The Herbert’s popular Early Years Exhibition for families is back this summer with Playful Planet!

Inspired by life after the extinction of dinosaurs and the environmental changes that shaped our planet, this immersive exhibition invites young visitors into a specially designed world of sensory spaces.

Perfectly crafted for children under 5, the exhibition features stunning ceiling installations by local artists that captivate imaginations. Children can marvel at meteorites hitting the earth, gaze up at starry nights and distant planets, and explore sensory pods surrounded by calming sound effects and gentle lighting. Illustrator and mural artist Jessica Hartshorn brings the walls and pods to life with beautiful, narrative-rich illustrations of rumbling volcanoes with glowing orange lava, crashing waves with sea creatures, and other fascinating environmental scenes.

Tactile resources and interactive playthings are spread throughout the space, encouraging little ones to explore and imagine freely. Older children are welcome, too, making this an inclusive family experience.

Open six days a week (Tuesday-Sunday plus Bank Holiday Monday) throughout the summer holidays, Playful Planet is the perfect free retreat for family fun, sensory play, and creative exploration. Don’t miss this magical journey into the dramatic story of our planet!