Last Chance to Discover Wild Things at Lowry This October Half-Term
Free family exhibition celebrating animals in children's books closes Sunday 1 November
Families are being encouraged to make the most of October half-term and enjoy one last adventure through Wild Things: Animals in Children's Books before the free exhibition closes at Lowry on Sunday 1 November 2026.
A huge hit with visitors since opening this summer, Wild Things transforms Lowry's Andrew Law Galleries into a playful celebration of animals in children's literature, bringing together beloved characters, original artwork and interactive experiences designed especially for young children and their families.
Michael Simpson, Director of Visual Arts at Lowry, says: “We are all thrilled with the response to Wild Things. It is a joy to see so many families exploring the gallery and discovering old and new illustration favourites, as well as enjoying the range of themed activities around the whole building. As we head into the final weeks, October half-term is the perfect opportunity for families to experience everything the exhibition has to offer before it closes.”
Feauring characters from much-loved books including Elmer, Dear Zoo, Poo in the Zoo and Meerkat Mail, alongside modern favourites such as Time for Bed, Fred!, The Steves and The Great Unicorn Rescue, Wild Things celebrates the enduring appeal of animals in children's storytelling.
The exhibition showcases original illustrations from some of the UK's most celebrated children's book artists, including Diane Ewen, Nick Sharratt, Helen Oxenbury, Lydia Monks and Rod Campbell, alongside stories by Julia Donaldson, Michael Rosen, Yasmeen Ismail, Lizzy Stewart and many more.
Created especially for children aged seven and under, Wild Things combines reading, play and imagination through a series of hands-on, screen-free experiences. Young visitors can step into Vera's Veggie Delights Stall, dress up in The Furry Wardrobe, explore interactive games and activities, and relax in the exhibition's Reading Nest.
Every young visitor also receives a free notebook, so they can write and draw their own animal stories inspired by the exhibition and the Reading Nest is a space to relax in and read together.
Families visiting during October half-term can enjoy a lots of free activities across the building, including a playful drama adventure inspired by the picture book Queen Bee's Day Off, storytelling, meet-and-greet appearances from Elmer the Patchwork Elephant, plus kids eat free at Lowry Bar & Kitchen.
For families looking for a full day out, Lowry will also present the family stage show The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show in the Quays Theatre from Monday 26 October to Sunday 1 November.
Wild Things: Animals in Children's Books runs until Sunday 1 November 2026. Admission is free, with visitors encouraged to pre-book a timeslot at thelowry.com.