Budding amateur sleuths and would-be private detectives will have the chance to help Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson solve a mysterious crime, which has taken place at Blists Hill Victorian Town in the Ironbridge Gorge during the weekend of Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July. Youngsters will also be able to take each other’s finger prints, print reward posters, match plaster cast footprints to different shoes and try their hand at forensic science during the two-day event.

Visitors who follow the trail of clues around the open-air museum can put their powers of deduction to good use to help the eccentric private detective and his side-kick solve the curious mystery of who stole the treasures from the Earl of Craven’s mansion. Holmes and Watson will be on hand during the weekend to discuss the crime and talk to visitors about past cases.

Other attractions will include a horse-drawn carriage; plus storytelling and a mystery performed in mime by Kaleidoscope, Blists Hill’s visiting theatrical group.

In addition, visitors will be able to enjoy watching the townsfolk of Blists Hill going about their daily routine in the authentic shops, homes and workshops, creating Victorian remedies in the chemist, counting coins at the bank, making bread and dipping candles. They may even choose to have their portraits taken at the photographer’s studio, buy a bag of treats from the traditional sweet shop or stop and chat to the townsfolk on the newly opened Canal Street.

Normal admission charges apply. There are additional charges for some activities.