Smallfilms Summer Fun

The summer holidays are right around the corner and, just in the nick of time, so is the launch of our new Smallfilms Gallery on Saturday 23 July! 

Not only is the gallery a treasure trove of British children’s TV nostalgia but it’s also the perfect place to get creative with the kids and grandkids this school break.

Here’s just a few things your little ones can get up to in the Smallfilms Gallery this summer. Oh and did we mention they’re all completely FREE? Result!

Meet Bagpuss and friends

A quick stop to see Bagpuss and his pals feels like the obligatory first step to any Beaney visit but especially when dropping by the Smallfilms Gallery. 

You’ll find him sitting proudly on his pink cushion with Professor Yaffle, Madeleine, Gabrielle and The Mice by his side. 

You might also stumble across some surprise furry friends in the gallery (look out for a big bushy tail!)

The Clangers are Coming trail

Hunt for clangers hiding around the museum and even pick up some fun Smallfilms facts along the way with the Clangers are Coming trail.

Available at the launch event on Saturday 23 July in the Explorers gallery between 12pm and 4pm.

Create a Bagpuss mask

Get crafty to colour, cut and create your own mask inspired by everyone’s favourite saggy old cloth cat. 

Who wouldn’t want to masquerade as the ultimate British national treasure? 

Available at the launch event on Saturday 23 July in the Explorers gallery between 12pm and 4pm. 

Make your own Noggin the Nog cut-out character

Take inspiration from Oliver Postgate and Peter Firmin to create your own cut-out character in the same way they made animations like Noggin the Nog. 

Available at the launch event on Saturday 23 July in the Explorers gallery between 12pm and 4pm. 

Film a stop-motion animation

Use the Noggin the Nog cut-out character you just created and have a go at making your own stop-motion film, just like Smallfilms, in free workshops facilitated by Canterbury Christ Church University.

Available at the launch event on Saturday 23 July in the Explorers gallery between 12pm and 4pm. 

Explore Smallfilms on the interactive table

Dive even deeper into the story of Smallfilms using the gallery’s interactive table. Watch animation snippets, find out about your favourite characters and learn all about the people behind Smallfilms’ iconic creations.