The Cottage reopens this May!
We are very happy to announce that Mrs Smith’s Cottage will be reopening on Friday 21 May and we can’t wait to see you all again!
We will be open on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays. Booking is advised to avoid disappointment! Click here to book your visit now.
Upcoming events
Butterfly Trail
In June there will be a butterfly trail at the cottage. Taking you through the garden, to explore how and why we have made the cottage as butterfly friendly as possible! Bring you phone to make the most of the digital aspects of the trail.
Cupcake Day
Cupcake Day for Alzheimer’s Society on the 13th June. Our garden is free to explore, with cakes, teas and coffees available.
Admission applies to the cottage.
Update from our Artist in Residence Nicki Jarvis
Our Artist in Residence Nicki is embarking on a new project for the Cottage, inspired by Mrs Smith’s many friendships in Navenby and beyond. The Friendship Chair will be a wing-backed armchair with a handmade loose cover in the form of a patchwork. Inspired by ‘Friendship Quilts’ from the 19th and 20th centuries, this patchwork will consist of blocks embroidered with names gleaned from Mrs Smith’s diaries. The chair will be available for people to use in the Visitor Centre.
Nicki says: “I am delighted to be working alongside Hannah Weston-Smith, a traditional upholsterer and furniture conservator to make this piece. Members of the Sleaford Embroiderers have also been invited to contribute to the work. Now I am looking for anyone connected with Mrs Smith’s Cottage who would like to stitch a name from the diary. All materials will be provided together with clear information about what to do. If we are lucky then it might even be possible to have some group sewing sessions later in the year.”
We are now on Facebook!
After months of planning and preparation, we have now setup our own Facebook page! For the very latest information and news from the Cottage, give us a follow. You can find us at www.facebook.com/mrssmithscottage
Come and volunteer with us
We’re looking for people with a passion for local history and heritage to join our award-winning team.
In return for your hard work and dedication, we can offer a very special role where you will learn new skills, meet new people and really make a difference to your local community.
You will be hands-on with our team, getting involved in retail, gardening and conservation cleaning.
This is a unique, rewarding volunteering role that will give the right person the skills they need for a future in heritage.
So come and make a difference, and be part of our friendly team at Mrs Smith’s Cottage, email [email protected] for more information.
Craft Packs still available
Don’t forget that our brilliant craft packs are still available if you and your family want to get involved. These can be picked up at Paws for Thought on Navenby High Street. Our May craft pack is a 3D card cottage, which was designed by our amazing volunteer Annabel!