Play Build: The Mushroom Castle

Calling all little makers with big ideas! Play and build with outdoor play revolutionaries Woodland Tribe. Get hands-on with real hammers, saws and drills to make a giant mushroom castle!

Plan your visit
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
  • Tuesday, 11 – Thursday, 13 August 2026

  • V&A South Kensington

    Cromwell Road
    London, SW7 2RL
  • John Madejski Garden

  • Families

    Children over 5

  • Free event

    Booking is essential.

Tickets available from 09.00 on Friday, 12 June 2026
Play Build: The Mushroom Castle photo
Step into an unforgettable hands-on adventure where your imagination takes centre stage. Inspired by the work of Adobe Creative Resident Emily Stapleton-Jefferis, work together to design and build a giant mushroom castle using real tools. Guided by experienced facilitators, you will use your own imagination and creativity to world build and play! 

In this unique outdoor experience, young builders will explore what they can create when given the freedom to experiment, problem-solve and collaborate. Using natural materials like wood and canvas, every child will contribute to a shared structure that grows and evolves throughout the day. 
 
Children will also have the chance to dream up their own individual creations at a make and take station. Come join us for a celebration of play, making and discovery! 
 
This is a free, ticketed event for families to enjoy; no child can be left unattended. Suitable for ages 5+ only. We request that there is at least one adult supervising every 2 children. 

We are only able to welcome in those who have attended a full safety briefing so please plan to arrive 15 minutes before the start of session so you can take part and make the most out of your experience. We cannot guarantee entry to latecomers. Make sure to bring clothes that you are happy to build in and get a little messy!
 
This event will take place in the John Madejski Garden.

There will be 4, 1 hour long sessions throughout the day that families can book onto. Tickets will be available from 12 June.
 
If you have any further questions, please email the families team on families@vam.ac.uk

V&A South Kensington visual story

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Supported by the Adobe Foundation.