Swing into summer at the National Museum of Rural Life

The National Museum of Rural Life has reopened its play park after a refurbishment thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

New equipment includes a fun, sensory Musical Arbour; two magnifying ‘Magposts’ to explore foraged finds; and an accessible basket swing, all of which are made from sustainably sourced timber. The ground conditions have been improved with a new impact-absorbing rubber crumb safety surface.

A further three magnifying posts have been installed on the footpath between the Museum building and the site’s historic working farm, allowing children to get up close to nature they discover along the way.

The installation comes as the Museum celebrates its 20th anniversary this month. Players of People’s Postcode Lottery have supported the playground to give children and families even more fun ways to enjoy the outdoors at the Museum.

Shirley Maciver, General Manager at the National Museum of Rural Life says:

“We are delighted to reopen our ever-popular play park this summer. It’s been designed to be much more sensory and fun while introducing more accessibility and educational elements. The improved ground conditions under all our play equipment mean that the area can be enjoyed in all seasons.

“Our playground is such a popular part of the Museum and there really is something for everyone; budding musicians can play tunes with the new bamboo chimes on the Musical Arbour and inquisitive minds can use the magnifying posts to take a closer look at leaves, small insects and other natural items.”

Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, added:

“The upgraded play park at the National Museum of Rural Life is a really exciting addition. With picnic tables and plenty of wide-open space, this area is the perfect place to play or take a break during a visit.

“I’m so pleased that support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery is contributing to encouraging children to be inquisitive, get closer to nature, explore and play. It adds a fun new dimension to a visit to the Museum.”

Located near East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire, the National Museum of Rural Life is open seven days a week between 10am-5pm.

In line with Scottish Government guidelines, a range of measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of visitors and staff. This includes pre-booked timed entry, face coverings, enhanced cleaning, sneeze screens, hand-sanitising stations and one-way routes.

The latest information and guidance on how to visit all museums can be found on our website: nms.ac.uk/reopening

National Museums Scotland has been awarded the UK-wide, industry standard “We’re Good To Go” accreditation. This means the museums follow Government and public health guidelines, have carried out COVID-19 risk assessments, and have the appropriate processes in place.