One of Britain’s most majestic ruins and once a controlling gateway through the Purbeck Hills, the castle boasts breathtaking views and several waymarked walks. Steeped in history, an interactive exhibition uncovers many stories of treachery and treason. Defended during the Civil War by the prudent and virtuous Lady Bankes, the castle fell, due to betrayal […]
The Sandford Award is an independently judged, quality assured assessment of education programmes at heritage sites, museums, archives and collections across the British Isles.
More than 350 sites - including historic houses, museums, galleries, places of worship, gardens, landscapes and collections – have received an Award since the scheme began in 1978. They include Hampton Court Palace, Brunel’s ss Great Britain in Bristol, Fota Wildlife Park in Eire, Edinburgh Castle, and Big Pit - the National Mining Museum of Wales.
The Commandery
The building which exists today has undergone many changes over the centuries, with parts re-built to suit the style and needs of each period. The original Hospital developed around the chapel of Saint Gudwal which stood to the north of the present building and was founded around 1085. Museum showcasing: The Medieval period, when The […]
Combe Sydenham
Tudor E-plan house built in 1580 for Sir George Sydenham with earlier defensive gatehouse, and rebuilt following the Restoration in 1660. Deer park and woodland walks. Winner of Sandford Award 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999,2004, 2009
Coldharbour Mill
A 200 year old spinning mill set in the tranquil Devon village of Uffculme. Built by Thomas Fox to spin woollen and later worsted yarns in 1799, Coldharbour Mill is a rare example of surviving Georgian architecture, industry and enterprise. Since reopening as a museum in 1982 the mill has continued to produce high quality […]
Colchester Castle Museum
A visit to Colchester Castle Museum takes you through 2000 years of some of the most important events in British history. Once capital of Roman Britain, Colchester has experienced devastation by Boudica (Boadicea), invasion by the Normans and siege during the English Civil War. Since the 16th century, the Castle has been a ruin, a […]