I remember going to the National Science and Media Museum as a kid, and absolutely loved it, but I was delighted to find it has been completely revamped and extended since my childhood visits, and has even more to offer families with young children.
Planning your visit to the National Science and Media Museum
Based in the centre of Bradford, the Museum is 5 minutes walk from the bus or train station, and there are several long and short stay car parks dotted around, including a really handy one right outside the back door which is only £1 on Sundays – brilliant! The museum can get quite busy on a weekend, but we have found that afternoons after 3 are much quieter, and it is open until 6 so still plenty of time to explore. I was amazed that entry into the Museum is still completely free, so it’s a fab option for a day out on a budget.
The Wonderlab
One of our favourite parts of the museum is definitely the Wonderlab – this gallery has a huge range of interactive exhibits which encourage children to explore ideas around the senses, our environment and perception. Olivia loves running through the hall of mirrors and playing with the glow in the dark shapes. She also really enjoyed showing her hot little tummy to the infrared camera! 😂
Exploring the galleries
The other floors of the museum have a range of themed galleries which you can explore, and during certain times like science week and half term etc they have great craft activities for the children to take part in. Olivia loves playing on the retro games machines with her Daddy and spends a good chunk of times jumping up and down all the stairs too!
Eating and drinking at the National Science and Media Museum
There is a pretty spacious cafe on the ground floor, which does hot lunches, snacks, cakes and sandwiches. Although the food is nice, it is very expensive and we generally take our own snacks. There is a handy indoor picnic room where you can take packed lunches, and it’s nice and big so great if you have a little monkey who likes to climb and run whilst they eat.
Olivia had a brilliant time at the National Science and Media Museum – it’s such a fab place to learn and explore and is a great free resource to have on our doorstep. We look forward to going regularly as there is a lot to intrigue children of all ages. Do you have a favourite part of the Museum?
yorkshiretoddlebeast 