Virtually there!

Published

Keep your child virtually entertained, from the comfort and safety of your own sofa! Our guide* to the UK’s top museums, galleries and activities brings a host of kid-friendly venues to your doorstep when you’re stuck at home.

EUREKA!

West Yorks

Don’t let kids miss out on the fun, facts and fantasy of all things science. Whether your child is a budding biologist, curious about chemistry or amazed by astrology, they can enjoy stories, songs, illusions and experiments with Eureka! ‘At Home’.

Visit www.eureka.org.uk

AUNT SANDRA’S CANDY SHOP

Belfast

The factory is well-known for its chocolate workshops. But did you know about their handy ‘do it at home’ kits? They include everything you need to create delicious treats and are accompanied by a step-by-step instruction video.

Visit www.auntsandras.com

WE THE CURIOUS

Bristol

They offer an enticing range of creative online activities, tasks and games: from building a bug hotel, to crafting spaghetti bridges, to creating your very own pop-up puppet theatre. All activities are completely free and come with a list of required equipment and materials.

Visit www.wethecurious.org

THE EDEN PROJECT

Cornwall

It’s lovely to visit this hugely popular West Country venue. But you can visit virtually and still learn lots about the environment through their home and garden-based activities. Discover more about trees, insects and plants, or try out some fridge-door crafting.

Visit www.edenproject.com

THE POTTER TRAIL

Edinburgh

Take a virtual tour through the cobbled streets of Edinburgh and explore the sights and sounds that inspired the iconic Harry Potter films. Make sure to bring a wand along for this magic adventure!

Visit www.pottertrail.com

ABERDEEN ART GALLERY

Inspire the kids with an imaginative range of home-based activities, including Sketchbook Making and Ceramic Making. Workshop tutorial videos are available on their YouTube channel.

Visit www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/AAGM

CHESTER ZOO

Get up close and personal with nature from your living room with a virtual trip to Chester Zoo. Learn more about the animals, play thrilling zoo-themed games or lead your very own fact-finding missions with your family.

Visit www.chesterzoo.org

FUN IN LONDON

If it feels like you’re missing out on all your favourite London attractions, museums and experiences, the good news is that there’s loads to explore online. Take a virtual tour of the National Gallery, ‘step inside’ the Tower of London, or ride the Mail Rail at the Postal Museum from your sofa.

Visit www.nationalgallery.org.uk

Visit www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london

Visit www.postalmuseum.org

NATIONAL FOOTBALL MUSEUM

Manchester

This is heaven-sent for mini football fans! Learn all about the nation’s favourite sport, and discover from the pros how to talk just like a commentator. There are so many activities to choose from that even the biggest football fans might find something new to learn!

Visit www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

THE LAING ART GALLERY

Newcastle

The gallery is encouraging kids and parents to embrace their inner artist and create their own legendary pieces of artwork. Activities for all ages are available: from the youngest member of the family to the most senior!

Visit laingartgallery.org.uk

THE NATIONAL MARITIME AQUARIUM

Plymouth

Enjoy an under-the-sea adventure in your living room with the National Marine Aquarium. The aquarium hosted Facebook Live events all through the first lockdown and these insights into underwater life are still available on YouTube. Find out more about an incredible array of marine life on offer and get an up-close look at some of the animals.

Visit www.national-aquarium.co.uk

PLANTASIA

Swansea

Enjoy a virtual tour around Plantasia’s tropical paradise, getting you closer than ever before to the sights and sounds of the jungle. You’re likely to run into plenty of animals along the way and get close-up to some gigantic greenery. And there’s the added bonus of your own personal Q&A with an expert.

Visit www.plantasiaswansea.co.uk


Guide created by Matalan