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Eye openers

Museums and galleries have changed since we were at school. They're no longer the stuffy, silent buildings that many people think of. They now provide a whole load of fun, interactive and up-to-the-minute exhibitions and opportunities. And better still - most of them let children in for free.

Castles, stately homes and monuments also offer really exciting days out - many offer great activities for children and lots have been used as sets for films like Harry Potter. And, for an annual fee, if you become a member of organisations like English Heritage or the National Trust, you and the children can visit them as often as you want.

These organisations also have lots of information available on art for children:

  • British Arts Festivals Association
    Many of the arts festivals held in the UK each year have lots for children to do. Find out more about your local festival by calling 020 7247 4667 or email info@artsfestivals.co.uk.
  • Access Art [External Site]
    Experience arts activities presented by museums, galleries and artists, wherever you live. 
  • Show me [External Site]
    Games, fun and activities for children from UK museums and galleries.  

Loving your local library

Libraries offer a huge range of services you probably didn't expect - from internet access, to newspapers, magazines and of course books to borrow.

  • The Bookstart programme for younger children provides free books for every child at nine months, 18 months and three years. Visit their website [External Site] or call 020 8516 2977.
  • Homework clubs are run by over 60% of libraries.
  • Internet access is available in every public library - so your children can surf the net whenever they like. There's plenty to keep them amused at Culture Online [External Site].
  • The Summer Reading Challenge gets children of all abilities involved in reading over the school holidays. Over 600,000 4 to 12 year olds take part each year at public libraries all over the country.

Parent: "A brilliant idea for both parents and the children. The stickers and medal are a real incentive. The whole scheme gets the children reading, writing, drawing and talking - really using their minds!"

More information about the Summer Reading Challenge can be found on the Reading Agency website [External Site]. They do not have a public enquiries telephone number but you can e-mail Anne Sarrang or Lynne Taylor about the challenge.

Related links:

  • English Heritage [External Site]
    Caring for England's historic environment.
    Customer Services 0870 333 1181
    Membership Enquiries 0870 333 1182
  • Trusty the Hedgehog at the National Trust [External Site]
    Loads of things to do with the National Trust all round the country.
    Membership Department 0870 458 4000
  • 24 Hour Museum [External Site]
    Gateway to over 3,000 UK museums, galleries and heritage attractions.
  • Show Me [External Site]
    Games, fun and activities for children from UK museums and galleries.
  • Access Art [External Site]
    Experience arts activities presented by museums, galleries and artists wherever you live.
  • British Arts Festivals Association [External Site]
    Many of the arts festivals held in the UK each year have lots for children to do.
    Find out more about your local festival by mailing info@artsfestivals.co.uk, or call 020 7247 4667.
  • Youth Arts Online [External Site]
    Promoting creativity and participation.
    Telephone 020 7286 2722



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