Young V & A

Welcome to Young V&A, the free museum where children, young people and families can imagine, play and design. Get ready to spark your creativity and embark on a delightful adventure into the world of art, design, and imagination!

Designed with and for 0–14-year-olds, Young V&A’s mission is to inspire the next generation of artists, designers, performers, and practitioners. The three galleries Play, Imagine and Design, each feature new interactive activities, which are inspired by the collections. Where children and their families can have fun together expressing their creativity, with immersive optical illusions, a performance area and a stage. As well as a marble run, self-portrait maker and open design studio - plus much more!

Wander through collections that are sure to wow and amaze you. And visit during exciting events! Over the summer there is a full programme of free drop-in events, from workshops and activities to storytelling. Also, join them for National Play Day on 3rd August for a day of fun activities for all the family. 

Tickets will be available to book online this Summer for the first Young V&A exhibition, Japan: Myths to Manga, which opens Saturday 14th October. Take an exciting and atmospheric trip through Japanese history – and explore how landscape and folklore have influenced Japan's culture, technology and design. 

The entrance to Young V&A is step-free and wheelchair accessible. The shop and cafe are also on the ground floor for easy convenience and there are lifts and a ramp that will take you up to the galleries and exhibition spaces. 

The Reading Room on the lower-ground floor is their designated quiet space offering a calming environment for individuals who may need a break from sensory stimulation. This is a drop-in, multi-use space which can also be used for reading, homework, prayer or breastfeeding. 

Feeling peckish? Head to the Town Square Cafe for a selection of hot and cold meals! The kids can even dig into their own children's lunchboxes. Don't forget the sweet treats - from pastries and cakes to more! The adults can also sit back and relax with a cuppa or a barista-made coffee!

You are also welcome to bring cold food and drink from home. The cafe has a bottle warmer and a microwave if you need to heat up milk or food for your little ones, and you can eat your packed lunch in the Town Square or in the neighbouring Museum Gardens.