For those of you who have already seen our social events page, you’ll have noticed that we will be spending our first evening of the conference at Kelham Island Museum for drinks and canapés.
Last week, we went down to have a look at this amazing piece of historical heritage.
What was once the heart of the City’s industrial growth, Kelham Island has now turned into a cosmopolitan district of Sheffield housing, both residential and commercial premises, bars, restaurants and a thriving café culture. The area is currently going through major redevelopment including housing the City’s first eco-friendly housing development, Little Kelham.
Our tour of the museum started in the main hall which will be the main location for the drinks and canapés evening; it comprises of several museum exhibits including what life was like for the workers of the steel industry and multi-media to give a hands on experience to visitors.
Not only that but we will be having two performances of the River Don Engine; a 400 tons, 12,000 horse-power steam engine that enabled the huge mill to produce steel plates up to 40cm thick and 50 tons in weight. A must seen attraction as this is the most powerful working steam engine in Europe and one of only four built.
In order to bring the attraction to life, you will be entering the venue through Little Mesters Street, a street to take you back in time to Victorian Sheffield, housing a collection of workshops showing the various stages of steel production and cutlery making with a selection of real-life characters including buffer girls and Cutlers to guide you and answer any questions you may have. After sampling a selection of local ales, you will be able to view the museum at you leisure whilst trying a range of Yorkshire treats.
We will leave the venue at 7pm. There are a couple of restaurants around Kelham Island which are worth a try including the Milestone, a traditional British Gastro pub and Craft and Dough selling freshly baked pizzas. For a wider selection of food choices, a short walk into the City centre to Leopold Square is a must.
Let us know if you have any questions by emailing us at info@iccdu2016.org.uk
Until next time,
Katy and the admin team.