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Plan before you go

Family Visit to York Art Gallery

Practical tips for exploring the gallery with children in York.

Whether you are introducing young ones to fine art or exploring the extensive ceramic collections, this guide provides the information you need to plan a successful visit. Please check the official gallery website for the latest details on exhibitions, family events, and any specific visitor policies before heading out.

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York Art Gallery
3 family activities
Family visits to York Art Gallery
York Art Gallery welcomes families with dedicated interactive spaces, sensory kits, and regular creative workshops during school holidays.

York Art Gallery provides a welcoming environment for families, offering dedicated spaces for creative play and sensory exploration throughout the building. Young visitors can engage with the collections through interactive materials, such as the tactile Sensory Toolkit, or spend time in the imaginative Ismay Kitchen. These facilities and resources are designed to help families experience the art together at their own pace during a visit.

Family highlights

  • Interactive Sensory Toolkit available for quiet exploration in the Burton Gallery.
  • Dedicated Ismay Kitchen space for imaginative play and tea parties.
  • Art Cart stocked with materials and activities for creative engagement.
  • Regular artist-led workshops and themed events during school holidays.
  • Family-friendly amenities including breastfeeding support and stroller accessibility.
Family visit essentials
Useful expectations and practical guidance in one place

What children can see and do

Families can use a Sensory Toolkit in the Burton Gallery for tactile exploration, engage in imaginative play in the Ismay Kitchen, or get creative at the Art Cart with drawing materials and activities.

Age guidance

While most activities are suitable for all ages, Wicked Wednesdays are specifically recommended for children aged 2 to 8 years.

Practical information

Pushchairs are welcome with ramp and lift access available. Breastfeeding is permitted throughout the gallery, with cushions available. Children's food is served at the onsite café, Sketch, and picnics are permitted in the Museum Gardens. Baby changing facilities are provided.

Family Activities and Resources at York Art Gallery
3 activities and resources

York Art Gallery provides a variety of engaging resources for families, ranging from interactive play spaces to artist-led workshops. Visitors can enjoy discovery areas, creative drop-in sessions, and scheduled holiday programs designed to inspire children through art, storytelling, and play throughout their visit.

Interactive experience

Interactive Family Spaces

The gallery features the Burton Gallery Sensory Toolkit, the Ismay Kitchen for imaginative play, and an Art Cart for creative drawing and activities.

Age guidance: Suitable for all ages and abilities.

Practical information: Available to use anytime during a visit.

Open official information

Family program

Wicked Wednesdays

Ages 2–8PaidBooking required

Story Craft Theatre hosts adventurous sessions featuring games, singing, and interactive storytelling for younger children.

Age guidance: Recommended for children aged 2 to 8 years.

Practical information: Held every Wednesday during school holidays (excluding Christmas). Pre-booking is recommended; cost is £7 per child.

Open official information

Family program

Creative Family Thursdays

Free

These artist-led sessions offer creative activities linked to the gallery's collections and special exhibitions.

Age guidance: Suitable for all ages.

Practical information: Held every Thursday during school holidays (excluding Christmas). These are drop-in sessions and are included with gallery admission.

Open official information
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Guides, visitor info, and museum details in York
Find everything about York Art Gallery in one place, including tickets, opening hours, current exhibitions, location details, visitor tips, nearby attractions, and the latest museum updates. Use these pages to plan your visit, discover what to see, and get practical information before you go.
York

Explore Museums and Cultural Heritage Sites in York

Your essential guide to art and history in North Yorkshire.

Uncover the artistic legacy and historical narratives preserved in York. This resource provides clear pathways to browse local galleries, find specific museum categories, and locate exhibitions. Plan your cultural itinerary with detailed insights into the city's unique heritage.

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