Lights, camera, action! Adventure through time at your cultural attractions this half term

Collage of three black and white woodcut style images. Central image shows Lincoln Castle's Victorian Prison. Left and right images show a reporter writing in a notebook — Become Lincoln’s next Victorian news reporter at the castle during February half term

From chasing the news to roar-some dinosaur crafts, there are adventures around every corner at Lincoln’s heritage sites this month.

Step inside the Victorian Prison as nine days of family friendly discovery storm Lincoln Castle during the February half term.

Sharpen your pencils and get ready to impress! A Victorian reporter is heading to the castle in search of their next big scoop, but to capture the dramatic tales of the prisoners in time, they need your help.

Pick up your very own Lincoln Castle Gazette, packed with space to sketch, write and record what you discover. With clipboards and pencils at the ready, you’ll become Lincoln’s next reporter, editor and illustrator as you follow the stories and create your own front page.

Your adventure through time doesn’t end there! Beyond the prison, explore the castle grounds, uncover Lincolnshire’s past in archaeology displays and discover 1,000 years of history where it happened.

Don’t miss out – the reporting experience is open daily from Saturday 14 to Sunday 22 February. All the activities are included with your castle day ticket or annual pass.

Once your young journalist has filed their report, why not take the short walk to the Museum of Lincolnshire Life and see an authentic Victorian printing press in action?

The press dates to 1857 and was used by Mr Doncaster, a Lincoln printer from Silver Street, until 1969.

See a Victorian printing press in action during the half term

See it operating during the museum’s Dinosaur Roar event on Tuesday 17 February. Stomp on down and let your imagination run wild as you create your own terrifying t-rex and vicious velociraptor using our craft supplies.

Whilst you explore the museum, don’t miss the ‘Beneath Big Skies’ art exhibition – featuring local artist Robin Wheeldon’s stunning oil paintings, which celebrates the county’s proud rural and industrial heritage.

Entry to the Dinosaur Roar Day is free for adults and just £4 per child. On non-event days entry is free. The museum is open Fridays to Tuesdays, from 10am to 4pm.

Your adventure continues at Lincoln’s free public art gallery. Collect your Kids in Museums Art School Trail sheet and set off on your journey around the Usher. Each stop will take you to another of our amazing artworks, where you’ll unlock your next creative challenge. Complete them all to pick up your free sticker!

The Usher is the only venue across the region where you can enjoy this special activity, so don’t miss out! The gallery is open from 10am to 4pm, Thursday to Monday. Entry is free.

Will Mason, head of culture at Lincolnshire County Council, said:

“School holidays are one of the most important moments for us to connect with families. By filling our cultural spaces with live storytelling and creative activities, we are not just opening the doors, we are giving people something memorable to take home with them.

“These family fun days really bring Lincolnshire’s incredible heritage to life and ensure it stays exciting for new generations. I hope everyone enjoys their days out this half term – packed full of history, creativity and adventure for the whole family.”