Hackney Museum is the perfect place for a fun and relaxed family day out. There are plenty of hands-on activities to keep your children entertained while you are visiting: a 38 red bus, an Anglo Saxon boat, Victorian dressing up, role play and much more! More activities are available on Fun Fridays and Super Saturdays, see our events page for more information.
Early years (0-5)
Hackney Museum is on the ground floor and has automatic doors, making easy moving around the space with your pushchair. We also provide a Buggy Parking area inside the museum so you can leave your buggy to one side if you would like to during your visit. Most of the museum’s floor is carpeted, which is ideal for little crawlers who want to explore the space. The low-level activities encourage children to move towards them and use them for helping them stand up. Baby changing facilities are available. Breastfeeding is welcome.
Over 5s
Hackney Museum is a single large open space that encourages children to go around and explore independently. The hands-on activities are located within the displays, so you can keep an eye on your children while engaging with the stories presented. There is only one entry/exit point so it is easier to keep an eye on your little ones. Make sure you ask reception staff for a family trail, a hunt-for objects that will make the visit fun for the whole family!
Hackney Museum Shop
Our small shop offers a range of I Love Hackney products and pocket money toys. You can view some of the items we sell on our Museum Shop page and then visit us to buy them.
Plan your day out
See the Visitor Information page to get more information on how to get here.
If travelling using the Overground, please note:
- London Fields station does not have step-free access
- Hackney Downs station does not have step-free access
- Hackney Central station does have step-free access
Buses:
Hackney Central is a major bus interchange for: 30, 38, 48, 55, 56, 106, 236, 242, 253, 254, 276, 277, 394, 425, 488, D6 and W15.
Nearby Things to do with your children
Hackney Central Library – the library is located on the first floor of the museum’s building and it has a whole section dedicated to children books. It regularly hosts storytelling sessions on Friday mornings.
More information here.
London Fields – this beautiful and popular park offers play areas, a lido, outdoor gym and accessible toilets.
More information here.
Hackney Empire – the theatre runs family-friendly shows throughout the year, and is extremely popular during Christmas for its pantomime.
More information here.
Hackney Picturehouse – the cinema’s programme includes films and animations.
More information here.
Hackney City Farm – Children will love to see and pet the farm’s animals, and learn how to plant vegetables.
More information here.
Food and drink
Eating and drinking (except bottled water) are not allowed in Hackney Museum. We do not have a cafe, however there are many cafes, restaurants, pubs and world kitchens nearby.