Heritage Open Day: Textile Stories of the Moorlands – 19th September 2026

Heritage Open Days is a national event celebrating rarely seen, new and one off events shining the spotlight on heritage up and down the country. This year, the Friends of the Nicholson invite you to discover the rich textile heritage of the Staffordshire Moorlands with a hands-on family activity in Leek.

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Ahead of the Nicholson Institute’s reopening this October, the Friends of the Nicholson are bringing the museum’s collection and stories to Leek Butter Market for a free, hands-on Heritage Open Days event.

Explore the everyday lives of people in the Moorlands through the region’s rich textile history. Discover the skills, craftsmanship and stories behind the mills of Leek, Cheadle and Tean, and see original 1970s garments, including a Slimma skirt and a LuxLux nightie.

Have a go at traditional weaving techniques featured in these iconic pieces, learn more about the Nicholson Institute’s fascinating collection, and find out how you can get involved as we celebrate the creativity, community spirit and heritage that shaped our place.

This is a free, drop-in activity suitable for families and visitors of all ages.

ACCESS: The event takes place on the ground floor of Leek Butter Market. The activity is free to attend and no booking is required.

For further information, please email hello@outsidearts.org