Honouring Our proud northumberland Heritage: The Northumberland Miners’ Picnic Returns
- Scott Dickinson
- Jun 13
- 3 min read
Honouring Our Heritage: The Northumberland Miners’ Picnic Returns Tomorrow
Tomorrow marks the return of one of Northumberland’s most cherished traditions – the Northumberland Miners’ Picnic. More than just a day out, this historic event is a powerful reminder of our region’s rich industrial heritage, deep-rooted community spirit, and the resilience of the working people who helped shape the North East.
Only this week someone asked me what it was and what it was all about so I thought I would share a little reminder.
A Legacy of Solidarity and Strength
Dating back to the 1860s, the Miners’ Picnic was originally created as a day of rest and recognition for coal miners and their families. It quickly became a cornerstone of Northumberland’s social calendar, drawing thousands to celebrate not only their shared labour but their shared lives – the triumphs, the losses, and the collective hope for a better future.
At its heart, the picnic is a celebration of solidarity. It honours the miners who risked – and in many cases, gave – their lives in the pursuit of a better standard of living for future generations. It reminds us of the power of community when people stand together in the face of adversity.
A Living History
Though the coal mines have long since closed, the spirit of the Northumberland Miners’ Picnic endures. It’s carried forward not only in speeches and commemorations, but in the music, art, family activities, and stories shared throughout the day.
It’s a festival that speaks to our past while looking firmly to the future – showcasing local talent, heritage crafts, and skills, and introducing younger generations to the history that made this area what it is today. Each year, it brings together people of all ages and backgrounds, reminding us that our identity as a region is something to be celebrated, protected, and passed on.
Why It Still Matters
In an age of rapid change, events like the Miners’ Picnic serve as powerful anchors. They remind us of the value of hard work, fairness, and community. They shine a light on how far we’ve come and challenge us to keep building a future that’s every bit as strong, proud, and inclusive as our past.
If you’ve never been before, I can’t recommend it highly enough. If you're a regular attendee, you already know how special it is. Whether you come for the music, the memories, or the meaning – the Miners’ Picnic has something for everyone.
Let’s come together to honour our history, celebrate our communities, and keep the spirit of Northumberland alive.
Sat 14th June, Woodhorn Museum
10am - 5pm
Free admission
Throughout the day
Look out for… pop up street theatre performances throughout the day by The Tea Club.
Don’t miss…the Science of Bubbles with the Woodhorn Museum STEM team outside the Cutter Building between 12.30 and 1.30pm.
Join our band… have a go at making your own band costume and instruments with Molly Barrett and Lottie Smith in the Pit Yard marquee. Then take your place in the Woodhorn Community Band parade with Mr Wilson’s Second Liners at 2pm.
Have a go… at the family-friendly art activities in the Cage Shop with Paul Merrick inspired by the Pitmen Painters.
Meet… the Age UK Gardening Volunteers – the Woodhorn Weeders and buy some plants for your own garden and the Woodhorn Narrow Gauge Railway volunteers.
See… conservation work on our precious collection of colliery banners. The newly conserved banners will be on display on the Upper Ground floor of the museum. Come and share your stories and memories connected to the banners.
Relax… and enjoy tasty treats whether you bring your own picnic, visit the Winding House Café or enjoy a bite from our special street food stalls.
Bus… WATBus Community Transport are running the free shuttle bus service. The last shuttle bus to Ashington will be leaving Woodhorn at 5.15pm.
The main Cutter Building and heritage colliery buildings will be open to explore during the day.


Comments