In a grand Victorian building in Bethnal Green, east London, the V&A Museum of Childhood is home to one of the finest collections of children’s toys and games in the world.

The permanent collections showcase vintage dolls and dolls’ houses, puppets, toy figures, teddy bears, vehicles, and construction toys. The exhibits are spread over four floors; the Mezzanine and First Floor form a balcony around the edge of the building, allowing visitors to peer over the ground floor central hall, which features a shop, information desk, and Benugo Café.

Children are encouraged to have fun here, making it a lively environment. Child safety is paramount, with a staff member at the front door at all times, and adherence to the ‘Code of Behavior’ is crucial: children under 12 must be supervised by an adult, eating in the galleries is not allowed, and running is prohibited.

The toy exhibits are displayed in glass cabinets; however, there are plenty of low-level items for younger children to see. When you or the children need some quiet time, there are sofas at either end of the first floor with reading books available.

First Floor Highlights

• Dolls houses from the 1700s
• Indoor beach (large sand pit)
• Victorian pram
• Under 3s soft play area
• Dressing up clothes

The Mezzanine includes simple interactive displays such as peep shows and spinning tops.

Mezzanine Highlights

• Rolls Royce pedal car
• Rocking horses available for riding
• Touch screens showcasing more toys
• Robbie the Robot: Turn his key to wind him up and (if you get it right) he comes alive
• Model railway (20p coin needed to operate)
• Magnetic iron filings ‘painting’ table
• Sensory pod: textures, lights, etc.
• Craft corner

Café Benugo

This café features exceptional Earl Grey tea, reminiscent of the delightful experience of afternoon tea at prestigious venues. Hot and cold meals are available for both children and adults, and there are plenty of high chairs for young visitors, making it a family-friendly dining option.

Pros of V & A Museum of Childhood:

• Free admission
• A buggy park is available in the lobby
• Regular free activities for kids
• Wheelchair accessible, with AV displays fitted with an induction loop sound enhancement system
• Delicious tea and coffee!

Cons:

• It can be warm inside

Opening Hours

The museum is open daily. However, please note that it is closed on December 25 and 26, as well as January 1 each year.

Admission

Admission to the museum is free, although there may be a small charge for certain activities.

Contact Details

Address: V&A Museum of Childhood, Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA
Official Website: ​www.vam.ac.uk/moc/​​
Nearest Tube Station: Bethnal Green (Central line)
For assistance with public transport, consider using a journey planner for your convenience.