The Wallace Collection

Hertford House, a grand former townhouse on Manchester Square in Marylebone, is home to the Wallace Collection: paintings, sculpture, porcelain, furniture and a notable arms and armour display. The rooms are arranged by theme and much of the collection is on open display, so older children can look closely at suits of armour, carved furniture and old master paintings as they wander. Families can use the activity sheets and short films the museum makes for young visitors before or after a trip. There is a restaurant on a terrace under a glass roof for a break, and a member of staff is stationed in every gallery to help. The Armouries are usually the quietest part of the building, which helps if a child needs a calmer room. It suits curious children who enjoy history, craft and art, and it works well as a shorter visit alongside other sights in central London.