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Warwickshire heritage attraction proves popular with visitors

31st August 2012 Print
Chedhams Yard

‘Chedham’s Yard’, the BBC Restoration winning site located in the village of Wellesbourne in Warwickshire is proving to be popular with visitors, old and young alike. The well preserved ‘time capsule’ and former 19th-century blacksmith's and wheelwright's workshop, has seen a steady influx of visitors since opening in June. Since winning the the TV programme in 2006, the charming and unique heritage site has been carefully restored from derelict buildings to a well preserved site complete with a new oak visitor centre and café.

The Yard was previously run by five generations of the Chedham family, the last of whom, Bill Chedham, still lives in the village. The Yard closed its doors in 1965 and lay undisturbed for more than 35 years. Thanks to funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the BBC Restoration Trust, visitors are now able step back in time and visit the Yard crammed with over 4,500 artefacts including craftsman’s tools, equipment and items made on site. Volunteer tour guides are also on hand to inform visitors about the Chedhams Family who worked at the yard for 150 years. A programme of activities and special events take place every Saturday aimed at families and include demonstrations from the blacksmith, willow weaving, story-telling and country crafts.

Emma Banks, Heritage Project Officer said: “We are delighted that visitors can now enjoy Chedhams Yard after years of careful restoration. The Yard gives visitors a wonderful snapshot of working life in the 19th century and illustrates a fast disappearing but important part of our rural heritage. Visitors are now able to go on a tour, try their hand a putting a wheel together, relax in the garden and enjoy delicious local produce in our cafe”

The Yard is open to pre-booked visitors every Saturday until the end of October. To pre-book a ticket, please visit the online booking system at chedhamsyard.org.uk. Tickets cost £3.50 for an adult, £3.00 for concessions, £1.50 for a child and £9.50 for a family.

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Chedhams Yard