The team behind Wales’ highly anticipated national football museum has held special workshops at the Wynnstay Arms in Wrexham. They marked the 150th anniversary of the Football Association of Wales (FAW).
Eleri Farley
Eleri Farley, Learning Officer at Wrexham’s Museum of Two Halves, said, “Pupils from Wrexham primary schools were invited to the Wynnstay Arms to discover the origins of Welsh football on its 150th anniversary. This event is helping to inform the learning programme for the museum as we prepare for reopening.”
Each session explored how and why the FAW formed. Crucially, pupils gathered in the same room where that first meeting took place 150 years ago. Staff arranged tables in a boardroom style and placed name holders at each setting.
Bringing History to Life
Pupils joined an interactive workshop and handled real objects. They tried on replica costumes and used football socks to explore how players once identified themselves on the pitch.
They also discovered who attended the first FAW meeting. In addition, they discussed who was missing and why. These conversations opened up wider discussions about the women’s game and global majority histories.
The team shaped the sessions around a successful pilot project with Carmarthenshire Libraries in late 2025. There, pupils explored stories from Welsh football history, including the women’s game.
A Memorable Day at the Wynnstay
Today’s event marked a significant moment in Welsh football’s story. As a result, local schools connected directly with both local and national history while supporting the Curriculum for Wales.
Paul Roberts, Wrexham County Borough Council’s lead member for partnerships and community safety, said, “The school groups at The Wynnstay have enjoyed a taste of the engaging, innovative new ways they will explore and learn about our diverse local and football history. This experience offers an exciting glimpse into how future visits will bring the past to life through interactive storytelling and hands-on discovery at Wrexham’s new museum.”
At the end of their session, pupils met Craig Bellamy and Chris Gunter. Meanwhile, FAW members arrived for their commemorative Council meeting at the Wynnstay.
Looking Ahead
Ian Gwyn Hughes, Head of Public Relations & Culture at the Football Association of Wales, said, “What a fantastic photo opportunity and a special chance for children to meet their football heroes on such a momentous day in Wales’ football history. We’ve enjoyed a full and inspiring schedule in Wrexham, beginning with the museum team, who showcased remarkable objects from the collection to our council members at this historic venue—an integral part of the Welsh football story.”
Redevelopment work at Wrexham’s Museum of Two Halves continues at pace. Galleries now take shape and reveal the new layout.
The historic building continues to emerge from refurbishment. The team plans to open the new national attraction later this year.
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