The Burrell wins top family-friendly award
The Burrell Collection has won Best Large Museum at the 2025 Kids in Museums Family Friendly Museum Awards.
This national award celebrates museums that go the extra mile to welcome families. Charity, Kids in Museums, runs the award, and the heritage sector sees it as a gold standard.
Each year, the public nominates hundreds of museums. Experts choose the shortlist. But it’s families who visit the museums over the summer who make the final decision on the winners.
The Burrell impressed judges with its easy-to-read labels, replica objects and interactive screens. One highlight was a session where children could try out replica armour and weapons.
Families also praised the museum’s quiet areas, indoor picnic spaces, buggy parking and changing places toilets. These thoughtful touches made visits easy and enjoyable.
“It feels great to win this award,” said Caroline Currie, Learning and Access Curator. “We’ve worked hard to make The Burrell a fun day out. All while still being a place to learn, get inspired and spend time together. What means the most is that families who visited had a great time – and they were the ones who judged us!”
“We’ve designed the museum with families in mind. From hands-on displays and sensory kits to quiet spaces and picnic areas,” Caroline added. “We also run regular events for all ages. We’ll keep listening to our visitors and making The Burrell even more welcoming.”
Alison Bowyer, Executive Director of Kids in Museums, said:
“Congratulations to The Burrell Collection. Winning the Best Large Museum category is a tremendous achievement. Our judges loved the family activities, welcoming spaces and friendly café.”
Thank you to the family judges who visited and to Kids in Museums for the shortlist. This win shows the effort our teams put into making The Burrell Collection a great place for everyone.
The team at The Burrell Collection isn’t stopping with the win. Plans are already in motion to make the museum even more welcoming. With new family sessions, bigger events and fresh displays. Coming up soon is Medieval Day on Saturday 18 October. Packed with crafts, music, stage fighting and free face painting. All designed to bring the collection to life for visitors of all ages.