The Heugh Battery Museum offers an amazing opportunity for school children to come and learn about the impact of World War One on the civilian population as well as about the experience of soldiers serving their country in many different conflicts. We also offer workshops on World War II.
Children will participate in activities both indoors and out whilst at the museum. They will get the chance to hold items such as hand grenades, steel helmets, rifles and shells. Children are encouraged to ask lots of questions whilst visiting the museum, and we hope that it will help to underpin learning taking place back at school.
We have provided answers to some frequently asked questions, but if you have any further queries, please contact us (telephone: 01429 270746 or email: info@heughbattery.co.uk
When can we visit the museum with our school?
You can visit us any weekday and get the museum all to yourselves. We do open to the public on Mondays and Fridays in summer, but you will be advised when booking if the museum is open.
The museum is open from February to the end of November. Some visits can be arranged for December and January depending on staff availability.
How long will our visit last?
Schools usually arrive at the museum at 10 am and leave at 2 pm. However, we can adjust the timings on our activities to suit whatever length of visit you choose. Just contact us to let us know what you would like to plan.
How many children can we bring?
Space is limited in many areas of the museum, so you will need to be split into 3 groups. If you have a larger party, we may split you into 4 groups and give you an additional activity so that children are not too cramped.
Children should be divided into 3 or 4 groups (depending on the workshops you have booked) prior to arrival at the Heugh Battery Museum. You should bring enough staff/parent helpers to have a minimum of 1 adult with each group. Staff and volunteers of the Heugh Battery Museum are not responsible for the behaviour of children whilst on site. Staff MUST stay with groups at all times and take responsibility for the children’s behaviour.
What activities do you offer?
There are three standard workshops provided during a visit to the museum. This can be organised for a full or half day visit.
- Guided tour of the site and the Bombardment of the Hartlepools
- Weapons and uniforms, including handling objects
- Trench Experience
We can provide other workshops such as Postcards from the Front, the War at Sea or Homefront. Please contact us if you wish us to provide an alternative or additional workshop.
We also offer workshops on World War II.
Where will the activities take place?
The guided tour of the site takes place mostly outdoors and does involve walking on grass, uneven surfaces and steps. It is recommended that visitors wear appropriate shoes and clothing. The site does get very cold and experiences strong winds, even in summer.
The Weapons and Uniforms workshop takes place in the armoury, which is accessed by three steps. This workshop can be moved to the cafe area if access is an issue.
The Trench Experience takes place in our re-constructed trench, which is underground and accessed by stairs. This talk includes sound effects and experiences that may not be suitable for some pupils. Please contact the museum if you have any concerns, and the activity can be tailored to suit your needs.
For further information about the accessibility of the site, please see our Access Statement available on this website
Will there be opportunities for children to experience objects hands-on?
Yes, each workshop gives pupils the chance to hold or get close to large and small exhibits. They will be allowed access to one vehicle (weather permitting). We ask that children are not allowed to climb on any of the large exhibits and that they do not run on site.
Where can we eat?
There is some space in our cafe area for children to eat packed lunch, but this is limited and sometimes children will be required to sit on the floor. On fine days, schools parties are encouraged to eat in our outdoor picnic areas.
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