Young V&A: London's Premier Museum for Childhood Creativity
A vibrant, free museum in East London where children and families ignite creativity through play, design, and imagination.
Located in Bethnal Green, London, the Young V&A is the UK's national museum dedicated to art, design, and performance created with and for children up to 14 years old. Housed in a historic Grade II* listed building, it features interactive galleries including Play, Imagine, and Design, fostering creativity and learning through hands-on exhibits and workshops. The museum is free to visit and offers accessible facilities, making it a vibrant cultural hub for families and young visitors.
A brief summary to Young V&A
- Cambridge Heath Rd, London, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA, GB
- +442089835200
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:45 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays or early in the day to avoid queues during busy periods.
- Use the step-free entrance and lifts for easy access with wheelchairs or pushchairs.
- Take advantage of the interactive galleries—especially the Play Gallery for toddlers.
- Enjoy a break at the museum café or bring your own snacks to eat in designated areas.
- Check the museum’s website for upcoming temporary exhibitions and workshops.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Lockers
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground Central line to Bethnal Green station, which is about a 3-minute walk from the museum. Note that Bethnal Green station is not step-free accessible; for step-free access, use Whitechapel station on the District or Hammersmith & City lines, then walk approximately 15 minutes. Bus routes 8, 106, and 254 stop near Cambridge Heath Road, close to the museum.
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Cycling
Santander Cycle docking stations are available at Holybush Gardens (2-minute walk) and Bethnal Green Gardens (4-minute walk), providing convenient bike hire options. Cycling in the area is supported by dedicated lanes, but be mindful of urban traffic.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to the Young V&A is pleasant via Bethnal Green or Whitechapel areas. The route involves mostly flat terrain on paved city streets and is accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs, taking approximately 10 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you directly at the museum entrance on Cambridge Heath Road. Travel time varies depending on traffic but typically ranges from 10 to 30 minutes from central London. There is no dedicated parking at the museum, so street parking is limited.
Young V&A location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Young V&A
A Historic Home for Childhood Wonders
The Young V&A, formerly known as the V&A Museum of Childhood, is housed in a striking Grade II* listed building on Cambridge Heath Road in Bethnal Green, East London. The building itself dates back to 1856–7, originally constructed as a prefabricated iron structure designed by James William Wild in a distinctive round-arched style. Over the decades, it has evolved from a general museum to a dedicated space celebrating childhood, holding the largest collection of childhood-related objects in the UK. This historic setting blends Victorian architectural charm with modern refurbishments completed in 2006, including a new entrance designed by Caruso St John Architects, giving the museum a fresh yet respectful presence in the community.Engaging Galleries Designed with Children
The museum is uniquely co-designed with children and young people, focusing on visitors up to 14 years old. Its three permanent galleries — Play, Imagine, and Design — offer immersive experiences tailored to different age groups and interests. The Play Gallery invites babies and toddlers to explore colors, textures, and shapes through interactive installations like a marble run and den-making. The Imagine Gallery encourages storytelling, performance, and imaginative play, featuring highlights such as a life-size Joey the War Horse puppet and the original Superman costume worn by Christopher Reeve. The Design Gallery caters to older children with workshops and activities that introduce design thinking and creativity, including The Shed, a space for contemporary artists and design challenges.A Museum for All: Accessibility and Community Focus
Young V&A is committed to inclusivity, offering full wheelchair access, accessible toilets, hearing loops, and assistance dog welcome. The museum's step-free entrance and lifts ensure visitors of all abilities can navigate the space comfortably. Facilities include a café, a shop, storage lockers, and a quiet Reading Room for those seeking a calm environment. The museum actively involves young people through a Youth Collective and volunteering programs, fostering a sense of participation and cultural democracy. Its mission is to empower children and families to explore and enjoy the designed world, nurturing creative confidence for the future.Dynamic Exhibitions and Events
Alongside its permanent galleries, Young V&A hosts temporary exhibitions and special events that highlight contemporary issues and celebrate creativity. Upcoming exhibitions include a major showcase of Aardman Animations’ Wallace & Gromit, opening in February 2026. The museum also runs workshops and performances that engage visitors in hands-on learning and creative expression. These dynamic programs keep the museum vibrant and relevant, connecting design and play with real-world themes such as sustainability, empathy, and human rights.Location and Atmosphere
Set back from the bustling Cambridge Heath Road and surrounded by gardens, the museum offers a welcoming and lively atmosphere. Its proximity to Bethnal Green Tube station (Central line) and several bus routes makes it easily accessible, though the nearest step-free tube access is at Whitechapel. The museum’s vibrant, family-friendly environment is filled with laughter, discovery, and creativity, making it a perfect destination for children and adults alike to explore the joys and histories of childhood.Recognition and Cultural Significance
In 2024, Young V&A was awarded the prestigious Art Fund Museum of the Year prize and the Council of Europe Museum Prize, recognizing its outstanding role in engaging young visitors with themes of creativity, equality, and participation. It stands as a unique cultural institution that blends heritage with innovation, inspiring the next generation of designers, artists, and change-makers in a joyful, inclusive setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stairway to Heaven, Bethnal Green Memorial
0.2 km
A powerful inverted staircase memorial in Bethnal Green Gardens, honouring the 173 civilians who died in the 1943 tube shelter disaster, the worst civilian loss of life in Britain during WWII.
Arnold Circus
1.4 km
Arnold Circus: The historic heart of London's first council estate, born from slum clearance and social reform, now a vibrant community landmark.
Shoreditch Church
1.5 km
Explore Shoreditch’s historic Palladian church, a sanctuary of Shakespearean theatre heritage and architectural grandeur in vibrant East London.
St Mary’s, Whitechapel (The White Chapel)
1.7 km
Historic site of St Mary’s Whitechapel, the iconic White Chapel that shaped East London’s identity and now commemorated as Altab Ali Park.
Northumbria University - London
2.0 km
Explore Northumbria University in London, where vibrant culture meets innovative education in the heart of the city.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
2.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, a unique blend of nature, history, and community nestled in the heart of London.
182 Bishopsgate
2.1 km
Discover 182 Bishopsgate, where London’s ancient gateway history meets the vibrant pulse of the modern financial district.
Travelodge London Central Liverpool Street
2.1 km
Affordable comfort in the heart of East London, steps from Liverpool Street station and vibrant city attractions.
Devonshire Square
2.2 km
A vibrant historic campus blending heritage, modern workspaces, and lively lifestyle spaces in central London’s City.
National Trust - Sutton House and Breaker's Yard
2.2 km
Discover the enchanting Sutton House and Breaker's Yard, a historical jewel in London offering a glimpse into Tudor life and vibrant cultural events.
Shoreditch Park
2.2 km
Experience the lush greenery and vibrant culture at Shoreditch Park, an urban oasis in the heart of London.
St Christopher's Inn Liverpool Street
2.3 km
Budget-friendly hostel with a lively pub below, central to London’s financial district and Shoreditch’s creative energy.
Finsbury Square
2.3 km
Discover Finsbury Square, London's tranquil urban park featuring lush greenery, rich history, and a lively atmosphere perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Bevis Marks Synagogue
2.3 km
Discover Bevis Marks Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the UK, where rich history and stunning architecture meet in the heart of London.
Liverpool Street
2.3 km
Explore the vibrant heart of London at Liverpool Street Station, a historic transport hub with modern amenities and access to iconic attractions.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Last Tuesday Society & Absinthe Parlour
0.7 km
Step into London’s quirkiest cocktail bar and museum of curiosities, where absinthe meets the bizarre in an unforgettable cultural experience.
Hackney City Farm
0.8 km
Discover a vibrant urban farm in East London where city life meets sustainable farming, friendly animals, and community spirit.
Broadway Market
1.0 km
A vibrant East London street market blending historic charm with global street food, artisanal crafts, and a thriving community spirit.
The Blind Beggar
1.0 km
Historic East End pub famed for gangster lore, medieval legend, and a vibrant community spirit in Whitechapel, London.
Columbia Road Flower Market
1.0 km
Discover a vibrant Sunday floral haven in East London, where history, community, and colorful blooms create an unforgettable market experience.
Spitalfields City Farm
1.1 km
A free-entry city farm in East London where rare-breed animals, organic gardens and a community tea hut create a peaceful rural escape in the heart of the city.
Nomadic community
1.1 km
A hidden creative sanctuary off Brick Lane, blending street art, community spirit, and sustainable urban gardening in East London.
Mile End Park
1.2 km
A vibrant 32-hectare linear park blending nature, art, and sport along Regent’s Canal in East London.
BrewDog Shoreditch
1.3 km
Discover BrewDog Shoreditch: A vibrant bar and restaurant offering craft beers, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of East London.
Brick Ln
1.4 km
Discover Brick Lane: London's vibrant street filled with rich history, eclectic shops, and tantalizing food from around the world.
Backyard Market
1.4 km
Discover East London's vibrant creative scene at Backyard Market, a weekend hotspot for unique art, fashion, and artisanal treasures in the historic Old Truman Brewery.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Shoreditch
1.4 km
Discover The Cocktail Club in Shoreditch, a trendy cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night in London.
The Truman Brewery
1.4 km
Historic East London brewery turned vibrant creative hub, blending rich heritage with markets, art, and culture on iconic Brick Lane.
Victoria Park
1.4 km
London’s largest historic park offering scenic lakes, vibrant community events, and year-round green space in the heart of the East End.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
1.5 km
Explore the UK's largest vintage market in East London, a vibrant hub for retro fashion, unique collectibles, and cultural energy seven days a week.
Essential places to dine
Da Terra Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Brawn
1.0 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
Behind Restaurant
1.2 km
An intimate Michelin-starred fish tasting restaurant in London Fields offering immersive chef-served seasonal menus in an open kitchen setting.
Lyle's
1.6 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
The Clove Club
1.7 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
1.7 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
2.0 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
2.0 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
2.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Hackney Church Brew Co.
2.1 km
A vibrant brewery and taproom in Hackney Central blending craft beers, open-flame cooking, and a welcoming community spirit.
14 Hills
2.6 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
La Dame de Pic London
2.6 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Madison
3.3 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Restaurant Story
3.3 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
St. John
3.3 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
69b Boutique Sustainable Style
1.0 km
London’s first boutique dedicated to stylish, sustainable fashion with a focus on ethical brands and eco-friendly materials.
Brick Lane Souvenirs
1.3 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
Luna & Curious
1.5 km
Discover Shoreditch’s curated boutique of British craftsmanship, quirky design, and independent retail at Luna & Curious.
DPUS Designer Outlet
1.5 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
Petticoat Lane Market
2.0 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Middlesex Textiles
2.0 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Triangle Store
2.7 km
Independent East London boutique championing sustainable fashion, ethical homeware, and conscious living.
Traders Gate
2.7 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
The Royal Exchange
2.8 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Tower of London Shop
2.8 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Barbican Shop
2.8 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
1 Poultry
3.0 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
3.1 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Unique Gifts
3.2 km
A compact London gift shop filled with original, handpicked presents and quirky souvenirs for those who love something different.
Pop Up Luxury Shop
3.2 km
Exclusive, curated luxury shopping in a stylish London pop-up setting blending fashion innovation with boutique charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Satan's Whiskers
0.1 km
Discover East London's beloved cocktail bar where classic drinks meet hip-hop vibes and a quirky, intimate atmosphere.
The Sun Tavern
0.3 km
Historic East End corner bar blending a vast Irish whiskey collection with lively live music and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Cocktail Trading Co. Shoreditch
1.3 km
Inventive cocktails and retro charm blend seamlessly in Shoreditch’s cozy and quirky Cocktail Trading Co.
Alcotraz London: Cell Block Two-One-Two
1.3 km
Step inside Alcotraz London for a one-of-a-kind immersive prison cocktail bar adventure with live actors and bespoke drinks.
TT
1.6 km
Innovative wood-fired Mediterranean small plates and cocktails in a stylish Shoreditch venue with a vibrant rooftop terrace.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
1.7 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
Nikkis Bar - Shoreditch
1.7 km
Lively Shoreditch cocktail bar famed for its bottomless brunch, drag shows, and nostalgic party vibes in a colorful, tropical-inspired setting.
Tonight Josephine - Shoreditch
1.7 km
Lively Shoreditch cocktail bar famed for pink neon vibes, creative drinks, and unforgettable themed brunches.
Ballie Ballerson London
1.8 km
Dive into London's most playful cocktail bar with glowing ball pits, inventive drinks, and unforgettable nights in Shoreditch.
Happiness Forgets
1.8 km
Discover expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy, candlelit basement bar with a welcoming no-standing policy in the heart of Hoxton Square.
Discount Suit Company
1.9 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
Floripa
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant Brazilian spirit and tropical party vibes of Floripa, Shoreditch’s premier cocktail bar and nightclub.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
2.0 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
The Bell
2.0 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
The Astronomer, EC1
2.0 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Basing House - Shoreditch
1.6 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
XOYO LONDON
2.1 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
E1
2.3 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
The Steel Yard
3.2 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
London Best Night Clubs
3.3 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Ministry of Sound
4.6 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
4.7 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
Carwash Nightclub
4.8 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Proud Late
4.8 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
4.9 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Corsica Studios
4.9 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Egg London Nightclub
5.0 km
Experience marathon electronic music sessions in a converted Victorian warehouse with vibrant terraces and world-class DJs at Egg London Nightclub.
Club 701
5.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
American Express Invites Lounge
5.0 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
The Roxy
5.1 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Pet Friendly
