Free
- Activity
Medieval Easter
7 April to 19 April 2026
Saxon Story Hunters
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Come and discover the world of the Saxons this May half term holiday at the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds.
Become a trainee archaeologist, examine the dig site, hunt for more clues throughout the museum, and discover the identity of the skeleton in the pit and the meaning of the objects they were buried with.
The trail, plus the themed performances and demonstrations, will give a real insight into Saxon life and the importance of the seax (knife) to this ancient warrior culture.
Book a morning session (10am to 12:30pm) or afternoon session (12:30pm to 4:30pm)
The activity programme is the same for both sessions.
All activities will be finished by 4pm. The museum closes at 5pm.
All activities are suitable for ages 5 to 12. Adult supervision required at all times.
Saxon History Hunter Trail
- Dig Site 1: Saxon Burial Site
An ancient grave has been discovered! Join our archaeologists as they investigate the grave of a mystery Anglo-Saxon.
See what they’ve discovered so far and find out how you can help solve the mystery.
Pick up your activity leaflet and continue your quest for more clues at designated ‘Dig Sites’ throughout the museum.
Drop-in throughout the day: 10am to 4pm - Dig Site 2: The Forge
Storytelling: Meet an Anglo-Saxon at the Forge.
Listen to stories about daily life, find out how weapons and tools were made, and discover another clue.
Presentations at set times throughout the day
11am to 11:15am | 12pm to 12:15pm | 1pm to 1:15pm | 2pm to 2:15pm | 3pm to 3:15pm - Dig Site 3: Saxon Sword School
Have-a-go activity.
Do you have what it takes to be a Saxon warrior? Step into our arena and find out in this hands-on training, plus look out for another clue.
Sessions at set times throughout the day. Offered on a first-come-first-served basis.
10:15am to 10:30am | 10:30am to 10:45am | 11:15am to 11:30am | 11:30am to 11:45am | 12:15pm to 12:30pm
1:15pm to 1:30pm | 1:30pm to 1:45pm | 2:15pm to 2:30pm | 2:30pm to 2:45pm| 3:15pm to 3:30pm | 3:30pm to 3:45pm - Dig Site 4: A Warrior’s Discipline
Combat Demonstration.
See Anglo-Saxon warriors train for battle. Hear the clash of weapons and see how they practise their skills. Watch carefully and uncover another clue.
Demonstrations at set times throughout the day.
12pm to 12:15pm | 1pm to 1:15pm | 2pm to 2:15pm | 3pm to 3:15pm - Dig Sites 5: Craft Activities
Create your own Saxon board game and design a brooch.
Drop-in between 10am to 1pm or 2pm to 4pm - Dig Site 6: Storytelling
Listen to an exciting Anglo-Saxon tale and collect another clue.
Drop-in between 10am to 1pm or 2pm to 4pm - Dig Site 7: The Final Journey
Once you’ve collected all the clues go to the War Cinema and watch as the mystery Anglo-Saxon is laid to rest with all the treasures you’ve discovered on your hunt. Did you work out who they were?
Drop in between 12pm to 4pm
Book your half-term visit
Please book either the morning session (10am to 12:30pm) or afternoon session (12:30pm to 4:30pm). The activity programme is the same for both sessions.
All activities will be finished by 4pm. The museum closes at 5pm.
Admission is free. Please pre-book your visit as the museum will be busy at half term.
Suggested donation: £3.
Please consider making a donation when booking. The amount can be changed or set to zero.
Your support makes a difference to the Royal Armouries. As a registered charity, your donations help us continue inspiring visitors of all ages and backgrounds through our historic collection, lively demonstrations, and immersive shows.
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