The V&A East Storehouse, though not exclusively a children’s museum, provides captivating and interactive experiences for young visitors. With a collection of over half a million items—ranging from clothing and furniture to a recreated flat from Robin Hood Gardens—it invites kids to explore and uncover stories from different eras and design styles. They can also request access to objects not currently on display and join guided tours for an even deeper dive into the collection.
And with that, every so often you upon a place that becomes an instant favourite, and the V&A Storehouse in East London is exactly that kind of spot. Tucked away in Stratford, this treasure trove of history and culture is a revelation for families looking for something a little different.
Our visit to this “inside-out” museum was by accident as we were planning to go to London Fields but I got distracted on my phone and we missed our stop. The number 8 bus continued and when we got off at the wrong stop on Google maps I saw V&A Storehouse and thought let’s have a look!
It turned out to be the highlight of the day. The V&A East Storehouse, is tucked near the canal and surrounded by wide-open spaces that breathed calm into our city-worn souls.
What Makes the V&A Storehouse Special?
Describing the V&A Storehouse is like trying to explain why your favorite song makes you so happy—it’s something you just have to experience. Picture this: glass floors that give you a peek into different levels beneath your feet, shelves crammed with objects spanning centuries and continents, and the kind of hushed serenity that makes every moment feel significant. The museum isn’t about fancy displays with lengthy plaques. No, this place is for explorers. With 250,000 artifacts out in the open, it feels more like wandering through an enormous treasure chest than a traditional museum.
Designed by architectural geniuses Diller, Scofidio + Renfro, the building itself is worth a visit. The mix of industrial steel and modern design is both functional and inspiring. It’s not just a space to look at history—it’s a place where history feels alive.
And did I mention the “Order an Object” service? This lets visitors request specific items from the collection to study in more detail. Yes, you could literally ask to see a decades-old Balenciaga dress up close. Talk about hands-on history!
V&A Storehouse: A Kid-Friendly Destination
Visiting with kids? This is definitely the spot for you. It’s not just educational—it’s genuinely entertaining for little ones. Those glass floors? Kids will love peering down and imagining secret adventures happening below. And the embroidered panels? They’re interactive! The children get to pull them out and explore up close, something that really brings the idea of tactile learning to life. My daughter couldn’t stop yanking out frames, gasping at the colorful designs, and asking a million questions about what they all meant.
There are also calm walks by the canal right outside the Storehouse, making it easy to reset after a dose of museum fun. Plus, the nearby restaurants on the canal cater to families, with spacious seating and menus that won’t have you sweating over picky eaters.
Oh, and here’s a nugget of wisdom for every parent dreading the logistics of a day out—this place is a lifesaver. There’s free entry to the Museum and to the organized lockers which mean you don’t have to lug around coats, backpacks, or that one toy your child swore they had to bring but abandoned the moment you arrived. Add to that the air conditioning and the blissfully crowd-free atmosphere, and it’s as close to hassle-free as a family outing gets in London.
Quirky Highlights We Loved
It would be impossible to write about the V&A Storehouse without giving a few shoutouts to the eclectic collection that had us stopping in our tracks every few minutes.
A Brutalist Marvel – Ever seen part of the Robin Hood Estate hanging from a mezzanine? No? Well, you’ll find it built into the museum’s walls here, bringing a slice of London’s architectural history into the space.
World’s Largest Picasso – Yes, you read that right. There’s a jaw-dropping Picasso mural standing over 10 meters high. Trying to get it into one photo was a challenge, and the kids tried different poses to capture the best “selfie with Picasso.”
The Rare and Random – From gilded 15th-century ceilings to a floral-painted Glastonbury festival bin, the collection spans everything. The randomness keeps it exciting—you’ll find yourself marveling as much at historic gems as at quirky oddities.
Why Families Will Love It
Visiting as a family isn’t just about keeping the kids entertained (though that’s obviously a win). It’s about creating shared experiences that spark curiosity and conversations long after the day is done. The V&A Storehouse provides exactly that. It’s a place where kids can ask endless questions, adults can marvel at the sheer scope of human creativity, and everyone can discover something new together.
The cherry on top? You won’t feel rushed, stressed, or overwhelmed. The space is designed for wandering at your own pace. Whether you’re hunting for hidden treasures in the exhibits or just admiring the views from the wide open corridors, you’ll feel a sense of calm and wonder that’s harder to find in London’s busier spots.
Wrap-Up
The V&A East Storehouse isn’t your typical family outing location. It’s a quirky, fascinating, and even slightly bizarre mix of history, design, and culture—all wrapped up in a space that feels like London’s best-kept secret. You’ll walk away having learned something new, without even realizing it.
If you’re planning an escape from the usual places, hop on a bus, and make a beeline for the Storehouse. Whether it’s the air conditioning, the chance to channel your inner curator with “Order an Object,” discover this hidden gem for yourself and thank me later.
After the museum we walked to London Fields, where we made a pit stop for dinner. Now, here’s the thing about London Fields. It’s lively, teeming with bikes, and, if you’re not careful, you might feel like you’re auditioning for an extreme sport. After narrowly dodging a few bicycles (very London, right?), we decided to head home thankful for the calm earlier in the day at the V&A Storehouse.
FAQs about the V&A Storehouse
Where is the V&A Storehouse located?
The V&A East Storehouse is in Stratford, East London, right by the canal at 2 Parkes St, Stratford Cross, E20 3AX.
What are the opening hours?
Typically, the Storehouse is open daily from 10am to 5:30pm, but always check their official website before planning your trip—opening times can shift with special events or school holidays.
Is there an admission fee?
Nope! Entry is completely free, which is music to the ears of every parent with kids in tow.
How do I get there using public transport?
Stratford is well-served by buses, trains, and tubes. The number 8 bus is a winner if you’re coming from central London. Stratford and Stratford International stations are also nearby.
What makes the Storehouse family-friendly?
Loads of things: glass floors to peer through, embroidered panels the kids can handle, interactive displays, and plenty of open space. There’s even a chilled café and family-friendly restaurants nearby. Plus, the free locker system makes it super easy to stash your stuff.
Is it accessible for buggies or wheelchairs?
Yes! The Storehouse is fully accessible with ramps, lifts, and loads of space for buggies or wheelchairs.
Can I bring my own food or picnic?
While there’s a lovely café onsite, you’re welcome to bring snacks, especially for younger kids—there’s plenty of seating for a quick break, though full-on picnics are best saved for outside.
What is the “Order an Object” service?
This very cool feature lets you request an item from the archive to view up close in a special room—think of it as your chance to play curator for the day. Just book online in advance.
Are there guided tours or do we wander on our own?
You’re encouraged to explore at your own pace, but friendly gallery staff are always about to answer questions (and keep things interesting with fun facts)
Is it air-conditioned and usually crowded?
Yes to the air-con (absolute bliss on a sweltering day). And no, even during weekends, it doesn’t get too busy—making it a lovely, calm place to visit with kids or anyone who hates crowds.
If you have any more questions, drop them in the comments or check the V&A’s website directly—they’re brilliant at helping out!
Also, check out our other related London adventures:
One Perfect Day in Shoreditch with Kids
Camden Town: Family Day Out
Stepney City Farm
The Tower of London
