Things to do during your visit

Backpack buddies

Our fun backpack buddies are available to borrow during your visit, completely free of charge! Pick one up from the Welcome Space. Give them the tools and then let them explore…

Sensory and fidget backpacks

Perfect for all ages with special educational needs and disabilities, these bags contain a range of sensory items to enhance your visit. The Museum is committed to supporting accessible and inclusive visits for SEND Families in museums. Please visit this page to find out about what resources, activities and programming we offer.

Hands-on

The Museum boasts an interactive gallery containing over 400 handling objects for you to discover. A bright and welcoming space for families and all ages you can get up close and touch the objects, add to our community art gallery or just sit and read in our book corner.

Events and activities

We offer a series of special family-friendly craft activities throughout the year.  You can find more information about these and other events on our What’s On page

Trails to follow

Pick up one (or all!) of our range of trails when you arrive.

Garden delights

Our gardens are a great place to play and roam free.  Explore the gardens through colour and sound, have a picnic on the lawns or smell your way along the herbaceous border.

Fun at home

Families don’t need to visit to enjoy the fun. Our #MuseumMakes are a great way to play and learn at home. You can find these and more on the learning resources page.

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A white female is crouched on a green animal themed rug, turning the pages of a book which is held by a young child with white skin tone and fair, ginger hair colour sitting on the rug. The young child is looking away from the book. In the background are some colourful chairs.

SEND Families

Find out how we are working to support SEND Families in museums with activities and programming.

What's On

Find out what's on here

A yellow balloon with a drawing of a tiger attached with tape to the balloon with grass in the background.

Learning Resources

Explore our learning resources full of historical facts, insights and fun activities. Created to support teaching and learning in the galleries, the classroom and at home.