Ilkley Toy Museum - Image 1

Ilkley Toy Museum

Ilkley, United Kingdom•4.6(68)•Museum

Explore one of the country's finest toy collections spanning from 4th century BC to present day, featuring dolls, teddy bears, tinplate toys, and games.

Ilkley Toy Museum opened in 2001 and houses a nationally important private collection of toys acquired over two decades. Visitors can discover toys from 4th century BC to the present day, including dolls, dolls houses, teddy bears, tinplate toys, games, soldiers, and more. The museum is particularly renowned for its collection of early English wooden dolls. Located in the centre of Ilkley within easy walking distance of the train and bus station, the museum welcomes families of all ages to explore its exhibits. The venue is dog-friendly and suitable for visitors aged 0 and upwards, making it an accessible attraction for families with young children. Beyond casual visits, Ilkley Toy Museum offers educational experiences for school groups and organized visits of any age. The museum provides comprehensive learning materials and resources, including lending boxes available for loan, making it an ideal destination for both recreational exploration and structured educational visits.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: Closed
Friday: Closed
Saturday: 12:00 – 16:00
Sunday: 12:00 – 16:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
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Google Reviews

4.6(68 reviews)
W
William Robins

William Robins

2 months ago

Interesting series of vintage toys, almost all in cases. £3.50 entry to adults too. We had the whole place to ourselves, there was nobody else in there.

W
William Chivers

William Chivers

3 months ago

I recently visited the incredible spa town of Ilkley, originally intending to visit/experience the ilkley toy museum with interest, however though we couldn't get in as it soon turned out the museumm had updated their opening times - meaning they'r now only open on saturdays & sundays once again, However, at least I (along with my accompanying P.A.) still got to check out the outside of this terrific museum, marvelled at the signage, the colours of the door, and interiors which blend in remarkably well. In spite of the setback.... I myself still hope to return to ilkley on a different day from when the museum is open to public, to finally experience the inside 'in-person'

R
rachael fowler

rachael fowler

6 months ago

Took my children to the toy museum this afternoon as my youngest is learning about old toys at school. It is a small museum however it has lots to look at. I definitely recommend visiting. Had some really interesting stories of some of the toys. I really liked Thomas the bear. Friendly and helpful staff too!

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Chris Routledge

Chris Routledge

a year ago

What a lovely museum of old toys on display here; from hand crafted doll houses over 100 years old, to the predecessor to Subbuteo, Action Man, dolls from the 1800s and much more is amazing. Just to see these in the condition they're in and what children had to play with in those times is fascinating. The price of admission is well worth it and the descriptions of the displays makes you really look further into the intricacies of what's gone into making some of these toys.

K
K. Peake

K. Peake

4 years ago

This was a fascinating museum to visit with my friend, where we entered past a large policeman doll and were welcomed by a very friendly staff member for a price of only £3.50! Downstairs has many interesting toys on show, including houses, mini railways and amusement areas, the latter of which featured a replica fairground that was activatable via a token that the staff member gave us. The fairground was amusing and finding our way upstairs was easy via the signs, accompanied by frames along the way that displayed numerous toys. In the area, we enjoyed looking at the board games, film memorabilia, toy animals and bears - the last one really felt nostalgic since I remembered seeing these as a little kid here!

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Ilkley Toy Museum

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Ilkley Toy Museum

Is Ilkley Toy Museum free to visit?

Ilkley Toy Museum is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

What ages is Ilkley Toy Museum suitable for?

Ilkley Toy Museum is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Ilkley Toy Museum dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Ilkley Toy Museum.

Is there parking at Ilkley Toy Museum?

Ilkley Toy Museum doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Ilkley Toy Museum?

Ilkley Toy Museum doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Ilkley Toy Museum pushchair-friendly?

Ilkley Toy Museum isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at Ilkley Toy Museum?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to Ilkley Toy Museum.

How do I get to Ilkley Toy Museum by public transport?

Ilkley Toy Museum is well-served by public transport.
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