Welcoming the May Open Day

Held on 1 May 2026, the ‘Welcoming the May’ open day not only celebrated nature and heritage at the historic location but also marked Staffordshire Day and the launch of Sinai Park House Trust’s May Crowdfunder, inspiring strong local support for the site’s future.

Visitors enjoyed a day of seasonal activities designed to reconnect people with nature and bring good luck and positive energy to Sinai Park House.

The day began with guided walks through Sinai’s historic grounds as guests took part in traditional hawthorn and hazel gathering, watched willow weaving demonstrations, and enjoyed the striking May blossom in full bloom.

A highlight of the event was the creation of a ceremonial May Day arch with the help of Burton and South Derbyshire College students. Visitors were invited to decorate the arch with their seasonal gatherings, contributing to a symbolic act of renewal and welcome.

This was followed by a special ceremony celebrating the spring season and to bring good fortune to Sinai as the trust awaits the outcome of its recent National Lottery Heritage Fund bid application.

The event also marked the official launch of Sinai Park House Trust’s May Crowdfunder, which aims to raise £20,000 in match funding to support the bid. The campaign is a vital step in securing the future of Sinai as a place for wellbeing, learning, and community engagement.

By contributing to the Crowdfunder, supporters become part of a collective effort to protect Sinai’s heritage, landscape, and community value for future generations.

Councillor Andrew Riley, Mayor of Branston Town Council, who attended the event, commented:

"It’s a real pleasure to be here today at Sinai Park House, a place that is rich in history, character, and community spirit.

Places like this are incredibly important, they connect us to our past, tell the stories of those who came before us, and provide a space where people can come together, reflect, and learn.

What stands out most is not just the building itself, but the dedication of the people who care for it and keep its story alive. That commitment ensures that future generations will also be able to experience and appreciate everything this wonderful place has to offer.

Thank you for the warm welcome today. I look forward to learning more about the history of Sinai Park House and the important work that continues here."

Sinai Park House Trustee, Laura Wigg-Bailey added, "It was a fantastic day, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who came along to support us. We hope visitors truly enjoyed the experience, from the walks and crafts to the ceremony itself. It was especially exciting to launch our May Crowdfunder as part of the day, marking such an important moment for Sinai’s future - we’re thrilled to have started this journey with such positive energy and community backing."

The Sinai Park House Trust extends its thanks to all volunteers, partners, and visitors who contributed to making the day such a success. With the momentum from this event, we look forward to continuing the work to preserve and enhance this unique historic site for future generations.

For more information or to pledge your support to the Crowdfunder visit https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/the-restoration-of-sinai