Family in Victorian costume

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Family Fun – February Half-Term at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House

Step inside a Victorian family home this February half-term for time out with family and friends. Try something a bit different with a visit to Manchester’s very own hands-on literary house. Try our popular Cranford the Cat kids trail and talk to our friendly volunteers around the House. Then let the kids use their imaginations with Valentine-inspired creative craft in our Servants’ Hall. Plus there is dressing-up, colouring and hands-on activities. You could always treat everyone to a hot chocolate and delicious cake in our famous Tea Room too!

Valentines kids craft made with pink hearts and cups

Family craft activities are included in admission and kids go free with a paying adult. Your ticket includes 12 months entry so banish boredom and visit as many times as you like!

The craft activity is available 11am – 4pm (last entry 3pm) on open days between Sunday 16th – Sunday 23rd February*. Adults are £8.50 per person and under 16s are free with a paying adult. Booking is advised as it helps us make sure you have the best time possible – or just turn up and pay on the door.

Family dressed up

Family Friendly venue

We love to welcome families at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House:

  • Buggies and prams are welcome throughout the House and garden (we have a lift and ramped entrance), there are baby change facilities and the House is breastfeeding-friendly. We also have a ‘do touch’ policy so the majority of items in the House can be touched and chairs sat on.
  • Drinks (including cordial with free refills), cakes and snacks are available to buy from the Tea Room. We have a limited food offer so you are welcome to bring a picnic.
  • There is a small shop with pocket money items from £1 upwards including quill pens, cat toys and erasers. We also have a small selection of second-hand children’s books on sale.

We are approximately a 10-15 minute walk from Manchester Museum and the Whitworth Art Gallery on Oxford Road.

The House is open every Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday 11am-4.30pm (last entry 3pm).

Wed, Thurs, Sun (Open days) 16th -23rd February 2025

16th February
19th February
20th February
23rd February

ALL DAY

Family Friendly, Workshops

Plans are like a card-house-if one gives way, all the others come rattling about your head

Elizabeth Gaskell, 1864