Don’t pass up the chance to see the transformation for yourself. The impressive new atrium showcases hundreds of fascinating objects, from aircrafts and tanks to letters, films and artwork.
There are lots of ways for kids to involved and many of the exhibitions are free to enter, making the Imperial War Museum a great option for a family day out this summer.
WHAT’S NEW?
First World War Galleries To mark the centenary of the First World War, these ground-breaking displays tell the story of the War.
Truth & Memory: British Art of the First World War A collection of powerful artworks by First World War artists.
IWM Contemporary: Mark Neville A new body of work in response to the war in Afghanistan.
WHAT IS THERE FOR KIDS?
As well as lots of family-friendly objects on display, there’ll be craft activities, exhibits and galleries designed with little ones in mind.
Interactive exhibits: Kids can try on uniforms and even explore a reconstructed trench, to find out what life was like for troops on the Western Front.
Activities: Children can engage with history through craft sessions and by handling museum objects. Look out for the head of Tirpitz the Pig – he’s the mascot of HMS Glasgow and something of a celebrity at the museum.
Exhibitions: Popular family exhibitions will reopen, including the ever popular Horrible Histories Spies, which is based on the hugely successful children’s books.
FREE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES IN SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Forget-Me-Not: Postcards from the Front 28 July–10 August and 18–24 August
Soldiers at the Front sent embroidered postcards of flowers to their loved ones back home, and now children can create their own, as part of a commemorative art project. Recommended age 6+
Close Encounters and Creative Responses Sundays 20 July–31 August
On Sundays throughout the summer, visitors will get the chance to handle artefacts and then respond creatively through writing, drawing and photography. Recommended age 6+
DETAILS
When: From 19 July 2014, open daily 10am-6pm. Last admission 5.30pm.
Where: Imperial War Museum, Lambeth Rd, London SE1 6HZ. A short walk from Lambeth North, Waterloo and Elephant and Castle underground stations.
Price: Museum entry is free. Horrible Histories Spies exhibition: Adult £6.20; Children £3.30; Concession £4.40; Family ticket £12.25 – £19 (dependent on family size). Book online to save 10%.
More info: Find out more about Imperial War Museum’s transformation Contact the museum on 020 7416 5000 or email mail@iwm.org.uk