The National Trust Workhouse Southwell is an imposing 19th century building and is based on architectural plans for an 18th prison. Its aim was to intimidate and encourage the populace to avoid “ending up there”. The system was punitive and a deterrent, to what was seen as, idle and profligate behaviour.

For nearly 200 years the site of The Workhouse at Southwell has been used for the provision of welfare to those most vulnerable in society. The Workhouse became a prototype for a national attempt to revolutionise the treatment of those in poverty, and the legacy continues to evoke powerful contemporary debate.

We are re-imagining our site to tell this changing story of welfare and health: from Poor Law to Welfare State; from Paupers to Patients.

This project, which holds participation at its heart and will improve physical access to our site and powerful, evolving interpretation. We will offer a multilayered experience, which goes beyond telling the story, but to affecting change: by inviting people to share experiences, engage in contemporary debates and to raise awareness of health and welfare issues today.

We are working with Nottinghamshire MenCap to improve the sites disability access but also the way we present the information and inclusion approach to participation.

Get in Touch

The Workhouse, Upton Road

Southwell, Notts NG25 OPT

Tel: 01636 817260

Email: theworkhouse@nationaltrust.org.uk