It has been a summer to remember at the Museum of East Dorset, where visitor numbers have soared by an impressive 250% following the launch of Minecraft-inspired family activities.
Since the start of the school holidays, Wimborne’s much-loved museum has welcomed wave after wave of children and parents eager to take part. The programme has combined the familiar world of Minecraft with the museum’s heritage setting, encouraging playful discovery and imagination – and all without a screen in sight.
From day one, the activities have struck a chord. Families have been creating their own ‘Player Skins’ at craft tables, making masks, and sculpting in clay. Others have grabbed a spade at the interactive Sandbox Mining zone to uncover hidden treasures, or followed the Mob Hunt Trail through the galleries in search of blocky intruders. The costume station, where youngsters can dress up as a Creeper, Enderdragon or another Minecraft character, has also proved a favourite.
On certain dates, the Garden Room has even been reimagined as a Mob Arena, complete with NERF Minecraft bows and crossbows for brave visitors to test their skills against mobs of the night.
Operations Manager Andy Putt said: “The Minecraft sessions have offered a fresh and engaging way for young visitors to connect with local history – learning about architecture, archaeology and community heritage in the process. There’s even been a bit of maths thrown in which the kids don’t seem to have minded!”
Parents and grandparents have praised the activities for sparking creativity and making the museum a place the whole family can enjoy together.
Arthur and Lorna Downing, aged 8 and 10 from Corfe Mullen, visited with their mum and grandparents. Arthur said: “I’ve loved the Mob Arena shooting range and building at craft table.” His sister Lorna added: “Finding all the hidden figures on the museum trail was great fun.”
Museum Director Francesca Hollow said: “We’re absolutely delighted by the response. This initiative has shown how a modern trend like Minecraft can open new doors to learning and spark an interest in heritage. It’s been wonderful to see the museum buzzing with so many youngsters and full of energy and excitement. The Museum of East Dorset continues to prove that history isn’t just something to look at – it’s something to build, explore and bring to life.”
The Minecraft programme runs until Saturday 6th September, and tickets give unlimited entry to the museum for a full year. For more information and booking, visit www.museumofeastdorset.co.uk
