Overview

The National Science and Media Museum offers immersive activities for all ages. But unfortunately, it is closed until 2025. But don’t fear they will back with a bang in 2025!

Things to do

The museum is currently undergoing a significant transformation, necessitating its closure until 2025. This extensive project includes the installation of a new lift shaft and the complete remodelling of levels 3 and 5, alongside a thorough redesign of both the foyer and entrance. The closure is essential to safeguard the health and well-being of both staff and visitors.

Despite considerations to keep parts of the museum open during some phases of the project, it was determined that the visitor experience would be dramatically reduced. After careful deliberation, it was decided that closing the museum was the best approach to ensure it shines for the City of Culture 2025, aiming to inspire visitors for decades to come.

The Sound and Vision project, with a budget of £6 million, will introduce two significant new galleries on levels 3 and 5. These galleries aim to inspire future generations by providing broader access to world-class collections of photography, film, animation, TV, sound, and gaming technologies.

Additionally, the project will enhance accessibility features, including the installation of a new lift and the redevelopment of the foyer area. This will create a more welcoming and spacious public space.

The upcoming galleries in the summer of 2025 aim to inspire future generations by offering broader access to top-notch photography, film, animation, television, sound, and gaming collections. Upon the launch of the new galleries, visitors can expect to rediscover beloved classics alongside fresh additions. The extensive collections comprise over 3.2 million items across photography, film, television, animation, video games, and sound technologies. The innovative displays will present significant pieces in novel and engaging formats to motivate future scientists, creatives, and engineers.

From summer 2025, visit Pictureville, where families can immerse themselves in film on the biggest IMAX screen in West Yorkshire. Or, enjoy a blockbuster on three other fantastic cinema screens.

While Pictureville and IMAX cinemas are temporarily closed, they are running Pictureville Presents—an off-site cinema and events programme based at The Studio next to the Alhambra Theatre.

Food & Drink

Pictureville Bar is a chic bar and café where families can unwind before watching a movie. Enjoy free Wi-Fi or peruse intriguing artefacts from the National Science and Media Museum’s assortment, such as a 1952 35mm film projector. Pictureville Bar serves local produce, including Lottie Shaw’s Bakery, Northern Bloc ice cream, Dark Woods Coffee, Saltaire Brewery, and Slingsby Gin. Feel free to take these snacks and beverages into the movie theatre.

Alternatively, visit the café at the National Science and Media Museum. The café is wheelchair-accessible, highchairs are available, and they support the Breastfeeding Welcome scheme.

Fancy a picnic? Then picnic areas are available around the museum.