Half term is here – make magical memories…
Half term is upon us and although it is still chilly outside, the weather is getting brighter (slowly!), and as long as we have appropriate clothing we are enjoying getting out and getting some fresh air again! As ever the North West is abundant with activities to keep the kids (and the parents!) busy; so here is our round-up of our favourites; both free and paid and for and indoor and outdoor; so there is something for everyone!
Chinese New Year
The first weekend of half term is Chinese new year, which we love; a feast not only for the stomach but for all the senses; colourful sights, sounds and smells means its a sensory treat for all the family! And Manchester city centre always comes up trumps with its celebrations. So head into Manchester on Sunday 18th February for The Dragon Parade, Traditional Lion dancing, martial arts, music and acrobatics, as well as amazing street food and funfair and fantastic fireworks finales.
The Manchester Museum of Science and Industry
Staying in the city centre, at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry you can travel back to the Victorian era to find out how steam, sweat and spinners created our modern world, and how Manchester was at the start of it all.
With fun shows and workshops, Steam, Sweat and Spinners is the annual celebration of all things Victorian and beyond.
https://www.msimanchester.org.uk/whats-on/steam-sweat-and-spinners
Red House Farm
Red House Farm is one of my children’s favourite attractions and the cake in the tea room is one of mine! This half term head there for pizza making at the farm. Children can get the apron, chef’s hat, ingredients and the guidance to make the pizza from scratch – firstly making the dough before applying the tomato base and then choosing their own ingredients to make the pizza perfect! While the pizza is cooking the children can go and play on the big slide, barrel train and bouncy castle!
Pizza making costs £12.95 per child and the sessions run 10am-12pm or 2pm-4pm. Booking is essential!
http://www.redhousefarm.co.uk/half-term.html
MAC Multi-activity Centre in Macclesfield
MAC Multi-activity Centre in Macclesfield is a hidden gem; East Cheshire’s premier Roller Skating and Bouldering centre, it is a community interest company which means it can keep its prices low and use profits to further improve the centre. Over half term there are regular roller skating sessions, bouldering as well as sessions for toddlers like the new Toddle Wheels.
https://www.macactivitycentre.co.uk
Jodrell Bank has will unravel the mysteries of space this half term; learn all about dark matter in a brand new live science show packed full of experiments and demonstrations. You can also quiz a resident astronomer in the Meet the Expert sessions, learn all about the giant Lovell Telescope in a special walking tour, and under 5s can explore the solar system in a fun interactive session in the Clockwork Orrery.
http://www.jodrellbank.net/half-term-jodrell-bank/
One of the things we love about this time of year is the Spring Flowers as they begin to bloom! And you can’t beat a Snow Drop walk to banish the winter blues! Two of the best are at
www.nessgardens.org.uk/whats-on/calendar/family-snowdrop-weeks/
WWT Martin Mere Wetlands
One of our favourite holiday activities is going to WWT Martin Mere Wetlands; we always have a great time there; and if you can get there before Sunday 18th February you can take park in the Puddle Jumping championships! Bring your friends and family and see who can make the biggest splash with the special ‘splashometer’! As well as splashing about in puddles there’s lots of other fun activities to have a go at including all the birds, otters, creative activities and of course a fantastic playground!
Lastly, a real gem to share – very low cost and great family fun; a Treasure Trail is an imaginative way to explore towns, cities & villages across the UK with a self-guided themed walk.
An easy to follow route will enable you to crack the clues whilst taking in some of the most fascinating sights along the way.
With over 1,200 Trails across the UK, whether you do it in your own town or where you are visiting for the first time, you are sure to have some family fun!
https://www.treasuretrails.co.uk
