Published 9th June 2026
Inspire’s popular Hands on Heritage Day returned to Mansfield Central Library on Saturday 16 May, attracting history lovers, families, and curious minds for a vibrant celebration of Nottinghamshire’s past. Now in its thirteenth year, the event remains a firm favourite in the local calendar, offering a packed programme of hands-on activities, heritage crafts, and immersive experiences for all ages.
Over 600 visitors attended the day to explore local and family history stalls, browse local history books for sale, and view old Nottinghamshire photographs, maps and archives.
During the event, Inspire Heritage launched its new digital heritage portal. Visitors were able to discover over 1500 images, videos and sound recordings of life from Mansfield and beyond. The free, online portal showcases authentic voices discussing life in Hucknall’s textile industry, now available for the first time in two decades. Other highlights were a letter from Ada Lovelace to Charles Babbage, the diary of Newark surgeon Dr Ernest Ringrose, family letters, and school log books from the Victorian era.
Nottinghamshire Archives brought their popular quill pen writing activity, as well as ‘escape room in a box’ which challenged adults and children to solve clues with help from some real historical documents handpicked by the team.
Attendees could 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 their own studio portrait done by Edwardian photographer Michael Pattison.
Traditional heritage crafts were demonstrated by the D. H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum, Ashfield Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers, and Nottinghamshire Bobbin Lace Society .
Other stallholders included: Arnold Local History Group, Bob Massey History, British Empire at War, CEE Notts, Friends of Mansfield Cemetery, Friends of Milton Mausoleum, Inspire Learning, Keyworth and District Local History Society, Kirkby and District Archaeological Group, Newark Castle Gatehouse Project, Newstead Abbey Partnership, Nottinghamshire Family History Society, Nottingham Women’s History Group, Old Mansfield Society and Sutton Heritage Society.
The day was accompanied by live music by the Red Hot Band, and refreshments were available from the recently opened Chapters café.
This year’s Hands on Heritage Day was particularly significant as it took 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 debuted its 10th birthday exhibition at Hands on Heritage, showcasing standout moments and milestones from the organisation’s first decade.
This was AMAZING! Really interactive and informative.
Wonderful to see all the groups I didn't know about!
Grandkids really enjoyed the activities and heritage treasure trail.
Really enjoyed speaking to different people about different aspects of local history
Brilliant fun, learning for the kids (aged 3 & 5).
