Days out

A new exhibition showcasing the amazing facts and legends about the Tower of London, has opened at the Royal Armouries Museum. The exhibition, 'Tower Tales and Traitors' aims to bring alive the history and tall tales associated with one of London's oldest historic buildings.

There's a chance to visit the replica Crown Jewels and hear about Colonel Blood's dastardly plot to steal the real things. Also there's an opportunity to uncover the grisly truth about Guy Fawkes as the Royal Armouries looks to bring history to life.

Beefeaters

Learn more about terrible treasures from the Tower and discover the gory history behind the block and axe as well as the executioners' swords. Meet the Beefeaters and experience real Beefeater talks with special visits by genuine Yeoman Warders from HM Tower of London plus the Keeper of The Queen's Ravens.

Arts and crafts are also on the agenda, as you can have a go at making your own Crown Jewels on the activity days, alongside a whole host of make and take activities every Wednesday and Saturday throughout the summer holidays.

The activity days schedule:

Wednesday 22 July 2009 - Pet wise zoo. An outdoor event under a marquee showcasing rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, poultry, snakes, lizards, creepy crawlies, parrots, porcupines, meerkats and gophers.

Saturday 25 July 2009 - Hautbois perform Jacobite and Georgian music.
Hautbois are Rick and Helen Heavisides, a duo that use music as a vehicle for historical entertainment. They have worked for many years alongside English Heritage, Historic Royal Palaces and National Trust and also appear at many other historical venues.

Wednesday 29 July & Saturday 1 August 2009 - Re-enactment specialist and historical interpreter Adrian Warrell leads tower building workshops.

Wednesday 5 August & Saturday 8 August 2009 - Theatrical comedy duo Inner State relate the story of Sir Walter Raleigh and his visit from Queen Elizabeth's ghost on the night of his execution. Also pet wise zoo (5/8/09 only).

Wednesday 12 August 2009 - Pet wise zoo.

Saturday 15 August 2009 - Hautbois perform Jacobite and Georgian music.

Wednesday 19 August & Saturday 22 August 2009 - Art Angels
Make your own crowns jewels and build a model of the Tower of London.

Wednesday 26 August 2009 - Inner State

There are also daily falconry displays at 12noon and horse shows at 2pm. Visit the Menagerie and get to know the Armouries' animals!

'Tower Tales and Traitors' runs at the Royal Armouries, Armouries Drive, Clarence Dock until Sunday 1 November 2009. Entrance is free.