This winter, The Workhouse & Infirmary in Southwell invites supporters to embrace the spirit of giving through its Reverse Advent Calendar appeal.
From 15th November to 21st December, supporters are encouraged to bring donations in aid of two local charities: Baby Basics Newark & Ashfield and the Newark Emmaus Trust, helping local families and young people in need this Christmas.
The Reverse Advent Calendar flips the traditional idea of receiving gifts during Advent. Instead, supporters are asked to donate essential items or small treats, building a calendar of kindness that will make a real difference to those facing hardship this winter.
Items most needed include:
For Baby Basics: newborn essentials such as nappies, baby wipes, blankets, maternity pads, and Moses baskets.
For Newark Emmaus Trust: pampering gifts and practical items including socks, toiletries, slippers, and small photo frames.
Donations can be dropped off at the Visitor Reception Building (next to the car park) on Saturdays and Sundays from 10.30am to 3.00pm between 15 November and 21 December.
Festive Highlights at The Workhouse also include:
- A Christmas Pudding Trail (all open days), families can take part in a fun trail to find all the ingredients for a traditional Victorian Christmas pudding. (£2.50 per trail)
- Christmas Celebration Day – Saturday 13 December: enjoy performances by The Pauper Choir, storytelling with Tales from The Workhouse, folk dancing, family crafts, and festive treats in the café.
A Glimpse of Christmas Past
“Christmas was one of the few bright spots in the lives of the inmates at The Workhouse” says Fiona Lewin, Senior House and Collections Officer. “Historical records reveal that, in 1836, the Board of Guardians granted the Southwell inmates a special dinner of roast beef, plum pudding, tea and cake; a rare treat that brought everyone together.”
Fiona continues, “This year, the team will honour that history with simple greenery and foliage decorations, recreating the modest but heartfelt festive touches of the Victorian era. Visitors can also explore displays inspired by George R. Sims’ 1877 poem, In the Workhouse: Christmas Day, offering insight into how the season was experienced by the poorest in society.”
Plan Your Visit
The Workhouse & Infirmary is open at weekends through the winter months. Full opening times, alongside details of weekly and monthly walks, seasonal events and activities, can be found on the website at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/theworkhouse
Posted on 20 November 2025
