Amberley Museum

Amberley Museum sounds like a proper all-day family outing rather than a quick tick-box visit. The reviews point to a wide spread of exhibits covering stationary engines, railway displays, electricity and other bits of technology through time, with enough going on that one visit clearly doesn’t cover it all. It also seems to work well for mixed ages, with adults and children both finding things to do and interact with. The big wins are variety, enthusiastic volunteers and lots of hands-on or explanatory elements. Parents mention pretty nature walks, a short train ride, picnic areas and a generally relaxed feel, which is handy if you’re trying to keep everyone happy for several hours. The steampunk event gets a special mention too, suggesting the museum can put on a good themed day when it’s on form. The main caveat is that the cafe is not the star of the show. One review calls it a bit tired inside and short on cake choice, though service was friendly; another says the menu covers dietary needs well. So: come for the museum, the space and the variety, and treat the food as practical rather than exciting. Also, if you want to do everything, allow plenty of time.