Worcestershire County Museum at Hartlebury Castle is the home of amazing collections of transport, costume and archaeology, and expert curators are about to shine the spotlight on these fascinating objects in a new series of talks open to the public.

The first talk takes place at Hartlebury Castle on Thursday 21 March at 1pm and is an introduction to the new exhibition Fashioning Peace which explores the effect the First World War had on science, medicine, art and culture. Talk attendees will be able to get close to a number of historic objects, some not on public display, and hear their fascinating stories. Read more here.

Gypsy Queen caravan at Hartlebury Castle.

On Thursday 11 April visitors can get up close and personal with some of Worcestershire’s earliest and rarest archaeological artefacts, and discover the science of reconstructing our ancient landscapes including Ice Age Strensham. Read more here.

Thursday 16 May is a treat for lovers of period drama and fashion as costume dating from the mid-18th century right up to the present day is unveiled. Find out how the curators care for the collection and then get a chance to see behind the scenes into the costume stores; a veritable treasure trove of social history. Read more here.

The Tickenhill Collection formed the basis of the County Museum collections.  On 20 June the Social History curator will handpick a selection of fascinating objects and share the discoveries made about their origins; why the Parker family may have collected them and what we have done to preserve them for future generations. Read more here. 

On 19 September visitors can explore ‘All That Glitter and Some That Don’t’ in a round-up of Archaeological Treasures recently found by the public in Worcestershire which give us a glimpse into the past.

Finally on 17 October hear the stories and see for yourself one of the finest collections of Gypsy Caravans in Britain and discover the history of their nomadic occupants.

Deborah Fox, Senior Curator with Museums Worcestershire says:

“Museum objects are undoubtedly wonderful to look at, but they really come to life when you hear the fascinating stories behind them. We hope visitors will enjoy this unrivalled glimpse into the museum collections and enjoy hearing from the experts all about these objects that are so intrinsic to Worcestershire’s history.”

The curators’ talks last an hour and cost just £4.  Places can be booked by calling 01299 250416.