A city rife with culture, packed full of galleries, and with more creative experiences than any other city in the UK, it follows that London is an excellent place to visit if you’re passionate about art.
But what about for kids and young people?
In this blog, we’re taking a slightly different approach to the classic artistic tour of London, focussing on those experiences and creative attractions that are perfect for children. And we’re starting with one of the most central and well-known creative sites in London – the National Gallery, just a short walk from the top hotels near Paddington London.
National Gallery Workshops
One of the best things about the National Gallery is the way that this popular London attraction involves visitors of all ages in its event schedule – with a series of family friendly tours and hands-on art workshops available for children every Sunday.
During the school holidays, kids can head to the National Gallery and take part in specific workshops which focus on current exhibitions and art displays in the gallery, with the ever-changing roster of activities meaning that this is a repeat experience loved by locals and tourists alike. Not to mention, with London accommodation surrounding this central gallery, it couldn’t be easier to work into your itinerary regardless of where you stay.
Tate Modern Tours
Get your kids involved in art tours of the Tate Modern, by picking up an activity map with information on exhibits and works of art that are the same age as children. There are a number of immersive and experiential spaces located throughout this gallery on the Southbank, including digital sketch pads on which they can bring their own creations and works of art to life.
Royal Academy of Art
Heading back towards the hotel deals of Paddington London and the city centre, the Royal Academy of Art is another location which invites kids to get involved in both creating their own art and in learning more about what’s on show throughout the gallery.
A series of regular art drop-in workshops are available for children of all ages, or families can book workshops in which they will create their own masterpieces based on current exhibitions and displays within the gallery.
Cartoon Museum
This is a great spot for kids and families alike, because it combines interactive art with a creative mode which all children love and can envision on screen and in their favourite books and magazines. With workshops available throughout half term and school holidays, the Cartoon Museum is geared towards offering children a chance to create their own characters and storylines through a range of mediums – from line drawing to clay, and from heroes to villains and more.
The Cartoon Museum is located in central London, a short walk from the popular hotels and restaurants near Paddington Station.
The only question left to ask is which of these artistic destinations and creative experiences will your children favour the most? Happy painting / drawing / creating!
