Free things to do at The Box this January

Great galleries

Did you know all our galleries are free to visit? They feature key highlights from our art, human history, natural history, media and archive collections – from tiny insects to a giant case filled with hundreds of pieces of ceramics, silver, craft and Plymouth Porcelain, and items from the Bronze and Iron Ages to paintings that have been produced in the last couple of years. You can also meet visitor favourites Gus Honeybun (in the Media Lab gallery) and Mildred the Mammoth (in the natural history gallery).

Amazing exhibitions

Our exhibitions are also free. We have a major multi-screen film commission on display at the moment (see our image above). John Akomfrah: Arcadia explores how the 'New World' was colonised, not by guns and weapons, but by viruses. Don't let the serious subject matter deter you; it's a stunning film work displayed across five screens in the shape of a cross with a haunting soundtrack and amazing footage captured in a range of locations acround the world.

You can also currently see ‘End of Empire’ – an intriguing sculpture by Yinka Shonibare CBE RA – and ‘People and Place' – a presentation of works from our permanent art collection.

Family activities

We always have a selection of free family trails on offer. Pick up one (or more) from our Welcome Desk to help you explore our spaces. Our ‘Explore More’ tables next to our shop are available throughout the year and have a variety of simple craft activities that you can try before, during or after you’ve looked around.

Storytelling sessions

Do you have little ones who like to be read to? Our ‘Tell Me a Story’ sessions are free, non-bookable and run from 10.30am-11am each Friday.

Wellbeing sessions

Our ‘Always Welcome’ sessions can help you find calm as you experience our galleries and exhibitions. Designed for adults, these free sessions take place on selected dates each month. The aim of the sessions is to improve your wellbeing and teach you some useful mindfulness techniques that you can use in our spaces and elsewhere. Why not book a space?

Research facilities

If one of your new year’s resolutions is to find out more about your family history, why not come and use one of the free research laptops in the Active Archives gallery? They'll help you tap into useful online resources where you can uncover more information about your ancestors.

Join our volunteer team

Thinking of a new adventure in 2024? Volunteering at The Box is a chance to be part of a friendly team in an award-winning cultural venue. We’re currently welcoming applications from people who’d like to be Gallery Guides – helping our visitors interpret and connect with what’s on display and get the most out of their time with us. Find out more.

Happy new year from all of us at The Box!