Not only can you discover the captivating illustrations of Horrible Histories this summer at North Herts Museum, but Martin Brown is coming to Hitchin! 

There's fun for all the family on Saturday 7 June to help launch the opening of 'The World of Martin Brown: Horrible Histories and Other Dazzling Drawings' when Martin will be holding two fantastic drawing events.

At 2pm there'll be a one-off family event filled with foul facts, savage stories, lashings of live drawing and tons of drawing tips to inspire everyone to pick up a pencil! Then at 6pm, adults are invited to 'ink and drink' where you can enjoy a prosecco, wine or soft drink and draw along with Martin.

Alongside illustrations from the iconic Horrible Histories series, the exhibition, on until 21 September, showcases the full scope of Martin Brown's work, from his earliest magazine cartoons to his much-loved books 'Lesser Spotted Animals' and 'Nell and the Cave Bear'. 

"This exhibition has something for the whole family," said Martin Brown. "Many parents grew up with the books, while their kids may be discovering them for the first time." 

Visitors will see how Martin's artistic journey began with ordinary childhood doodles – drawing tanks and aeroplanes, as many kids do. "I really want to demystify the whole thing," he said. "There's nothing magical about what I do. It's not about talent – it's about technique and time. Anyone can draw. Just because your horse doesn't look like a horse doesn't mean you're bad at drawing - it just means horses are hard to draw!" 

Cllr Tamsin Thomas, Executive Member for Enterprise, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity to explore the wonderful world of Horrible Histories, which kids and adults both love – I loved it as a child! You're invited to view original artwork, explore Martin's sketchbooks and even try your hand at drawing using his cartooning techniques." 

Paired with author Terry Deary, the first Horrible Histories book was published in 1993, and with around 30 million copies sold in over 30 languages, the franchise has exploded into a global success, including magazines, games, a BAFTA-winning CBBC series, theatre shows, and even a film.

The World of Martin Brown: Horrible Histories and Other Dazzling Drawings is a major touring exhibition from Seven Stories and The National Centre for Children's Books developed by the South West Heritage Trust in collaboration with Martin Brown and Events of Wonder. It's on at North Herts Museum from 7 June to 21 September.

Tickets for Martin's workshops on Saturday 7 June are £5 for family fun at 2pm and £12 for adults' ink and drink which includes a drink of your choice. Please book via: www.north-herts-museum.arttickets.org.uk

North Herts Museum is located on Brand Street, Hitchin and open Tuesday to Saturday, 10.30am to 4.30pm, and Sundays, 11am to 3pm. Admission to the museum and main exhibitions is free. The museum has a fantastic café with a range of drinks, savoury and sweet snacks, and light meals.

For more information check out @northhertsmuseum on Facebook and Instagram, visit the North Herts Museum website or call 01462 474554.