OUTDOOR activities for under-fives are being launched as the district’s council-run galleries and museums – including Cliffe Castle in Keighley – count down to reopening.

After a winter of lockdown, youngsters and their parents and carers are being given the opportunity to explore the grounds of the attractions ahead of buildings being opened-up once again.

The programme of activities is being staged by Bradford Museums and Galleries, in conjunction with 50 Things to do Before You’re Five and Bradford District Neighbourhood Team.

Sessions – including drawing – are being held with artist, Lou Sumray.

The first will take place at Cliffe Castle next Wednesday (May 5).

Further events will be staged at Cartwright Hall Art Gallery and Lister Park in Bradford, followed by Bolling Hall Museum and Library and Bowling Park, with sessions culminating at Bradford Industrial Museum.

The initial part of the programme – ‘walk, talk, discover and draw’ – builds on initiatives already established by 50 Things to do Before You’re Five, as well as an earlier project called My Cartwright.

Rachael Dennis, project officer with 50 Things to do Before You’re Five, said: “We believe these small weekly sessions are an ideal way to rediscover the world through the eyes of under-fives and their families, by making connections with outdoor spaces and enjoying the vibrant history and heritage of our surroundings across the district.

“We are thrilled to collaborate on this.”

Claire Ackroyd, learning and outreach manager with Bradford Museums and Galleries, welcomed the sessions.

She added: “We are delighted to be working with 50 Things to do Before You’re Five.

“These sessions are a great introduction for new visitors to our museums and galleries as well as being a lovely, gentle way for us to move towards reopening our doors.

“We are also working towards a sustainable future for our service and buildings so that we can help the district meet its net zero-emissions targets and our sites can be enjoyed by future generations.”

Later next month, when sites plan to reopen, a self-led family programme – Explore and Draw – will be available inside each venue.

The outdoor sessions will continue for younger visitors, families and carers.

For further information about Bradford Museums and Galleries and the venues, visit bradfordmuseums.org.

To book a place at Wednesday's Cliffe Castle session, email rachael.dennis@stedmundsbradford.org.uk or phone 01274 543282.