This summer you and your children will be able to take a trip down memory lane with M Shed’s new exhibition The Story of Children’s Television from 1946 to Today, which opens on Saturday!

From the earliest days of Muffin the Mule to the multi-channel world of today, the exhibition – which runs from Saturday 2nd July until Sunday 25th September – traces the fascinating history of children’s television, from its roots as an educational as well as entertainment tool, bringing 70 years of iconic objects, memorabilia, merchandise, clips and images.

Familiar faces will include Mummy Woodentop, Gordon the Gopher, The Wombles, Sooty, Morph and the singing veggies from Mr Bloom’s Nursery; all of which will be on display alongside infamous objects like Blue Peter’s original Tracy Island.

Knowledge can be put to the test with interactive games and activities such as a Who Said It? catchphrase game, a theme tune challenge, puppet play and TV character dress up.

Visitors can also get selfies with Shaun the Sheep and the Teletubbies. Official Blue Peter badge holders receive free entry to the exhibition when they show their badge at the ticket desk.

Tickets are £5 for adults, £4 for concessions and children under 16 go free. There is free entry to the exhibition on 13th July and 7th September.

The Story of Children’s Television is part of M Shed’s ’Summer of Childhood’ that takes place over the holiday period which will include lots of exciting events for children and families over the Summer holidays.

Introducing play and nostalgia throughout the museum, visitors can jump on board M Shed’s very own ‘Playbus’, take part in outdoor games, go for a train and boat ride, and slurp on a delicious ice cream from M Café.

Upcoming ‘Summer of Childhood’ exhibition events at M Shed

Summer of Childhood Festival Launch
Saturday 2 – Sunday 3 July, 10am – 4pm
M Shed
Pay what you think | Drop in
Aardman workshops cost £5 | Book in advance

Stage your own puppet show and settle down for Jackanory story sessions on the double decker bus. On Sunday meet CBeebies presenter Ferne Corrigan for story trails, invent your own TV character from unwanted toys and make your own Gromit or Shaun model in our Aardman model making workshops.

Here’s One We Made Earlier
Thursday 21 July, 8pm
M Shed
£12 adult / £10 conc. | Book in advance

Re-hash your favourite children’s TV gameshows of the 80s and 90s for a nostalgic evening of live, interactive and participatory games. Collaborating with some of Bristol’s best performing artist, Mufti Games guarantee you a Waca-night that runs the risk of being a whole lot of fun. Age 18+.

Holiday Family Fun
Every Tuesday between 26 July – 26 August
M Shed
Pay what you think | Drop in

Drop into M Shed every Tuesday to explore the fabulous collections and exhibitions through creative and hands-on activities for the whole family. Holiday Family Fun is suitable for 3-10 year olds with accompanying adult.

The Great Aarty Party
Sunday 4 September, 11am – 3pm
M Shed
Pay what you think | Drop in

Join us at the Great Aarty Party to celebrate the world famous, Bristol-based Aardman studio’s 40th birthday. Make your own Morph and get creative with our arty activities for all the family. If you remember Take Hart or enjoy doodling then this event is for you!