Richmond council has invited families and friends of the borough to its ‘playcation event’ on August 4 between 12pm and 4pm.

The free event at Orleans House Gallery in Twickenham has been designed to bring nothing but smiles and laughter to the community.

Families can expect a journey into the main gallery for an interactive trail through Grottofying, the Gallery’s Summer exhibition, and finally over to the Stables Gallery to explore the lab of Dr Srongarm in The Overview Effect.

Cllr John Coombs, Richmond Council’s spokesman for culture said:“With long summer holidays families are often looking for things to do together.

“And there’s no need to look too far – why not make your vacation a staycation and join Orleans House Gallery.”

The event will be filled with interactive experiences, exciting exhibitions, workshops and food and drinks stalls.

Visitors will also be able to travel fifty years into the future by taking part in the “Virtual Reality Experience: Terra Firma.”

The event will give visitors the opportunity to explore the tunnels and structures of a plastic maze as artist Georgia Tucker ponders what the future holds if we don’t reduce our plastic consumption.

Artists Lucy Cran and Bill Leslie are inviting people to help them create an immersive art installation that is aimed at encouraging people of all ages to add their contribution to the exhibition.

There will also be a chance to enjoy a painting session with natural dyes and botanical inks to create your unique design.

Food and drink will be provided throughout the day by Surrey Ices UK, OhGreekalicious and Real Ale.