EVENT

Father Edward Oldcorne’s crucifix is the only known item to survive of the thousands seized during the raids on Catholic houses following the discovery of the Gunpowder Plot in 1605.

In the aftermath of the Plot, Catholic houses were raided across the country and priests went into hiding in purpose built secret spaces within the walls of houses. Hide and seek became a matter of life or death.

Although he had no direct connection with the plot, this Yorkshire priest became a wanted man because he attended school in York with Guy Fawkes, and had committed the treasonous crime of becoming a Catholic priest. After 12 days in a cramped hiding hole he was captured and hanged, drawn and quartered.

See some of Father Oldcorne’s surviving relics, gathered together for the first time and learn the story of those caught up in the infamous Gunpowder Plot. Discover how hiding holes were cleverly incorporated into Catholic properties across the country, and even experience a raid for yourself!

Plus:

Hide & Seek: The Trail

Would you be able to recognise an illegal catholic household during the reign of the Tudors and Stuarts?

From hiding holes and disguises to invisible ink and objects concealed as everyday household items; find the clues and explore the collections to uncover the ingenious ways that Catholics kept their true religion hidden from the authorities and escaped being caught!

Included in admission to the exhibition.