Rare chance to explore attic of Newbury's historic Cloth Hall

Tomorrow (Saturday) affords a great opportunity to explore the attic of the historic Cloth Hall at Newbury museum public open day.

This is part of the Wharf's museum building that is not usually open to visitors and can only be accessed by a narrow and steep staircase.

Built in 1626-7 the Cloth Hall was built with money left by John Kendrick of Reading as a municipal cloth-weaving workshop to give employment to the poor.

Take a self-guided tour of the attic of the 17th century hall between 10.30am - 3pm and to help you better understand its unique history you'll be provided with an A3 laminated interpretation sheet telling you some of its story and the people involved.

Although this is a free drop-in event, you might be asked to wait a short time to gain access to the Cloth Hall and its attic, as the number of visitors will be restricted.

• Shaw House also has free drop in days this weekend (Saturday and Sunday, 11am – 4pm)

Meet in the Great Hall for introductory talks about the history of the Elizabethan mansion at 11.30am, 12.30, 1.30pm, 2.30pm and then explore the house, exhibition rooms and historic costume exhibition Dressed for Shaw and the English Civil War arms and armoury exhibition Dressed for Battle.

The café service on these days will be limited in order to create safe access to the bake house.