Events

A new adaptation and performed reading by Gav Cross, Norton’s Narrator.

This 14th Century epic story, set in the festivities of King Arthur's court between Christmas and New Year is now retold at Norton Priory as a ‘twixmas’ treat.

Bravery and honour, chivalry and courtliness, these are the markers of a great knight of King Arthur's Court. Young Gawain must settle the promise made to the terrifying Green Knight.

A monstrous terror that Gawain beheaded to protect his King.

But did not bring about its demise...

With adventure and terror, promises and frailties, this story has lasted seven centuries. Reputed to have been written in Cheshire, we can easily imagine that it was performed and told as an entertainment on this very spot, when the story was newly written.

Join master storyteller, performer and Norton’s Narrator Gav Cross, as he brings to life a new version of this classic text.

Beware the ‘Wilds of the Wirral’.
Beware the Green Chapel.
Beware the Green Knight.

This traditional story for the liminal and lost days between Christmas and New Year is a perfect accompaniment to the heritage wonder of the venue. Will Norton’s own Green Man approve?

Bring your bravest face and perhaps a warm hand to hold?

Age guidance 14+ suggested / 2hrs (Including an interval)

“A Master Storyteller.”
North West End

“Gav's ability to beguile a room, is unparalleled.”
Bradford Literature Festival

“Gav’s After Supper Ghost Stories was a masterclass in storytelling. By the end of the night, even the most restless meme-spewing teen in attendance sat totally captivated by his raucous and suspenseful retelling of these classic tales. We can’t wait to welcome him back.”
Pound Arts

"Gav is an exceptional storyteller.”
Storyhouse, Chester

“Professional storyteller and comedy performer Gav Cross held the audience in the palm of his hands.”
Highlights Rural Touring Scheme

Welcome the New Year and wassail the apple trees in Norton Priory's orchard to encourage a good year's harvest.  It certainly worked a treat last year!

This event follows a rich tradition of encouraging the spirits to ensure a good harvest the following season. It involves a visit to our Wassail Orchard, which is located just behind the museum visitor centre.

Expect singing, dancing, a little drinking (!) and some general merrymaking. As well as being a time-honoured tradition, it's also the perfect antidote to the January blues, and a great way to start the new year!  The ticket includes soup made by the Brooke Cafe.

Tickets are £14 for adults and £9 for Under 21s (discounts available for Norton Priory members).  Tickets coming soon!

Learn the basics of pruning your fruit trees then get some practical experience using the Norton Priory Museum & Gardens orchards, with guidance and advice from an expert tutor. The session will be led by Katie Tonge from Heathfield Orchards.

Katie is the former Chief Executive of the Cheshire Landscape Trust and now manages and advises on orchards across Cheshire. 

A hands-on workshop to learn about grafting fruit trees from an expert tutor. Graft a couple of small apple trees to take home using Norton Priory's heritage apple varieties. The session will be led by Katie Tonge from Heathfield Orchards.

Katie is the former Chief Executive of the Cheshire Landscape Trust and now manages and advises on orchards across Cheshire. She helps to maintain the orchards at Norton Priory and worked with us to create the new Oldfield Orchard.

Join Mima Cornish from HedgeRose Healing for meditation in the beautiful surroundings of Norton Priory Museum and Gardens in Runcorn on select Saturday and Sunday mornings.

The sessions vary each week and take the opportunity to access the many different places and atmospheres at Norton Priory, both inside and out, to truly enjoy the present moment. All meditations will be guided, and any mindful activities will be gentle and relaxing, promoting a natural sense of peace. Suitable for all levels from beginners to experienced. Please bring a blanket.