I've been here before and enjoyed it in the past. Today I came here as a group with quite a few children and my friends. Anyways the young children were quite excited to see many stuff around the museum. My overall view of the museum wasn't great today... staff that are unsure how to crack a smile. I felt quite unwelcome by the staff from the very beginning of entry. This place had a lack of a child-friendly feeling compared to New Walk.
Anyways I respect children were quite loud at some stages and there were many other kids running about too that I didn't even know. I found it quite rude when the museum lady shouted up the stairs to me like 'can you guys keep the noise down, other visitors are complaining' and other museum lady saying 'There's a monster in here be quiet' ... like OK.
I'm sorry but we are visitors ourselves and although sometimes kids can be quite noisy, what do you expect in public places also? At the end of the day we could just keep the children on Ipads at home but thought we take them out. Also visitors keeps them in a job. One lady in the old toy room didn't look like she wanted to be there and I felt a negative vibe in there when I was looking.
The gardens that lead to the other gardens were great and we explored that and also went on a walk near Castle Motto, near St. Mary's and other surrounding areas.the building is an interesting history. It is an interesting area in that part...
Read moreThe Newarke Houses Museum in Leicester is a hidden gem that’s well worth a visit. It’s a thoughtfully curated space that brings together local history, war memorials, and Leicester’s past in a quiet, reflective setting.
The war exhibits are particularly moving, with personal stories, uniforms, and memorabilia from soldiers that really bring the history to life. It’s a great way to understand Leicester’s role in major events like the World Wars.
The museum is set within two historic houses, and the layout feels warm and intimate — you can walk through recreated period rooms and learn about daily life in different eras.
The garden at the back is lovely, peaceful and well-maintained — perfect for a short break during your visit. It’s not huge, but it adds a calming touch to the overall experience.
The museum is free to enter, which is a huge plus, and the staff were welcoming and helpful. It’s ideal for history lovers or anyone looking to explore local heritage in a quiet, engaging environment.
Would definitely recommend spending an hour or two here. A solid...
Read moreJust on the edge of the city centre this could probably be considered a bit off the beaten track - my trip today with my youngest daughter was probably the first time I've been there in at least thirty years.
While there's plenty of interest here, including an exhibit on the Leicestershire regiments that I think used to be housed in the New Walk Museum, I wouldn't say it's the best place to take very young children - while my two year old loved playing with the till and play food in the corner of the haberdashery exhibit and a quick walk round the garden, it was hard to interest her in most of the other distribution displays, and she really didn't like going through the World War 1 trench exhibit due to the darkness and noise.
However, if I could ditch the kids for the best part of a day (since the museum doesn't open until 10am), I'd be more than happy to come back by myself or with another adult to look around.
In terms of accessibility, I got on just about ok going round with a pushchair, and there is a lift...
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