Events

One pass, unlimited WOW moments...

Get unlimited entry this summer, to both Catalyst Science Discovery Centre & Museum and Norton Priory Museum & Gardens for you and the whole family!

Each WOW pass grants unlimited General Admission to up to two adults and three children (age 0-16) to both museums until 30th September, 2025.

This includes any activities at Norton Priory marked as Discover Norton or included with General Admission!

Norton Priory opening times can be found here: https://www.nortonpriory.org/

Catalyst opening times can be found here: https://www.catalyst.org.uk/

Please note: the WOW pass can only be used by the individual/s named on the card and only applies to General Admission, not special events (unless otherwise stated). When booking your WOW pass via Norton Priory, you will be asked to book the date of your first visit, and your pass will be available to collect from Norton Priory on that date.

Enjoy family-friendly craft activities on Mondays and Tuesdays throughout the school holidays!

Activities will be running from 28th July to 26th August on Mondays and Tuesdays, 11am to 3pm, with different themes each week!

• Monday 28th and Tuesday 29th July - Celebrating the Festival of Archaeology we will be thinking about Norton Priory as an Infirmary. Make your own skeleton, a lollipop stick canon and try to heal the Norton Priory patients.
• Monday 4th August and Tuesday 5th August - This summer at Norton Priory is ‘Summer of Stories’. Make your own story book inspired by Norton Priory’s history and book mark.
• Monday 11th and Tuesday 12th August - We are celebrating animals. Both real and mythical! Make your own animal mask, mythical creature collage and pine-cone creature.
• Monday 18th and Tuesday 19th August - The Brooke Family lived at Norton Priory for 400 years. Find out about the toys and games the Brooke family children would have played with and make your own paper plate rocking horse.
• Monday 25th and Tuesday 26th August - Norton Priory’s research dig is on! Have a go at making your own Norton Priory ‘lift the flap’ discovery dig and see what you can find, have a go at a cookie excavation and write a postcard through time.

After an expert-led talk by Tony Parker about bats and identifying bats using bat detectors, we will head out into the woods to see what bats we pick up! The route will take us up to the Bridgewater Canal, which is an excellent site for watch for bats hunting for insects over the water.

Throughout the summer holidays there will be bat walks on Tuesdays, timed to try to catch bats as they head out to hunt.

• 29th July at 8.15pm

• 5th August at 8pm

• 12th August at 7.30pm

• 19th August at 7.30pm

• 26th August at 7.15pm

Come and try your skills at comic illustration with celebrated artist Stuart Harrison in these three fun workshops. Liverpool based illustrator Stu will be taking inspiration from his book, Brave Maeve, an exciting adventure story linking 6000 years of Irish folklore to today. These special art workshops will introduce visitors to the skills and techniques of comic art, and allow you to create your own adventure!

Stu is an illustrator and cartoonist, writing and drawing for children’s books and media. Stu also writes and draws regular comic strips. Past titles he has worked on include My Little Pony, Dinoboy and Go Jetters. He created all the animated assets for the BAFTA winning “Level UP” website for the BBC. He also teaches game design at LMA in Liverpool.

Workshops are on Tuesday 5th and 28th August at 11am, 1pm and 2pm. 

Join Halton Libraries as we share stories celebrating nature and the great outdoors. Staff from Halton Libraries will share stories and help you join in a simple activity – easy enough for you to re-create at home in your own outdoor space. Bring along a picnic blanket or a chair for the session.

Suitable for ages 3-10 years old.

While Norton Priory hosts the CBBC characters Bill and Ben the Flowerpot Men this summer on loan, we invite visitors to make their own flowerpot creation in this fun filled family craft activity!

This eco-friendly activity re-uses and recycles old flowerpots from the Georgian Walled Garden, and will inspire visitors to make their own personalized flowerpot creation. Artist Juliet Staines will take you through the process, and all materials are provided.

Join Animal Teach as they takeover Norton Priory for this interactive and fun filled animal day!

This exciting takeover day will give visitors a chance to get up close with a variety of live animals, with a special focus on the historic animals and wildlife of the Brooke Family at Norton.

Come and discover :

Animal Encounters: Get up close with a range of fascinating creatures, learning about their behaviours and natural habits.

Interactive Learning Activities: A variety of fun, hands-on stations designed to inspire and educate attendees.

Live Talks: Zoologist-led talks throughout the day, filled with exciting facts about each animal.

Gift Shop: A selection of Animal Teach merchandise and animal-themed gifts for attendees to purchase as memories of their day.

Tickets are £10 per child. Regular admission charges for Norton Priory Museum and Gardens still apply. Museum opens 10am, event times are 11am till 4pm. Animal handling sessions and live talks will take place throughout the day and times will be advertised soon.

The Cosmos Corner returns to Norton Priory this summer, with a week long residency in our medieval undercroft. STEM educator and ambassador Richard Negus will bring his fully interactive mechanical and 3D LEGO display for visitors to explore and experience, along with an array of LEGO activities focused on family entertainment, STEM learning and fun!

The display will be at Norton Priory from Monday 18th August until Sunday 24th August during museum opening hours, and will be included with general admission.

Join Norton Priory's Archaeology and Collections Director Lynn Smith on a tour of the 2025 archaeological excavations on the Priory grounds.

From 18th August to 12th September, we will once again be ‘Digging for Norton’ as we continue to excavate the servants wing of the manor house and the possible location of the medieval infirmary. Our archaeologists will be joined by a small team of volunteers.

Special tours of the dig site will be held on selected Fridays in August and September, and limited spaces are available.

Introducing 'The Tempest', Shakespeare’s most magical play bursting with mayhem, comedy, romance and surprises!

Having developed a reputation for producing first-rate, critically-acclaimed, and highly accessible adaptations of Shakespeare’s work, Immersion Theatre – the multi-award nominated company behind last year’s smash hit 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream', proudly presents 'The Tempest"='; Shakespeare’s unforgettable tale of magic, romance, comedy, and revenge!

With heaps of audience participation, this mesmerising show will be brought to life in unforgettable style, perfect for both, seasoned theatre-goers and newcomers to Shakespeare’s work.

Not to be missed! Suitable for ages 8+

Pre-booking for this event is essential! Pre-booking closes at 11:45 the night before the event, so book now to avoid disappointment!

Uncover the secrets of the past in this hands-on archaeological experience! Perfect for families with kids aged 10 and up, this exciting experience lets you step into the shoes of a real archaeologist at Norton Priory. Grab a trowel, dig into history, and work alongside our expert team to unearth hidden artefacts. Learn how discoveries are recorded, explore clues from the past, and see what secrets lie beneath your feet on this fascinating historic site.

Bookable 1 hr sessions:

• 10am to 11.00am

• 11.30am to 12.30pm

• 1pm to 2pm

• 2.30pm to 3.30pm

Suitable for ages 10+

Access requirements

Suitable for ages 10+. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.

The Discovery Dig will take place outdoors on uneven ground. Please dress appropriately for an outdoor excavation.

Celebrate St Augustine's Day with The St Nicholas Singers. This popular chamber quintet are are delighted to be returning to Norton Priory to help us celebrate St Augustine of Hippo, who's teachings influenced the medieval canons of Norton.

The afternoon will feature historic summer music including madrigals, part songs and choral pieces by early composers, with musical references to St Augustine. Performance times will be advertised on the day, and will take place at various locations around the museum and outdoor grounds.

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.

Upcoming Dates:

• Sunday 7th November
• Sunday 21st September
• Sunday 5th October
• Saturday 18th October
• Sunday 2nd November
• Saturday 15th November

Vivaldi’s Four Seasons is one of the most popular pieces of classical music ever written, instantly recognisable and packed with drama, from birdsong and thunderstorms to icy winter winds. After the interval, the quartet perform Dvořák’s American Quartet, a warm, joyful piece inspired by the wide-open landscapes and folk music of the USA.

The programme includes: 

Antonio Vivaldi – The Four Seasons

Spring (La Primavera), Op. 8 No. 1

               1.           Allegro

               2.           Largo

               3.           Allegro (Danza pastorale)

Summer (L’Estate), Op. 8 No. 2

               1.           Allegro non molto

               2.           Adagio e piano – Presto e forte

               3.           Presto

Autumn (L’Autunno), Op. 8 No. 3

               1.           Allegro

               2.           Adagio molto

               3.           Allegro

Winter (L’Inverno), Op. 8 No. 4

               1.           Allegro non molto

               2.           Largo

               3.           Allegro

Interval

Antonín Dvořák – String Quartet No. 12 in F major, Op. 96 “American”

               1.           Allegro ma non troppo

               2.           Lento

               3.           Molto vivace

               4.           Finale: Vivace ma non troppo

Join us for a truly memorable musical experience in the stunning surroundings of Norton Priory as we present an evening with the award-winning Cheshire Chord Company, led by the talented Joanne Braham.

This versatile and vibrant ladies a cappella chorus, based in the heart of Warrington, brings together singers from a wide range of backgrounds and age groups, creating a rich tapestry of talent, harmony, and joy.

Specialising in high-energy, captivating performances, the chorus delivers a diverse repertoire – from soul-stirring ballads to toe-tapping pop hits, and from contemporary favourites to the timeless harmonies of barbershop classics. Every performance is infused with passion, precision, and a shared love of music.

Proud members of the Ladies Association of British Barbershop Singers (LABBS), Cheshire Chord Company has earned national acclaim, winning nine National Ladies UK Championship titles, most recently in 2023.

Set against the historic backdrop of Norton Priory, this event promises an evening of musical magic, camaraderie, and celebration. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the world of barbershop, you’ll be moved, inspired, and thoroughly entertained.

Don't miss this chance to hear one of the UK's premier a cappella ensembles perform in one of Cheshire’s most picturesque venues.

Quince and Apple Weekend is back at Norton Priory, offering a delightful experience for the entire family. This annual event showcases the best produce from the walled garden, where you can purchase fresh apples, quince and other produce grown at Norton Priory. Dive into creative craft activities and explore a marketplace filled with unique offerings from local businesses! Whether you're looking to pick up some fresh produce or enjoy a fun-filled day of entertainment, Quince and Apple Weekend promises something for everyone.

This is a Discover Norton event and is included with General Admission, plus children go free!* Book online ahead of time for a discount! Pre-booking closes at 11:45 the night before your visit. But if you miss out, you can pay for General Admission on arrival!

*Up to 3 children free per full priced adult ticket, additional children will be charged.

Norton Priory is always looking for unique local businesses and artists for our events. If you are interested in being a stallholder at Norton Priory for this event, or any of our fairs, please contact bookings@nortonpriory.org

Come and join us for this evocative and immersive Halloween season performance with a difference.

The poems and works of literary legend and gothic American writer Edgar Allen Poe are brought to life by VML theatre in the atmospheric setting of the Norton Priory Undercroft.

The company will perform a selection of excerpts from Poe's most well known and classic poems and stories such as The Pit and The Pendulum, The Raven, The Tell Tale Heart and Masque of the Red Death.

The performance starts at 7pm.  There will be a 15 minute interval between acts. 

Step into the festive spirit and kick off your Christmas shopping with a wonderful selection of food, crafts, and gifts from local businesses. The museum will be filled with a variety of stalls, offering everything you need to find the perfect presents for loved ones. From handcrafted treasures to delicious treats, you’re bound to find a stocking filler or two! Enjoy musical entertainment and festive food and drink while you browse and soak up the seasonal atmosphere.

As well as entry to the fair, admission tickets include access to the museum, ruins and woodlands. After picking up some wonderful Christmas gifts, why not enjoy a lovely winter walk in Norton Priory's woodlands?

Norton Priory is always looking for unique local businesses and artists for our events. If you are interested in being a stallholder at Norton Priory for this event, or any of our fairs, please contact bookings@nortonpriory.org

VML Theatre Ltd returns to Norton Priory to bring us a traditional Christmas Carol concert featuring classic and well loved carols.

The concert takes place in our our 12th century undercroft, with the choir adding extra historical sparkle to the evening in Victorian period costume.

Concert starts at 7pm. Refreshments will be available on the evening.

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. She helps to

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.