View video transcript Hide video transcript
Stories to Inspire
Spend family time learning together at IWM London. Learn about the global impact of conflict from the First World War to today in our permanent galleries and the extraordinary human stories behind the objects on display.
Family Activities
Enjoy free self-guided adventure trails exploring our collection, and fun-packed family activities every weekend and daily during the school holidays.
Activities are suitable for children aged 5 to 12 years.
So much to see and do
-
IWMFirst World War Galleries
Step into the First World War Trench and discover what life was like for soldiers.
-
© IWMSecond World War Galleries
Discover how families protected themselves in Anderson shelters during air raids.
-
© IWM 2010.285.1 -
© IWMExplore! A Kids Guide to IWM London
Our guidebook highlights the most family-friendly content to see in each gallery and is packed full of fun facts and activities.
-
Blavatnik Art, Film and Photography Galleries
See era-defining art that showcases the experiences and innovations of artists, filmmakers and photographers.
-
© IWM BER 49-144-024Tracing your Family History
Use our guides to track down the right documents and begin uncovering your family’s wartime story.
Beauty and Destruction: Wartime London in Art
20 March to 1 November 2026
A free exhibition that tells the story of London during the Second World War, as seen by artists. Families can enjoy a child-friendly ‘stamper’ trail and activity sheet that encourages children to spot details, ask questions and engage with the artworks.
Childhood in War
Childhood in War is a free, interactive exhibition exploring how children have experienced conflict from 1914 to the present day. Let their unique perspective show you their adaptability and resilience, despite extraordinary and challenging circumstances.
Practical information
Download a map of IWM London (PDF, 682 KB). Beauty and Destruction and Childhood in War are located on Level 3 in the ‘Special Exhibition’ spaces.
-
Getting here
- Address: IWM London, Lambeth Road, London, SE1 6HZ
- What3Words: ///fluid.bulb.rear
- Nearest London Underground and rail stations: Lambeth North, Elephant and Castle and Waterloo
- There is no general car parking at IWM London. There are a limited number of designated blue badge parking spaces which must be reserved at least three days in advance.
-
© IWMEating and drinking
- Inspired by traditional East London eateries, the IWM London café serves freshly prepared hot and cold seasonal dishes, cakes and a wide selection of hot and cold drinks
- The café is located off the main atrium, and open from 10am to 5:30pm daily
- The IWM London lunchroom is available to all visitors on weekends from 10am to 5:30pm. It offers a space to sit, rest and bring in food and beverages from home.
- The lunchroom is located Level 1, past the exit of the Second World War Galleries, at the end of the corridor.
-
Accessibility
- The West Entrance has step-free access for families attending with younger children and babies
- Once you are inside the museum, it is entirely accessible through lifts and ramps
- Free sensory backpacks and ear defenders can be borrowed from the Information Desk on Level 0
- Baby change facilities are located on all floors
- Small lockers are available by the North and West Entrances. Require a refundable £1 coin.