The Workhouse, Southwell:
Workhouse Life
Phase 1 of a major refreshing of interpretation.
The Workhouse – the clue is in the name! – is an old 19th century workhouse, the only complete example in the country.
We have been commissioned to devise the Master-Plan and implement the ideas therein over the next 2 years.
The first stage has involved a great deal of research to establish the basic principles on which
the objectives can be achieved but to also make a few changes for this year.
We have used this opportunity to augment the existing interpretation with some new ideas before
fully worked up design proposals have been completed for the major works.
However, the main thrust so far has been to establish how best to convey a complex series of messages
in such a way to create a truly accessible tour for all visitor types, including school groups. The 19th century forms
a major part of the national curriculum across different age groups. These age groups, and disabled visitors, have been
considered right from the outset so that there is a coherent experience for all visitors.
- Sound Effects
- Graphic Panels
- Props
Clever use of printed graphics hung in front of a natural light source recreate life at the Workhouse.
A graphic panel gives details of the the Workhouse.

