Culture And Memory

Bolsover Castle: Margaret Cavendish's Mind Lab

Margaret Cavendish (1623-1673), Duchess of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, was a trailblazing 17th-century natural philosopher, scientist, poet, playwright and author. Associated with Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire, she defied conventions and questioned women's inequality. Despite this, Cavendish's legacy risks being forgotten. Inspired by her pioneering spirit, English Heritage's project ‘Margaret Cavendish's Mind Lab’ will disrupt the narrative of Bolsover Castle as a purely masculine space and challenge perceptions of women in philosophy and science, past and present. Collaborating with the University of York, Junction Arts, and Writing East Midlands, the project will bring Cavendish's ideas to life through an imaginative Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) and a philosophy-inspired engagement programme. The project will spark curiosity, celebrate underrepresented voices, and deepen local heritage connections using digital activities, educational resources, and playful interpretation aimed at young people and families. Mind Lab will help secure Bolsover Castle's long-term sustainability and ensure Cavendish's extraordinary legacy endures.