Young V&A is a free, world-class museum in East London designed to inspire children and young people through creativity, design, play and performance, and it reopened in 2023 after a major transformation of the former V&A Museum of Childhood.
Located in Bethnal Green, Young V&A combines hands-on galleries, interactive exhibits, and original objects from the Victoria and Albert Museum’s collections, reimagined specifically for visitors aged 0–14. It focuses on how creativity shapes childhood and how children shape the world around them.
This guide explains exactly what Young V&A is, who it is for, what you can see inside, how to plan a visit, and why it has quickly become one of London’s most important cultural attractions for families. You will learn about the museum’s history, gallery themes, exhibitions, facilities, accessibility, prices, opening hours, transport links, and practical tips to make the most of your visit. Whether you are a parent, teacher, tourist, or simply curious about innovative museum design, this article provides a complete, factual overview of Young V&A.
What Is Young V&A
Young V&A is a branch of the Victoria and Albert Museum dedicated entirely to children, young people, and families.
It focuses on creativity across design, fashion, architecture, theatre, toys, games, and everyday objects that shape childhood experiences.
The museum is designed to be interactive, encouraging children to touch, build, imagine, and experiment rather than simply observe.
Young V&A officially reopened to the public in July 2023 following a multi-year redevelopment.
The transformation aimed to create a space where children are treated as active creators, not passive audiences, while still maintaining museum-level scholarship and object care.
Unlike traditional museums, Young V&A places play, making, and performance at the centre of the visitor experience.
It is free to enter, aligning with the V&A’s mission to make art, design, and creativity accessible to everyone.
History Of Young V&A
The building that houses Young V&A has a long cultural history in East London.
It originally opened in 1872 as a cultural space connected to the South Kensington museums, later becoming the Bethnal Green Museum.
In 1974, it officially became the V&A Museum of Childhood, focusing on toys, games, and childhood artefacts.
By the late 2010s, the museum was seen as outdated in both design and educational approach.
Visitor expectations had changed, and the museum no longer reflected how children learn, play, and engage with creativity in the modern world.
The decision was made to close the museum in 2020 for a full redevelopment.
After extensive consultation with children, families, educators, and designers, it reopened as Young V&A with a completely new identity, layout, and mission.
Purpose And Vision
Young V&A exists to nurture creativity from an early age.
Its core belief is that creativity is a life skill, not just an artistic talent, and that children benefit from environments that encourage curiosity and experimentation.
The museum is designed around the idea that children learn best through doing.
Instead of long text panels, it uses prompts, tools, materials, and immersive spaces to invite exploration.
Young V&A also aims to reflect diverse childhood experiences.
Its collections and displays include global perspectives, everyday objects, and contemporary design alongside historic artefacts.
The vision is long-term cultural impact.
By supporting creative confidence in children, the museum contributes to education, wellbeing, and future innovation.
Location And Setting
Young V&A is located on Cambridge Heath Road in Bethnal Green, East London.
The area is well connected by public transport and sits within a residential community, not a tourist enclave.
The museum building itself is Grade II listed, combining historic architecture with modern interior design.
The redevelopment preserved the external character while transforming the interior into bright, flexible gallery spaces.
Bethnal Green is known for its creative history and diverse population.
Placing Young V&A here reinforces the museum’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement rather than exclusivity.
Gallery Overview
Young V&A is organised into three main permanent galleries.
Each gallery focuses on a different aspect of creativity and is tailored to different age ranges and interests.
The galleries are designed to work together rather than separately.
Children can move freely between making, imagining, and performing, reflecting how creativity works in real life.
Objects are displayed at child-friendly heights.
Labels use clear language, questions, and prompts rather than academic descriptions.
The galleries balance original V&A collection items with replicas and interactive elements.
This ensures both educational value and hands-on engagement.
Play Gallery
The Play Gallery explores how children learn through play across cultures and history.
It includes toys, games, and playful objects from different time periods and parts of the world.
Children can build structures, explore textures, and engage with sensory experiences.
The gallery emphasises open-ended play rather than rule-based activities.
Historic toys sit alongside contemporary designs.
This shows how play evolves while maintaining core principles such as imagination, problem-solving, and social interaction.
The Play Gallery is particularly suitable for younger children, including toddlers and early primary ages.
It provides safe, stimulating environments that encourage curiosity and movement.
Design Gallery
The Design Gallery focuses on how everyday objects are imagined, designed, and made.
It introduces children to design thinking, from identifying problems to testing solutions.
Exhibits include fashion items, furniture, technology, and graphic design.
Children are encouraged to sketch, prototype, and experiment with materials.
The gallery shows that design is not limited to professionals.
It emphasises that everyone, including children, can be a designer.
Real-world examples help children connect design to daily life.
This builds awareness of how objects shape behaviour, comfort, and identity.
Imagine Gallery
The Imagine Gallery centres on storytelling, performance, and imagination.
It draws heavily from theatre, film, literature, and costume design.
Children can dress up, perform, and create narratives using sets and props.
The space encourages collaboration and expressive play.
Objects from the V&A’s theatre and performance collections add authenticity.
These include costumes, stage designs, and visual references.
The Imagine Gallery supports emotional development.
By acting out stories, children explore empathy, confidence, and communication skills.
Temporary Exhibitions
Young V&A hosts temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent galleries.
These exhibitions focus on specific themes, designers, or creative movements.
Temporary shows are designed to be accessible to children without oversimplifying content.
They often include interactive elements, workshops, and family activities.
Exhibitions change regularly, encouraging repeat visits.
This keeps the museum fresh and relevant for local families.
Some temporary exhibitions may require advance booking during busy periods.
However, general entry to the museum remains free.
Collections And Objects
Young V&A draws from the wider V&A collections, one of the largest design collections in the world.
Objects include toys, clothing, furniture, illustrations, and games.
Items are carefully selected for relevance to children’s lives.
Rather than displaying rare artefacts solely for prestige, the focus is on meaning and connection.
Original objects are displayed alongside replicas.
This allows children to interact physically while preserving historic items.
The museum also commissions new work.
Contemporary designers contribute objects and installations specifically for Young V&A.
Learning And Education
Education is central to Young V&A’s mission.
The museum works closely with schools, early years providers, and educators.
School visits are structured around the national curriculum.
Sessions support subjects such as art, design, history, and literacy.
Learning programmes emphasise creativity rather than rote knowledge.
Children are encouraged to ask questions, make choices, and reflect on their experiences.
Teacher resources are available to support pre-visit and post-visit learning.
These help integrate museum visits into classroom teaching.
Family Experience
Young V&A is designed with families in mind.
Facilities include buggy-friendly spaces, accessible toilets, and seating throughout.
Staff are trained to engage with children respectfully and positively.
The atmosphere is welcoming rather than formal.
Noise and movement are expected.
Unlike traditional museums, children are encouraged to explore actively.
The museum supports multi-generational visits.
Parents, grandparents, and carers can participate alongside children.
Accessibility And Inclusion
Young V&A prioritises accessibility for all visitors.
The building includes step-free access, lifts, and accessible toilets.
Exhibits are designed to accommodate different learning styles.
Visual, tactile, and auditory elements support inclusive engagement.
Quiet spaces are available for visitors who may feel overwhelmed.
Clear signage helps visitors navigate the museum comfortably.
The museum also works with disability organisations to improve access.
Programmes are regularly reviewed to ensure inclusivity.
Practical Information
Young V&A is free to enter for all visitors.
There is no general admission charge for permanent galleries.
Opening hours are typically daily, including weekends.
Exact hours may vary on holidays, so checking before visiting is recommended.
The museum is located near Bethnal Green Underground station on the Central line.
Several bus routes also stop nearby.
There is no on-site parking for general visitors.
Public transport is the easiest way to reach the museum.
Facilities include a café, shop, toilets, and baby-changing areas.
Food and drink policies may vary by gallery space.
What To Expect On Arrival
Visitors enter through a welcoming foyer area.
Staff are available to answer questions and provide guidance.
Security checks are minimal compared to major tourist attractions.
This keeps entry smooth and child-friendly.
Galleries are clearly signposted.
Visitors can choose their own route rather than following a fixed path.
Seating areas allow for rest breaks.
This is particularly helpful for families with young children.
Tips For Visiting
Arrive early during weekends and school holidays.
This helps avoid busier periods, especially in popular galleries.
Dress children in comfortable clothing.
Many activities involve movement and hands-on exploration.
Allow plenty of time.
A full visit can take two to four hours depending on age and interest.
Engage with prompts and questions.
They are designed to spark conversation between children and adults.
Seasonal Events And Activities
Young V&A runs seasonal programmes throughout the year.
These often align with school holidays and cultural celebrations.
Activities may include workshops, storytelling sessions, and creative labs.
Most are included in free admission, though some may require booking.
Seasonal events reflect themes such as design, play, or performance.
They provide deeper engagement beyond the galleries.
Holiday programmes are popular.
Planning ahead ensures availability.
Why Young V&A Matters
Young V&A represents a shift in how museums engage children.
It treats creativity as essential, not optional.
The museum challenges the idea that cultural spaces must be quiet or passive.
It shows that learning can be active, joyful, and collaborative.
By focusing on children, Young V&A invests in the future.
Creative confidence developed early supports lifelong learning.
It also sets a new standard for family museums worldwide.
Its approach is studied by institutions globally.
Young V&A Compared To Other Museums
Unlike traditional art museums, Young V&A is purpose-built for children.
Displays are designed around their physical and cognitive needs.
Compared to science centres, it focuses more on imagination and design.
There is less emphasis on experiments and more on creative thinking.
Within London, it complements institutions like the Science Museum and Natural History Museum.
Each offers a different learning experience.
Young V&A fills a unique cultural role.
It bridges education, play, and design.
FAQs
What is Young V&A?
Young V&A is a free museum in London dedicated to creativity for children and young people. It focuses on play, design, and imagination using objects from the V&A collections.
Where is Young V&A located?
Young V&A is located on Cambridge Heath Road in Bethnal Green, East London, near Bethnal Green Underground station.
Is Young V&A free to visit?
Yes, entry to Young V&A is completely free for all visitors.
What age is Young V&A for?
Young V&A is designed primarily for children aged 0–14, but it is enjoyable for families and adults as well.
When did Young V&A open?
Young V&A reopened in July 2023 after a major redevelopment of the former V&A Museum of Childhood.
How long does a visit take?
Most visitors spend between two and four hours exploring the galleries and activities.
Are there interactive exhibits?
Yes, interactivity is central to Young V&A, with hands-on activities across all galleries.
Can I bring a buggy?
Yes, the museum is buggy-friendly and includes lifts and wide pathways.
Are there food facilities?
Yes, Young V&A has a café offering food and drinks suitable for families.
Is Young V&A suitable for school trips?
Yes, the museum offers structured learning programmes aligned with the national curriculum.
Do I need to book tickets?
General admission does not require booking, but some events or exhibitions may.
Is Young V&A accessible?
Yes, the museum prioritises accessibility with step-free access and inclusive design.
Are there quiet spaces?
Yes, quiet areas are available for visitors who need a calmer environment.
Does Young V&A have temporary exhibitions?
Yes, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions alongside permanent galleries.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, subject to gallery guidelines.
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