Visiting with children

There's plenty for little ones to enjoy, from hands-on activities and family days to our very own Mini Museum, designed especially with younger ones in mind.

Engaging galleries

We aim to make our galleries a place where everyone can engage with the topics and objects on display. 

We also include object labels aimed at younger audiences and discussion prompts to help families have meaningful conversations about our exhibitions. 

Families can follow trails through the galleries and borrow puppet versions of Prince Rupert's famous dog Boye or Cromwell's horse Blackjack, who can accompany you as you explore.

Pushchairs

Pushchairs are welcome throughout most areas of the museum, or can be stored at the front desk where available.

We visit a lot of museums as a family, and out of everywhere this has had the most activities that my 5 year old has proactively engaged with.

Find out more about our galleries
Image Mother and child looking at an interactive screen

Family Saturdays

Family Saturdays are on the first Saturday of the month.

Bring the whole family for a fun-filled Saturday at the National Civil War Centre and Newark Museum! Held on the first Saturday of every month, these special days are packed with hands-on activities, crafty creations, and interactive storytelling that bring Newark’s past to life for curious minds of all ages.

Whether you're exploring the dramatic stories of the Civil War or discovering Newark’s rich heritage, Family Saturdays are the perfect way to learn and play together. With themed activities changing regularly, there's always something new to enjoy, from dressing up in historical costumes to making your own museum-inspired art.

No booking required and activities are included with standard admission. Come along and make history come alive!

Find out more about Family Saturdays
Image A man dressed in historical military-style clothing sits with a boy on a the steps of National Civil War Centre.

Mini Museum

The Mini Museum is on Thursdays during term time from 10.30am to 11.30am.

Calling all little explorers! Get ready for a weekly dose of discovery, creativity, and giggles at Mini Museum with playful, hands-on sessions specially designed for families with children under 5.

Each session has a different theme and is packed with exciting activities your little one will love, including:

  • storytime adventures
  • gallery exploration
  • playtime in the historic Tudor Hall
Book now
Image A woman and two young children playing in a gallery space