National Lottery Open Week 2024 - find out about free activities on offer

Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums are taking part in The National Lottery Open Week, to say a huge thanks to National Lottery players for their support.

From 9 - 17 March 2024, we'll be offering visitors a variety of free activities across museums and galleries on Tyneside. Visitors will need to show a National Lottery ticket or scratchcard on entry. It’s as simple as that!   

Some activities do need to be pre-booked. See specific events for full details.

Highlights of the programme include: 2-4-1 planetarium shows, behind-the-scenes tours and expert-led gallery/exhibition talks.

Tuesday 12 March - 11am Charge! Gallery tour
A guided tour of the Charge! Gallery, highlighting the stories behind some of the amazing artefacts on display. Pre-booking essential, booking closes 24 hours before the start of the event.

Tuesday 12 March - 1pm North East inventors gallery tour
A tour exploring historical North East inventors and their inventions that changed the world!  Pre-booking essential, booking closes 24 hours before the start of the event.

Thursday 14 March - The Northumberland Hussars in the Second World War' history talk
The Northumberland Hussars in the Second World War, detailing their journey from a newly-mobilised Territorial Regiment to elite fighting force and essential component of the legendary 50th (Northumbrian) Division. Pre-booking essential, booking closes 24 hours before the start of the event.

Friday 15 March - 11am Costume Store Tour 
Join one of the history curators on a behind-the-scenes tour of the costume and textiles store. See costumes from the Georgian period right up to modern day outfits, as well as accessories.  Pre-booking essential, booking closes 24 hours before the start of the event.

Friday 15 March - 11am Tyneside Challenge gallery tour
Come and discover the hidden stories behind some of the inventions that originated on Tyneside!  Pre-booking essential, booking closes 24 hours before the start of the event.

9-17 March 2 for 1 Planetarium Tickets
Visit any of our Planetarium Shows and get 2 tickets for the price of 1. Booking in advance is not required.

Tuesday 12 March (11am) and Thursday 14 March (1.30pm) - Kurt Schwitters' Merz Barn Wall Talk
A curator led tour of one of the UK’s international art treasures, Kurt Schwitters’ Merz Barn Wall, which is on permanent display at the Hatton Gallery. Pre-booking essential, booking closes 24 hours before the start of the event.

Booking in advance is not required.9 March and 11-16 March, 20% Admission Discount - Yevonde: Life and Colour
A new exhibition showcasing the ground-breaking work of 20th century British photographer Yevonde will be shown at the Laing Art Gallery. Yevonde: Life and Colour was organised by the National Portrait Gallery, London. Booking in advance is not required.

Friday 15 and Saturday 16 March - Free admission.
Booking in advance is not required.  Each lotto ticket is valid for 2 people.

Wednesday 13 March - 10.30am Arts and crafts collection tour
Pre-booking essential, booking closes 24 hours before the start of the event.

Saturday 9 March - various times Workshop guided tours
Pre-booking essential, booking closes 24 hours before the start of the event.