Fun filled festival of science

There is plenty to keep the whole family entertained at the National Science and Media Museum this October half term. From fun live shows at Bradford Science Festival, to uncovering the science of sound and light in the Wonderlab Live exhibition, the museum has an exciting variety of activities to explore.

Bradford Science Festival – 24 October – 1 November

Bradford Science Festival returns in the autumn half term after being postponed in July due to Covid-19. With exciting live demonstrations and activities in the museum, plus online resources and radio shows, there is something to inspire all ages. Tickets for live events are available online and must be booked in addition to a general museum admission ticket. Details of museum tickets, along with online activities can be found on the website.

Wonderlab Live – Open until 24 January 2021

Museum visitors can come and think like a scientist at Wonderlab Live. With live demonstrations and a chance to discover new adventures in the science of light and sound. Inspired by the museums ever-popular Wonderlab gallery, Wonderlab Live fuels the imagination and inspires visitors to see the world around them in new and exciting ways. No booking required other than a general museum admission ticket.

Wonderlab – Open daily, permanent gallery

After experiencing Wonderlab Live, visitors can discover the original family favourite Wonderlab gallery. The interactive Wonderlab explores the principles of light and sound, revealing how they are the building blocks of the technology and media that surround us every day. No booking required other than a general museum admission ticket.

Games Lounge – Open daily, £2 per person

Video games fans can play their way through the classics in the museum’s Games Lounge. From Pac-Man to Super Mario Kart, visitors can learn about the history of videogames while getting involved with the action. The Games Lounge costs £2 per person and tickets can be booked online in addition to a free general museum admission ticket.

The Forgotten Showman: How Robert Paul Invented British Cinema – Open until 21 February 2021

In this temporary exhibition visitors can discover how Robert Paul, the forgotten pioneer of cinematography, invented British cinema. Visitors can explore the beginnings of a new industry, enter the magic of the music hall and witness the race for the next big thing in entertainment: cinema. In the heart of Bradford, the world’s first UNESCO City of Film, the museum is proud to reveal this forgotten hero of cinema, 150 years after his birth. No booking required other than a general museum admission ticket.

Back to the big screen- Cinemas open daily

Cinemagoers can get back to the big screen this half term and enjoy the wide selection of films on offer at Pictureville cinema. There is something for kids and adults alike, from jaw dropping 3D IMAX documentaries such as Walking with Dinosaurs and Apollo 11: The First Steps Edition, to special Kids’ Club screenings, including Hotel Transylvania on Halloween weekend (10.30, 31 October and 1 November). Take a look at the full cinema programme this October online.

National Science and Media Museum

The museum is free to visit and open 10:00 – 16:00 daily during half term (24 October – 1 November) and visitors must pre-book a ticket online for an arrival timeslot, with some experiences requiring further booking. The site is regularly undergoing rigorous cleaning and new signage is in place to help guide people safely around the building. Visitors are also encouraged to observe social distancing, and in line with Government guidance they are asked to wear a face covering when they visit, for their safety and the safety of other visitors and staff.

In line with the latest Covid-19 rules in place for Bradford city centre, visitors must only attend the museum with members of their household or support bubble, in groups of no more than six people.

To explore the full programme of activities at the National Science and Media Museum, visit: https://www.scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk/