Denbigh

Roll out the barrel

This Welsh market town has plenty of character and culture – even if some of it does include rolling barrels around in the high street…

Textiles and train lines

DID YOU KNOW? Chef and Great British Menu winner Bryn Dwyfor Williams is a local

Denbigh is one of Wales’s many ancient towns, its Welsh name Dinbych translating as “little fortress” in reference to the historic castle and town walls built on Edward I’s orders in 1282. Although the original settlement, given its charter in 1290, was contained within the walls, today it spills out into the surrounding areas, nestled at the foot of the Clwydian Hills.

Both the castle and town have been involved in various skirmishes over the generations: captured in the revolt of Madog ap Llywelyn in 1294, freed by Welsh rebels and recaptured later the same year, and then burnt in 1400 during the revolt of Owain Glyndwr before being largely destroyed during the Wars of the Roses. After this it shifted further away from the original hilltop location to where the main town sits today.

In 1579 the Baron of Denbigh, Robert Dudley (famous as one of Elizabeth I’s favourites), decided to boost the town’s status by building a cathedral and declaring it a city. However his ambition was never realised and the half-built Leicester’s Church remains unfinished to this day after his scheme ran out of money. It’s now in the care of Cadw. The town thrived in the 1600s with the growth of the textile industry, with specialist industries springing up such as glovers, weavers, smiths, shoemakers, saddlers, furriers and tanners. The addition of train lines linking it to the rest of Wales and to English towns further enhanced Denbigh’s success. The main Vale of Clwyd line closed in 1955, with the branch lines to both Ruthin and Chester following suit in 1962.

The beautiful remaining station building still stands, as does another haunting (literally) reminder of the town’s history – the North Wales Hospital. At one stage most of the population worked at this psychiatric institution, dating back to the 1840s, but it fell into disrepair after closing in 1995. The building had a brush with fame when it was the main location for the TV series Most Haunted in 2008 and ghost hunters camped out hoping to record supernatural activity.

Big screen dreams

Denbigh was home to a traditional cinema, the Scala, which opened in 1928. It was rebranded first as the Wedgwood Cinema and then as the Futura Cinema – and was briefly operated by Peter Moore, who was convicted of four murders in the 1990s – but is now closed. A local film club shows regular screenings in the theatre to compensate for the lack of a big screen.

Today’s population of approximately 9,000 enjoy a relaxed and strongly communitybased existence. There are schools, a library, several churches, a shopping complex and an attractive, convenient high street. Sports fans can visit the boxing club and one of Wales’s oldest cricket clubs – and every Boxing Day, visitors and residents alike can enjoy the unusual experience of Denbigh’s barrelrolling competition, which takes over the town’s streets for the day. Denbigh’s famous barrel-rolling contest takes place every Boxing Day

A statue of explorer Henry Morton Stanley, born in Denbigh, stands in the centre of town

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Theatr Twm o’r Nant Station Road, LL16 3DA 01745 812349

Denbigh Library & Gallery Hall Square, LL16 3NU 01745 816313

Denbigh Castle Castle Hill, LL16 3NB 0300 025 2239

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

1ST-17TH JULY

•1st-17th July,

Ingenium, Minerva Arts Centre,

Llanidloes Enjoy an exhibition of traditional and contemporary textiles by fi ve artists. From quilt to kantha, paint to thread, print to Perspex, abstract to still life, there’s something for everyone. 10.30am-4.30pm ThursdaySaturday. Free. www.quilt.org.uk

•5th July, Open Garden,

Garthmyl Hall, Montgomery

Take a stroll around the gardens of this Grade II listed Georgian manor house, set in fi ve acres of grounds. The gardens boast herbaceous borders as well as a walled garden, wildfl ower meadow, pond and fountain and three giant redwoods. Noon-5pm. £5 adults, free for children. www.ngs.org.uk

•9th July,

Stained Glass Star Workshop, Make It In Wales, Cardigan

Create a leaded stained glass star in this introduction to glass. You’ll cut glass and lead, and solder, cement and polish your star, all under the guidance of expert tutor Bean Sawyer. 10am-3pm. £99 including all materials. www.makeitinwales.co.uk

•10th July,

Fish & Chip Train, Welshpool & Llanfair Light

Railway Take a steam train trip through the Banwy Valley complete with fi sh and chips! The train departs from Llanfair Caereinion at 6pm and travels alongside the Banwy river on its way to Welshpool, where you can enjoy a delicious fi sh and chip supper. £59.95 for two adults; £15 for additional adults, and £10 for additional children. www.wllr.org.uk

•17th July, Group Stargazing

in the Brecon Beacons, Libanus

Mountain Centre Experienced astronomers will guide you around the night sky, teaching you the mythology and science of astronomy. All astronomical equipment will be provided. 11.30pm1.30am. £20.

www.darksky walestraining services.co.uk

Can you tame the beast?

The Beast of the Beacons on 31st July is a trail-running challenge set among some of the most spectacular, stimulating trails within the Brecon Beacons National Park. The race attracts a range of runners from beginners to elite athletes, and the generous cut-off times of eight hours for the 20-mile route and 16 hours for the 40-mile route ensure that most competitors can tame the beast.

Entry costs £45 or £65, and all runners receive a medal, complimentary gift and refreshments. www.limitlesstrails.co.uk

LIFE IN COLOUR

Whether you’re a professional artist or just an amateur with an eye for colour, come along and brighten up the Borth sea wall with ChalkFest on 31st July and 1st August.

Anyone who registers will be provided with chalks, pastels and powder – everything you’ll need to create some spectacular large-scale chalk art on the sea wall.

DID YOU The free, socially distanced KNOW? The largest ever chalk drawing was created in Copenhagen in event runs from 10am and 4pm on both days and there’s also a children’s section where youngsters can get creative. To register, email dean@ 2015 marvellousmurals.co.uk.

TINY TRAINS AT CORRIS

Corris Railway’s Model Railway Exhibition takes place over two days from

28th to 29th

August in the Hall at Y Plas in Machynlleth.

The exhibition features a diverse mixture of layouts in various scales, the largest of which derives its inspiration from the world famous Darjeeling-Himalaya Railway.

Children can have a go at “driving” the trains and there are also trade stands and refreshments available. The exhibition is open from 10am to 4.30pm and admission costs £4 for adults, £3.50 for seniors and £2 for children. For more details visit www.corris.co.uk.

Raptors with Iolo Williams

Join wildlife presenter Iolo Williams for a day learning about raptors at various venues across mid Wales on selected days this summer.

Iolo will guide you in search of various raptors, including ospreys, peregrine falcons, buzzards, sparrowhawks and red kites. You’ll then have the opportunity to get up close to a variety of species with a handling and flying experience. The day finishes with a talk from Iolo, drawing on his 45 years of experience studying these majestic birds.

The experience takes place on 13th, 23rd and 24th July and 9th and 28th August and costs £145. www.raptorexperiencewales.co.uk

Calling all nature lovers! OPEN AIR ANTICS IN HAY

Explore wildlife gardening with the experts from the Centre for Alternative Technology in Machynlleth on 21st July and 14th August.

The Gardening for Nature Experience Day is packed full of knowledge to help wildlife thrive in your garden. Learn about plants that encourage wildlife and biodiversity, find out how to attract insects and pollinators, and get advice about natural pest control, companion planting, selective weeding and growing food for a host of diverse bird species.

The course costs £60 for adults (£50 for members) and £30 for children. www.

cat.org.uk

A new musical adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s family favourite The Jungle Book takes place on 18th July in the Globe Garden in Hay-on-Wye. Join Mowgli and his friends Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther on a madcap jungle adventure as they attempt to outwit a slithering snake, some cheeky monkeys and fierce tiger Shere Khan!

Filled with songs, audience interaction and a chance to meet the characters after the show, this musical is the perfect for the whole family. Tickets £14 adults and £8 children (underthrees free). www.immersiontheatre.co.uk

The Green Man returns

One of the can’t-miss events of the summer, Green Man festival returns to Crickhowell from 19th to 22nd August.

Once a tiny folk event, Green Man now welcomes 15,000 music lovers to see around 100 acts playing indie, folk, electronic, rock and everything in between across five stages.

As well as music there are art installations, literature and film tents, ceilidhs, poetry, theatre, science, comedy, a kids’ area, wellbeing zones and food stalls. Weekend tickets cost £195 for adults, £130 for teens (age 13 to 17) and just £30 for children (age five to 12). Under-fives are free. For details, visit www.greenman.net.

SOUNDS OF SUMMER AT THE GLOBE AT HAY

Mica Jane, 17th July With a fresh new sound defined as a subtle mix of indie, folk and reggae with an upbeat and soulful vibe, Mica Jane’s music warms the heart and makes it dance. 8pm. Tickets from £6.

The Hawkmen, 24th July A blend of rhythm’n’ blues, soul and rock’n’roll. 8pm. Tickets from £8.

Keith James, 30th July Unique and timeless songs of vision, question and change. Featuring music from Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, Cat Stevens, Nina Simone and Leonard Cohen. 8pm. Tickets from £10.

FiddleBop, 21st August Instrumental pizzazz and tangy vocal harmonies, lightly seasoned with wit, repartee and banter. 8pm. Free entry with donations taken for charity. www.globeathay.org

Celebrating 100 years of music

It has been a century since the first Montgomery County Music Festival took place in Newtown, and to mark this anniversary the Gregynog Festival, in partnership with the National Library of Wales, is presenting a special online event on 21st July at 5pm.

The talk, led by the festival’s artistic director Dr Rhian Davies, will be live on Facebook and Zoom. www.gwylgregynogfestival.org

Discover the art of storytelling

Find your voice and immerse yourself in the art of storytelling with the Performance Intensive Course at Bleddfa Centre, Knighton, from 19th to 22nd August. The course is for people who want to learn how to tell their stories better and costs £280 per person. www.storytellingatbleddfa.com

On stage in Aberystwyth

Join three little deer that stumble across an old, abandoned theatre and take a magical journey into the limelight in Hoof! at Aberystwyth Arts Centre on 26th and 27th July. Shows at 1.30pm and 4.30pm, plus 11am on the 27th. www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk

How far do you think you can go?

Choose your distance in the Beast of Llangattock Trail Running Challenge on 21st August. The race has 10km, 10-mile and 20-mile distances to choose from, so there’s something for everyone.

All races start from Park Farm in Llangattock and entry costs from £20 depending on distance. www.limitlesstrails.co.uk/beast-of-llangattock

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

17TH JULY-1ST AUGUST

•17th-18th July, Introduction

to Bees & Beekeeping, Centre for Alternative Technology,

Machynlleth Get to grips with the basics of beekeeping and explore the biology of honeybees and their environmental benefi ts. Learn about equipment, set-up, maintenance and sympathetic bee-handling skills, as well as the life cycle of bees and how honey and beeswax are processed. £240 including fullboard shared accommodation. www.cat.org.uk

•18th July,

Discovering Trees in Summer, Denmark Farm Conservation Centre,

Lampeter Join head bushcraft instructor James Kendall and learn how to identify a host of tree species by looking at leaves, bark, the shape of the tree and other clues. 10am-3pm. £40. www.denmarkfarm.org.uk

•30th July-1st August, Elan

Valley Run, The Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells

Organised by Mini Run UK, this popular event brings together Mini owners from far and wide. The last Elan Valley Run saw almost 500 Minis in attendance! The weekend promises treasure hunts and live music as well as the famous Elan Valley run on the Sunday, when you could be part of the biggest convoy of Minis Wales has ever seen or you can join the spectators waving them on through the valleys. www.minirunukevents.com

•1st August, A Moorland Walk, Elan Valley Join Chris of Powys Ramblers as he leads this 7.5-mile walk over moorland on rocky and boggy paths. Starting from Penbont car park, the scenic route takes in glorious views over Pen y Garreg reservoir and the local town of Rhayader and is suitable for families looking to experience basic moorland walking. Bring a packed lunch and drinks. www.elan valley.org.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

6TH-14TH AUGUST

•6th, 13th, 20th & 27th

August, Fish & Chip Flyers,

Talyllyn Railway Get that fry-day feeling with a special train from Talyllyn Railway. The Fish & Chip Flyer takes you on a steam train trip through glorious Snowdonia before returning to King’s Café for a good old British favourite. Departs Tywyn Wharf 3.35pm. www.talyllyn.co.uk

•6th-7th August,

Willow Weaving, Make a Foraging Backpack, Denmark Farm Conservation Centre, Lampeter

Join Justine Burgess of West Wales Willows and learn how to make a willow backpack – the most in-vogue basket in town! You’ll learn how to weave the D-shaped base, add upright stakes, weave the sides and put on a border. All tools and equipment provided. £110, £15 for materials. www.denmarkfarm.org.uk

•7th & 14th August, Nature

Detectives Family Day, Centre for Alternative Technology,

Machynlleth An exciting day of wildlife exploring suitable for the whole family. Hunt for the animals that call CAT home, set some camera traps, try your hand at tracking, go pond dipping, build a mini bug hotel and fi nish the day as a true nature detective! For children aged six-plus. 9am-4pm. £35 adults, £20 children. www.cat.org.uk

•8th August,

Life Writing Workshop at Farmers’, Builth

Wells Spend a day on the lavender farm with bestselling author Helena Attlee and creative writing teacher and poet Emma Beynon. 11am-5pm. £75. www.welshlavender.com

•8th-14th August, Ultra X Wales A multi-stage ultra-marathon starting in Machynlleth. Each stage ranges from 40km to 65km. www.ultrax.co/wales

Honouring heroes in Hay-on-Wye

Join the Royal British Legion for a special event commemorating the Second World War from 20th to 22nd August.

The weekend will be packed with history, with re-enactors camped around the castle grounds and a range of military vehicles and memorabilia on display. There are also concerts featuring soloist Emma Brown and the Surrey Police Band, a tea dance in the Kilvert Hotel garden featuring 40s-style singer Jayne Darling, and a spectacular concert of massed choirs in Memorial Square.

EXPLORE THE WORKHOUSE

Celebrate the reopening of the Master’s House with a special event at the Llanfyllin Workhouse on 14th August.

The renovated threestorey house will be open from 10am. Visitors can see the work that’s been carried out, plus displays, tours and talks, a book launch, an art exhibition, traditional Welsh music and refreshments.

www.the-workhouse.org.uk

MusicFest, an international festival of classical music and summer school, takes place in the heart of Aberystwyth with a blend of online and in-person experiences from 26th July to 1st August.

To book your place on a masterclass or to see a full programme of events, visit www.musicfestaberystwyth.org.

Aberystwyth festival of classical music Visit the Mad Hatter’s Craft Party

Find treasures galore at the Mad Hatter’s Craft Party at Butter Market, Hay-onWye. The fair takes place every Wednesday from 10am to 4pm throughout July and August, with additional markets on 4th July and 29th August. All the Mad Hatters create their own work and are keen to talk! www.

madhatterscraftparty.co.uk

An epic challenge

Run to the Castle returns on 14th August. The . The 42-mile race leads runners along the coastal path from Aberdyfi to Harlech, taking in the seafront at Tywyn, Fairbourne and Barmouth along the way. There is also a marathon distance on offer, from Aberdyfi to Barmouth.

The race starts at 8.45am and you have 12 hours to complete it. www.codrc.

co.uk/run-to-the-castle

GET CREATIVE WITH TEXTILES

Experience the many possibilities for working creatively with textiles in a range of classes run by Make It In Wales at Stiwdio 3 in Cardigan.

Learn how to make textile story flags with Nia Lewis on 3rd July, get creative with needle felting with Ruth Packham on 10th July, try your hand at weaving on 16th July or have a go at punch-needle rug hooking on 13th August.

www.makeitinwales.co.uk

Talyllyn Railway celebrates Awdry celebrates Awdry

Get ready for the Awdry Extravaganza at Talyllyn Railway on Railway on 14th and 15th August. The weekend celebrates the work of the Reverend W the work of the Reverend W Awdry, who volunteered at Awdry, who volunteered at Talyllyn Railway and is known the world over for creating the world over for creating Thomas the Tank Engine.

There’s an exhibition featuring a selection of Awdry’s featuring a selection of Awdry’s original artwork and his model railways Ffarquhar Branch and Ulfstead Road. For more details, visit www.talyllyn.co.uk.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

14TH-27TH AUGUST

RACE THE TRAIN

Pit yourself against the power of steam in Tywyn’s popular Race the Train event on 21st August.

The race, which attracts multi-terrain runners from all over the world, takes place alongside the route taken by the Talyllyn Railway on its journey to Abergynolwyn and back again.

Four races are staged on the day: the Rotary Challenge (14 miles), Quarry Challenge (10km) Dolgoch Challenge (five miles) and Tynllwynhen Challenge (3.5 miles). There’s even a Toddlers Trot, so all the family can get involved.

Spectators can wave and cheer on the runners from the special race trains, which run along the line throughout the day. For more information, visit www.racethetrain.com.

DID YOU KNOW?

The speed record for a conventional train is 357mph by a French TGV

LEGENDARY TRIBUTES LIVE!

The Big Tribute Festival returns to Aberystwyth from 27th to 29th August, with three days of the UK’s best tribute acts and plenty more live music besides.

For tickets and more information about the line-up, see www.thebigtribute.co.uk.

The Willow Globe

See Shakespeare brought to life at The Willow Globe in Llandrindod Wells, with King Lear on 15th July and Twelfth Night on 13th to 15th August. For more inform ation, visit www. shakespearelink.org.uk.

An inspirational ultra

Taking place on 14th August around the historic market town of Dolgellau, Ultra Trail Wales combines forest, coast and mountain stages in one inspirational course. The 80km race takes in Cadair Idris and Coed y Brenin forest. Entry from £80. www.

ultratrail wales.com

LAVENDER’S BLUE

Welsh Lavender, a farm near Builth Wells, opens its grounds to the public every Friday from 9th July to 20th August, allowing visitors to walk in the lavender fields, learn how the distillation process works and visit the farm shop to try body creams and balms made with lavender oil distilled on the farm.

Visitors can enjoy tea, coffee, wine and light refreshments as well as a dip in the ever-popular wild swimming pond! Entry costs £5 for adults, and is free for children. To book, visit www.ngs.org.uk.

Tasty trips by steam train

Board Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway’s Breakfast Train at Llanfair Caereinion and take a trip through the Banwy Valley while enjoying a morning roll and a delicious hot drink. The eight-mile journey takes an hour and leads you through the rolling hills that surround the line.

Trains depart at 10am or 10.30am depending on the timetable of the day. Tickets cost £30 for the first two adults, then £15 for each additional adult and £10 for each additional child. For more information, visit www.

wllr.org.uk/

breakfast-train.

•14th August, Gin Masterclass, Talyllyn Railway Join the award-winning team from the Dyfi Distillery and delve into the world of wonderful Welsh gins. The Gin Express departs Tywyn Wharf Station at 7pm and will stop along the way for you to taste four di erent Dyfi gins with expertly paired garnishes. £39.50. www.talyllyn.co.uk

•14th-15th

August, Ernie’s Journey, The Globe Garden, Hay-on-

Wye A magical circus theatre adventure that fuses storytelling, circus, physical theatre, stage magic, poetry and puppetry. The show is particularly enchanting for four- to 11-yearolds, although the high-skill circus will amaze even the most cynical teenagers! 2.30pm. From £6.50. www.globeathay.org

•14th-15th August, Bushcraft Skills Course, Rhayader A two-day course that includes interactive sessions as well as the chance to practise and hone your skills. Course topics include the safe use of knives and saws, fi relighting, shelter building, cooking, foraging and more. £194.63. www.wildernessproject.org/bushcraft

•21st-15th

August, 4x4 Overland Tour & Camping Adventure,

Rhayader A guided self-drive tour beginning in Rhayader and including four nights’ camping. £599. www.

o roadadventuretravel.com

•27th August, Block Printing

Workshop, Make It In Wales,

Cardigan A fun workshop where you’ll create a hand-printed tea towel. Tutor Kate Kekwick will guide you through the process of designing a repeated pattern and cutting the block. She’ll then assist you with working out how to start printing so your design fi lls the tea towel evenly across the whole surface. 11am-2pm. £49. www. makeitinwales.co.uk

Tatton Park’s summer events

Percy the Park Keeper: The Treasure Hunt at the Farm, until

5th September Follow the trail through the farmyard, looking for gold coins along the way. Older children can find Percy’s breakfast items hidden inside the gold coins and learn about where his breakfast ingredients have come from. The farm is open Tuesdays to Sundays from 11am to 4pm (last entry 3pm). Tickets £8 adults, £6 children, plus £1 per child for trail sheets.

Classic American Stars & Stripes Car Show, 3rd-4th July From Mustangs to Corvettes and Cadillacs to motorhomes, this is a true celebration of American autos. There will be more than 2,500 vehicles from across the pond to admire, from huge saloons of the 1930s to latter-day muscle cars. Browse hundreds of specialist traders, parts suppliers and jumble stands offering missing pieces of restoration and maintenance puzzles at bargain prices. 9.30am to 4pm. Tickets £10 adults, under-15s free. Parkland vehicle entry costs an additional £8.

Foodies Festival, 9th-11th July A celebration of top chefs, tasty food, delicious drinks and live music. Your ticket includes entry to the chef, drinks, cake and dessert theatres, the live music stage and all parts of the festival. Noon to 8pm on 9th July and 11am to 8pm on 10th and 11th July. Tickets from £19 for adults and £5 for children aged 12 to 18, under-12s free. Parkland vehicle entry costs an additional £8.

Classic & Performance Car Show, 21st-22nd August View some of the finest cars ever made, from Triumph classics to jazzy Jaguars, as more than 2,000 classic cars are displayed on the site. There is something for everyone, including a classic car autojumble for buyers and sellers. Open 9.30am to 4pm. Tickets £10 adults, children free. Parkland vehicle entry costs an additional £8. www.tattonpark.org.uk

DID YOU KNOW? The Corvette was fi rst made in 1953 and named after a small warship

Underwater adventures at Blue Planet Aquarium

A captivating world is waiting for you at Blue Planet Aquarium in Chester. Home to more than 100 living displays, as well as one of Europe’s largest collections of sharks, the aquarium has plenty of marine life to marvel at. Open 10am to 5pm. Online tickets cost £17.10 adults, £12.15 children. www.blueplanetaquarium.com

Roman tours of Chester

Have a Roman soldier guide you on a journey through Chester’s heritage and gain a unique insight into life in Roman Britain. See sights ranging from an amphitheatre to remains hidden in shop basements. Tours take place throughout the day and last around 90 minutes. Tickets cost £6 for over-12s, £4 for children aged five to 11 years and £20 for families. www.romantoursuk.com

Luxury spa and resort

Unwind in style at Carden Park’s luxury spa with exclusive spa garden and Bollinger champagne bar. The golf and leisure club is also open, alongside the hotel and restaurants. The impressive country estate also makes the ideal wedding venue. Prices for spa breaks and activities vary. www.cardenpark.co.uk

All the fun of the Cheshire country fair

There’s something for everyone at the Cheshire Game & Country Fair at Cheshire Showground in Knutsford on 29th and 30th August. Families can watch thrilling arena shows and have a go at country sports from dog handling to shooting. There will be live music, a craft marquee and a well-stocked food hall with craft well-stocked food hall with craft beer and ales. The event beer and ales. The event is open from 10am is open from 10am to 6pm and to 6pm and tickets cost tickets cost £15 for £15 for adults, adults, £14 for £14 for over-65s, and £4 for children aged five to 15. For more over-65s, and £4 for children aged five to 15. For more details, visit www.livingheritagecountryshows.com.details, visit www.livingheritagecountryshows.com

Live events return to Crewe Lyceum

Spirit of Elvis, 28th August The tribute show takes you through the 1968 special and Elvis In Concert years to a special acoustic section where beautiful ballads and gospel numbers are recreated. 7.30pm. Tickets from £28.

Jason Manford: Like Me, Work in Progress, 30th August Like Me is Jason’s latest comic offering and is sure to be another set of “expert observational comedy” (The Guardian) mixed with “comic gold” (Mail on Sunday). 6pm and 9pm. Tickets from £24. Not suitable for under-14s.

www.crewelyceum.co.uk

Become a zoo ranger

DID YOU KNOW? Chester Zoo has an awardwinning pub, the Oakfi eld

Children in Years 4 to 6 can join Chester Zoo’s ranger holiday club from 27th to 29th July or 17th to 19th August.

Discover the amazing animals, the habitats and the remarkable conservation work taking place all around the world through a range of fun activities both in and out of the learning centre, including zoo trails, conservation action, practical skills, games, arts and crafts, and more. e clubs run from 9am to 4.30pm every day and cost £110 for three days. For more information, visit www.chesterzoo.org.

Stargazing at Jodrell Bank

Visitors to Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre can view the Astronomy Photographer of the Year exhibition until 30th October. The Royal Observatory Greenwich’s popular display has a selection of winning entries along the new Exhibition Pathway, allowing visitors to explore inspirational astrophotography outdoors. Advance booking is required, with timed slots from 10am. Tickets cost £8.50 for adults, £6.50 for children and £20 for families. www.jodrellbank.net

Events at Chester Cathedral

Living Judaism, 6th July Talk followed by an introduction to Passover meal. 4.30pm-6.30pm.

Making Tracks, 16th July-3rd

September A bespoke model railway of the West Coast mainline. 10am-4pm.

The Benedictine Way, 24th July. Workshop led by Esther de Waal, author of Seeking God: The Way of St Benedict. 10am. www.chestercathedral.com

Prepare to be spooked

Visit the eerie haunts of Chester’s mysterious and murky past and hear spinechilling tales of things that go bump in the night on a Chester Ghost Tour. The tours take place every Friday and Saturday in July and August, leaving the town hall at 7.30pm. Tickets from £9. www.

chesterghosttour.co.uk

Mary Ann Cameron

Laugh along at the Brindley

Catch Siobhan Phillips with her Live & Unhinged show on 27th August at the Brindley Theatre in Runcorn. You’ll be treated to an insight to her life – from becoming a mum at 40 to the frustrations of mother-daughter relationships – presented with exceptional candour and warmth. Starts at 8pm. Tickets £18.50. www.thebrindley.org.uk

Time to get your motors running

CarFest North returns to the Bolesworth Estate near Tattenhall from 23rd to 25th July. Packed to the brim with activities, this year’s festival promises family fun alongside the best music, the fastest and loudest cars, and the brightest stars.

As well as music, CarFest brings together some of the most popular TV chefs at the Napoleon Kitchen stage, leading DJs at the Club CarFest stage and a host of stars chatting on the StarFest stage.

Camping opens at 7am on Friday or Saturday, while the festival site itself opens at noon on the Friday and 10am on the Saturday. Day tickets cost from £74 for adults and £17 children; entry is free for under-fives. www.carfest.org

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

2ND JULY-21ST AUGUST

•2nd July-12th September, Gin Cruise, Chester An ideal introduction for anyone keen to learn more about gin, its history and its diversity, this steamship cruise includes an expert talk that will send you away with fresh knowledge and enthusiasm about the juniper-infused drink. You can also ask any questions about gin’s rich and wild past. The cruises last two and a half hours and run from 2pm. £35. www.thedanny.co.uk

•23rd July, Andy Cutting,

St Mary’s Space, Chester

The winner of BBC Radio 2’s Folk Awards Best Musician 2008, 2011 and 2016 is a soulful and technically outstanding melodeon practitioner with an ear for a fi ne tune. 7pm. £15. www. stmaryscreativespace.co.uk

•1st August,

Threapwood Horse & Pet Show, Malpas

A wide range of classes that everyone can enter no matter their ability or age. There is also a pet show with small, large, cute and fl u y pets. Proceeds from the show will go to Macmillan Nurses and Hope House Hospice. 10am-6pm. Free entry. Event details on Facebook.

•6th-8th August, Great

Balloon Race, Bolesworth

Castle Balloons will be gracing the skies of Cheshire for three days of racing fun. Marvel as these giants of the skies take fl ight before your very eyes. There will be a whole host of entertainment from the moment you arrive to the giant fi reworks fi nale. Every ticket is for a plot of up to six people. 5.30pm. Standard plots £65 to VIP plots for £240. www. greatballoonrace.seatedly.com

•21st August, Steve Harley

Acoustic Band, Northwich

Memorial Court The acoustic sets will include songs from the new CD, plus a selection from the vast and eclectic Harley songbook. 7.30pm. £30. www.brioleisure.org

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

JULY AND AUGUST

•Dunham Massey Visit Dunham Massey this summer where you will fi nd a garden for all seasons, an ancient deer park and a house fi lled with treasures and stories. 9am-5pm. £8 adults, £4 children, £20 families. www.nationaltrust. org.uk/dunham-massey

•Little Moreton Hall, Congleton This remarkable Tudor manor house will take your breath away with its wonky angles and quirky character. Built to impress by craftsmen’s hands more than 500 years ago. 11am-5pm. £8 adults, £4 children, £20 families. www.nationaltrust. org.uk/little-moreton-hall

•Lyme Park, Stockport The car park, parkland and garden at Lyme are now open. To avoid disappointment book in advance, especially at busier times such as weekends, school holidays and bank holidays. 9am-4.30pm. £8 adults, £4 children, £20 families. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme

•Nantwich Museum This quirky gallery has a programme of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. 10.30am-4.30pm. Free entry. www.nantwichmuseum.org.uk

•Abbeywood Gardens, Delamere Abbeywood has lots to o er, including six acres of informal and formal gardens. Children can enjoy the 2km wildlife walk, incorporating 27 acres of mature and newly planted woodland. There is also a garden café and an outdoor children’s play area. Open seven days a week, 9am-5pm. £6 adults, £5 concessions, children free. www.abbeywoodestate.co.uk

Fireworks and food at Arley Hall

Indian Summer Fest, 3rd & 4th July A festival of food, music and play that brings Asian adventures to the great British outdoors. Indian Summer Fest takes you on a magical journey through the hustle and bustle of India’s streets – the ultimate family delight. Packed with music, artists and children’s entertainment. 10am to 5pm. Day tickets from £10 adults and £5 children; free entry for under-fives.

Firework Champions, 14th August Three of the UK’s best firework companies compete against each other with 10-minute choreographed displays set to music, followed by a finale. Gates open at 4pm, results at 10.40pm. Tickets from £20 adults, £12 children. www.arleyhallandgardens.com

Set sail and party!

ChesterBoat sets sail every Saturday for unforgettable nights on the water. Choose your theme and your date, and then sail back in time through your favourite eras in music from 1970s and 1990s to Motown and Mamma Mia.

All cruises depart from The Groves in Chester at 7.30pm and return at 10.30pm. Your ticket includes a glass of wine on arrival, a barbecue-style buffet supper and a disco with a professional DJ. The evenings are perfect for birthdays, hen parties, work socials and more, and fancy dress is welcome.

Tickets cost £33.50 per person. For more information, visit www.chesterboat.co.uk.

World-class riders at Bolesworth horse show

The world’s top riders and horses will be at the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International Horse Show from 7th to 11th July.

The event brings together elite riders and horses for five thrilling days of equestrian competition in the private grounds of Bolesworth. The show offers visitors the opportunity to get up close to riders, as well as enjoying daytime and evening hospitality and entertainment. Tickets from £7.50 for children up to £169.50 for hospitality packages. For more information, visit

www.bolesworth

international.com.

DID YOU KNOW? Fireworks have been used in India since the 15th century

Keep the whole family t!

Head to Cholmondeley Castle and Gardens for its Family Fitness Saturdays, which take place on the first Saturday of each month. You can cycle, jog or walk the 3km circuit, take part in wellbeing and mindfulness yoga and even enjoy wild swimming in the freshwater lake, all in a safe and car-free environment. Sessions take place between 9am and 1pm, with yoga at 9.30am and 10.30am. Booking required. Entry costs £20 per car or £8 per single entry (underfours free). www.cholmondeleycastle.com

Just So festival

A weekend of fun awaits at the Just So Festival at Rode Hall in Scholar Green from 20th to 22nd August. Just So enables families to step into a world of literature, arts, theatre, dance, music, comedy and creative pursuits, taking audiences on an expedition of mischief and mayhem to lands full of magical midnight feasts, curious creatures, hidden retreats, top-notch food and drink, boutique camping options and breathtaking beauty.

Day tickets from £50 for adults, £20 children, under-threes free. www.justsofestival.org.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

JULY AND AUGUST

Expect musical legends and an unrivalled festival atmosphere at Rewind Festival, Capesthorne Hall, Macclesfield from 6th to 8th August.

The opening act is Queen Symphonic, a full symphony orchestra, fantastic rock band and four soloists from the international productions of the musical We Will Rock You. Catch Jimmy

Past delights Somerville’s Big BandTastic Boogie on Saturday and Wet Wet Wet headline on Sunday before a fantastic firework display. There will be a funfair, kidzone and silent disco as well as plenty of food and drink. Those wishing to stay overnight can camp. Day passes from £59 for adults, £15 for children. north.rewindfestival.com

Alexander’s Live highlights

Crowded Scouse, 17th July Playing all the Crowded House classics in Alexander’s Chester beer garden. Doors at 7.30pm, show at 9pm. Tickets from £6.60.

True Gold – The Spandau Ballet Experience, 7th August Travel back to the 1980s with this Spandau Ballet tribute playing all the band’s greatest hits. Doors at 7.30pm, show at 9pm. Tickets from £11. www.alexanderslive.com

•Catalyst

Science Discovery Centre, Widnes

Catalyst is a great sciencebased family attraction with an excellent educational focus. Everyone can have fun, take part in workshops or watch a science show. 9.30am-1.30pm or 1.30pm-5pm. £7.95 adults, £5.95 concessions and children, £21.95 families of four, £23.95 families of fi ve, under-threes free.

Touring car icons

Machinery from BMW, Honda, Vauxhall, Ford and more is due to appear on a busy grid of race-prepared saloon cars at the Kwik Fit Touring Car Championships at Oulton Park on 31st July and 1st August. Star drivers will include reigning British champion Ash Sutton, four-time champion Colin Turkington and returning three-time champion Gordon Shedden.

The showpiece races will be complemented by a full support programme. Tickets cost from £20. www.oultonpark.co.uk

•Quarry Bank Mill, Wilmslow The gardens, estate, mill, Apprentice House, restaurant, café and shops at Quarry Bank are open. Booking is recommended at weekends and during school holidays. 10.30am-5pm. £15 adults, £7.50 children. www.nationaltrust. org.uk/quarry-bank

Live music returns to Chester

The Live Rooms has reopened and has a summer packed full of live events. Tributes State of Quo and Foo Fighters GB play on the 2nd and 3rd July. Watch Thomas Headon on 11th July, Led into Zeppelin on 6th August and The Guns N’ Roses Experience on 29th August. Tickets from £10.

www.theliverooms.com

Outdoor theatre at Norton Priory

Macbeth, 23rd-24th July An epic and visually daring production of Shakespeare’s most intense tragedy. 2pm and 7pm. Tickets £11.

•Anderton

Boat Lift, Northwich

The Anderton Boat Lift is one of the “Seven Wonders of the Waterways”. It’s now open Friday to Monday from 10am to 4pm and with its visitor centre, co ee shop, gift shop and new play area – plus nearby Northwich Woodlands – it’s a must-visit. Parking from £2 for three hours. www.canalrivertrust.org.uk

The Three Musketeers, 17th August Follow D’Artagnan as he travels to join the Musketeers. 5.30pm. Tickets £16 adults, £11 children.

The Jungle Book, 29th August A larger-than-life musical for all the family. 5.30pm. Tickets £16 adults, £11 children. www.nortonpriory.org

Summer fun at Chester Races

Family Fun Day, 1st August Kick off the summer holidays with a day of family fun at Chester Racecourse. There’s a 1980s theme this year with action on the flat and fun free activities for younger racegoers on the open course – the perfect place for a picnic. ParentFolk will be at the event, bringing its own brand of effortlessly cool, curated activities and making the whole day an Insta-worthy experience. 11.30am. Adults £12, under-17s free. Ladies Day, 21st August Expect entertainment, plenty of giveaways and, of course, a prestigious ladies day competition, all supplementing seven high-octane races. The Chester Stakes takes centre stage on an packed and exciting card, and high-profile entries will be expected to compete in an appearance on the Roodee. An unmissable event of the season. 11.30am. Tickets cost from £10 for open course to £140 for the champagne garden. For more information and to book, visit www.chester-races.com.

•Beeston

Castle and Woodland Park, Tarporley

Beeston Castle and its grounds are open with measures in place to keep everyone safe. Find out about the site’s 4,000-year history and enjoy the views of the Pennines and Wales. Booking required. 10am-5pm. £9 adults, £5.40 children, from £14.40 for families. www.english-heritage.org.uk

•Delamere Forest Hike to admire the view across to Liverpool’s skyline, take orienteering courses or just fi nd a bit of peace and quiet to watch the wildlife by the lake. If you would rather get a bird’s-eye view of the forest, treat your group to an outdoor adventure at Go Ape. 8am-8pm. Parking from £3. www.forestryengland. uk/delamere-forest

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

JULY AND AUGUST

•Tabley House, Knutsford See the wonderful historic splendour of Tabley House state rooms. Admire the extraordinary art collection and furniture and hear about the intriguing history of the Leicester family. Thursdays to Sundays plus bank holiday Mondays, 1pm-5pm. £7 adults, £3 children and students. www.tableyhouse.co.uk

•Hack Green

Secret Nuclear Bunker, Nantwich

Discover the secret world of nuclear government. This vast underground complex remained secret for more than 50 years. Before being declassifi ed in 1993, the 35,000 sq ft underground bunker would have been the centre of regional government had nuclear war broken out. 10am4pm. £10 adults, £7 children. www.hackgreen.co.uk

•Manley

Mere, Frodsham

Climb along the woodland adventure trail or have a wet, wild day of fun with the Wipeout-style water park assault course. Open-water swimming, water sports, fi shing and kayak hire are also available. 10am-5pm. Trail tickets £12, under-fours free. Aquapark £20 (over-sevens only). www.manleymere.co.uk

•Stretton

Water Mill, nr

Farndon Step back in time to visit a historic working corn mill in beautiful rural Cheshire. Thursdays to Sundays, 1pm-5pm. £3.50 adults, £1.80 children; admission includes a guided tour of the mill. strettonwatermill. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

•Ice Cream

Farm, Tattenhall

There is more than ice cream at this family day out, from Strawberry Falls Adventure Golf, Daisy’s Garden, Rocky Road and Silvercone racing track to Mini Scoop, Mini Tractors and Gemstone Cove. 9am5pm. Entry from £1, which must be pre-booked. Additional charges apply for some attractions. www. theicecreamfarm.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW? Moonlight Flicks’ movies include Thelma & Louise and Get Out

Storyhouse moves outdoors

Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre, until 30th

August Storyhouse hosts three theatre shows in Grosvenor Park, with something for everyone: The Jungle Book will delight children, with The Merry Wives of Windsor and Pride & Prejudice for grownups. Times vary. Tickets from £28, under-12s free.

Moonlight Flicks, until 3rd September Openair cinema is back in the stunning setting of Chester Cathedral’s Dean’s Field for a second year, as well as at Claremont Farm in Wirral and Snugburys Ice Cream at Park Farm near Nantwich. Almost 70 films will be shown on Storyhouse’s giant 30ft Airscreen, and each location will have refreshments including pre-ordered pizzas at Dean’s Field and ice creams at Snugburys. Screenings from 8.15pm. Tickets from £11.50 for adults, £8.50 children. www.storyhouse.com

Enjoy rock and horror at Warrington’s Parr Hall

The Circus of Horrors, 7th August

An amazing amalgamation of acts driven by a rock’n’roll soundscape in a show that will have you on the edge of your seat when not falling off it with laughter. Whether you’re a rock fan or theatregoer, the Circus of Horrors has something for everyone. 7.30pm. Tickets from £18.

Cast, 27th August Formed in 1992 from the ashes of two near-legendary guitar bands, The La’s and Shack, Cast have had huge success. Noel Gallagher once described watching Cast play live as “a religious experience”. 8pm. Tickets £27.50. parrhall.culturewarrington.org

Fun for all ages at Gulliver’s

The Clangers, until 1st

September Tiny and Small Clanger will be making special appearances every day.

Dinosaurs Unleashed,

3rd-4th July The dinosaurs can roam anywhere in the park, so prepare to come face to face with a “living” dino.

Princess and Pirate Weekend, 17th-18th July

Treats, fancy dress, themed activities and much more.

10.30am-5pm. Entry from £19, under-90cm free. www. gulliversworldresort.co.uk

Royal show comes to Knutsford

Celebrate the countryside at the Royal Cheshire County Show on 31st July.

There will be competition classes for heavy horses, pygmy goats, dairy goats, wine and honey. Visitors can sample the food market and enjoy a quad bike stunt show. Gates open 8am. Tickets £25 adults, £10 children. www.

royalcheshire show.org

Canal history

The National Waterways Museum at Ellesmere Port is open, allowing you to enjoy the peacefulness of the canal and the history of the Grade II listed buildings. Learn about the lives of the canal people as you stroll around the seven-acre site.

Open Thursday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm. Tickets £9.75 adults, £6 children (six to 15).

www.canalrivertrust.org.uk

Woodland adventure

BeWILDerwood, the new treehouse adventure in Cholmondeley, is open throughout summer. Explore the huge wonky wooden play structures and treehouses, high in the trees, get lost in the huge maze, and enjoy zip wires and giant slippery slides – all located in an enchanted woodland. Open 10am to 5pm. www.cheshire. bewilderwood.co.uk.