The UK's Minister for Arts and Heritage Lord Parkinson has visited Ilkley Toy Museum alongside local MP Robbie Moore.

Founded in 2001, Ilkley Toy Museum boasts a remarkable private collection of dolls, dollhouses, teddies, tinplate toys and games collected by the museum over the past two decades.

From ancient relics dating back to the 4th century BC to modern-day marvels, the museum offers a glimpse into the history of childhood toys.

Some of the museum’s standout pieces include Terpsichore – A Corinthian Terracotta Dancing Doll from Early 4th century BC, Agnes, a Tudor Stump Baby from 1590, and Thomas the bear, crafted in 1930.

Ilkley Toy Museum warmly welcomes school visits and group tours, offering an educational and immersive experience for visitors of all ages.

The museum is open on Saturdays and Sundays 12-4pm and in the Easter holidays, they are open 28th and 29th March and the 4th and 5th April.

For all enquiries and bookings, readers can email ilkleytoymuseum@outlook.com or visit their website at https://www.ilkleytoymuseum.co.uk

Speaking after the visit, Robbie Moore MP said: “It was brilliant to welcome the Minister for Arts and Heritage and DCMS Lords Minister Lord Parkinson to Ilkley, where we visited Ilkley Toy Museum to take a look at the museum’s fascinating private collection, which features toys from as far back as the 4th century BC.

"We have so much to offer in Ilkley and it is cultural attractions like the Ilkley Toy Museum helping put our town on the map and contributing to our area’s rich cultural offer. I strongly recommend paying Ilkley Toy Museum a visit over the Easter Holidays!”