Gilded Balloon at the Museum

What it’s like

A performance venue with a changing line-up of shows, free to walk into even if you're not booked in.

This one's a bit different to your usual kids' venue. Gilded Balloon at the Museum is a theatre space running an eclectic line-up of shows, and the building itself is free to enter, doors open at 10am and it doesn't shut till midnight. You can wander into the bars and hospitality areas without a ticket, which is handy if you're meeting someone or just fancy a look before committing to a show.

For the shows themselves you'll want to book, either through the website or by ringing the box office. Tickets are e-ticketed with a QR code on your confirmation, so there's no printed ticket to lose on the way there, which is one less thing to manage with kids in tow. You can also buy on the door but they're upfront about recommending advance booking instead, which suggests the popular slots do sell out.

One rule worth knowing before you go: under-16s have to be accompanied by an adult at all times, so this isn't a drop-and-go for older kids on their own. Food and drink bought outside can't come in with you, so factor that into your timing if you've got a peckish toddler.

Access is properly thought through here. There are wheelchair spaces, a companion ticket comes free for support, and you'll want to email or book that at checkout rather than turning up and hoping.

Facilities

Need to know

Wheelchairs

2-6 wheelchair spaces available

• Tickets are e-ticketed with a QR code, no printing needed
• Open daily 10am to midnight, but that's building hours not show times
• Outside food and drink isn't allowed in
• Wheelchair spaces are limited, so sort that booking early

Plan your visit

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