Events

Forge Mill Needle Museum and Bordesley Abbey Visitor Centre holds many different events throughout the year.

These can link in with National Days or initiatives, seasonal themes or exhibitions that are on display at the museum, or just fun-filled events for all the family to enjoy. With such a variety of events there is something for everybody!

Sat 31 May 2025: 5.00 to 11.00pm

SILENT DISCO

Come and enjoy a Silent Disco in Redditch in the unique surroundings of our Cloisters area and grounds.

Dance the night away and enjoy making memories with family and friends. You can choose from three different channels – one of which is hosted by the DJ.

  • Family disco from 5.00 to 7.00pm
  • Adults only 7.30 to 11.00pm (music starts at 8.00pm)

We will be selling snacks and ice creams as well as a range of non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks.

FAMILY DISCO (5.00 to 7.00pm) £4.50 EACH
ADULTS ONLY DISCO (7.30 to 11.00pm) £8.00 EACH
JOINT DISCO (5.00 to 11.00pm) £10.00 EACH

Bookings should be made in advance using the link below:

Wednesdays 4 June to 2 July: 10.30am

OUTDOOR EXPLORERS: SUNSHINE AND BUTTERFLIES

Explore the outdoor world through free play in our Forest School area with your little one. Each session lasts around an hour, and starts and finishes around the fire circle.

We recommend this activity for 3 and 4 year olds, but younger ones are welcome also and there is no charge for younger accompanying siblings.

Please ensure legs are covered and sturdy footwear is worn along with warm clothing and waterproofs where necessary.

PER CHILD £4.00

Bookings should be made in advance using the link below:

Sun 8 June 2025: 10.30am to 2.00pm

INKED – A CELEBRATION OF TATTOO ART

A  unique event showcasing the incredible talent of local tattoo artists. Meet the artists behind the ink, explore their designs, and get inspired for your next piece of wearable art.

There will be live music from Andy Flemming, creative displays, and the chance to connect with the people shaping tattoo culture in our community.

Although there won’t be any live tattooing on the day, it’s a perfect opportunity to network, get inspired, and find your next tattoo artist or designer.

ADMISSION FREE
Normal museum entry fees apply

Sat 14 and Sun 15 June 2025: 10.00am to 4.00pm

STEP BACK IN TIME WEEKEND

Come and enjoy a celebration of history featuring:

  • Royal Characters
  • Korean War
  • WWII
  • Medieval Re-enactment
  • Viking Wllow Weaver

Bring the whole family!

ADMISSION FREE
Normal museum entry fees apply

Sat 5 July 2025: 7.00 to 10.30pm

80s NIGHT IN THE CLOISTERS

Join the 80s Alive duo as they perform well known hits with energy and passion in our covered Cloisters area. A fantastic night of live music which is always popular!

Drinks available from the bar. Please dress warmly if it is a cool evening.

ALL TICKETS £9.00

Bookings should be made in advance using the link below:

Wed 9 and Fri 11 July 2025: 10.30 to 11.30am

TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC: MOVIE MAGIC

If you go down to the mill today, be sure of a big surprise! Our popular teddy bears’ picnic event is back and this time it’s movie themed!

Bring your teddy dressed for the film awards or as a screen star. Enjoy a craft, themed trail, songs and games with your cuddly friend and then adventurous teddies can brave our teddy zip wire! Share a picnic together afterwards.

CHILDREN £6.00

Bookings should be made in advance using the link below:

Sun 31 August 2025: 4.30pm for 5.00pm performance

OUTDOOR THEATRE: THE BIG BAD WOLF

Come on a musical journey of plotting and scheming with literature’s most notorious villain – the Big Bad Wolf. The Plandits are back on the road with this new show bursting with live music, silliness and laughs for the whole family.

Gates open at 4.30pm. The performance begins at 5.00pm. Please bring your own picnics, blankets and seats to enjoy this performance in the beautiful, natural surroundings of Forge Mill.

Ice creams and light refreshments will be available from our coffee bar.

ADULTS £13.00, CHILDREN £6.50

Bookings should be made in advance using the link below:

Guided Tours of Forge Mill