Lincoln Cathedral will be hosting another exciting event on Thursday 24 October – The Saint and the Swan Family Day – focussing on the notable figure Saint Hugh of Lincoln.
Families are invited to the free event (donations welcomed) to discover the history of Saint Hugh including the tale of the swan which is said to have followed him everywhere and how he helped shape the history of Lincoln Cathedral.
Taking place between 10am and 4pm in the Nave of the Cathedral, visitors will be able to take part in a range of fun themed activities, including the prize-winning ‘Swans Feet trail’, clay crafting and making their own 3D badges. Children will also have the opportunity to help create a giant swan collage.
Saint Hugh was consecrated Bishop of Lincoln on 21 September 1186 at Westminster. Lincoln Cathedral had been damaged by an earthquake in the year prior and Hugh set about rebuilding and enlarging parts of it, introducing much of its Gothic-style architecture and features.
Hugh was canonised in 1220 and is the patron saint of sick children, sick people, shoemakers and swans. It is said that he had a white swan who followed him everywhere that he went in Lincoln, and the pair developed a deep and lasting friendship.
The event is being facilitated by Lincoln Cathedral Connected, a project funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund to improve the Cathedral’s setting and visitor experience.
Sally Bleasdale, Education Manager at Lincoln Cathedral, said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming visitors to Lincoln Cathedral for another family day. The life of Saint Hugh is fascinating – he is a prominent figure in the history of our city and that of Lincoln Cathedral.
“We’re excited to teach children about the history of Saint Hugh, his swan and Lincoln, through fun and interesting activities for all the family. Children will also be able to take home their arts and crafts as a reminder of the day.”
Lincoln Cathedral is also taking part in The Big Draw Festival this week (19 – 27 October), this year themed: Drawn to Life: Creativity & Wellbeing. Between 10am and 4pm, visitors are welcome to attend and take part in helping to create an art display of extracts of the Cathedral’s magnificent architecture.
