Eureka! (museum) facts for kids
Exterior of Eureka!
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| Established | 1992 |
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| Location | 53°43′12″N 1°51′18″W / 53.72000°N 1.85500°W |
| Type | Children's Museum |
| Visitors | 300,000 per annum |
Eureka! The National Children's Museum is a super fun and interactive museum in Halifax, England. It's all about learning through play, which means you get to discover new things by doing cool activities! This museum is a special kind of charity that doesn't aim to make money. It's designed for families with children up to 11 years old, encouraging everyone to learn together.
How Eureka! Began
The idea for Eureka! started in 1985. A woman named Vivien Duffield was inspired to create it after visiting a children's museum in the United States. She wanted to build a similar place in the UK where kids could learn in a hands-on way.
The museum received a lot of money to get started, about £9 million. Most of this came from the Clore and Duffield foundations, with other donations helping too.
The Museum's Location
Eureka! was built on land that used to belong to the railway, right next to Halifax railway station. King Charles III, who was then the Prince of Wales, actually suggested this spot! He thought the empty land would be perfect for the museum. He also believed it could help make Halifax a more exciting place.
King Charles III officially opened Eureka! on July 9, 1992. He was a special supporter of the museum until 2002.
Designing the Museum
The building itself was designed by Ken Moth and his team. The fun exhibits inside were created by a group of different designers. They worked together to make sure every part of the museum was exciting and educational. For example, the "Me and My Body" gallery was designed by Imagination. Even the famous artist Tim Hunkin created a cool display near the entrance!
Explore the Galleries
Eureka! has several amazing galleries, each with different themes to explore. You can discover everything from how your body works to the science of sound!
- Spark Gallery – This is a flexible space that opened in 2017. It often hosts new and exciting exhibitions.
- All About Me – Opened in 2013, this gallery is all about your health, well-being, and the human body. You can learn how your body works in super cool ways!
- Living and Working Together – Imagine a miniature town square, complete with a bank, shops, and even an eco-friendly street. You can pretend to live and work in this tiny town!
- SoundSpace – Get ready to make some noise! This interactive gallery helps you discover the science behind sound and music. You might even meet Orby the Alien!
- SoundGarden – This outdoor area lets you explore sounds in a natural setting.
- Desert Discovery – Step into a desert world and learn about its unique environment.
- The Beach – This is possibly the biggest outdoor sandpit in Northern England! It's perfect for building and playing.
- The Wonder Walk – An outdoor trail designed to engage all your senses as you explore.
