Based in Carlisle Castle, the Museum has a range of interesting collections including uniform, textiles, weapons, equipment, silver, medals, musical instruments, paintings, prints, drawings, personal items, memorabilia and campaign relics. The archives include a wide range of original documents from unit war diaries to personal papers, casualty records, photographs and books. Many of the items and documents have strong personal and local links. Our school sessions offer the opportunity to learn and engage with history hands-on, whilst in the grounds of the most besieged castle in the UK.
What do we offer?
Gallery Trail
As part of school visits to the Museum, pupils have the opportunity to explore the Museum Gallery. Our gallery trails encourage students to engage with the historical artefacts and to develop their interpretation skills. Download the free gallery trails and teacher’s notes below to use in your visit.
The First World War
What was it like to be a soldier? An opportunity to handle original kit and find out about propaganda, recruitment and conscription.
NEW! Writing Home from the Front – Exploring some original archives, pupils look at the language and content of letters and investigate the WW1 postal service including censorship. Using their knowledge, pupils write their own letter home from the trenches. Great for KS2 literacy.
An Introduction to key themes from the First World War – A powerpoint presentation with objects illustrating why men joined the Army and went to war. This includes the themes of diversity, women, technology and remembrance.
The Second World War
What was it like to be a soldier? An opportunity to handle original kit and find out about different theatres of war and how it impacted on the soldier.
What was it like for soldiers and their families back home? Looking at original artefacts, this session incorporates elements of the home front and soldier’s experiences.
NEW sessions
From Waterloo to Afghanistan 1815-1915-2015 – Exploring the change in soldier’s uniform, kit and equipment over the last two centuries using original and replica artefacts to show progression and development.
Remembrance – Exploring Remembrance using objects and stories from the Collections. Suitable for KS1 and KS2.
Cross-curricular opportunities
Why not use the collections and galleries for a more cross-curricular approach? Whether maths, geography, literacy, music, art or DT, the Museum will be able to add a different dimension to your lessons. Drop Rachel an email to explore possibilities!
The Arts Award – a more creative approach! Contact Rachel for further information.
We have experience of delivering a wide variety of sessions to schools and groups throughout the County. Think we may be able to help but cannot see what you want? Please contact the Museum to discuss your ideas with us.
Think that the Museum might be able to help? Contact Rachel to discuss your ideas to see how we can help.
Information for Teachers
Teachers are welcome to visit the museum before booking a visit. Please contact 01228 532774 to make an appointment.
Teaching space – Sessions at the Museum will be provided in our education room and can comfortably accommodate 50 pupils.
Parking – Coach/minibus parking is available close by on Castle car park (Formerly Devonshire Walk car park) on the west side of the Castle, or Bitts Park to the east; there is a coach drop-off point at Tullie House Museum opposite the Castle and access to the Castle is via the underpass/crossing at the same location. Disabled parking is available in the Castle for cars and small minibuses only. Why not recreate a World War II experience for your class by taking the train? The Museum is within 10 minutes walking distance from Carlisle railway station.
Health & Safety – A copy of our current risk assessment is available here
Toilets and disabled toilet are available in the museum. If you have any health and safety queries, contact the Museum direct.
Lunch/eating facilities – you can pre-book a lunch space at the museum, if it is available.
Shop – there is a small shop stocking a range of publications (many relating to WWI and WWII), small souvenirs and confectionery.
How to book
To book a school visit, please use the enquiry form.
Alternatively, you can telephone the Museum on 01228 532774 or email rachel.brodie@cmoml.org
Please include what you’re interested in, your preferred visit date(s), the year group and number of pupils, if they have any additional needs/access requirements and if you would like to eat your lunch on-site.
Please note, school visits should be booked at least 14 days in advance.
Charges
From September 2023, mediated sessions at the Museum will be £2.50 per pupil (minimum charge of £25)
Outreach Visits by the a member of the Museum Staff to your schools – £65 half day, £130 full day.
