Free admission will be on offer at the National Museum of Bermuda next month, it was announced today.

The museum will throw its eighth Free for February as usual – but will not offer group programmes because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

A museum spokeswoman said that the NMB will instead offer activity booklets for small groups that will feature “close-looking, critical thinking and reflection activities and will be accessible and fun for all”.

The first activity booklet of the series, Piloting in Bermuda, is now available on museum’s website.

Lisa Howie, the director of learning and engagement at NMB, said: “In Piloting in Bermuda, you will learn about reefs, channels and how to avoid being shipwrecked, discover the necessary work of a pilot and the gigs he operated and explore innovations in ship design and the critical role of lighthouses.”

She added participants would also “gain an understanding of why it is important to recognise the courageous works of Bermuda’s pilots”.

Activity booklets can be downloaded or printed.

Those taking part can also enter a weekly raffle for a chance to win a free family membership.

Membership benefits include unlimited free admission, discounts, access to publication and archives and invitations to special events.

The National Museum of Bermuda has more than 80,000 exhibits and includes items connected to the trans-Atlantic slave trade, early Bermuda settlement and maritime history.

The Dockyard museum also has a collection of artwork and a children’s playground.

Programmes offered at previous Free for February events included photography, book readings and traditional weaving.

Free for February is open to residents only and people must bring proof of domicile, such as a driver’s licence or utility bill, to take part.

The museum is open every day from 10am to 5pm, with the last admission at 4pm.

For more information, visit nmb.bm/visit/planning-your-visit.