Banbury Museum

Oxford Canal

Visit the Banbury Museum where 'hands on' displays tell the stories that have made Banbury famous

A walk along the Oxford Canal at Banbury can easily be combined with a visit to Banbury Museum.

What is there to do?

• Museum – running a variety of educational workshops and resources linked to the Oxford Canal.
• Oxford Canal
• Canal Trail
• Boat trip

Want to know more?

Banbury is an attractive market town on the banks of the River Cherwell and Oxford Canal, Banbury is known both for its mythologized cross and famous fruity cakes. The ancient cross of the famous nursery rhyme ‘Ride a Cock Horse’ was destroyed by the Puritans in 1602, but a 19th century replica stands in the town centre today.

Visitors can dine in style with a restaurant cruise along the Oxford Canal on Rosamund the Fair, or get a feel for life at the tiller and hire a boat for the day. Take a stroll around the historic centre, browse the market and don’t forget to sample a slice of Banbury Cake.

For more information on Banbury museum visit the website: Banbury Museum

For more information on canals and events in this area go to: Waterscape

Families

Watch from the Waterways Gallery the Oxford Canal pass beneath your feet. Why not take a self guided trail with your children, starting at the Waterways Gallery at Banbury Museum and finishing at Spiceball Country Park. Museum opening information: Monday to Saturday 9.30am - 5.00pm Sunday and Bank Holidays 10.30am - 4.30pm Admission Free

What about schools and groups?

The museum’s purpose built education studio, experienced workshop leaders, interactive galleries and hands-on learning programmes ensure school visits are a fun and exciting learning experience. Museum trails and activity booklets are free to schools that book workshops. Risk assessment guidance is also available. Canal related workshops for both KS1 and KS2 children are available, as is a boat trip along the Oxford Canal.

Programmes for Schools Key Stage 2 Programmes

The Canal Experience (KS2)

This creative programme explores life on the Oxford Canal. Pupils are given the opportunity to study photographs, explore museum artefacts and wear traditional clothes from the waterways. The session concludes with the opportunity to try your hand at canal art. Pupils will learn about the techniques behind this traditional painting style and decorate their own plate to take home.

Optional Boat trip

Explore the Oxford Canal on the museum's special boats. See the ducks, travel under a bridge and discover what canals are used for today.

Booking a visit

For information about booking a visit to Banbury Museum please contact the Learning Support Office on 01295 672630 or download more information about these workshops from the museum website.