Matisse, Teddy Bears' Picnic and circus acts among unforgettable family days out at Preston Park Museum this summer

Make this summer one to remember, with a vibrant programme of family-friendly events taking place throughout the school holidays.

A girl holding a teddy bear, circus skills and a beekeeper showing inside a hive to a family.

From returning favourite events to brand-new ones, there's something for all ages to enjoy, seven days a week.

All events and exhibitions are included with either an annual or day Museum Pass.

Visitors are encouraged to buy their Museum Pass online in advance and start planning a summer of adventure at Preston Park Museum.

Kick off the holidays with Wild Encounters on Saturday 25 July

Meet amazing wildlife, including snakes, lizards and furry friends with Animal Story, marvel at colourful butterfly stilt walkers, and chat to the Cleveland Beekeepers to find out more about Preston Park's resident honeybees.

A classic returns: Teddy Bears' Picnic on Sunday 2 August

One of Preston Park's most cherished events is back! Families are invited to pack a picnic, bring along their favourite teddy and enjoy a relaxed, joy-filled day out together at the ever-popular Teddy Bears' Picnic.

There's plenty for your teddy to enjoy, with a jam-packed programme of activities.

Step right up: The Circus comes to town on Saturday 8 August

Prepare to be amazed as Newcastle Circus Arts brings a thrilling circus experience to the museum. Expect stilt walkers, jugglers and aerial performers!

Take part in exciting workshops including aerial, juggling, hula hoop, diabolo, Toy Box circus play and so much more. Learn new tricks, discover hidden talents, build confidence and experience the thrill of the circus for yourself.

Get ready for a day bursting with colour, creativity, and jaw-dropping circus fun.

Step into colour: Matisse comes to Preston Park Museum

Running from Wednesday 15 July to Thursday 15 October, 'Matisse: Drawing with Scissors' invites visitors into the bold and playful world of one of the twentieth century's most influential artists.

Featuring 35 striking lithographic prints, including famous works such as The Snail and Blue Nudes, the exhibition is brought to life with a colourful summer programme of activities. Families can enjoy an interactive museum trail (small fee per trail sheet) and drop-in craft sessions.

Keep an eye out for some very special summer residents as a group of Giant African Land Snails take up temporary residence at the museum. Their arrival is inspired by Henri Matisse's famous 'The Snail', which is featured in the Matisse exhibition.

All Aboard! in our interactive railway themed exhibition for children

Explore Preston Park Museum's interactive exhibition, which has been specially created for children.

Little designers, engineers and drivers can get hands-on with wheels to turn, coal to shovel and pistons to pump in the giant replica train and themed play zones.

Families can take part in a journey of discovery through play to understand the important story of the Stockton and Darlington Railway.

Build the iconic Victorian Street

Join artist Hollie Notman from Sidequest CIC from the 3 to the 8 August for The Cardboard Victorian Street, a collaborative community art experience inspired by Preston Park's iconic cobbled street.

Families can help build a Victorian street from cardboard, sharing stories of the past and imagining the future alongside a team of curious "museum guides from the future". Expect crafting, storytelling and big ideas in a fun and interactive session.

Councillor Nigel Cooke, Cabinet Member for Environment, Leisure and Culture at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said:

Preston Park is the perfect place to explore, learn and make memories this summer.
"Whether you take your favourite teddy for a picnic, are thrilled by dare devil stunts at the new circus experience or want to learn more about the bold colours that inspired the world-famous Henri Matisse through this national touring exhibition, there's so much on offer right on residents' doorsteps.

There's lots more to explore across the Park, with improved play area and woodland trails, as well as an opportunity to relax in the Park Café, it's the ideal setting for summer adventures with the family.

Even more to explore at Preston Park!

Whether you're visiting for one of the exciting summer events or simply enjoying a day out, there's plenty to discover at Preston Park, whatever the weather. Step back in time along the replica Victorian Street, meet costumed characters, play with traditional toys before uncovering the story of the Ropner family inside Preston Hall.

Throughout the summer school holidays, visitors can also enjoy takeaway hot and cold drinks, as well as sweets from Watson, Son, Brigham & Co on the Victorian Street.

The Spence Building is a stunning exhibition space, home to prestigious national touring exhibitions and the museum's Open Store, where visitors can get up close to more of the fascinating collection.

Visitors can also relax at The Spence Café, enjoy the terrace overlooking the orchard and browse the new gift shop for the perfect souvenir.

The Walled Garden offers a glimpse into a working Victorian kitchen garden, filled with colourful flowers and seasonal produce.

In the park, let off steam in our refurbished adventure play area, enjoy tranquil woodland walks, take in scenic views along the River Tees or follow the historic route of the Stockton & Darlington Railway.