Spotlight on Science at the British Motor Museum!

Published: 14/09/2021

No matter your age, visit the British Motor Museum this half term from 23 – 31 October to be dazzled by science!  The Mad Scientists will be shining a light on headlamps and the science behind them. There will be illuminating hands-on sessions as they reflect on the science of lights with the amazing Lucas Collection, one of the world’s largest collections of historic lamps. 

Object handling with Professor Pickle or Doctor Pumpkin will run from 23 - 25 October and 29 – 31 October when they share the stories and the science behind the fascinating lights and mirrors in the Lucas Collection. Children will learn how they work, how they were made and what powered them.

The Spotlight on Science Show will run from 26 - 28 October with a 30 minute live spectacular full of cool interactive demonstrations and light inspired science. Attendance is on a first come first served basis.

The Museum Black Cat Trail takes place every day. Children can search around the Museum for the hidden black cats and, with a torch, discover the colour of each cat's eyes! There is also a take home activity – ‘Make Your Own Optical Illusion’ where children can make their own Phenakistoscope, an early animation device. 

On the last weekend of the holidays families can enjoy the Great British Model Railway Show (included in the cost of the Museum entry). Dedicated to model trains and layouts, this family friendly show is one of the biggest model railway shows in the Midlands and will feature more than 30 top-quality railway layouts. Please note that Saturday 30 October and Sunday 31 October are Special Show days where Gift Aid Annual Passes and any other promotional vouchers are NOT valid.

For those that are not able to visit the Museum there are online activities and this month is all about car safety. Explore some of the measures in place to ensure we are safe whilst driving, be it cat’s eyes on the road, or wearing a seat belt and discover the science behind them. For more information please visit www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/whats-on/online-activities-october - available from 1 October.

Emma Rawlinson, Lifelong Learning Officer at the British Motor Museum said “It’s all about the spotlight on science this half-term! Our ever popular Mad Scientists will be on hand to fuel children’s enthusiasm -  Along with object handling, the Black Cat trail, our family tours and Science Show, families can enjoy the fabulous collection of over 300 British classic cars!”

Museum entry is just £40 for a family, £14.50 for adults, £12.50 for concessions, £9 for children (5-16 years) and under 5s are FREE. There is also the option to Gift Aid or donate your entry fee and get an Annual Pass in return, at no extra cost. All activities are included in the Museum admission. All activities are suitable for 3+ years with adult supervision, unless otherwise specified. 

To find out more information about October half-term activities please visit the website at www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/whats-on/october-half-term or call 01926 641188.