Category: Something Different

Family fun won’t break the bank

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Do you need an inspiration on some fun filled family days out for the family to enjoy without breaking the bank? Here’s a list of some amazing attractions across the UK… all for £25 and under (based on 2 adults and 2 children)!

 Liberty’s Owl, Raptor & Reptile Centre, Ringwood

 

Discover one of the South’s largest collections of birds of prey, reptiles, creepy crawlies and more at the Liberty Centre near Ringwood. The flying displays with take your breath away and we can almost guarantee that you’ll learn something exciting and new about the animals you meet. After you’ve looked around, why not stop for a bite to eat at the cafe and the kids can blow off some steam in the play area and sandpit. 

 

Illuminasia, Blackpool

 

Visit the world’s largest indoor illuminations and see wonders from around the globe light up before your very eyes! Combining traditional Chinese lantern methods with the latest in lighting technology, Illuminasia creates a family friendly, educational and awe-inspiring day out. 

 

Adventure Wonderland, Christchurch

 

With over 30 rides and attractions, there’s so much to be had at Adventure Wonderland for all of the family! Battle it out on the Battle Boats, go on the Dragon’s Drop Mega Slide or even go see some adorable animals in the Cuddle Corner Farm! You might even get to meet some of the park characters including Alice, the Mad Hatter and The White Rabbit. 

 

The Viking Saga Boat Trips, Maldon, Essex

 

Step aboard the Viking Saga on Maldon Promenade for a relaxing cruise. With a few different options for where to go on your viking saga cruise you will definitely have plenty of choice. Starting from a 40 minute cruise and going up to 3 hours you can spend as much time here as you please.

 

Windmill Hill City Farm – Bedminster, Bristol

 

This small community farm has loads to offer and is a great day out for kids of all ages. You’ll be able to meet loads of animals, such as goats, sheep, pigs and chickens, and learn all about farming. There’s also a kids play area when they can run around while you refuel with a coffee.

 

 

Indoor fun for kids

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Deep Sea World, Fife, Scotland
What better way to beat the rain than to take the kids underwater at Scotland’s Deep Sea World. The kids will enjoy exploring over 100 meters of incredible creatures including starfish, catfish and even eels!

The Beatles Story, Liverpool
Young or old, everyone knows The Beatles! Take an incredible journey through the history of four Liverpudlian lads who shot to fame in the early 60’s. Complete with an audio guide, see the story unfold as you wander around replicas of Mathew Street and The Cavern. The exhibition is split across two sites and the Fab4D theatre at the Pier Head venue is a must for groovy families ‐ meet magical characters who bring The Beatles’ well-loved hits to life with cutting edge technology

KidZania, London
Children can let their imaginations run wild as they test the out real jobs in this mini city, such as being a pilot, firefighter, radio presenter, banker, police officer and many more! After all that work they can use their hard earned ‘KidZos’ to buy themselves some treats!

Winchester Science Centre, Winchester, Hampshire
Winchester Science Centre is fun for all the family with 100 hands-on science exhibits for you to discover. The planetarium has shows that run almost everyday, you can get sucked into a black hole, travel through the Solar System or even explore the human body!

Thinktank Science Museum, Birmingham
Inquisitive young minds can discover the past, investigate the present and find the future. Don’t miss visiting the Planetarium that shows fantastic tours of the night sky and takes you on a trip around our vast solar system.

Free family days out

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The Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery, Glasgow

Inside this gallery and museum there are many collections to inspire and educate the kids. Spread out over 22 themed galleries with over 8,000 objects, you will see fine art, natural history and world cultures. .

Library of Birmingham

This modern library, located in Centenary Square, has 10 floors with over 400,000 books just waiting to be explored, as well as a studio theatre and gardens… perfect for your little bookworms! Outside you’ll find the Amphitheatre, two outdoor terraces, children’s spaces and a panoramic viewing gallery. .

National Railway Museum, Yorkshire

With a collection of over a million objects, covering over 200 years of history, you and your family will be spoilt for choice! You’ll get to see giant halls full of engines and railway legends and kids can let off steam in the outdoor play area. You’ll also get to enjoy lively science shows, take a ride on the miniature railway or learn through the interactive exhibits! .

House of Marbles; Bovey Tracey, Devon

This working glass and games factory is open for people to visit. You can see some lass being made, or visit the games museum where you can see games from years gone by. On dry days you can also go outdoors and play skittles, chess, giant Jericho or even marbles in the Games Garden. .

Blakemere Village, Northwich, Cheshire

There are over 30 shops to be discovered here as well as plenty of activities for adults and children alike. The Barnaby’s Play Barn is a play area where the kids can let off some steam, with a separate area for the under 3s, and there are craft activities that all the family can join in.

Riverwatch Aquariums, Londonderry, Northern Ireland

If you’re little one is aquatic mad, this is the perfect day out! There are many different displays, including The Louch, a Rockpool, Deep Sea and Freshwater Environment. You’ll see aquatic animals such as starfish, lobster, crabs, eels, rays and some wonderful native species. .

Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall, Wales

Pistyll Rhaeadr is an enchanting waterfall in the Berwyn Mountains, just inside Wales. It is the highest waterfall in the UK as the water plummets 240ft from top to bottom. With many visitors returning again and again it is one of the most loved pieces of nature you could set your eyes on. It is sure to give you and your family a peaceful and tranquil day out. .

Corris Craft Centre, Machnlleth

Bring your little budding artists along to paint some pottery, dip candles, craft herbals or even make a unique bar of chocolate! For the kids there’s a small children’s play area so they can let off some steam, plus there’s a treasure hunt that they can follow around the centre. You can also see a variety of designers making their crafts in their studios! .

 

5 yr old party ideas

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Around the age of 5-6 is when kids start to reveal their true personalities. They absorb so much information, are super opinionated and they know what they want. It’s usually the year they transition into Reception and go from being a “baby” to a little person with attitude. When it’s time to celebrate their birthday, now is when you can include them in the party plans to make their birthday party one they will talk about for years.
Pizza Party

 

Celebrate the birthday at school by offering to bring in pizza for your child’s classroom. Replacing ham and cheese sandwiches with pizza will make you the superhero of the day, and your child will enjoy the excitement of having you appear for lunch. Bring balloons and a cake to accompany your special visit. Use this in-class party to kick start the birthday bash over the weekend

Pyjama parties

 

Pyjama parties at this age are full of energy and fun and you’re likely to be worn out after a night of rambunctious 6-year-olds. Invite a few friends from your child’s class over for a sleepover. Set up plenty of arts and crafts activities for the kids to move from station to station as they are likely to bore easily. Use one station for colouring and creating, another for watching a show or movie and another for something active like pavement chalk writing, blowing bubbles or making water balloons.
Museum Madness
Explore a museum for an afternoon children’s entertainment. Book one of your local museum’s kids’ party packages to allow the kids to play and learn about the exhibits. Most museums that are equipped for children’s parties and entertainment and also include an activity room where the kids can draw, color or paint and may include a storyteller to discuss some of the cool displays in detail. Since these are the growing stages of the inquisitive years, this is a great opportunity for the kids to ask questions about what they are shown to get a better understanding of what makes things work.
Talent Show
Host a talent show for the kids to showcase their favourite talents. No matter if it’s singing, dancing or creating a masterpiece, allow each kid a chance in the spotlight. End your talent portion by bringing out the ice cream and cake and allow everyone to salute the birthday boy or girl before the party ends.

 

Scotland with the family

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Keep the children entertained this year by visiting some Scottish family fun attractions. From exploring Scottish legends, wildlife spotting and waterpark fun, we’ve got loads for you to see, and all are budget-friendly, too.

1. Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh

Spend the day exploring Edinburgh’s iconic castle overlooking the nation’s beautiful capital. Home to some of Scotland’s most legendary royals, fought over in ancient battles and later used as a jail for enemies of the state – this mighty fortress has overseen some of the greatest moments of Edinburgh’s history. Download the family-friendly itinerary and let the kids lead the way as they navigate through the castle with a series of clues…

 

Best for: Spectacular views over the city

2. Loch Ness cruises, Inverness

Anyone who’s ever heard of Nessie, the supposedly three-humped lake monster that lurks beneath the surface of Loch Ness, will be dying to come and explore the legendary lake themselves, and what better way to do it than by taking to its waters on a cruise? Loch Ness by Jacobite offer a range of tours to embark on whether you just want to explore the lake or you can choose to fit in some more sights along the way, like Urquhart Castle, which stands proudly on the northern shore of Loch Ness.

 

Best for: Kids with wild imaginations!

3. Bowhill Country Estate, Selkirk

An enchanting secluded estate surrounded by a beautiful lake and acres of woodlands, Bowhill is one of Scotland’s hidden gems. With plenty of outdoor activities – fishing, hiking, horse riding and indoor estate tours, – there’s fantastic fun come rain or shine. If you live close by, check out the kids’ club with different activities each week for budding rangers.

 

Best for: The adventure playground… zip wire included!

4. Almond Valley Museum, Farm and Discovery Centre, West Lothian

Animal lovers will go wild for Almond Valley’s farm. And with an array of indoor and outdoor activities – from the petting farm to the indoor adventure playground and the giant pillow – there’s plenty to keep kids entertained. Plus, across the river you can explore the woodland gardens and interactive museum.

 

Best for: Under 10s.

5. Stirling Castle, Stirling

Stirling Castle is the Scottish heart of all things art, culture and celebrity in the 16th century. Take in the stunning architecture of the Royal Palace and visit the surrounding castle buildings including the breathtaking Palace gardens. Make sure to check out the Palace Vaults for a magical trip into the costumes behind the court jesters or the Regimental Museum housing exquisite artefacts from conflicts around the globe. Plus you may just get a visit from some of Stirling’s most famous residents…

 

Best for: Dressing up in the castle’s fancy dress box

 

Explore Bristol with kids

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There’s plenty to keep young kids occupied in Bristol, from At-Bristol to SS Great Britain. Here are some of the best ways to keep your children and teens entertained when visiting the city…

Banksy art, Bristol

But there’s a lot more to Bristol than Banksy. Starting from City Hall and going through the city centre to Stokes Croft you can learn about the techniques used, artist backgrounds and the meaning behind some of the pieces.

Bristol street art

Depending on your point of view, our final destination, Stokes Croft, is either full of drug dens and brothels, bohemian and edgy or gentrified and expensive to live in. Whatever your thoughts there’s definitely lots of street art to see.

St Nicholas Market

Leaving street art tour head back to the city centre via the indoor St Nicholas Market. The market has the usual clothing and knick-knack stalls but what sets it apart are the food outlets. With options from all over the world it wouldn’t look out of place in Borough Market.

Cabot tower

Built in the 1890s to commemorate the journey of John Cabot from Bristol to Canada the tower is free to visit. There’s a 360 degree panoramic view from the top although getting there may involve a squeeze. The spiral stairs are pretty narrow and things get interesting when you meet someone coming the opposite direction!

Giant’s cave, Clifton Observatory

Clifton Observatory is home to two attractions, a Camera Obscura and Giant’s Cave.  There is a touch of make believe about the tale, the steps lead out onto a platform with an impressive view of the gorge and bridge.

Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol

On the far side there’s a small visitor centre. Kids can play with a weighing machine that tells you how many of yourself can stand on the bridge without it collapsing. Quite a few fortunately!

Eating out

One of the great treats on a city break is eating out.

Under the stars

A floating tapas boat moored at the Harbourside. Lots of tasty veggie options, reasonable size portions and a quirky venue.

Urban Tandoor

An Indian restaurant with great service in a small (and dark) venue so book in advance.

Swoon gelato

An ice cream treat for the kids with lots of different flavours to choose from. Very tasty.

Choctastic days out

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We’ve found some chocolate themed, indulgent, scrumptious family Days Out…because well, if you can’t go chocolate crazy at Easter, when can you?

Cadbury World; Bournville, Birmingham

A chocoholics dream day out surely has to be Cadbury World! Discover the history behind your favourite chocolate treats and explore the magic of how they are created. Visitors have the chance to grow their own cocoa bean and experience chocolate rain! With so many amazing things to discover, including an adventure play area and the world’s biggest Cadburys shops, this is one delicious day out not to be missed!

Hotel Chocolat – The School of Chocolate; Leeds & Covent Garden, London

Learn the noble art of chocolate making in a creative Children’s Chocolate Workshops with expert chocolatiers. You can try chocolate decorating and experience a fun and educational introduction to cocoa and chocolate. Plus, everyone will receive a delicious goody bag to take home!

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical; Drury Lane, London

Feeling a little queasy after all those delicious sweet treats, then why not treat your little Oompa loompas to Roald Dahl’s timeless, chocolate themed extravaganza! Charlie Bucket and the mysterious confectioner Willy Wonka come to life in this gigantic new musical that is choc-full of Fun fantastical treats to dazzle your senses.

York’s Chocolate Story; York, North Yorkshire

Visit this entertaining and informative guided tour discovering chocolate’s origins, how to make it, how to taste it like an expert and even the future of chocolate! Travel through the interactive choctastic experience and learn the secrets of this scrummy treat in their virtual factory! Fancy getting messy, then why not make and decorate your own sweet delights at the Chocolate Making Station.

The Elves and Shoemaker

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Join Full House Theatre at The Civic on Sunday 23 April on a high jinks journey of joy and rediscovering of the past in their family fun show The Elves and The Shoemaker.

In this topsy-turvy re-telling we meet Geoff, a lovable retired shoemaker. Now in his twilight years Geoff struggles with his memory and the patchwork of his past.

One day at the bottom of his garden he is visited by two magical friends who help him to recall the old days in the shoe shop, reliving the hard times, the good times and the magic! The Elves help Geoff to remember his glorious past and eventually he realises that a little bit of elf magic is all he needs to give his wife the only thing she’s ever wanted, just in time for her 90th Birthday.

The show features original toe-tapping music, laugh out loud characters, puppetry and even a little bit of real magic! Just like a comfy old slipper, The Elves and the Shoemaker is a story sure to make old and young alike feel all warm and cosy inside.

The Elves and The Shoemaker is at The Civic on Sunday 23 April at 2.30pm. Tickets are £8 full price, £6 concessions and £5 children.

The Civic, Barnsley

A multi-purpose theatre and art gallery based in Barnsley, The Civic presents world-class accessible performances and exhibitions throughout the year, to audiences in the heart of South Yorkshire.

Opening times

Gallery: Tuesday – Saturday, 10am-5pm (last admission is 15 minutes prior to closing time)

Box Office: Monday – Friday, 10am-6pm / Saturday, 10am-5pm / Sunday, 10am-4pm (on family performance days)

Deerpark adventure

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What is it? A four-day break in a log cabin on Cornwall’s south-west coast.

Where? A Deer Park in Cornwall but other Forest Holiday Cabin locations include the Forest of Dean; Keldy on the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park; Cropton in North Yorkshire; Argyll on the shores of Loch Lomond and Strathyre close to Callander, both in Scotland.

Description: Take advantage of all that nature has to offer. Funnily enough, the kids won’t miss their computers, their Wii or cable telly one single bit.

Regular Ranger activities include ‘Forest Survival’, ‘Amazing Animals’, ’Woodland Discovery’ and ‘Rove with the Ranger’. Other children’s activities available were rock climbing, archery and canoeing.

At Deerpark, evening entertainment is a little different and consists of Ranger activities like ‘Duskwatch’ and ‘Night Vision’, which involve looking for bats, deer, moths and owls sometimes using nighttime vision equipment.

There’s no childcare onsite.

This is more of an activity holiday than a pampering opportunity. Even though it’s nowhere near as basic as staying in a tent, if you want a sauna, whirlpool and whole range of beauty treatments, you’d better look elsewhere.

Local activities: There are several pretty towns nearby which are worth a visit. The Eden Project is just down the road and there are plenty of other exciting possibilities such as a high zip wire ride, animal farms and a monkey sanctuary.

  • There is no mobile phone reception onsite.

  • Make the most of the Ranger activities and the bike hire. Kids will love these.

Getting There: From London to the site, in Liskeard, Cornwall,  takes about five hours and 15 minutes. Prices range from £12 per person per night, and there are late booking offers as well as advanced booking offers available in all sites.

Making memories

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There are some amazing attractions around the country ranging from historic buildings to zoo and gardens.  So if you are planning to visit somewhere this summer with your family and want something that’s sure to leave a lasting impression, then why not check out some of our top ideas for children’s entertainment and family friendly fun… 

1. Old Trafford
No footie fan — Man U supporter or not — could fail to be excited by a visit to Old Trafford, the ‘Theatre of Dreams’. The official stadium tour takes in the players’ changing room, the lounge, dugout and press briefing room, but for most children the highlight is the chance to have their own Wayne Rooney moment, and emerge from the tunnel to the roar of the crowd (even if it is made up of just Mum and Dad). 

Tickets: adults £18, children £12. 
2. Belfast Zoological Gardens
Set on a hillside overlooking Belfast Lough, Belfast Zoo has to be the most picturesque animal park in the UK. It’s big (55 acres), and with over 1,200 animals to see — from giraffes and spider monkeys to Asian elephants and Malayan sun bears — you’ll need to set aside almost a full day to do it justice. Some of the slopes are pretty steep, but there are picnic tables en route, and plenty of those all-important loos. 

Adults £12, children (age 4–16) £6, under-4s free. Open 10am–7pm daily April–Sept; 10am–4pm daily October–March. 

 



3. Roman Vindolanda and the Roman Army Museum
Four miles apart on Hadrian’s Wall, the garrison fort of Vindolanda and its associated museum bring our Roman conquerors back to life. The kids can rampage around ruins and replica fortifications, compete with the best Syrian archers, learn some Latin, watch 3D films – and even scrutinise the ongoing excavations at what is one of Britain’s most significant archaeological sites. 

adults £10.50, children (age 5–18) £6, under-5s free. Open daily 10am–6pm until September 2016. 




4. King Arthur’s Labyrinth
Stories of dragons, ancient kings and epic battles come alive at King Arthur’s Labyrinth, as you sail through a spectacular underground cavern in the company of a mysterious hooded guide. Younger children spooked by the dramatic sound and lighting effects might want to visit the playground, maze and café above ground instead, but older children, especially budding creative writers, will be entranced. 

Adults £9.95, children (age 4–15) £6.65. Open daily from 10am–5pm until 31 October 2016.

5. Watergate Bay
A two-mile stretch of glorious golden sand on Cornwall’s north coast, Watergate Bay has it all: a friendly beach café, plenty of parking, Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen Cornwall restaurant, and the Watergate Bay Hotel & Extreme Academy, which offers surfing lessons for children of eight and up. If your kids would rather watch than get wet, check the website for regular events held on the beach throughout the summer, from polo matches to surfing competitions.