The Pitt Rivers Museum was founded in 1884 when General Pitt Rivers, an influential figure in the development of archaeology and evolutionary anthropology, gave his collection to the University of Oxford.
There are half a million objects in the museum and it’s absolutely fascinating for both young and old. I’ve visited with my kids many a time from when they were quite young. My eldest is now at the stage where he’s really interested in looking at the objects on display and my youngest is happy just to explore up and down the rows or cases.
What I love about the Pitt Rivers Museum is the way the objects are set out. Unlike the more traditional way of displaying by age or origin they are grouped together by type. For example, you’ll find all the toys from many generations in one place.
The Pitt Rivers Museum is family friendly with object handling running every Saturday and family backpacks available. Admission is free so it’s a cost effective day out.
Object Handling Every Saturday
Every Saturday 11.00 – 13.00 Free family friendly object handling in the Pitt Rivers. Discover more about wonderful and fascinating objects from the museum’s collection.
Museum Family Backpacks
Available from the info point 10.00 – 16.30 every Saturday. Borrow a backpack full of activities and become a family of museum explorers.
Programme of Other Family Friendly Events
Fun ways to explore the museum and discover more about the exciting collections. Make something super to take home. FREE drop-in activities for children aged 5+ and special activities designed for under 5s. Check out the Red Kite Days events pages for the latest in what’s on.
