Activity Thursdays which take place throughout the holidays.

Enjoy a ride on the The Old Kiln Light Railway which operates every Sunday throughout the summer. Bookings are now being taken for the Santa Special train rides in December.

Facilities include children's play area, arboretum, gift shop and picnic areas. The Old Kiln Cafe offers a wonderful selection of cakes, refreshments, light bites and home cooked meals.