ReallyKidFreindly.com – The guide to how good places really are for your family

August 3rd 2009

Village Fete

Bizarre as it was to see the event billed as running from 1909, this was instead the 10th anniversary of the Village Fete. I find it difficult to see any reason for the event other than as an opportunity for design studios to dress silly, act sillier and hopefully earn a few quid. The success of previous years was reflected in the hundreds of people who failed to gain entry.

The event was again hosted in the Madjeski Garden, that forms the courtyard between the main museum entrance and shop, and the rear cafeteria and Viennese dining room. With the weather cooler, it made little difference that the water feature had been drained. Entry was ÂŁ3 for adults and 50p for children, although we all knew that we were about to part with lots more.

Inside, the format was the same as previous years with small stalls and some very silly games. I mean, who would be ridiculous enough to dress as a Velcro bee, rolling in table tennis balls? Well, I won a small pot of seeds that is supposed to attract bees. And more importantly, I collected more balls than my 4 year old companion…. Other games included a version of consequences and a rather sinister take on operation, where the patient screamed as burgers, chips etc were removed from the bloke’s jelly-filled stomach: prizes were scrawled on post-it notes.

Sadly one of the “stall holders” (dressed as an RAF fighter pilot, naturally) told me that this will be the last village fete at the V & A, as the numbers of visitors has just outgrown the venue. Sad really, although I did hear a rumour of a similar event to be hosted next year at the Barbican. Please let us know if you hear anything more.

• Attitude to kids :
• Baby changing / Toilets :
• Breastfeeding-friendliness :
• Buggy-friendliness :
• Food & drink :
• Play area :
• Service :
• Value for money :

Best for: New baby, Pre-school, School children, Impaired mobility, Large groups