The Archive will be closed to the public on Thursday 5th and Friday 6th March.

Sparky Saturdays

Fun, free and for everyone!

Join us on the second Saturday of each month, it’s free to visit and there’s no need to book.

As well as our interactive exhibition, which includes dressing up rails, a Penny Bazaar shop and mini-cinema, you can have a go at a hands-on activity and try our exhibition trails – there’s something for everyone!

Activities run from 10am to 4pm. We’ve got free fruit, biscuits and drinks, including vegan and gluten-free options and you can use our indoor picnic space to eat your own food.

There’s more information on our Family Visits page, or get in touch with any questions – we’re happy to help.

14 February: Bouquets

It’s Valentine’s Day, so we’re celebrating flower power and creating our own beautiful bouquets inspired by the long tradition of flowers at M&S.

 

14 March: Fashion by Design with special guest Percy Pig!

Percy Pig is joining us to celebrate the opening of our new exhibition ‘The Archive Edit: M&S Fashion since 1926’. Come and meet Percy, and share your fashion highlights from the last 100 years. Create your own collection from concept to catwalk inspired by decades of style at M&S.

 

11 April: Colour 

Join us over the rainbow to explore the science and magic of colour at M&S.  Learn about the importance of colour in every department, from food to homeware! 

 

9 May: You’re the Boss! 

Design and run your own M&S store. What will your store look like? What will you sell? How will you welcome customers and look after them while they shop…? You’re the boss! 

 

13 June: Summer Styling 

It’s summer holiday season, and time for a new M&S summer campaign. As Creative Director you’re in charge – styling, script, photography. Show the world your take on an M&S summer! 

 

11 July: Finishing Touches 

Take inspiration from the archive to create your own 3D badge or keyring. Design and make your own awesome accessory to make a style statement. 

 

8 August: Perfect Prints 

Take a closer look at printed fabrics in the Archive and join our expert printer to create your own relief print to take home. 

 

12 September: The Science of Schoolwear 

Back to school time – new school uniform needs to work as hard as you do! Discover how M&S puts schoolwear to the test, and design your own experiment to measure the strength and durability of our fabrics. 

 

10 October: Looking Good 

Can you design a shop window that will wow the crowds? Learn what it takes to become an M&S Visual Merchandiser and create your own window masterpiece! 

 

14 November: Christmas Crafternoon 

Discover the amazing archive collection with exciting hands-on activities led by some brilliant Yorkshire crafters, choose from a range of crafty activities with a festive feel and make something brilliant to take home. 

 

12 December: Christmas Jumper Day 

Get into the festive spirit and end the year in style! Create a design for a very merry Christmas jumper, the bolder the better!