Ilkley Manor House has secured grants from both Tesco’s community grant scheme and the Ilkley & District Round Table.
The funds, totaling £2,150, will be used to enhance the space, making it more family-friendly whilst strengthening its offering as a visitor experience for all ages.
No longer council-funded, the Grade 1 listed building, which is erected on top of a designated Ancient Monument, desperately needs financial support in order to continue providing its free, accessible programme of cultural events and to help keep the heritage of Ilkley alive.
Sarah Thomas, Chair of the Ilkley Manor House Trust, says, “Ilkley Manor House is such an important site at the heart of Ilkley’s social history. By enhancing our offering for families and young children, we will be able to encourage a new generation of heritage custodians, instilling a sense of wonder and enthusiasm for our shared past.”
Thanks to the generous grants, work on the creation of sensory and accessible activities, equipment and signage has already begun; families can now enjoy a whole host of ever-changing weekend events specifically catered to children, including Maypole Dancing, medieval costumes to dress-up in and making pomanders to take home.
Ilkley Manor House is open every weekend Sat/Sun 11am-4pm and for special events. Further information is available from the website: ilkleymanorhouse.org