A summer of discovery, creativity, and family fun at Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery
Families looking for a fun and inspiring day out this summer will find plenty to enjoy at Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery (SMAG), in Shropshire.
Over the summer SMAG will be hosting a huge variety of hands-on creative activities, special events and inspirational exhibitions.
With free admission to the galleries, affordable workshops and activities, easy access by public transport and a central town location, Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery offers a relaxed, family-friendly day out this summer.
family fun at Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery
For families wanting to enjoy quality time together over the school summer holidays, there is plenty to discover.
The galleries are packed with thousands of objects and displays that bring Shropshire’s story to life, from its earliest beginnings through Roman, Medieval and Victorian times. Family-friendly exhibits, puzzles and games help children explore as they go, with hands-on activities including the chance to try on medieval hats and a Roman soldier’s helmet.
From 4 July to 31 August, SMAG will play a central role in the Shrewsbury Arts Trail 2026, showcasing a host of art and sculpture by internationally recognised artists. This year, the exhibition is curated around the stunning impressionist painting, An Ancient Stronghold in France by Wynford Dewhurst, on loan from Bradford Museums & Galleries, and will also feature a striking large-scale contemporary response commissioned from artist Ian Rayer-Smith. The Trail also features the Open Exhibition, showcasing work by local and regional artists of all backgrounds.
Creative adventures continue with Art Explorers on 28 July and 4 August, giving children age 2-11 the chance to enjoy art activities in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Art Camp follows on 6 August for young people aged 11–18, with a full day of drawing, printmaking and mixed media inspired by the museum’s collections.
Get Creative on 14, 21 and 28 August offers children age 5-11 the opportunity to experiment with different materials, develop new skills and enjoy making art in an inspiring environment. Families are invited to celebrate the Festival of Archaeology with local archaeologist, Natasha Harlow on 18 July. Plants and People, Past and Future offers attendees a gallery tour, discussion and chance to try the historic skill of making string from plant fibres (suitable for adults and curious minds age 11+). For the costs of each workshop and ticketing details checkout Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery – Shropshire Museums
The Museum’s family friendly café offers homemade cakes, coffees and delicious brunch options. New for summer 2026 is the Summer Sizzle barbecue in the café courtyard on 4 and 11 July. There is no need to book, just drop in and buy your ticket on the door.
The museum also offers regular events throughout the year for babies, young children and their families. These include the warm and welcoming Museum Babies sessions, specially designed for non-walking babies and their parents and carers, as well as LGBTQ+ at SMAG, a relaxed monthly meet-up on the first Saturday of the month where LGBTQ+ families with young children can enjoy play, chat, coffee and cake together in a friendly and supportive space. Details can be found on the website.
Alex Wagner, Shropshire Council’s portfolio holder for culture, said:
“Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery is a wonderful place for local families and visitors to the county to spend time together, discover something new and enjoy everything the museum has to offer. With free admission to the galleries, affordable workshops and activities, a warm welcome and so much for children and adults to explore, it is a fantastic family-friendly destination at the heart of Shrewsbury.”
Admission to Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery is free, with donations encouraged to support the museum’s work. Some activities and workshops are charged for and should be booked in advance. The museum is open Tuesday- Saturday (closed Sundays and Mondays) from 10am-4pm.
For full details about Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery, visit the website. Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery – Shropshire Museums
Notes to editors
For more information, images, interviews or an opportunity to visit, contact paul.gossage@shropshire.gov.uk
