Families Invited to Experience the Bobeam Tree Exhibition in Sheffield This Summer

This summer, families in Sheffield are invited to explore the enchanting world of the Bobeam Tree at the Millennium Gallery. This magical tree, designed specifically for children aged 0–5 and their parents or guardians, opens the door to a realm filled with stories, play, and creative activities inspired by the museum's extensive collections. The exhibition kicks off on Saturday, 20 June, and will run until Sunday, 30 August 2026, in collaboration with the National Portrait Gallery and The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood.

The Bobeam Tree: A Magical Experience

The Bobeam Tree is not just any ordinary tree; according to the story, it flourishes when surrounded by the curiosity, playfulness, thoughts, and feelings of children. Originally unveiled by Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales at the National Portrait Gallery in London in 2025, the Bobeam Tree is now branching out to various museums across the UK, bringing its magic to even more young visitors.

At the Millennium Gallery, the Bobeam Tree serves as the focal point of an immersive exhibition that encourages babies and young children to discover the wonders of stories and imagination while exploring Sheffield's rich collection of objects and artworks.

Why It Matters

Creating a nurturing environment for social and emotional skills in early childhood is crucial, as this is the fastest period of brain development in a child's life. The Bobeam Tree experience is designed to provide meaningful cultural encounters that can positively influence a child's growth. The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood's Shaping Us Framework underpins this initiative, highlighting the importance of early experiences in fostering well-being and happiness.

What to Expect at the Exhibition

The exhibition will be divided into four engaging sections, each aimed at promoting interactive play for children and their families. Visitors can look forward to:

• Over 70 intriguing objects from the city’s collection, selected to spark curiosity and imagination.

• Artworks featuring various themes, including people, animals, and places, created by artists such as Gillian Ayres, Patrick Caulfield, and Godfrey Sykes.

• A chance to see unique specimens from Sheffield’s Natural Science collection, including fascinating birds and animals.

• Historical clothes, toys, and other items that showcase life across different decades.

The exhibition promises to be a delightful experience, offering opportunities for dressing up, role play, and sensory activities, making it perfect for family bonding and fun.

Voices Behind the Exhibition

Lucy Cooper, the Exhibition Curator at Sheffield Museums, expressed excitement about the event:

“We’re delighted to welcome visitors to discover the magic of the Bobeam Tree in Sheffield this summer. Helping creativity flourish from an early age is an important part of Sheffield Museums’ work. The Bobeam Tree offers our youngest visitors and their grown-ups a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of imagination and inspiration.”

Liz Smith, Director of Learning & Engagement at the National Portrait Gallery, added:

“The Bobeam Tree brought a very special experience to the National Portrait Gallery last year for our youngest visitors – we're truly thrilled that the Tree will now be unfurling its leaves once again, bringing magic and wonder to babies, children and their grown-ups at the Millennium Gallery.”

Christian Guy, Executive Director of The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, shared his hopes for the exhibition:

“I’m delighted to see The Bobeam Tree has now grown in Sheffield, reaching even more babies and young children. I hope families across the city have fun exploring the museum, discovering new things, and spending quality time together.”

Details for Visitors

The Bobeam Tree exhibition opens on Saturday, 20 June, and runs until Sunday, 30 August 2026. Entry to the exhibition is free, though a suggested donation of £5 is welcomed to help support the museum's activities.

This initiative not only aims to entertain but also to create lasting memories and connections between families as they explore the museum together. The Bobeam Tree is set to become a cherished experience for young families in Sheffield, making this summer an exciting opportunity for discovery and creativity.