Free family resources

Email a Friend Email a friend 

There’s plenty for families to see and do on a visit to Manchester Art Gallery. Ask at the information desk to find out more about:

Family group drawing in the galleriesFamily backpacks

Pick up a backpack , follow the activity trail, explore the galleries together. Each backpack contains six activites, instruction booklet and map.

For family groups with children aged 7 to12.





Family group using the audio guidesFamily audioguide

Take a tour around the gallery with our easy to use audio guide for children, featuring comments from children, celebrities and curators.







Young girl with storybags in the galleriesStorybags

Each storybag explores one of the works in the gallery. Choose a lion, teapot, dove or fish, then go and find your artwork.  Each bag has a cushion, book and game.

For children aged 2 to 4.





Illustration by Tony RossFamily trails

Pick up a family trail sheet, there are several to choose from. Draw pictures, enjoy poems or try out our quick quiz.








Family group exploring the Gallery of Craft and Design Handling TrailGallery of Craft and Design handling trail

Which feels colder, metal or glass? 

Feel ceramics, glass, metal and wood objects made especially for touching, listen to the artists who made them or read the printed guide.



What families are saying about the gallery

"I think it's fantastic. Really child friendly. I love the interactive gallery and the story sacks - more please! I have used them with a 2 year old. There is nothing as good in London ( where I live!)."

M Devons


Family events

Family group taking part in practical making workshop

Use the events calendar to check out our free family events programme

Family friendly cafe

Young girl enjoying lunch in the cafe

Good food for all the family in our cafe

We need your feedback

How was it for you?

Fill in the website feedback form and let us know what you think