Education

Two rows of antique, worn books with parchment, red and green covers

Want to know what life was like in Victorian Britain during Queen Victoria’s reign (1837 to 1901)? During this time of massive industrial change and urban growth the narrow streets teemed with busy people and communities were rife with hustle, bustle and boisterous activity. Industrialisation radically altered the way that children and adults worked, played and lived their everyday lives.

But what was life really like? At Spital Farm Craft Centre we want you to experience the great traditions, tastes and skills of the time, when Christmas was an elaborate custom and ice cream became a popular treat; when ladies of wealth wore cameo pins and children played in the street with wooden toys and spinning tops. Immersing yourself in Victorian traditions is an education in itself.

Did you know?

‘Ragged’ schools were set up before the 1870 Education Act and provided a free, basic education for poor children. They were
run by charitable benefactors and received no government support. Rumour has it that Charles Dickens was inspired to write
'A Christmas Carol' after visiting Field Lane Ragged School in 1843.