Visit Sarehole Mill and learn how Tolkien used real people, places and memories to inspire his story writing. An ideal session for creative writing, literacy or local history.

J.R.R Tolkien grew up just around the corner from Sarehole Mill and often visited. In this session we will explore how his experiences, the local people and places in Sarehole (now Hall Green) inspired his works. Your class will learn how the local area has changed over time with the use of photos and maps.

We will take a walk around the local area, learning about Tolkien’s childhood, stopping at points of interest such as his childhood house, the river Cole where he and his brother played, and reading quotes from his books along the way. Ending at Moseley Bog, a beautiful woodland, where your class will have chance to explore and use the inspirations, we have talked about to help develop their story writing skills such as setting a scene and creating a character.

No prior knowledge of Tolkien’s works needed.

Important Information

The workshop is designed to be delivered outdoors, it will continue to be delivered outside in any weather. Pupils must be aware of this and be dressed accordingly in thick socks, wellies / boots and waterproof coats, with scarves, hats and gloves in cold weather. It is advised children bring a change of socks and shoes with them. Our final stop is local nature reserve Moseley Bog, where your group can explore the woodland, gain inspiration from their surroundings to develop their own magical character. Please note Moseley Bog is accessed via steps and involves leaving the site and crossing roads. Alternative accessible activities can be arranged with prior notice.

School visits to Sarehole Mill are available Wednesday - Friday.

At Sarehole Mill we can only take one class at a time on site.