R9 had a fantastic time in Llancaiach Fawr. We were lucky enough to learn about the manor house and its owners. We were amazed to learn that Tudor children weren’t allowed to use adult furniture; they couldn’t even sit to eat dinner.

In the Armoury, Aara found the sword heavy and the musket difficult to carry. Aadi was fascinated with the pike.

We enjoyed making soap and pomanders (plague herb bags) and Ieuan was offered a job as a spit boy earning a ha’penny a week and 12 pints of small beer.

Everybody was engaged when we learnt about Tudor medicine. We all agreed that the Barber Surgeon was terrifying and that we were pleased that we didn’t need him to cure us for our lack of serenity or having vermin in our home. It was interesting to hear that the Apothecary would give willow bark to cure a headache - it contains aspirin. Much better than tying a frog around the neck to cure a sore throat.

The Colonel’s Land Surveyor was very impressed with the children’s questions and praised their excellent manners - well done, R9!