Weston Park Museum, Sheffield

We’re big fans of Weston Park Museum in Sheffield - it has to be one of the best free museums in the land, and by far one of most family friendly. The resident exhibitions are based around the geology, history and character of Sheffield. In one room it tells the story about the last one hundred years of the city’s rapid growth. This includes a butchers shop to visit, children’s toys through the ages and a greengrocer. Opposite this room the displays focus on the foundation of Sheffield with dressing up clothes and interactive displays. If you’re interested in tracing your family tree this is a good display to introduce the subject to children. The last two spaces are my favourites with loads of natural history displays from a polar bear, sharks to crocodiles and an ant habitat. Weston Park always has one room designated for a themed display/exhibition that is only showing for a limited time. We’ve enjoyed life-sized insects in here and just recently we’ve been transported to China with the help of a children’s puppet theatre. There is a good café on site as well as an indoor bring-your-own picnic area. If the weather is good you can always take your refreshments into the large gardens. A trip to Sheffield with the children should always include a trip to Weston Park.