There will be a range of attractions at Swindon’s museums this half-term, from dinosaurs to train emergencies and mask-making.

Swindon Borough Council’s three museums are set to entertain families over the October half-term with a variety of activities.

Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet member for placemaking and planning, said: "There’s so much going on at our amazing museums this half-term and I can’t wait to see everyone enjoying them.

"October can be quite a wet month, so what better way to spend the half-term than visiting our incredible museums, immersing yourself in Swindon’s history and taking part in some fantastic activities for the whole family.

"Even when the activities aren’t taking place, our museums offer a great experience and a real chance for everyone to learn more about the town we live in and how it came to be - even if that involves some terrifying dinosaurs."

The STEAM Museum, inspired by the ‘Is it Safe?’ exhibition, will take visitors back in time to explore historical photos of dangerous railway situations and learn about past and present safety measures.

Visitors will also get a chance to view artefacts related to railway safety.

On October 30, between 10.30am and 3.30pm, families will be able to design their own posters to highlight safety issues and ways to prevent railway accidents.

Meanwhile, at Museum & Art Swindon, Dinosaur Week will bring the creatures of the past to life.

Museum & Art SwindonMuseum & Art Swindon (Image: Swindon Borough Council)

From October 26 to November 2, visitors can find out about Swindon’s Jurassic sea monsters and try the new dinosaur trail.

Children will have the chance to hold dinosaur bones and fossils from 155 million years ago on October 29, between 10.30am and 12.15pm and 1pm to 3pm.

They will also be able to make their own model dinosaur to take home, for £4 per child.

Alongside the events, Museum & Art Swindon will see its first exhibition changeover since the facility opened earlier this year.

New exhibitions focussed on Hardy’s Wessex will be on show as well as ones worked on with the council’s partners including the Swindon Photography Society.

Finally, Lydiard House Museum will host a mask-making event on October 31, between 11am and 2.30pm.

Lydiard House MuseumLydiard House Museum (Image: Swindon Borough Council) After picking up leaves from around Lydiard Park, visitors will be shown how to turn them into a mask for a variety of occasions.

The activities across STEAM and Lydiard are included in the museums’ respective entry fees.

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