Busy periods & quiet times

Visiting when we're busy

(and info about when we're usually a bit quieter)

The museum gets really busy during February half term and October half term, particularly on rainy days!

Many families choose to visit us when the weather is bad, so if you want a nice quiet visit come on sunny days!

Here are some tips and guidance to help you get the most out of your visit, no matter how busy we are…

Book far enough in advance

Morning slots are usually the first to go during busy times so booking for these slots on the day of are usually rare. We recommend booking as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment.

Bring a packed lunch

Our café can get really, really busy during holidays so we advise you to bring along a packed lunch if poss. Also, we’re only a few minutes’ walk from Halifax town centre and loads of eateries and, as we stamp your hands on arrival, you’ll be able to get back into the museum without having to queue again.

Come on sunny days

If it’s a school holiday and a rainy day, we’ll probably be quite busy. We’re quieter on sunny days so try to come along on warmer, sunnier days (that’s the best time to play in our giant sandpit anyway!).

Leave your pram in the car (if you can)

When we’re busy it can be difficult to move in some areas due to loads of prams and pushchairs, so are you able to leave your pram or pushchair in the car? We also know how strained your arms can get if your little one prefers to be carried but, if it is an option – great!

Car parking info

If you’re traveling by car, please also allow extra time to find spaces in our pay and display car parks. If our car parks are full, here is some information about other places to park nearby (PDF).

When is Eureka! quiet?

Term-time – week days

During the week, we’d recommend visiting after 2pm as the museum is really nice and quiet after the school groups leave. Remember, we’re closed on Mondays!

Term-time – weekends

If the weather is sunny we tend to be MUCH quieter.

School holidays

The quietest school holidays tend to be Easter, the summer holidays (especially the first two weeks), Spring Bank Holiday week and in the run up to Christmas.

Eureka! The National Children’s Museum
Discovery Road, Halifax HX1 2NE. Map