Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Meet the crew of the Mary Rose, shoot arrows and much, much more.

The Tudors will come to life at the Wiltshire History Centre when it holds its open day on Saturday September 26. Visitors can meet the crew of the Mary Rose, shoot arrows with a longbow and look at real Tudor documents from the archive at the free event which runs from 10am to 4pm.

There will be lots for families to do. Activities include writing with a quill pen, dressing as a Tudor, taking an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of one of the strong rooms and attempting a giant quiz. Visitors will also be able to visit the conservation lab and find out how waterlogged objects like those recovered from the Mary Rose are conserved. Staff will be on hand to answer local and family history enquiries.

Heritage manager Louisa Burden said: "We are delighted to be holding our third annual open day and hope this year's event will be even bigger and better with lots of great activities for families and children. This is a fantastic opportunity for people to meet the archivists, conservators, archaeologists and librarians who work here and find out what goes on behind the scenes at the History Centre.

The Wiltshire and Swindon archives contain thousands of historic documents. Visitors will get an exclusive chance to see some of our rarest documents from the Tudor period including the marriage deed of Henry VIII to local beauty Jane Seymour; a 20 foot long illuminated manuscript showing the Seymour family tree and a signed letter from Elizabeth I about her cousin Mary Queen of Scots."

The History Centre is on Cocklebury Road, Chippenham, five minutes walk from the railway station. For further information telephone 01249 705500 or follow this link.

The History Centre contains the Wiltshire and Swindon Archives; the Wiltshire studies library; archaeology service; Wiltshire buildings record; the conservation service and Museums advisory service. The centre also hosts the editorial team of the Wiltshire Victoria County History.

Entry is free and there is no need to book a place. However, please note that there will be a small charge for shooting the longbow.