Water Corn Mill
There has been a water-driven mill at Shugborough since the Middle Ages. In the late 18th century the mill was incorporated into a model Farm by Thomas Anson, the first Viscount. During this time its main purpose was to grind corn. This demonstration begins with children flailing the cereal before the corn is taken into the mill to be put onto the sack hoist. Different types of grain are then identified and their various uses discussed. From the viewing point children can see the water wheel and discover how water power is harnessed using cogs, gears and machinery in order to drive the mill and eventually turn the grain into flour. This one hour demonstration provides an excellent opportunity to see each stage of the milling process illustrating the variety of cereals for human and animal consumption.

Ship Ahoy
The adventures of Admiral Anson offer school children an insight into eighteenth century naval life through the eyes of the crew of Admiral George Anson aboard his flag ship the Centurion. Costumed guides help the company of new recruits to experience the full flavour of life aboard the Centurion during its four year circumnavigation of the world. Adopting the role of young volunteers in the King's navy the children don sailor's dress of the period. They help to stock the ship with supplies and go on to re-enact actual events of the voyage as described in the ship's log.
'All aboard', they sample the ship's rations and experience the life and work of the crew. They develop and recover from scurvy with the help of fruits found in the Pacific Islands and find enough strength to fight the crew of a Spanish Galleon (injured recruits may have to sacrifice a limb!) Showing great bravery, they put out a fire in the warehouses of Canton and are richly rewarded with treasure.
This action-packed session should ensure that children have many memories of their life abroad the 'Centurion' and helps to stimulate their imagination and indicates how difficult life was in the Georgian navy.

Grace and Favour
Experience the two sides of a Victorian Christmas at Shugborough. The children are entertained in Victorian splendour as a guest in the Mansion House then celebrate the Festive Season as a poor Farm labourer.
Mansion House
Discover the delights of being a wealthy child in the Mansion House at Christmas time. Be entertained by magic tricks and a magic lantern show! Learn about manners and deportment in the Saloon, make a graceful bow and curtsey then promenade through to the Dining Room to see the table laid for the festive season. Join together for the Victorian dance, The Lancers for a rousing finale.
Farm
Compare traditional Christmas Fare at the kitchen table and help cook stir the Christmas Puddings. Discover toys and cards from the Victorian age and the tradition of the holly and the ivy. Make your very own tree decoration from salt dough.
(to be baked and decorated back at school)
Availability: During November and December (excluding days of major events)
Approximate time: 2 hours