Adventure Brief
Step back in time with the Medieval Life Program in Bryn Athyn, PA. Explore medieval artifacts and create your own manuscript in this unique family-friendly experience.
1.5–2 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Step back in time with the Medieval Life Program in Bryn Athyn, PA. Explore medieval artifacts and create your own manuscript in this unique family-friendly experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
No special physical fitness required; suitable for most children and adults.
Wildlife
History
Bryn Athyn is home to important early 20th-century religious and cultural landmarks, with the Ryerss Museum showcasing collections that enrich local heritage.
Conservation
The museum promotes sustainable practices by preserving artifacts responsibly and encouraging respectful engagement with historical items.
Glencairn Museum
Step back in time with the Medieval Life Program in Bryn Athyn, PA. Explore medieval artifacts and create your own manuscript in this unique family-friendly experience.
Glencairn Museum is a historic museum located in Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania, housed in a castle-like home built by Raymond Pitcairn. The museum preserves and interprets a broad collection of religious artifacts, manuscripts, stained glass, metalwork, mosaics, stone carvings, and woodcraft displayed across galleries and family spaces. Glencairn offers a mix of guided tours, family programs, hands-on workshops, seasonal exhibitions, and musical recitals that connect visitors to art, history, and craftsmanship.
Educational offerings include the Medieval Life Education Program for ages 7–12, the Time Travelers family backpack tour for ages 5–12, and workshops such as Adorn Like a Roman that teach historical techniques in jewelry making. Public programs range from the 90-minute Highlights Tour with access to the Tower, to self-guided First Floor access during open house hours (1:00–4:00 pm). Special thematic tours include Craftsmanship at Glencairn: Five Artists, Sacred Adornment Tour, From Tower to Garden, and the annual Christmas in the Castle Tour, often paired with exhibitions like Rushnyky and World Nativities.
Glencairn also hosts concerts, notably the Elizabeth Pitcairn and Friends recital of chamber repertoire. The museum’s programming emphasizes authentic objects, skilled craftsmanship, and interpretive tours led by trained guides. Visitors can expect a combination of gallery-focused exhibitions and immersive, family-friendly experiences. Glencairn’s curated collections, historic architecture, and range of educational formats support its reputation as a cultural and learning destination in Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania.
Visitors can see spaces such as the Bird Room and Great Hall, with exhibitions including Cardboard Chronicles and Rushnyky on display and history videos.
Location
Bryn Athyn, PA
Historic museum campus
Tours Offered
10
Guided and self-guided options
Family Programs
Ages 5–12
Interactive learning for kids
Open House
1:00–4:00 pm
First Floor self-guided access
Choose a guided Highlights Tour, a family backpack adventure, or a hands-on workshop and experience Glencairn’s art, history, and craftsmanship.
Reserve Your Spot Early
This popular family program has limited availability, so booking in advance is essential to secure your preferred date.
Wear Comfortable Clothes
Dress in layers and wear comfortable clothing suitable for indoor museum settings and hands-on activities.
Photography Restrictions
Check with staff about photography rules as some artifacts may not allow flash photography.
Ideal for Ages 7-12
This program is tailored for children ages 7 to 12, so younger children might find some activities challenging.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Indoor exploration paired with some light walking calls for comfortable footwear.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Spring temperatures can vary, so having a layer handy keeps you comfortable.
spring
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your visit, especially in warmer months.
summer
Notebook and Pen
Useful for taking notes or drawing inspirations during the manuscript creation activity.