Immerse yourself in our imaginative and exciting galleries, from the history of healthcare to the advances that have shaped the way we look after ourselves, and each other. Through play, creativity, talks, experiences, social events and formal education, we’re both a place to pay fitting tribute to our health heroes and inspire the next generation of big thinkers.

Behind the Microscope – Exhibition

Sat, 11 February 2023 – Thu, 29 February 2024

Join our top team of pathologists in their battle against disease, shrinking the human body to microscopic size to find out what makes us sick. Our new exhibition for families, Behind the Microscope follows the story of real-life pathologists as they examine bodies, organs, and disease at the smallest scale. These stories are brought to life by artist Molly Pukes, providing a fun and friendly introduction to the work of a histopathologist for those aged 7+.

On the Bench – Exhibition

Sat, 29 July 2023 – Sun, 31 December 2023

Experience the game-changing story of sport and injury at Thackray Museum’s brand-new season of events, curated in partnerships with Leeds sporting superstars.

Entitled “On the Bench,” it presents the opportunity to learn the science behind sports
from different perspectives – professional athletes, sports medical professionals, and sports
enthusiasts. On the Bench invites you behind the curtain and onto the treatment table to hear their injury stories.

Stevie Ward, ex-captain of Leeds Rhinos, shares his experience of head injuries and how these have shaped a new career outside of sport. He’ll also share the story of his amazing comeback from a shoulder injury.

The Leeds Roller Derby Club are a women’s flat-track roller derby club. We talk to Catherine Robins and Vicky B who have both broken their legs while playing and hear about how they’ve managed to remain involved in the sport.

Norman Francis is an ex-basketball player and current coach of the Mandela Warriors in Chapel Town. Norman shares the story of losing his leg and how he’s overcome this setback to continue coaching the next generation of Leeds basketball stars.

Christmas at Thackray

Sat, 18 November 2023 – Sat, 23 December 2023

Special experiences on Nov 25-26 (Relaxed Experiences) & Dec 10 & 16 (BSL Interpreted Experiences)

This festive season, the Thackray Museum of Medicine invites families of all ages to join Father Christmas on a magical 90-minute journey, exploring the diverse ways people celebrate Christmas around the world. This enchanting experience offers an exciting blend of activities, crafts, and heartwarming moments with Father Christmas himself.

The highlight of the experience is the special audience with Father Christmas, where he will regale young and old alike with cosy festive stories. Each child will receive a thoughtfully selected gift to take home as a cherished keepsake of this unforgettable encounter. Please note this is is an event by our ambassador Thackray Museum and costs may apply.

Under-fives can explore the senses of sight, touch, taste, hearing and smell in the roleplay medical centre. Crawl through the digestive system and find your way out down the poo slide in our exciting softplay area! Please visit their website for opening times, costs and sessions.