Ragged school museum in London
Step Back in Time at the Ragged School Museum in Tower Hamlets, London
As a local parent, I’m always looking for smart ways to enjoy London on a budget with my kids, and the Ragged School Museum is a real hidden gem! Nestled in the borough of Tower Hamlets along Regent’s Canal, this place offers a free day out full of history, fun, and education.
Walking in, you immediately feel like you’ve stepped back into Victorian times. The museum is housed in an original ragged school building and has been carefully restored to give visitors a glimpse into the challenging lives of children in the East End between the 1880s and early 1900s.
The highlight for us was the Victorian classroom, where the kids got to experience what school would have been like over a century ago. Seeing them sit at those old wooden desks, surrounded by slate boards, really gave us all a sense of how far education has come. We also enjoyed learning about the fight for free education and the conditions that inspired the creation of ragged schools.
Downstairs, there’s a lovely little café with a view of Regent’s Canal—a perfect spot for a break and a slice of cake. The museum’s exhibits are interactive and family-friendly, making it a brilliant option for children to engage with London’s history. My kids were fascinated by the displays on housing, work, and education in the Victorian era.
The museum also runs a regularly changing programme of exhibitions and activities designed for families, schools, and children, so there’s always something fresh to discover. Even if you’ve been before, the museum’s recent refurbishment makes it worth another visit.
And yes, there’s even talk of the place being haunted! My little ones got a kick out of that rumour, although they loved the history and activities even more.
If you’re after smart parenting tips for London outings or looking for a budget-friendly day out with the kids, the Ragged School Museum is one of the best free family-friendly spots in London. It’s educational, interactive, and filled with stories that will leave both parents and children amazed.
So, whether you’re a London local or just visiting, I’d highly recommend adding this to your list of top free places to visit with kids.
Map
- Address 46-50 Copperfield Road, London, E3 4RR
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