Heritage Zone

Discover the Heritage Zone activities taking place during Keele Day 2024:

When: 11am-4pm (drop in)

Where: Keele Hall, Raven Mason Suite

One of the treasures of the University, the fascinating Raven Mason ceramics collection is displayed in the graceful surroundings of Keele Hall.

It was lovingly created by brothers Ronald William and John Mason Raven, and the collection contains many important pieces outlining the development of Mason ceramics in Staffordshire from the beginning of the nineteenth century.

Find out more about the collection. 

When: 11am-3pm (45min duration)

Where: Keele Hall, Nesfield Suite

Can you use some of Keele’s history to rescue one of its most famous occupants and “Escape From Keele Hall” before time runs out?

Join Escape [to] the Library for this very special escape game celebrating Keele’s 75th Anniversary over in Keele Hall’s Nesfield Room.

* Sessions are available on the hour from 11am. Limited capacity - please book your place at the welcome point within the Students’ Union to avoid disappointment

When: 11am-3pm (30min duration)

Where: Keele Hall, Raven Mason Suite

What do you know about antiques and art? Try your hand at our version of Fiona Bruce's popular challenge on the Antiques Roadshow and rate pieces from our collection as 'Better, Basic, Best'

When: 11am-3pm (drop in)

Where: Keele Hall, Raven Mason Suite

Go back in time and discover more about Keele's history through our archives.

When: 1pm (2 hours duration)

Where: Keele Hall, University Common Room

A showing of "Marvellous", which in 2015 won the BAFTA for the best single drama on British TV and two other BAFTAs, followed by a Q&A with Neil Baldwin and Malcolm Clarke.

Suitable only for those 15 and over (official age rating).

"Marvellous" tells the story of Neil Baldwin who has been associated with the University since 1960. It has been described as the ultimate feel-good film. Much of it was filmed at the University, and sees Neil played by Toby Jones and Malcolm, Neil's lifelong friend and former President of the Keele Students' Union, played by Greg McHugh.

The book of Neil's life, written by himself and Malcolm, will also be on sale.

When: 11.15am & 1.45pm 

Where: William Smith Building, foyer (meeting point)

A gentle stroll around Keele Campus discussing its geology, geomorphology and history. Tales of mountains, deserts, rivers, glaciers, active geological faults, medieval roads and the Knights Templar!

Please wear suitable outdoor shoes and dress for the weather.

When: 2pm-4pm (drop in) 

Where: Keele Chapel 

All are welcome to enjoy the Rachmaninoff’s All-night Vigil (Rachmaninoff’s Vespers); an atmospheric acapella concert - please stay quiet while you watch.

When: 2pm (60 - 90 min duration) 

Where: Walter Moberley building (meeting point) 

An opportunity to experience famous words and Keele Woods in a new way. Practice a famous speech from history in a different environment!

As this activity will take place in Keele Woods, please wear suitable footwear for uneven ground and dress for the weather.

*Limited capacity, please book your place at the welcome point within the Students’ Union to avoid disappointment.

When: 11.30am & 2pm (1 hour and 30 min duration)

Where: Keele Hall, The Great Hall 

Learn how to make a Leek Button.

Leek was the centre of a thriving button-making cottage industry from the 1600s until the introduction of button machinery in the mid-19th century. In this workshop you will learn how to make the traditional Death's Head thread-wrapped Leek button.

*Limited capacity, please book your place at the welcome point within the Students’ Union to avoid disappointment.

Please note this activity is only suitable for those aged 16 and over as the buttons require dexterity and use of a needle.

Leek Buttons