Discover the science of soap this half-term in Port Sunlight

Families are being invited to discover the science of soap this half term in the historic Wirral village of Port Sunlight.

Port Sunlight is well-known for being built by William Lever to provide housing for ‘Sunlight Soap’ factory workers in 1888, with its Arts and Crafts-style houses and well-kept gardens making the village a popular visitor attraction ever since.

Today, Port Sunlight Village Trust is responsible for preserving the village and also manage Port Sunlight Museum, a re-created Edwardian Worker’s Cottage, and the interactive SoapWorks family experience. Visitors can join walking tours of the village and take part in a year-round programme of public events.

This February half term, Port Sunlight Village Trust are bringing back their popular soap-making activities for families to enjoy as part of Soapy Science Fun Days on 22 and 23 February, giving them the chance to make their very own unique bar of soap to take home.

Children will be able to choose from a variety of scents, colours and ingredients. Sessions will run at the village’s Church Hall on Bridge Street at 10am, 11.15am, 1pm and 2.15pm. Tickets are £5 per child with a recommended age of 7+, while adults go free, and pre-booking is essential via www.portsunlightvillage.com/whats-on.

The soap base used is suitable for vegans, has not been tested on animals, and is Sodium Lauryl Sulphate free.

Ticketholders for the soap-making sessions will also enjoy free entry to SoapWorks, a playful family experience and interactive museum based in the historic Lyceum building. Families can step inside to enjoy live demonstrations and discover the history of soap, how it’s made and even how it’s advertised.

Charlene Davies, public programme manager at Port Sunlight Village Trust, said: “We can’t wait to invite families to make their very own bar of soap. It’s such a fun process, with so many different combinations of scents, colours and ingredients to choose from, so it’s a perfect half term activity for any budding scientists or creatives.”

“SoapWorks opened in 2021, and since then we’ve really enjoyed welcoming families to explore the story and science of soap in a fun way. It’s the perfect starting point for families to begin their journey around this beautiful village. There are plenty of green spaces where you can run around and enjoy a picnic responsibly too.”

Also happening during half term is a Pancake Day activity on 21 February, with a fun storytelling session of The Runaway Pancake by Mairi Mackinnon, followed by a chance to make a tasty treat to take home. Sessions will take place at 1pm and 2.30pm. Tickets are £5 per child with a recommended age of 3+, adults go free, and pre-booking is essential via www.portsunlightvillage.com/whats-on. Any dietary requirements should be sent in advance to events@portsunlightvillage.com after booking.

Church Hall is located on Bridge Street (CH62 4UP), opposite the bowling green. The building is wheelchair accessible, however an accessible toilet is located off-site across the road at SoapWorks.

Port Sunlight Museum, Edwardian Worker’s Cottage and SoapWorks are open Wednesday–Sunday, 10am–5pm. To plan your visit, go to www.portsunlightvillage.com.

Family-friendly food and drink options in Port Sunlight include Lady Lever Art Gallery, which is around a 10-minute walk from the Church Hall and SoapWorks, or the Tudor Rose Tea Rooms on Greendale Road. Other options are available nearby in Bebington and New Ferry. 

For more information, email events@portsunlightvillage.com or call Reception on 0151 644 4800.