Families

National Coal Mining Museum for England prides itself on being a fantastic, fun, affordable day out for all the family. With hands-on activities at every corner, no two visits are the same. With something for all ages – from grandparents to kids, toddlers to teens – discover how coal mining has always been a family affair with our immersive, authentic experiences.

Facilities and Frequently Asked Questions

• Are you pram friendly?
  Yes! The Museum is located on original colliery sites and many of the original buildings have been retained to illustrate a working environment. In achieving a balance between authenticity and access, not all areas are easily accessed, particularly by pushchairs and wheelchair users. Our Nature Trail can be muddy and is steep in some places so we advise checking signage and our map for alternative routes.
• What baby changing facilities are available?
  There are three baby changing facilities across the site, each in gender neutral disabled toilets. They are located in The Hub (by the Café), Hope Pit (by The Beach/Time Tunnel) and Pony Discovery Centre.
• What is the parking like?
  We have lots of parking available in our main car park and also an overflow when the Museum gets busy! Spaces in our car park to the left of the roundabout are the most spacious. We also have disabled parking available. Parking is free, but charges apply in the Summer Holidays and at some special events – please check the website/our social media for details.
• Are there lockers available?
  Lockers are available in the Hub near Reception for a £1 non-refundable charge. They are large enough to hold a rucksack. There is no charge to leave belongings in the lamp room if you are going on an Underground Tour.
• Do you have a shop?
  Yes! Our Museum Shop has something for every interest and budget. With plenty of pocket money friendly toys and educational curios, we also have lots of treats for the grown-ups. Make sure to stop by!
• Can my child use their Blue Peter Badge?
  Blue Peter Badge Holders can gain a free ticket for our Underground Tour and enjoy the experience of delving 140m below the surface, uncovering the stories of coal mining. Find out details of how to use your Blue Peter Badge.

Food and Drink

• Are you Breastfeeding and Bottle Feeding friendly?
  We are breastfeeding friendly and bottle warming is available, ask at the counter.
• What kids options are available?
  Our very popular Snap Tin meals are huge hit with kids! With a changing menu, children can enjoy a meal, snack and a juice carton for just £5.95.
• Can I see your menu?
  Our latest menu is available here, please note it is subject to change with the seasons.
• Do you have highchairs?
  Yes! We have plenty.
• Can we refill water bottles?
  Yes, you can ask at the Café till point for free tap water refills or use our dispenser to fill glasses of water.
• Can we use our own reusable coffee cups?
  Of course, you are welcome to bring your own but we do not provide them.
• Do you cater for allergy and dietary requirements?
  Absolutely. There are vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options indicated on the menu. Please speak to a member of staff at the till if you have any allergies or intolerances, or require further information.
• Do you sell children’s sized hot drinks?
  Yes! Just ask at the till.
• Do you have a loyalty card?
  Yes! We value your repeat visits – pick up a loyalty card at our till and for every 7 hot drinks, we’ll give you one for free.
• Can we bring a picnic?
  Of course! There are lots of picnic tables across the site. You’ll find them in the Pit Yard near the Adventure Playground, along the Nature Trail and at Hope Pit (by The Beach). We also have an Indoor Picnic Area near the Pithead Baths. You can buy takeaway hot drinks and food from our Café to enjoy elsewhere on site, though please note food and drink is not permitted within our galleries. Ice creams are available year-round from our Shop (along with a selection of cold drinks and snacks).

Nature Backpacks and SEND ‘Fiddle’ Backpacks

Uncover more from the Museum with our Nature Backpacks and set off for an outdoor adventure! Packed with essential tools like magnifying glasses, bug jars, insect identifiers – they are perfect for discovering the wonders of local habitats. Choose from Marvellous Minibeasts, Brilliant Birds, Treemendous Trees or Watery Wildlife, come back to use all four backpacks to complete a collectible puzzle. Grab a bag and let curiosity lead the way!

SEND Fiddle Backpacks are available to help make your visit more enjoyable and help you explore the Museum. These are available for school, family and individual visitors to use. Each backpack has a PECS style visit planning board, a museum map and objects to touch and interact with. See the Fiddle Backpacks document for more information on their contents.

£10 refundable deposit per backpack, available at Reception.

Accessibility

The Museum is located on original colliery sites and many of the original buildings have been retained to illustrate a working environment. In achieving a balance between authenticity and access, not all areas are easily accessed, particularly by wheelchair users.

For more on the Museum’s Accessibility, visit our Accessibility page or read our detailed access statement.

Read our Visual Story so you know what to expect before your visit. We have also been surveyed by AccessAble, alongside 10,000 other venues across the UK. For our detailed access guide, visit AccessAble.