Heritage Readers mini-series
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11/11/2026
10:00 am - 11:00 am
The Hive, Level 2
Free
The 2nd in our mini-series of 3 reading circle sessions. These are an opportunity to meet and discuss books about Worcestershire’s history, in a relaxed and sociable way. The Hive is a wonderful setting – you will be just metres away from where we safely store and make accessible original archives that offer a window into Worcestershire’s broad heritage. Our suggested reading programme is entirely optional to follow – feel free to discuss information you have discovered from heritage events, websites and books from your own collection. You may also find our searching for a local heritage book guide useful. Feel free to contact us for more information. Whether you are new to Worcestershire’s heritage or already have an interest, all readers are welcome.
No booking necessary.
Worcestershire Archaeology Day 2026
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21/11/2026
10:00 am - 4:30 pm
The Hive - Level 0
An annual day of talks celebrating and sharing recent investigations in Worcestershire, run by Explore the Past – the county Archive & Archaeology Service. This year’s talks will include:
- Rescue excavations at Hanbury
- Clifton Quarry – Archaeology on the Severn Terrace
- Fascinating Finds of 2026
- Your discoveries – highlights from the Portable Antiquities Scheme of local metal detecting and public finds
Book now to join the talks live!
Attend in person at The Hive, this includes refreshments on arrival, at morning break and afternoon break.
- Standard ticket (£24)
- Under 30s ticket (£10)
- Supporter ticket (£26) – help encourage archaeologists of the future with a small contribution towards the subsidised under 30s tickets. As a thank you, you will receive the talk recordings in addition to your day ticket.
Depositor’s Drop_In
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07/12/2026
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Level 2, The Hive
Free
Worcestershire Archives collects a broad range of documents and formats from a wide range of groups and individuals across the county. This is an opportunity for potential depositors to drop in and have a chat with one of our archivists about the types of archives we collect and how to deposit with us.
Please do not bring archives with you as we will be unable to accept and process collections on the day.
No booking is required.
• The Sower of Forms: A Centenary Retrospective of sculptor A. John Poole FRBS
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11/12/2026
4:30 pm - 6:00 pm
Level 2, The Hive
Free
A new exhibition on level 2 of The Hive, showcases the life and work of A. John Poole (1926–2009). He was one of the 20th century’s most prolific and award winning civic and ecclesiastical sculptors who spent nearly fifty years living and working in Worcestershire. His work combined Post-Modernist designs with traditional craftmanship.
To launch this exhibition his daughter will be talking about his designs for the Rotunda in Birmingham and she will offer a personal reflection on the exhibition.
Places are limited, so booking is essential.
Unlocking Powick’s Past – Exploring Asylum Records
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28/01/2027
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
The Studio, level 1
Free
At Explore the Past we hold a wide range of documents relating to Worcestershire Asylums.
Come to this illustrated talk where archive staff will discuss the type of documents we hold and explain how they can be accessed. We will explore the history of the buildings and consider what life was like for the patients and discuss treatments that they received. Using the available resources, we will showcase stories of certain Powick patients, giving you clues and tips for your own research. You will have the chance to ask questions and view some of these original documents.
This event is free but booking is essential.