Northumberland Miners' Picnic 2025

The Northumberland Miners' Picnic is a jam-packed family day out celebrating our coal mining heritage. Enjoy live music, street theatre, children’s activities and food stalls.  

We are delighted to welcome back Mr Wilson's Second Liners to headline the main stage. 

Main Stage Programme: 

Compered by Bread and Butter Theatre Company. 

• 10.30-11.15am - Miners' Memorial Service. 
• 11.25am - 1.35pm - Brass Marras.
• 2-2.45pm - Woodhorn Community Band Parade featuring Mr Wilson's Second Liners.
• 3-3.45pm - Northern Proud Voices. 
• 3.50-4.45pm - Mr Wilson's Second Liners.

Please note that times may be subject to change. 

Throughout the day: 

• Look out for pop up street theatre performances by the Tea Club. 
• Don't miss the Science of Bubbles with the Woodhorn STEM team outside the Cutter Building at 12.30-1.30pm.
• Join our band and have a go at making your own band costume and instruments with Molly Barrett and Lottie Smith in the Pit Yard marquee. Take your place in the Woodhorn Community Band parade with Mr Wilson's Second Liners at 2pm. 
• Have a go at the family-friendly art activities inspired by the Pitmen Painters in the Cage Shop with Paul Merrick.
• Meet the Age UK gardening volunteers - The Woodhorn Weeders and buy some plants for your own garden. Chat with the Woodhorn Narrow Gauge Railway volunteers. 
• See the newly conserved collection of colliery banners. Come and share your memories and stories on the Upper Floor of the museum. 
• Relax and enjoy food from the Winding House Café, your own picnic or our street food stalls including: 
  • Barista Sisters
  • Piggy Blinders
  • Truly, Madly Pizza
  • Crepes Gourmet 
  • Ciccarelli Gelato 
  • Anarchy Brew 

Please note, only alcohol purchased on site can be consumed. Woodhorn Museum is a no smoking and no vaping site. 

Assistance dogs are always welcome at Woodhorn Museum and family pet dogs may also accompany visitors in the grounds and historic buildings. The picnic is a busy and loud event, so please bear this in mind when deciding whether to bring your dog to the event. 

This event is supported by Arts Council England, Northumberland County Council and Ashington Town Council. The event is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with the North East Combined Authority as the Lead Authority.