Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum has won a coveted honour at the Family Friendly Museum Awards.
One of Scotland’s most popular free attractions, the landmark Glasgow attraction was voted the UK’s best large museum by Kids in Museums.
The Family Friendly Museum Awards celebrate museums, galleries and heritage attraction that go the extra mile to provide an excellent family friendly experience.
Chosen by family judges, the award celebrates everything that makes Kelvingrove such a special place for visitors of all ages. From hands-on object handling and free creative activities to fascinating natural history, rainforest animals, world cultures and fine art, there’s something for everyone to discover and enjoy.
Aside from the collections the museum’s relaxed, welcoming atmosphere was praised for helping families to explore, learn and make memories together.
One judge commented: “A beautiful museum that manages to blend old-school Victoria grandeur with friendly, accessible and informative collections.”
Thanking its visitors for their support, a spokesperson for Kelvingrove said: “A huge thank you to all the families who visited, explored and helped make this possible, and to our incredible team who make Kelvingrove welcoming for everyone.”
The awards were established in 2004 to recognise the UK venues that are most welcoming, fun, and accessible for families. It is the only museum award in the UK to be judged by families.
Just being shortlisted for the award raises a museum’s profile and can increase family visitor numbers. It boosts staff morale by recognising excellence on a national level.
The shortlist for the Family Friendly Museum Award 2026 was announced in June. Over the summer, selected families paid undercover visits to all shortlisted venues and reported back on their experiences.
Winners were announced at a special ceremony at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.
Photo credit: Anne-Marie Hayes for Kids in Museums