Ref: PR 2230
Date: 22/05/2009

Wakefield Council’s Clarke Hall is hosting a free special event on May 31 as part of its events for spring half-term.

The event, ‘Clarke Hall: The House’, explores the history of the beautiful 17th century gentleman farmer’s house through archaeology, architecture and conservation.

Families can find out about the building’s interesting past through the work of amateur archaeologist, Henry Haldane, who began to restore it in 1914.

Visitors can also unravel the mysteries of the Priest’s Hole and discover the truth about the moat as well as handle real archaeological artifacts.

Cllr Denise Jeffery, Wakefield Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for culture, said: "This free event is perfect for an exciting family day out where people can step back in time and learn hands-on about the Hall’s past.

"Best of all, the event is free and the Council is continually working to offer free services and activities for people through these tough economic times."

Parking is available and there is no need to book. The event runs from 10am to 4pm with a tearoom serving homemade cakes in the atmospheric period kitchen.

Clarke Hall is situated on Aberford Road in Wakefield and for more details on this and other events there visit www.experiencewakefield.co.uk or call 01977 722744.