Walk in the Footsteps of Mary Ward

This February half term join The Bar Convent for a brand- new activity trail in celebration of Mary Ward (1585-1645); a local woman with a global following. Follow the trail to explore the exhibition and discover the extraordinary life and legacy of this iconic historic figure.

In the Footsteps of Mary Ward is a fun, engaging, hands-on trail, which includes dressing-up, lemon letters, a game of 'knucklebones' and more. It has been curated by a new appointment at the convent, Lisa Coombs, who recently joined the team as the Learning and Education Officer. Lisa has extensive experience working with young audiences and designing educational visits within the heritage sector including roles at the York Museums Trust attractions and York Cocoa House.

Alongside the trail, the convent is also launching its first children's menu and continually improving facilities as a commitment to providing a community hub and welcoming space for all.

Lisa Coombs said: "I am so excited to be enhancing the family offer at The Bar Convent Heritage Centre. It has such a warm and welcoming atmosphere and with a caf?, garden, exhibition and even a guest house on site it is already a lovely place to bring families together.

"We hope that the enhancements we are making such as a new children's menu with colouring sheets for the table, engaging trails in the exhibition and continual development of spaces including the garden and baby change, reassures families that we are committed to creating a space that they feel welcome and can enjoy."

The trail is running until 14 March as part of a wider programme of events celebrating Mary Ward. The trail is included in admission to the exhibition. 10am-5pm (last admission 4pm), Monday- Saturday.

Events include:

23 January-14 March (including February Half Term): In the Footsteps of Mary Ward

Join The Bar Convent as we celebrate Mary Ward (1585-1645); a local woman with a global following. Take part in a brand- new activity trail with dressing-up, lemon letters, a game of 'knucklebones' and more! Follow the trail to explore our exhibition and discover the extraordinary life and legacy of this iconic historic figure.

Thursday 5 March. 1pm-1.30pm: Who is Mary Ward?

A free talk with Dr Hannah Thomas. No booking required. Part of York International Women's Week. www.yorkwomen.org.uk

Ongoing: Mary Ward For Saint!

Sign the petition to have Mary Ward declared a Saint! - https://barconvent.co.uk/events/sign-the-petition-marywardforsaint/

Until 14 March: Becoming One Exhibition

Special exhibition marking the momentous coming together of the two branches of Mary Ward's global family: the Congregation of Jesus and the IBVM (Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary). Included in admission to the exhibition.