WOODHORN Find Yourself Northumberland Museum, Archives and Country Park Woodhorn Colliery Museum is currently closed to visitors to allow exciting developments to take place on the site. When "WOODHORN" reopens in 2006 it will be a fabulous visitor attraction with something for everyone and a super range of new facilities. Central to the developments will be a stunning new landmark building. Designed by RMJM Architects from Edinburgh, the roofline has taken inspiration from the coal cutting machinery once used underground in the colliery. This new building will house: ¯ Exciting new and interactive displays about the culture and mining heritage of the area ¯ Galleries for top class touring exhibitions and events ¯ Purpose built facilities for Northumberland County Records and . Archives with space and facilities for 80 readers ¯ New function/education centre ¯ A new café for visitors The developments will also result in the conservation, restoration and interpretation of buildings that are currently derelict and inaccessible to the public. This will significantly improve the overall physical appeal of Woodhorn as well as providing new areas for visitors to explore. Visitors to the attraction will find new services available to help them make the most of a visit to Northumberland and the region through a networked Tourist Information Centre. Not only will there be information on local and regional events and attractions, but there will be the opportunity to book overnight accommodation. Those who live locally will find the centre very useful when planning a trip even if it is out of the region. To round off a visit to Woodhorn, there will be the chance to purchase something special from a wide and interesting selection of gifts and souvenirs in the new shop. The attraction is sure to be popular with organised parties, educational groups and coach travellers as well as those visiting independently, so car parking facilities at Woodhorn will be improved and extended and specific coach spaces will be available. This fabulous development is taking place thanks to a partnership between Wansbeck District Council and Northumberland County Council, and funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Northumberland Strategic Partnership, the Northern Rock Foundation and the Coalfields Regeneration Trust. Woodhorn is located in the south eastern corner of Northumberland, to the east of Ashington, and it is just off the A189 Spine Road and the C1 and Coast and Castles Cycle Route. This makes it very easy to reach and ideal for either a day out or just a break when travelling up or down the stunning coastline. Set in an attractive country park, it is a great location for families too. Admission to Woodhorn will be free, although occasionally a small charge may be made for specific touring exhibitions and events. Woodhorn Website: or contact Deborah Tate: