Visit Guildhall Art Gallery and London's Roman Amphitheatre to enjoy specially designed family activities.
Join us to discover the skills of weft and weave, and the stories of artists creating the tapestries of today.
This half term, join us on Wednesday 28 October for a family day taking over Guildhall Art Gallery and London's Roman Amphitheatre, transforming them into places for creativity, discovery and making together.
As the Bayeux Tapestry returns to the UK for the first time in almost 1,000 years, our exhibition Beyond Bayeux: Tapestry Now celebrates one of the world's oldest yet most vibrant and evolving art forms. This special family day is all about connecting our youngest visitors with the art of tapestry today.
11am–4pm: Multiple drop in activities
- Universal Weaving with Christie Swallow: Help co-create a large-scale tapestry by interweaving scrap fabric, ribbons and mixed materials. Explore how textiles can hold stories, memories and histories as you contribute to a collaborative artwork.
- Hand Weave a Tapestry with Dalia James: Create your own miniature tapestry using a small frame loom and take home your finished weaving. Recommended for children aged 8 and over. Drop-in, but spaces are limited.
- Woven Tales with Laura Sampson: Storytelling, like tapestry, is one of the most ancient, human arts. Immerse yourselves in tales of weft and weave that string symbols from the exhibition together.
- 11 am and 3.30 pm - 5s and under
- 12 pm and 2.30 pm - 6s and over
- The Draw-Yer Tapestry with Arkem Walton: Add your own chapter to a giant illustrated story. Working together along a huge roll of paper, visitors will draw dramatic scenes and adventures inspired by the storytelling tradition of the Bayeux Tapestry.
Story Corner
Take a moment to relax in our book corner, stocked with a wide selection of books inspired by art, history, myths and storytelling.
A small quiet space with ear defenders and sensory toys will also be available throughout the day for anyone who needs a calmer environment.
Admission
All activities are free. Booking is recommended to help the Gallery prepare enough materials for everyone, but walk-ins are always welcome.
Entry to Guildhall Art Gallery is free, with galleries to explore, fascinating artworks to discover and the remains of London's Roman Amphitheatre to visit. You're welcome to bring a packed lunch to enjoy in Guildhall Yard or in the Gallery's spacious cloakroom area.
Suitable for children aged 3 to 13 and their families. These sessions are designed for families and are not suitable for unaccompanied adults.
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