Families in Stroud looking for an accessible activity during the summer holidays will be able to explore Victorian life at a relaxed session designed for children with additional access requirements.
Discover the Victorians will take place at Museum in the Park, Stratford Park, Stratford Road, Stroud, from 10am to 11am on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. The pre-bookable session is aimed at families with neurodivergent children and children who need a more relaxed environment to enjoy museum activities.
What children can do
The one-hour session will invite children to try a range of activities inspired by everyday Victorian life. These will include washing laundry and hanging clothes to dry, cleaning carpets and trying rag rugging.
Children will also be able to consider what school was like in Victorian times by writing on a slate and practising handwriting with a dip pen. The session will include Victorian toys and games, as well as the chance to make an optical illusion toy and a peg doll to take home.
The event can also count towards the Gloucestershire Library Challenge 2026, giving participating families another way to join the countywide reading and activity programme.
A flexible morning at the museum
Museum learning staff will support families as much or as little as they choose. Activities are optional and can be moved around if a child needs a different pace or a break.
A chill-out zone will be available, and families can come and go during the time slot. Organisers said the session has been moved to the morning following feedback from visitors.
The event will be held in the downstairs Meeting Room at Museum in the Park. It is intended for families with children aged over five who need a quieter experience, and other visitors are asked to understand that tickets are reserved for families with this need.
Tickets and planning a visit
There are 12 child tickets available to help maintain a relaxed environment. Tickets cost £1 per child and must be booked in advance online or by calling the museum on 01453 763394. Children must be accompanied, but accompanying adults do not need a ticket.
Families can use the museum’s Visual Story and easy-read version to help plan their visit. The event is listed as part of the museum’s Summer Holiday programme.
