Friday 19th June 2026

1-3pm

Curious about what goes on when items are sent off for assay? What is the history of hallmaring? What is involved in the process? What machines are used? What training is involved? What services are offered? How will hallmarking change in the coming years?

Come get these questions answered and more! As a group we will visit the inner workings of the Sheffield Assay Office (SAO) please note tours are only given a few times a year upon special arrangement. This is limited to 15 people so first come first serve. It has been 2 years to get this agreed and a date in the diary.

SAO will ask that all bags, coats, personal belongings are kept in the boardroom when on tour. Strictly no photography or videos on site for security reasons. Please note we will have to go through metal detectors on the tour with no acceptions sorry.

GETTING THERE: This is up to you and not included in the booking.

CAR: It is just over 2 hours by car to SAO. I expect there will be a few who prefer to drive there if you are able to offer a lift to another student please let me know. There is limited free onsite carparking and on road parking around the leisure centre, but not in the leisure centre. 

TRAIN: LAN - SHEFFIELD over 3 hours. The train station is in Sheffield Centre so you will need to get a bus or taxi from there to SAO about 25 min by bus 10 mins taxi.

**Afterwards if anyone is interested I will consider a stop off at Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) as it is on the way back to Lancaster if in a car. It is wonderful place for a summer evening picnic weather permitting. Entry after 3pm is £3.50 on the gate only parking is free.