Altrincham is set for a packed Easter programme this April, with a series of family-friendly events centred on the revival of the historic "Altringham" Heritage Carrot.
Organised by Altrincham BID, the activities run from Friday 3rd to Sunday 12th April and span the town centre, with something on offer for all ages.
The "Altringham" Carrot
The "Altringham" carrot is a heritage variety with deep roots in the town's agricultural past. Altrincham BID has sourced seeds from the Heritage Seed Library and is now working with schools, allotments and local growers to bring the variety back into cultivation.
Mandy White, Altrincham BID Director, said the project was about more than just gardening. "We have sourced seeds from the Heritage Seed Library and are encouraging schools, allotments and keen growers to get involved in both growing and seed saving, helping to preserve this local legacy for future generations."
An information stand will be hosted at the bottom of Shaw's Road on Saturday 4th April, 11am–3pm, where visitors can find out more and pick up seeds.
A town-wide storytelling trail
Throughout the full ten days, a heritage storytelling experience will be spread across several town centre venues, each hosting part of the carrot's history.
Participating locations include Everyman Altrincham on George Street, Howden Insurance on Stamford New Road, OYEZ Arts at Altrincham Town Hall, and Share Your Story on George Street.
Each location will showcase part of the story, encouraging visitors to explore the town while uncovering its heritage.
The Golden Carrot Trail
Families can also take part in the Golden Carrot Trail, hunting for hidden carrots placed in shop windows and businesses across the town centre. Trail sheets are available from Everyman Altrincham, or the trail can be completed digitally through the Visit Altrincham app.
Workshops and events
A Carrot Comic Art Workshop with illustrator Rick Eades takes place at OYEZ Arts on Saturday 4th April, 10–11.30am. Suitable for ages six and up, the session covers comic creation and carrot character design. Booking is via Instagram (@rickeades) or Facebook (Rick Eades – Comics and Illustrations).
Kids' Gardening Workshops, delivered by Bounceback Community Kitchen, run on Tuesday 7th and Friday 10th April, with morning sessions for primary-age children and afternoon sessions for secondary. Participants will plant "Altringham" Heritage Carrot seeds to take home. Tickets are on Eventbrite.
Cooking with Carrots workshops, also at Bounceback Community Kitchen, run on both Saturdays (4th and 11th April), with children's sessions at 10am and adult sessions at 1.30pm. The chef-led classes include a carrot recipe and an introduction to fermentation. Tickets via Eventbrite.
The programme wraps up with a Carrot Patch Celebration in the Stamford Quarter on Saturday 11th April, 11am–3pm, featuring live music, food and family crafts.
Further information is available at VisitAltrincham.com, or from flyers at OYEZ Arts, Altrincham Library, Altrincham Interchange and participating venues.
