The Wilson Museum

Creative Explorers
2026-08-26 10:00 - 15:00 (Europe/London)
An artist led holiday club for 4-11 year olds who love to make, share and play. We will collaborate on engaging individual and group craft projects with a focus on nature, the world around us and free play to encourage creativity, language and expression within the arts.
This informal holiday workshop will be fun and light, providing your child with the chance to express themselves artistically while making new friends and learning new skills.
We will take a tour of the galleries, explore the works on display and (weather dependent) we will take a nature walk outside, so please supply a coat if you are happy for your child to join.
Please note:
On sunny days we like to get outside! If you are not happy for your child to leave the building then please let us know on the morning of the session.
Children aged 4 are only permitted to attend on a shorter day of 11-3 according to government safeguarding guidelines. If you book a 4-year-old on to any of our holiday club days you will not be allowed to drop them off before 11am.
We may get messy! Please send your child in old clothes that you don’t mind them making and playing in, as we do occasionally use materials that may be harder to wash out.
Please pack your child a drinks bottle, so that they can help themselves through the day. Feel free to pack them a snack as well ““ exploring can be hungry work!
Children should bring a bag to help them carry home all their crafts and keep them safe through the day.
All children will now need a packed lunch, there is no longer the option to add it to your ticket booking. Please note nuts are not permitted in packed lunches due to allergies.
‘Arty’ lunch boxes will be available to purchase from the cafe on the day if you wish, with a 20% discount for Creative Explorers.
Please note this is a drop-off session.
The cost includes all materials.
Book Now

Creative Explorers
2026-08-19 10:00 - 15:00, 2026-08-12 10:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-29 10:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-22 10:00 - 15:00
An artist led holiday club for 4-11 year olds who love to make, share and play. We will collaborate on engaging individual and group craft projects with a focus on nature, the world around us and free play to encourage creativity, language and expression within the arts.
This informal holiday workshop will be fun and light, providing your child with the chance to express themselves artistically while making new friends and learning new skills.
We will take a tour of the galleries, explore the works on display and (weather dependent) we will take a nature walk outside, so please supply a coat if you are happy for your child to join.
Please note:
On sunny days we like to get outside! If you are not happy for your child to leave the building then please let us know on the morning of the session.
Children aged 4 are only permitted to attend on a shorter day of 11-3 according to government safeguarding guidelines. If you book a 4-year-old on to any of our holiday club days you will not be allowed to drop them off before 11am.
We may get messy! Please send your child in old clothes that you don’t mind them making and playing in, as we do occasionally use materials that may be harder to wash out.
Please pack your child a drinks bottle, so that they can help themselves through the day. Feel free to pack them a snack as well exploring can be hungry work!
Children should bring a bag to help them carry home all their crafts and keep them safe through the day.
All children will now need a packed lunch, there is no longer the option to add it to your ticket booking. Please note nuts are not permitted in packed lunches due to allergies.
‘Arty’ lunch boxes will be available to purchase from the cafe on the day if you wish, with a 20% discount for Creative Explorers.
Please note this is a drop-off session.
The cost includes all materials.
Book Now

Creative Explorers
2026-08-05 10:00 - 15:00
An artist led holiday club for 4-11 year olds who love to make, share and play. We will collaborate on engaging individual and group craft projects with a focus on nature, the world around us and free play to encourage creativity, language and expression within the arts.
This informal holiday workshop will be fun and light, providing your child with the chance to express themselves artistically while making new friends and learning new skills.
We will take a tour of the galleries, explore the works on display and (weather dependent) we will take a nature walk outside, so please supply a coat if you are happy for your child to join.
Please note:
On sunny days we like to get outside! If you are not happy for your child to leave the building then please let us know on the morning of the session.
Children aged 4 are only permitted to attend on a shorter day of 11-3 according to government safeguarding guidelines. If you book a 4-year-old on to any of our holiday club days you will not be allowed to drop them off before 11am.
We may get messy! Please send your child in old clothes that you don’t mind them making and playing in, as we do occasionally use materials that may be harder to wash out.
Please pack your child a drinks bottle, so that they can help themselves through the day. Feel free to pack them a snack as well -exploring can be hungry work!
Children should bring a bag to help them carry home all their crafts and keep them safe through the day.
All children will now need a packed lunch, there is no longer the option to add it to your ticket booking. Please note nuts are not permitted in packed lunches due to allergies.
‘Arty’ lunch boxes will be available to purchase from the cafe on the day if you wish, with a 20% discount for Creative Explorers.
Please note this is a drop-off session.
The cost includes all materials.
Book Now

Be Brave Balloon: Author Book Reading
2026-07-21 11:00 - 12:00
Join us for a special children’s book reading with Roxanne Darby, author of Be Brave Balloon! Be Brave Balloon is a cozy picture book adventure for helping little ones understand that sometimes it’s okay to say goodbye. Perfect for ages 2-6. During this event Roxanne will read the book and lead a couple of interactive activities for little ones. Books will be available for purchase and signing!

Collar Creations: Inspired by the Masters
2026-07-11 10:30 - 14:00
Inspired by the rich details of the portraits in The Art of Looking, drop in to this free family workshop to imagine, and create your own wearable artwork!
Take a closer look at the textures, clothing and hidden stories within artworks in the exhibition and be inspired by the elaborate collars and fine details seen in portraits. Then, using simple materials, cut, fold and build your own paper collars inspired by what you see. This is your chance to experiment, play and see differently.
Drop in anytime, stay as long as you like!
Suitable for all ages. No booking required.

Practical Fine Art for Children: Introduction to Acrylic Painting
2026-06-06 10:00 - 2026-07-04 11:30
For keen young artists of all levels. The perfect complement to school art lessons, whether studying at primary or GCSE level. Practical, how-to skills: observational drawing techniques, multi-media exploration, adventures in colour and more. There is plenty of time for one-to-one support in these small groups too.
Introduction to Acrylic Painting: Colour, Texture, and Expression
A practical course introducing the core techniques of acrylic painting. Students will learn
how to use colour, layering, and texture to create expressive and visually dynamic paintings.
The course encourages experimentation with both realism and abstraction.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
“¢ Understand acrylic painting materials and mixing techniques.
“¢ Apply layering, glazing, and blending methods.
“¢ Use colour theory to create harmony and contrast.
“¢ Develop composition and visual balance in a painting.
“¢ Complete an original acrylic artwork from concept to finish
About Kitty McLeod
Kitty McLeod trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops, organising events, parties, and face painting with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kitty’s students have won art scholarships to Cheltenham College, Rendcombe College and King’s School.
Price is for a course of 5 sessions and includes all materials.
Dates 2026
Winter Term: 10 January ““ 7 February
Winter/Spring: 28 February ““ 28 March
Spring: 18 April ““ 16 May
Summer: 6 June ““ 4 July
Please note that once purchased, courses are strictly non-refundable and non-exchangeable under any circumstances.
Book Now

Creative Explorers - May Half Term
2026-05-27 10:00 - 15:00
An artist led holiday club for 4-11 year olds who love to make, share and play. We will collaborate on engaging individual and group craft projects with a focus on nature, the world around us and free play to encourage creativity, language and expression within the arts.
This informal holiday workshop will be fun and light, providing your child with the chance to express themselves artistically while making new friends and learning new skills.
We will take a tour of the galleries, explore the works on display and (weather dependent) we will take a nature walk outside, so please supply a coat if you are happy for your child to join.
Please note:
“¢ On sunny days we like to get outside! If you are not happy for your child to leave the building then please let us know on the morning of the session.
“¢ Children aged 4 are only permitted to attend on a shorter day of 11-3 according to government safeguarding guidelines. If you book a 4-year-old on to any of our holiday club days you will not be allowed to drop them off before 11am.
“¢ We may get messy! Please send your child in old clothes that you don’t mind them making and playing in, as we do occasionally use materials that may be harder to wash out.
“¢ Please pack your child a drinks bottle, so that they can help themselves through the day. Feel free to pack them a snack as well ““ exploring can be hungry work!
“¢ Children should bring a bag to help them carry home all their crafts and keep them safe through the day.
All children will now need a packed lunch, there is no longer the option to add it to your ticket booking. Please note nuts are not permitted in packed lunches due to allergies.
‘Arty’ lunch boxes will be available to purchase from the cafÃ© on the day.
Please note this is a drop-off session.
The cost includes all materials.
Book Now

Practical Fine Art for Children: Introduction to Landscape Drawing and Painting
2026-04-18 10:00 - 2026-05-16 11:30
For keen young artists of all levels. The perfect complement to school art lessons, whether studying at primary or GCSE level. Practical, how-to skills: observational drawing techniques, multi-media exploration, adventures in colour and more. There is plenty of time for one-to-one support in these small groups too.
Introduction to Landscape Drawing and Painting: From Line to Colour
A beginner’s guide to capturing landscapes through both drawing and watercolour painting.
Students will learn how to observe natural forms, build composition, and use pencil and
watercolour techniques to create expressive landscape artworks.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
“¢ Understand key techniques for drawing landscapes in pencil.
“¢ Use watercolour to suggest atmosphere, light, and texture.
“¢ Apply principles of perspective, composition, and tone.
“¢ Combine drawing and painting effectively.
“¢ Create both observational and expressive landscape studies.
About Kitty McLeod
Kitty McLeod trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops, organising events, parties, and face painting with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kitty’s students have won art scholarships to Cheltenham College, Rendcombe College and King’s School.
Price is for a course of 5 sessions and includes all materials.
Dates 2026
Spring: 18 April ““ 16 May
Summer: 6 June ““ 4 July
Saturdays, 10am ““ 11.30am
Please note that once purchased, courses are strictly non-refundable and non-exchangeable under any circumstances.
Book Now

Creative Explorers - Easter Holidays
2026-04-08 10:00 - 15:00
An artist led holiday club for 4-11 year olds who love to make, share and play. We will collaborate on engaging individual and group craft projects with a focus on nature, the world around us and free play to encourage creativity, language and expression within the arts.
This informal holiday workshop will be fun and light, providing your child with the chance to express themselves artistically while making new friends and learning new skills.
We will take a tour of the galleries, explore the works on display and (weather dependant) we will take a nature walk outside, so please supply a coat if you are happy for your child to join.
Please note:
“¢ On sunny days we like to get outside! If you are not happy for your child to leave the building then please let us know on the morning of the session.
“¢ Children aged 4 are only permitted to attend on a shorter day of 11-3 according to government safeguarding guidelines. If you book a 4-year-old on to any of our holiday club days you will not be allowed to drop them off before 11am.
“¢ We may get messy! Please send your child in old clothes that you don’t mind them making and playing in, as we do occasionally use materials that may be harder to wash out.
“¢ Please pack your child a drinks bottle, so that they can help themselves through the day. Feel free to pack them a snack as well ““ exploring can be hungry work!
“¢ Children should bring a bag to help them carry home all their crafts and keep them safe through the day.
All children will now need a packed lunch, there is no longer the option to add it to your ticket booking. Please note nuts are not permitted in packed lunches due to allergies.
‘Arty’ lunch boxes will be available to purchase from the cafÃ© on the day if you wish.
Please note this is a drop-off session.
The cost includes all materials.
Book Now

Creative Explorers - Easter Holidays
2026-04-01 10:00 - 15:00
An artist led holiday club for 4-11 year olds who love to make, share and play. We will collaborate on engaging individual and group craft projects with a focus on nature, the world around us and free play to encourage creativity, language and expression within the arts.
This informal holiday workshop will be fun and light, providing your child with the chance to express themselves artistically while making new friends and learning new skills.
We will take a tour of the galleries, explore the works on display and (weather dependent) we will take a nature walk outside, so please supply a coat if you are happy for your child to join.
Please note:
“¢ On sunny days we like to get outside! If you are not happy for your child to leave the building then please let us know on the morning of the session.
“¢ Children aged 4 are only permitted to attend on a shorter day of 11-3 according to government safeguarding guidelines. If you book a 4-year-old on to any of our holiday club days you will not be allowed to drop them off before 11am.
“¢ We may get messy! Please send your child in old clothes that you don’t mind them making and playing in, as we do occasionally use materials that may be harder to wash out.
“¢ Please pack your child a drinks bottle, so that they can help themselves through the day. Feel free to pack them a snack as well ““ exploring can be hungry work!
“¢ Children should bring a bag to help them carry home all their crafts and keep them safe through the day.
All children will now need a packed lunch, there is no longer the option to add it to your ticket booking. Please note nuts are not permitted in packed lunches due to allergies.
‘Arty’ lunch boxes will be available to purchase from the cafÃ© on the day if you wish.
Please note this is a drop-off session.
The cost includes all materials.
Book Now

Easter Crafts for Families
2026-03-31 11:00 - 16:15
Celebrate the season with a mix of fun, hands-on craft activities the whole family can enjoy!
Children and grown-ups will get the chance to create unique Easter-themed crafts and take home their own special keepsakes.
Sessions run for 1 hour at 11.00am, 12.15pm, 14.00pm, 15.15pm
Perfect for children of all ages.
One ticket required per child, adults go free.
Please note this is a family event, not a drop-off.
Book Now

Where Next? Cheltenham Family Book Launch
2026-03-31 10:00 - 13:00
This Easter, we’re so excited to launch a brand-new children’s book celebrating Cheltenham!
Where Next? Cheltenham is a beautifully illustrated picture book that brings the town’s much-loved landmarks to life. From Pittville Park and Neptune’s Fountain to the Everyman Theatre, children will delight in spotting familiar places and saying, “œI’ve been there!”
Join us for a relaxed, family-friendly launch event at The Wilson Art Gallery, Cheltenham.
Drop in to buy a copy of the book, enjoy story time, colour-in Cheltenham-themed illustrations and take part in a fun pigeon hunt around the gallery!
No booking required ““ just drop in!
Perfect for children aged 2-8, and a lovely way to spend a spring morning together.

Easter Trail
2026-03-28 10:00 - 2026-04-12 17:00
Hop along to the Wilson this Easter for a fun family adventure!
Our Easter Trail is bursting with clues and plenty of fun. Follow the trail through the galleries, solve the puzzles, and keep your eyes peeled for hidden treasures around the museum. Complete the trail to earn a sweet reward and enjoy an adventure packed with creativity, curiosity, and Easter cheer. Perfect for little explorers!
Tickets can also be purchased on the day from the cafÃ©.
Book Now

Practical Fine Art for Children: Winter/Spring
2026-02-28 10:00 - 2026-03-28 11:30
For keen young artists of all levels. The perfect complement to school art lessons, whether studying at primary or GCSE level. Practical, how-to skills: observational drawing techniques, multi-media exploration, adventures in colour and more. There is plenty of time for one-to-one support in these small groups too.
Introduction to Sculpture: Form, Expression, and Abstraction
This hands-on course introduces students to the fundamentals of sculptural form, from basic
construction techniques to expressive abstraction and facial modelling. Learners explore
materials, texture, and proportion while developing spatial awareness and creative
confidence.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
“¢ Understand basic sculptural materials and tools.
“¢ Construct and model simple three-dimensional forms.
“¢ Apply principles of proportion and anatomy to facial features.
“¢ Experiment with abstraction and expressive forms.
“¢ Produce finished sculptures that reflect individual creativity.
About Kitty McLeod
Kitty McLeod trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops, organising events, parties, and face painting with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kitty’s students have won art scholarships to Cheltenham College, Rendcombe College and King’s School.
Winter/Spring: 28 February ““ 28 March
Spring: 18 April ““ 16 May
Summer: 6 June ““ 4 July
Please note that once purchased, courses are strictly non-refundable and non-exchangeable under any circumstances.
Book Now

Creative Explorers - February Half Term
2026-02-18 10:00 - 15:00

Slow Looking
2026-01-21 10:00 - 11:00
Begin the new year with a moment of stillness and a fresh way of looking at art. Join artist in residence Emily Oswald for a guided Slow Looking practice “” an invitation to pause, observe, and connect more deeply with the artworks on display.
Family-friendly Session: 10:00 ““ 10:45am
Exploring the Community Gallery together through playful and mindful looking designed for families with children.

Practical Fine Art for Children: Winter Term
2026-01-10 10:00 - 2026-02-07 11:30
For keen young artists of all levels. The perfect complement to school art lessons, whether studying at primary or GCSE level. Practical, how-to skills: observational drawing techniques, multi-media exploration, adventures in colour and more. There is plenty of time for one-to-one support in these small groups too.
About Kitty McLeod
Kitty McLeod trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops, organising events, parties, and face painting with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kitty’s students have won art scholarships to Cheltenham College, Rendcombe College and King’s School.
Winter Term: 10 January ““ 7 February
Winter/Spring: 28 February ““ 28 March
Spring: 18 April ““ 16 May
Summer: 6 June ““ 4 July
Book Now

Crafty Christmas Party!
2025-12-13 14:00 - 17:00
Step into a world of seasonal sparkle with artist-led workshops, exclusive Christmas crafts, and the chance to create your own decorations to take home. There’ll be glitter tattoos to add some extra shine and cheer, plus a magical Christmas trail through the galleries””with a special treat waiting at the end. Don’t miss out on the festive fun!
Book Now

Christmas Gift Trail
2025-12-12 10:00 - 2026-01-04 17:00
There are presents hidden all over The Wilson Art Galleries this December and Father Christmas needs clever young explorers to help find them.
Follow the Christmas Present Trail around the building to find all of the missing presents.
And the best part?Everyone who completes the trail will receive a special surprise Christmas gift bag from Santa’s workshop!
Bring your curiosity, your festive spirit, and your best detective skills “” the magical trail is waiting!
Tickets purchased through the cafÃ© only, £7
Tickets only available while gift stocks last.

After-School Christmas Crafts
2025-12-09 16:00 - 17:00
Get creative and celebrate the season!
Our fun-filled after-school workshop offers a chance to make festive decorations, cards, and gifts to take home. With plenty of sparkle, glue, and cheer, it’s the perfect way to kick off the Christmas season. All materials provided – just bring your imagination!
For children aged 4 ““ 11, all materials provided.
Please note this is a drop-off session, so parents can enjoy an hour of Christmas shopping or a festive drink in the cafÃ©!
Book Now

Practical Fine Art for Children: Winter Term
2025-11-15 10:00 - 2025-12-13 11:30
For keen young artists of all levels. The perfect complement to school art lessons, whether studying at primary or GCSE level. Practical, how-to skills: observational drawing techniques, multi-media exploration, adventures in colour and more. Plenty of time for one-to-one support in these small groups too.
This workshop is ideal for children aged 8-16.
Kitty Skye Mcleod trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops, organising events, parties, and face painting with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kitty’s students have won art scholarships to Cheltenham College, Rendcombe College and King’s School.
Every Saturday 10am ““ 11.30am
Cost is for entire course of five Saturdays.
Terms Dates:
Winter: 15 Nov ““ 13 Dec
Book Now

Reimagined Materials: Family Art Workshop
2025-11-08 10:30 - 12:30
Get creative at our free family workshop with artist-in-residence Grace Gatley at the Wilson!
Taking inspiration from the Material Worlds exhibition and Alexandre da Cunha’s amazing installation made from everyday things, we’ll be turning ordinary materials into something extraordinary. Families can make their own colourful wall hangings or help build one big, fun, temporary installation together.
Come along, play with materials, and see what your imagination can create!
About Grace
Grace Gatley is a mixed-media embroidery artist with a degree in Textile Design from Falmouth University. She fuses traditional techniques with contemporary design, inspired by historical buildings, churches and cathedrals. Ornately carved masonry and Victorian stained glass lend pattern and palette to her practice, and she often works with botanical dyes and real flowers; preserving and reflecting fragile natural beauty in print and stitch as in carved stone.

Creative Explorers October Half Term
2025-10-29 10:00 - 15:00
An artist led holiday club for 4-11 year olds who love to make, share and play. We will collaborate on engaging individual and group craft projects with a focus on nature, the world around us and free play to encourage creativity, language and expression within the arts.
This informal holiday workshop will be fun and light, providing your child with the chance to express themselves artistically while making new friends and learning new skills.
We will take a tour of the galleries, explore the works on display and (weather dependant) we will take a nature walk outside, so please supply a coat if you are happy for your child to join.
Notes:
Please do not pack any products containing nuts in your child’s snack and lunch.
Children get messy! Although we encourage children to wear aprons please ensure they are wearing clothes that are not precious.
Book Now
