The Ironbridge Gorge Museums are inviting mums to enjoy a day out as their guest on Mothering Sunday, 31 March, when accompanied by another full-paying visitor. This free entry offer includes Blists Hill Victorian Town, Coalport China Museum, Jackfield Tile Museum, Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron, Museum of The Gorge and Enginuity.
At Blists Hill, where life over 100 years ago is recreated by costumed characters, you can treat mum further and buy her a delicious Victorian High Tea in the Club Room. Tuck into assorted finger sandwiches and enjoy a selection of delicious cakes, including lemon drizzle, fruit loaf and ginger parkin, along with your choice from the selection of Twining’s teas or Fairtrade coffee. Afternoon tea at Blists Hill, priced at £13.45 per person for Passport ticket holders or mums who come to the Museum for free on that day or £29.95 for adults, £24.95 for 60+ or £22.95 for children which includes admission to Blists Hill Victorian Town. Pre-booking is essential at 01952 435948.
In the Victorian era, Mothering Sunday was a special day when children working away in domestic service could return home to visit their mother and families. Although celebrated during Lent, fasting was relaxed and families could indulge in delicious rich foods and celebrations. Children were encouraged to bake a Simnel Cake or pick flowers as a gift for their mothers; hence the evolution of 
present giving on Mothering Sunday.
Blists Hill Victorian Town is open from 10am until 4.30pm, other Museums vary – check www.ironbridge.org.uk for details. A great value Annual Passport Ticket allowing multiple entry into all ten Ironbridge Gorge Museums costs £26.50 per adult, £20.50 for seniors, £16.50 for children under 18, £70 for a family of two adults and all their children and £50 for a family with one adult; under 5s free (terms and conditions apply); Passports can also be bought online in advance saving 5% and individual entry tickets are available at each museum.
For further information, contact the Ironbridge Tourist Information Centre on Tel: 01952 433 424 or visit www.ironbridge.org.uk. The Gorge is easily reached via the M6 and M54 motorways exiting at Telford (M54 junction 4 or 6).