Celebrate Colonel the Shire's birthday at the National Coal Mining Museum

By Amanda Stevenson

Event diary

29 May 2008 13:40

The National Coal Mining Museum for England will be celebrating Colonel the Shire horse’s 20th birthday on Saturday 31 May, as part of the Museum’s 20th Anniversary Celebrations. 17.3hh Colonel has been one of the main attractions at the Museum for the past 17 years. In the past he has been shown at county level by the Museum, attending numerous shows and game fairs in heavy horse turnout classes (agricultural and trade). He has many rosettes to his name. He also used to give carriage rides to Museum visitors, but has recently been retired from this work. 

Come and join the party and enjoy a piece of birthday cake from 11am until 2pm and wish Colonel, the Museum’s gentle giant, many happy returns.

As well as visiting the pit ponies, the range of activities at the Museum include the underground tour which is free for all, a chance to look around the different galleries and collections, a walk along the nature trail and a ride on the train (weather permitting).

For further information visit: www.ncm.org.uk

The Museum is open all year round from 10am until 5pm, except for December 24-26 and January 1. Admission is free. Free car and coach parking and complete disabled access. Children must be at least 5 to go on the underground tour. However, there is an indoor under-5s play area. Warm clothing and sensible shoes are recommended for the underground tour. Book your tour on arrival at the Museum. Demand for the tour is high at weekends and during school holidays, so try to arrive before midday.