Inspired by the spirit of Antiques Roadshow, this event invited families to bring along treasured heirlooms — photographs, letters, books, diaries, cassettes, textiles and other keepsakes — that hold personal or cultural significance. The items were showcased and shared in a relaxed, open setting, encouraging conversations around heritage and memory, bringing together youngsters, parents and elders for a day of intergenerational exploration, learning and fun.

There was also traditional South Asian food to enjoy, creating space for people to connect over shared tastes and stories. Everyone was welcome — encouraged to bring their stories, their artefacts and their appetite!

Activities included:

• Migration mapping activity: Pinpoint your family’s ancestral village on a large map of Pakistan and trace their journey to the UK
• Name Wall: Add the names of your ancestors and the first family member who came to the UK
• Family tree workshop: Use our simple templates to begin (or expand) your family tree – ideal for all ages
• Photography displays and community archive: view images illustrating migration and settlement stories from the South Asian diaspora

This event was part of Heritage Open Days, England’s largest festival of history and culture, and was presented by an organisation involved in Bradford 2025’s Elevate programme, which aims to strengthen, sustain and increase the agility of Bradford’s heritage sector.