A new exhibition, ‘Playgrounds to Pixels: A Journey Through Play in Beverley’, opens at Beverley Guildhall on Wednesday, 7 October.
The free exhibition explores how childhood play has changed from the open fields and streets of the past to the digital worlds of today.
Drawing on local memories, historic photographs, and contemporary experiences, the exhibition curated by East Riding of Yorkshire Council traces Beverley's rich play heritage.
Visitors can discover traditional street games, free play on Westwood, Figham and Swinemoor, the development of playgrounds, family festivals, water games, toys through the ages, and the growing role of digital technology in children's lives.
Councillor Nick Coultish, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: ‘’This unique, free exhibition delves into the history of play and how play forms a fundamental part of our learning and development, enriching our lives whilst contributing to our culture and shared experience.’’
Fiona Jenkinson, Beverley Guildhall Curator, added: “Play is something everyone can relate to. Whether it's climbing trees on Westwood, playing rounders in the street, building with Lego, or exploring a world in Minecraft, play helps us learn, connect and create memories. This exhibition celebrates those experiences while highlighting the unique ways play has shaped life in Beverley across generations.”
The exhibition invites visitors to reminisce about their own childhoods and contribute memories of play, helping to create a growing community record of how leisure, friendship and imagination have evolved over time.
‘Playgrounds to Pixels’ will be on display at Beverley Guildhall until Friday, 5 February 2027.
The Guildhall can be found in Register Square, off Cross Street. Admission is free.
To find out more, see: Playgrounds to Pixels | Beverley Guildhall | 07 Oct 2026 to 05 Feb 2027
To find out more about Beverley Guildhall, see: Beverley Guildhall
Picture captions:
‘High Jump’ image taken from Beverley Guildhall image collection
