It’s hands-on history for all at Inspire’s annual heritage celebration, returning to Mansfield Central Library on Saturday 16 May, 10am – 2pm.
Now in its thirteenth year at Mansfield Central Library, Hands on Heritage brings together heritage groups and organisations from across Nottinghamshire for a day of free, family-friendly activities celebrating the county’s rich history.
Visitors can explore local and family history stalls, browse local history books for sale, explore pop-up museums, and view old Nottinghamshire photographs, maps and archives.
Inspire Heritage will be launching their brand new digital heritage platform which will give visitors a chance to discover Mansfield and beyond through real community voices, oral histories, video stories and newly digitised archives. The platform will launch to the general public later this summer with hundreds of materials available to view online for the first time.
Nottinghamshire Archives will also be bringing their popular quill pen writing activity, as well as ‘escape room in a box’ which challenges adults and children to solve clues with help from some real historical documents handpicked by the team.
Attendees can also get hands-on with fun crafts and activities for children, including a virtual reality coal mine courtesy of Nottinghamshire Mining Museum, and an opportunity to have your own studio portrait done by Edwardian photographer Michael Pattison. Other organisations taking part include the D. H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum, Ashfield Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers, and Nottinghamshire Bobbin Lace Society who will be demonstrating heritage crafts. The day will be accompanied by live music by the Red Hot Band, and refreshments will be available to purchase from the recently opened Chapters café on the mezzanine floor.
This year’s Hands on Heritage Day is particularly significant, taking place in Inspire’s 10th anniversary year. Created by Nottinghamshire County Council in 2016, Inspire was established to bring together libraries, adult and community learning, music, culture, heritage, and youth arts under one innovative organisation. Ten years on, it has grown into a nationally recognised service, delivering thousands of events, courses and activities each year and supporting residents of all ages to read, learn, create and connect.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, Inspire will debut its 10th birthday exhibition at Hands on Heritage, showcasing standout moments and milestones from the organisation’s first decade.
Peter Gaw, CEO of Inspire, says:
“I am delighted to see Hands on Heritage return for another year, giving people of all ages to chance to explore Nottinghamshire’s rich history. As Inspire celebrates its tenth year, this event is a chance to not only discover the stories of our past, but also to celebrate a decade of bringing communities together through culture, learning and heritage.”
Further information about Hands on Heritage and a full list of stall holders can be found here.
Posted on 18 May 2026
