St Albans Cathedral has a fun-filled summer planned for younger visitors with free events and interactive experiences throughout the historic attraction.

The summer holidays can mean expensive day trips out for families but the cathedral is committed to free entry and special children’s events are also free of charge. With the recent opening of its new Welcome Centre funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, younger visitors can also enjoy a new exhibition, interactive screens to take a look behind the scenes, a new digital guide, brass rubbing, dressing up and explorer backpacks.

Free Family Discovery Mornings will run from 10am to 12:30pm every Thursday from Thursday, August 1, to Thursday, August 22. The family sessions are aimed at children aged 3-11 and focus on a different historic period each week, kicking off with Radical Romans. There are also sessions focusing on the Stylish Saxons, Terrific Tudors and Victorious Victorians.

Led by the cathedral’s award-winning education team, the trails aim to get everyone involved. The highlights of each day include meeting someone in period dress and having a go at some exciting arts and crafts. On Thursday, August 1, children have the chance to meet a Roman legionnaire and make an emperor’s laurel crown.

Steve Clarke, Education Officer at the Cathedral, said: “It is always special to welcome children and adults to our Family Discovery Mornings. The mix of art and craft activities, history and dressing up make for a lovely way to spend the morning!”

St Albans Cathedral is open every day from 8:30am to 5:30pm and entry is free of charge. For full details of events this summer and what to expect when you visit, visit www.stalbanscathedral.org