Beach opens 90 miles from coast

Erewash has its very own beach, despite it being some 90 miles from Skegness, deemed the closest seaside resort to the borough, after tonnes of sand were shipped in.

For those struggling with the cost of living, the creation of the beach at Erewash Museum is seen as helping with that and also means no wasted hours travelling.  It opened on Saturday 20th July, in time for the school holidays.

There will also be face-painting and “garden games”. A museum official said: “The beach will be open all summer with a garden marquee to keep visitors cool and dry.”

A packed summer season of events at the museum will continue for the whole six-week holiday. Activities for each themed week include worm farm making, Bollywood dancing, skateboarding workshops, virtual reality painting, science experiments and much more.

There is a range of free activities including access to the beach, a museum trail and different forms of entertainment. There is a wrist band to access some activities at a cost of £3 which is valid for the entire week and no need to book. Some activities are bookable in advance with a £3 charge. For more information call 0115 907 1141 or email museum @ erewash.gov.uk

Further info can be found on the museum’s Facebook page. Erewash Borough Council’s Deputy Leader Councillor Becca Everett, who is Lead Member for Community Engagement, said: “The Erewash Museum beach has proved a big hit in the past – so let’s hope we have the kind of bucket and spade weather for even more families to enjoy it this summer.”

Entry to the award-winning museum near Ilkeston Market Place is free. It can usually be visited on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11am to 4pm – but during the summer it also opens on Wednesdays. Refreshments are on sale at its coffee shop.