The best family days out in London and beyond rated by kids and teens
Average K-Rating based
on 20 K-Rating reviews
Part museum, part playground, part design lab, Young V&A is a must-visit for curious kids and creative families.
Formerly the Museum of Childhood, it’s a free, hands-on wonderland for kids aged 0–14. Fresh from a £13 million revamp, it’s now a vibrant space where children can imagine, play, and design across three interactive galleries. From a mirrored marble run and Minecraft zone to puppet theatres, dressing-up wardrobes and foam building blocks, every corner is packed with creativity and colour.
Highlights include a sensory play area for under-5s, a mini factory explaining design and walk-through dollhouses. It’s ideal for families looking to mix fun with learning, and the café, family loos, buggy parking, and chill-out zones make it easy on parents too.
Plus, the museum offers a variety of workshops and events tailored to different age groups. Whether your child is interested in fashion design, animation, or sculpture, there’s a workshop to suit their interests. These sessions are not only educational but also a great way for kids to make new friends and develop new skills.
Is it suitable for toddlers?
Yes! The Play gallery is designed especially for 0–5s and is full of tactile fun, soft surfaces and sensory adventures. Crawlers and little explorers will be in their element.
What age group is it best for?
It’s made for children aged 0–14. Each gallery caters to different ages, so there’s something for everyone even teens.
How long should we spend at Young V&A?
Give yourself at least 2 – 3 hours – there’s a lot to do. And with workshops, storytelling, and seasonal exhibitions happening all year round, you’ll probably want to come back to experience what you missed the first time.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Nope. it’s totally free and you can just turn up.
Is the museum accessible?
Yes, it’s fully accessible with lifts, buggy parking, family toilets, and quiet spaces. There are thoughtful touches throughout to make the space inclusive for everyone.
Are there any workshops or special events?
All the time! The museum runs creative workshops, temporary exhibitions and family events year-round. Check their website or social channels before you visit to see what’s on.
Where is the Young V&A and how do I get there?
It’s in Bethnal Green, East London – just a short walk from the Bethnal Green tube. Avoid driving if you can – parking is tricky and public transport is your best bet.
Cambridge Heath Rd
London
E2 9PA
+44 (0)20 8983 5200
Tube: Bethnal Green
Pretty cool museum. It was free so that’s definitely a bonus for me as a teen. There’s more of an appeal for kids and parents but I still enjoyed it as a teen who is interested in history. I liked seeing the vintage toys from a few decades ago and also trying to guess what certain things were from other centuries. The cafe was nice and I’d say that this is a good place for families with teens but maybe not just teens by themselves.
You can find loads more information by Laura Porter at aboutlondonlaura.com
i dont like this museum its scary and the toys are dusty!
I find this museum scary. It’s creepy and all the toys look dusty
I love this museum! We go a lot and there are always arts and crafts for children to get involved and make things. It’s great looking at all the old fashioned toys in glass cabinets but I wish I could touch them. Mummy and daddy love it because they see old toys from when they were kids about 100 years ago. I think real dinosaurs were around when they were little..
lots of fun arts and crafts activities on offer on weekends and holidays. my kids love this place. take 20ps for the different antique slot machines.