Today was such a fun change of pace. We started the morning by taking the bus over to the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley, and the second we walked in, it felt like we’d stepped into another time.

We began by exploring the coal mines. Walking around the outside of the mineshaft and hearing about what miners went through made everything feel so real. It’s crazy to imagine people spending long days down there with barely any light. 

After that, we wandered through the museum’s recreated town, full of old shops and brick houses. Since today was their 1960s theme day, everything felt extra lively with music playing, people in vintage outfits, and little details everywhere that made it feel like the past was still alive.

One of my favorite parts was visiting the 1960s schoolhouse. Sitting at those wooden desks and looking at chalkboards instead of screens made me realize how different school is today. No phones, no laptops, no comfy chairs. There were just strict rules, handwriting practice, and a whole lot of “yes, miss.” It made me appreciate how much more relaxed and flexible classrooms are now.

For lunch, we grabbed toasties and hot chocolate, which was honestly the perfect cozy combo after walking around all morning. Then we let ourselves have some fun and rode a few of the carnival rides they had set up. We laughed way too hard and probably looked ridiculous, but it was worth it. After that, we ended up dancing with a group of ladies dressed in full 1960s dancer costumes. They were so energetic and fun that it was impossible not to join in.

Before heading out, we checked out the flea market. It was full of quirky old items, vintage pieces, and random treasures that made you wonder who owned them decades ago. Even just browsing was fun. By the time we got back on the bus, my body and feet were tired, but I really did enjoy my time at the living museum, even with the rainy weather we had in the morning. There’s something really cool about stepping into another era that makes you appreciate both the past and the present in a whole new way.