Greater Manchester
36,000
FREE KIDSSCIENCESHOW DURINGSCHOOL
Hello Readers,
Hello summer! And welcome to our favourite edition, when days are long, temperatures are warm, and all family activities are so much more enjoyable! And even better, you’ve got six whole weeks of summer to pack in as much fun as possible!
To make sure you’re never at a loose end, we’ve found plenty of activities and entertainment that you’ll love just as much as the pint size crowd – child-friendly doesn’t have to mean childish! From outdoor trails and interactive science shows to theatrical treats, we think your kids will be more than happy to head outdoors! As well as big family days out, and local or exotic holidays planned, make the time for affordable, relaxed days too. You’ll find plenty of free town and shopping centre activities to enjoy – add in walks and picnics in the park and you’ll have the perfect recipe for a memorable summer! In this issue, you can also catch up on the latest news snippets and browse our diary pages of what’s-on-when for daily planning!
Finally, goodbye and good luck to the Year Six leavers and parents who are moving on to Secondary School. We’re sure they are well prepared for their next move and hope the transition is a smooth and happy one. We’ll be back in September, but in the meantime, sun cream at the ready and fingers crossed for a warm, action-packed summer for you all.
INSIDE
04 LOVE SUMMER
So many adventures waiting to be had this summer
12
FAMILY EVENTS
A round up of some great events near you
16 WOW
What’s on Where! A variety of place to visit
20 LOCAL NEWS
The latest news from in and around Manchester
22 BOX OFFICE
An array of theatre, arts and films in the area
Love SUMMER
Embrace the warmer days with a relaxing picnic in the park or have some fun at a science show, theatre performance or dinosaur trail! See how much you can squeeze in this summer!
Discover the wonders of the Universe this summer!
Home to the UK’s largest radio telescope and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a trip to Cheshire isn’t complete without visiting Jodrell Bank. With lush outdoor spaces and award-winning exhibitions, there’s lots to explore. Plus, make sure to catch a planetarium show and refuel in their café with a view! With a jam-packed line up of activities, events, new Dome Shows and mind-blowing live science demonstrations every day, there’s never been a better time to set your sights on the stars at Jodrell Bank. Book online and go back FREE for an entire year! W: www.jodrellbank.net
Olympic celebrations and more at Merseyway this summer!
Join Merseyway Shopping Centre for an unforgettable Olympic celebration this summer from Saturday 27th July until Sunday 1st September. Experience the thrill of live sports, interactive games, and athletic challenges for all ages, whilst taking advantage of Merseyway’s freeto-use outdoor beach, Merseybay. Discover the pop-up Olympic Park and entertainment zones throughout the school summer holidays as Merseyway turns into a hub of excitement and community spirit. Cheer on local talent, participate in friendly competitions, and enjoy a festival atmosphere right in the heart of Stockport. Don’t miss this unique celebration of athleticism and fun - it’s the perfect way to enjoy summer with the family. They’d love to see you at Stockport’s Summer Sport Spectacular! W: www.merseyway.com
Complete 10 challenges for an adventurous summer and win a head buff
The holiday clubs at We Are Adventurers are almost fully booked (sorry) – but there are still plenty of other ways to unlock adventure in the woods this summer! They’ve created 10 challenges for summer outdoor adventure that you can do with your family on their website. From making nettle tea to creating an egg zip wire, the summer challenges are the perfect springboard for unlocking adventure. If you manage to complete all 10 (and send them the pictures to prove it!), they’ll even send you a branded head buff. For more information, check out W: www.weareadventurers.co.uk/summerchallenge
There’s Loads to Do this summer!
Manchester City Council (MCC) has teamed up with communities and activity leaders across the area to bring all school holiday activities and events on one website - Loadstodo.co.uk. Manchester’s children and young people have been working hard all year. MCC want to celebrate their dedication and resolve, and make sure there are plenty of ways for them to stay stimulated and have fun during the summer holidays. Whether you’re looking for activities for younger children or older young people, there’s something for everyone on Loads to Do. Let’s have a great summer this year, making new friends, learning new skills and most importantly having fun! W: www.loadstodo.co.uk/schoolhols
Fun things to do all summer long at Bents
Discover places to shop, dine and play at Bents Garden & Home this summer. Browse Bents’ extensive selection of shops and activities and choose the perfect package for the ultimate family day out. Whether it’s fun on the beach, golfing with dinosaurs or making mythical adventures in Weeping Ash Garden, children have choice in abundance. And for all the family, there’s a perfect place to dine with a choice of delicious venues. T: 01942 266 300 W: www.bents.co.uk
sites across the city
We’re celebrating National Playday by o ering free and fun activities for children of all ages, from the tiniest tots to teenagers. There will be arts and crafts, den building, freely-chosen play, team sports, cycling, karate taster sessions, drumming and a book club. Plus many more things to get involved in at libraries, leisure centres, galleries, parks, holiday playschemes and cultural venues across the city.
Unleash magic and adventure with a visit to BeWILDerwood
Create your own story at BeWILDerwood this summer – where magic and adventure meet! Leave the real world behind and delve into the enchanted world of the story-based adventure park, where tales and curious characters come to life through imagination and play. Explore the giant slippery slides, extra-long zip wires, muddled mazes, crafts, stories at the undercover Storytelling Stage and more! Grown-ups play too, meaning explorers can make magical memories together as a family. Plus, everything is included in your ticket which really does make BeWILDerwood a great value day out. Book your tickets online. W: www.bewilderwood.co.uk
Enjoy summer activities at Graystone Action Sports, Manchester’s biggest indoor action sports playground!
At Graystone they offer tons of safe, indoor space for scooters, skateboarding, BMX, trampolining, bouldering, and freestyle gymnastics. A perfect destination for the long school holiday! It’s an environment where there’s something for everyone to do and everyone is welcome to play and train. Graystone offers individual or group coaching in every sport… and the best birthday parties in town! Plus, Camp Graystone is the most fun you can have in the holidays. They also have a comfortable bar café with views over the park with fantastic food, great coffee and Wifi with space to watch, work or just relax. W: www.graystoneactionsports.co.uk
rhs.org.uk/bridgewater
Sat 20 Jul – Sun 1 Sep
Join Shaun this summer as he learns from the experts at RHS Garden Bridgewater how to grow the best fruit and veg to keep him baa-rilliantly healthy!
Your visit supports our work as a charity.
TraffordCity is the ultimate place to take your brood for some family fun
Where else can you take them to let off steam with some ball-whacking golf fun, putt a round on a dino-themed adventure course, take to the slopes in real snow or take part in FREE family events in a spectacle indoor setting at Trafford Palazzo?
Why not take flight at iFLY Indoor Skydiving, hone your footie skills at FIVES football and let little ones burn off energy at the UK’s largest indoor entertainment arena, Play Factore. Families can lose themselves shopping, dining and enjoying a summer of fun at Trafford Centre and Trafford Palazzo too! There are also holiday camps if you need to find supervised kids activities. W: www.traffordcity.co.uk
Say you saw it in Primary Times
13-Storey Treehouse comes to Opera House Manchester
Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton’s award-winning book
The 13-Storey Treehouse comes to life on stage from Thursday 15th-Sunday 18th August! Who wouldn’t want to live in a treehouse? Especially a 13-storey treehouse that has everything including a bowling alley, a secret underground laboratory, self-making beds and a marshmallow machine! Andy and Terry live there, make stories together and have a series of completely nutty adventures. Today’s the day Andy and Terry are bringing their stories to the stage in their first EVER play - except they forgot to write it! Where will they find flying cats, a mermaid, a sea monster, monkeys, and a giant gorilla? Get your tickets today! W: www.atgtickets.com/manchester
Summer delights at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House
School’s out so step into summer with family fun at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House. Take family and friends to explore the beautiful hands-on Victorian House and garden. There’s free kids’ craft in the Servants’ Hall based on the theme of Games and Toys, plus dressing-up, colouring, hands-on activities and the popular Cranford the Cat trail. Take a picnic and let the kids run off some energy outside with traditional games including croquet. Don’t forget, there’s a new craft every two weeks over the holidays so banish boredom and visit as many times as you like! Your ticket includes 12-month entry and kids go free with a paying adult. W: www.elizabethgaskellhouse.co.uk
Discover Dino Falls Adventure Golf this summer!
Looking for a fun, family-friendly activity to enjoy in the sunshine?
The exciting two 18-hole adventure golf courses are set amidst roaring waterfalls, life-sized, animatronic dinosaurs, and plenty of photo opportunities, making it a dino-mite day out.
Located in TraffordCity, just around the corner from the Trafford Centre - kids will love exploring the prehistoric-themed course while developing their putting skills. Enjoy some quality time outdoors, soak up some pre-historic facts as you meander through the Jurassic landscape, and refuel in the T-Rex tuckshop after the round. Visit www.dinofalls.co.uk to plan your visit!
Need to chill out this summer?
Why not visit Chill Factore. There’s SNOW much fun with activities ranging from adventures sliding in Snow Park from just £15 per person, to learning new skills with the Kids’ Ski and Snowboard Camps starting at £26 (beginner camps are half price), and enjoy the thrills of the UK’s longest indoor real snow slope! W: www.chillfactore.com
Experience the Crown Jewels of bowling at King Pins this summer!
Enjoy the state-of-the-art Ten Pin and Duck Pin bowling lanes, as well as mini golf, ice-free curling, shuffleboard, huge arcades, private karaoke party rooms and more. And it isn’t just the games that are amazing! Get stuck into delicious food from PLY Pizza and Wings of Power, as well as sweet treats and slushies from their Royal Treats desserts emporium. Find King Pins at Trafford Palazzo and Manchester Arndale now. W: www.kingpins.co.uk
Trafford Palazzo, the place where the familiar takes a day off
Popular Manchester shopping and leisure destination, Trafford Palazzo, is the place for everyday adventures this summer! As well as a schedule of exciting free events for all families, Trafford Palazzo is home to stateof-the-art bowling and gaming experience, King Pins, the UK’s first huge indoor attraction Nerf Action Xperience, Sea Life and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre. Visitors can soak up the excitement with tasty treats from Instagrammable all-pink café EL&N and much-loved food venue Archies. Check online for more information on Trafford Palazzo’s offering and full schedule of free events. W: www.traffordpalazzo.co.uk
Gulliver’s Theme Parks guarantees you one of the best value family days out in the UK
There’s a great selection of rides and attractions available alongside play areas that are perfect for younger children at each of their four UK resorts in Matlock Bath, Warrington, Milton Keynes and Rother Valley. You can extend the adventure with an Eat, Sleep, Play! package, which includes a charming one night’s stay in a choice of themed rooms and lodges. An evening meal is included too, alongside entertainment, a breakfast bite, and lots of cherished family memories. And don’t forget parking is completely FREE every time you visit. W: www.gulliversfun.co.uk
See the voucher in this magazine for ‘5 for the price of 2’ at all Gulliver’s Theme Parks!
Plan your driving range visit at Trafford Golf Centre
Looking for an inclusive, fun-filled day out for the whole family? Trafford Golf Centre has something for everyone, no golfing experience necessary - just an appetite for learning something new. The top-notch facilities include a spacious driving range, free parking, on site Clubhouse Bar & Kitchen and the renowned Dino Falls Adventure Golf.
Located in TraffordCity, Manchester - kids can develop their golfing skills, join in friendly competitions or simply just whack the ball and enjoy the fun atmosphere. Plus, there’s Junior Summer Camps to enjoy if your junior ignites a passion for golf! Visit their website to plan your driving range visit. W: www.traffordgolfcentre.co.uk
ALL ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN ADMISSION. Under 16s free with paying adult. Open Wednesdays, Thursdays & Sundays.
elizabethgaskellhouse.co.uk
A 10 minute walk from Manchester Museum
The Great Garden Adventure with Shaun the Sheep
Join Shaun on an epic gardening adventure this summer as he learns from the friendly experts at RHS Bridgewater how to grow the best fruit and veg to keep him baa-rilliantly healthy! ‘Find the Flock’ by hunting down the three decorated sculptures of Shaun – you might even meet him ‘in the fleece’ to get a cheeky selfie. You’ll also be able to enjoy a mini-musical adventure and interactive storytelling, go on a welly walk for little explorers, and have a go at making your own Shaun model at a claystation drop-in session. Running from 20th July until 1st September and RHS Members go free. W: www.rhs.org.uk/bridgewater
Summer at The National Football Museum
Join in the Creative Kickabout and #MakeYourMark this summer at the National Football Museum. Whether you’re a family of football fans or looking for a new place to discover and spend quality time together during the holidays, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With family-friendly activities, interactive zones, exciting events and special guests popping up throughout the school holidays, there are plenty of opportunities to show off your creative flair!
Book your place in this summer’s starting line-up via the National Football Museum website: www.nationalfootballmuseum.com
Family EVENTS
With the warmer weather arriving, and the long stretch of school holidays ahead of us, read on to discover the family-friendly events going on in the area, guaranteed to keep all ages entertained!
Trafford Live
promises the ultimate family day out!
Sunday 7th July
Get ready for an amazing family day out this summer as Lancashire Cricket have teamed up with Trafford Council to bring you Trafford LIVE on Sunday 7th July. This action-packed day promises excitement and live entertainment, with something for all ages to enjoy. Experience FREE child-friendly games, their loveable mascot Lanky, plus food and drink - spread across the Emirates Old Trafford fan village and council gardens. That’s not all, cheer on Lancashire Lightning as they take on Worcestershire Rapids in an unmissable T20 fixture at 2.30pm. W: www.lancashirecricket.co.uk/traffordlive
Manchester Day: Let the Games Begin!
Saturday 27th July
From 12noon-6pm on Saturday 27th July, see the city centre transform into Manchester’s biggest-ever playground. Inspired by an international summer of sport, enjoy a day of free family fun, featuring pop-up performances, astounding acrobatics and have-a-go activities. Join them for breakdancing, wrestling, opera and vogue in their hip-hop wrestling ring. Hook a duck, challenge your family to a game of darts, or play on retro games consoles in their vintage fairground. With some of the UK’s best street acts and the north west’s most talented young musicians, plus fantastic food and drink stalls, there’s plenty to delight the family and get the school holidays off to a great start. W: www.manchester.gov.uk/manchesterday
Day Out with Thomas at East Lancashire Railway
Saturday 3rd &
Sunday 4th August
Take a trip on Sodor’s number one tank engine and meet Sir Topham Hatt on this spectacular Day Out with Thomas on the East Lancashire Railway from the 3rd-4th August. Your adventure begins at Bury Station where you’ll meet Sir Topham and climb aboard a carriage so Thomas can take you on a trip up the line! Once you return you will find lots more fun and games waiting for you across the road at Bury Transport Museum. Find out more and book today online. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Journey to the past with Dinosaurs in the Park
Friday 19th July – Sunday 4th August
Step back in time at Dinosaurs in the Park in Manchester! From 19th July to 4th August, Heaton Park transforms into a prehistoric playground. Marvel at 40 life-sized dinosaurs that move and roar! Enjoy the Dinosaur Trail, a Dino-Fun-Zone, and delicious food. With 20% off if you visit after 3pm, this summer holiday you can have a day out that’s been 65 million years in the making. Don’t miss this roaring adventure for all ages - tickets are selling fast! Remember, under 3’s go free! It’s not just an event; it’s a journey to the past. Secure your spot today! W: www.dinosaursinthepark.co.uk
Join Little HOME for a fun-filled family festival taking place over two weekends! 2nd-4th August & 10th-11th August
Little HOME invites families on an adventure full of inspiration and endless fun for all ages. Enjoy two weekends of delightful theatre performances, amazing circus acts, and hands-on arts and crafts workshops, and let your imagination soar with engaging games and activities. Little HOME takes place on Friday 2nd-Sunday 4th August and Saturday 10th-Sunday 11th August. W: www.homemcr.org
Celebrate with Manchester on Play Day – all for free!
Wednesday 7th August
Playday - the national day for play - is celebrated across the UK on Wednesday 7th August. As well as a celebration, Playday highlights the importance of play. Play allows children to make friends and be creative. And under the United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child, all children and young people have the right to play. Manchester’s on a journey to becoming a recognised ‘Child Friendly City’, so we want to celebrate bigger and better than before! Find what’s on for free at libraries, leisure centres, parks, and cultural venues across the city, and get involved! W: www.loadstodo.co.uk/guides/play-day
Summer holidays
are
almost
here
and TraffordCity is the ultimate place to bring your brood for some family fun.
Where else can you bring them to let off steam with some ball-whacking golf fun, putt a round on a dino-themed adventure course, take to the slopes in real snow or take part in FREE family events in a spectacular indoor setting?
And there’s more...
Why not take flight at iFLY indoor skydiving, hone your footie skills at FIVES football and let little ones burn off energy at the UK’s largest indoor entertainment arena - Play Factore.
And not forgetting Trafford Centre where families can lose themselves shopping, dining and enjoying a summer of fun for all.
Trafford Palazzo
Popular Manchester shopping and leisure destination, Trafford Palazzo, is the place for everyday adventures this summer!
As well as exciting free events for families, Trafford Palazzo is home to state-of-the-art bowling and gaming experience, King Pins, the UK’s first huge indoor attraction Nerf Action Xperience, Sea Life and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre.
Visitors can enjoy tasty treats from Instagrammable all-pink café EL&N and much-loved food venue Archies.
traffordcity.co.uk/traffordpalazzo
Trafford Golf Centre
Looking for an inclusive, funfilled day out for the whole family? Trafford Golf Centre has something for everyone, no golfing experience necessary - just an appetite for learning something new.
The top-notch facilities include a spacious driving range, free parking, on site Clubhouse Bar & Kitchen and the renowned Dino Falls Adventure Golf.
traffordcity.co.uk/tgc
Chill Factore
Need to chill out this summer? Why not visit Chill Factore. There’s SNOW much fun with activities ranging from adventures sliding in Snow Park from just £15 per person, to learning new skills with our Kids’ Ski and Snowboard Camps starting at £26 (beginner camps are half price) and enjoy the thrills of the UK’s longest indoor real snow slope.
traffordcity.co.uk/chillfactore
Dino Falls Adventure Golf
Looking for a fun, family-friendly activity to enjoy in the sunshine? The exciting two 18-hole adventure golf courses are set amidst roaring waterfalls, lifesized, animatronic dinosaurs and plenty of photo opportunities, making it a dino-mite day out.
Kids will love exploring the prehistoric-themed course while developing their putting skills. Enjoy some quality time outdoors, soak up some pre-historic facts as you explore the Jurassic landscape and refuel in the T-Rex tuckshop after the round.
traffordcity.co.uk/dinofalls
FUN THINGS TO DO LOCALLYWOW WHAT’S ON WHERE
This Summer
Summer at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House
Plymouth Grove, Manchester www.elizabethgaskellhouse.co.uk
Take family and friends to explore the beautiful hands-on Victorian House and garden. There’s free kids craft in the Servants’ Hall based on the theme of Games and Toys, plus dressing-up, colouring, hands-on activities, and the popular Cranford the Cat trail.
King Pins
Trafford Palazzo and Manchester Arndale www.kingpinsbowling.co.uk
King Pins is the ultimate bowling experience for all the family. You’ll find state-of-the-art Ten Pin bowling, as well as Duck Pin lanes, ice-free curling, shuffleboard, pool, ping pong, a huge arcade, private party rooms and more.
Trafford Palazzo
Manchester www.traffordpalazzo.co.uk
As well as a schedule of exciting free events for all families, Trafford Palazzo is home to state-of-the-art bowling and gaming experience, King Pins, the UK’s first huge indoor attraction Nerf Action Xperience, Sea Life and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre.
There’s Loads to Do this summer!
Various locations around Manchester www.loadstodo.co.uk/schoolhols
Manchester City Council has teamed up with communities and activity leaders across the area to bring all school holiday activities and events on one website. Whether you’re looking for activities for younger children or older young people, there’s something for everyone on Loads to Do.
Your Story
BeWILDerwood, Cheshire www.bewilderwood.co.uk
Create your own story at BeWILDerwood this Summer. Leave the real world behind and delve into the enchanted world of the story-based adventure park, where tales and curious characters come to life through imagination and play.
Dino Falls
TraffordCity www.dinofalls.co.uk
Manchester’s biggest, and best, adventure golf course – Dino Falls Adventure Golf features 36 holes of prehistoric fun! Experience two 18-hole outdoor courses and spot the famous T-Rex, mischievous Triceratops fun selfie points, a volcanic eruption and trick shot opportunities! Open seven days a week, 7am-10.30pm!
Break Free Chill Factore www.chillfactore.com
There’s SNOW much fun with activities ranging from adventures sliding in Snow Park from just £15 per person, to learning new skills with Kids’ Ski and Snowboard Camps starting at £26 (beginner camps are half price) and enjoy the thrills of the UK’s longest indoor real snow slope.
Graystone Action Sports
Salford, M5 4BE www.graystoneactionsports.co.uk
A safe, indoor space for scooter, skateboarding, BMX, trampolining, bouldering, and freestyle gymnastics. An environment where there’s something for everyone to do and everyone is welcome to play and train.
Trafford Golf Centre
TraffordCity www.traffordgolfcentre.co.uk
Something for everyone, no golfing experience necessary! Top-notch facilities include a spacious driving range, free parking, on site Clubhouse Bar & Kitchen and the renowned Dino Falls Adventure Golf.
Saturday 6th July
Summer of Fun
Gulliver’s Theme Parks www.gulliversfun.co.uk
Enjoy fabulous family entertainment each day this summer with new rides, attractions and shows! Running until 2nd September.
Sunday 7th July
Trafford Live
Emirates Old Trafford & Trafford Town Hall and Gardens on Talbot Road www.lancashirecricket.co.uk
Cricket fans of all ages can look forward to a festival of fun and top-class T20 action as Lancashire Cricket and Trafford Council team up to mark the 50th anniversary of the Metropolitan Borough of Trafford. 11.30am-2pm.
SATURDAY 27TH JULYSUNDAY 1ST SEPTEMBER
Experience interactive games, cra s and athletic challenges for all ages, whilst taking advantage of Merseyway’s ee-to-use outdoor beach, Merseybay.
Friday 12th July
Foodies Festival
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
Foodies Festival returns with celebrity chefs and musical headliners. Running until 14th July.
Sunday 14th July
Terra Musica
Stoller Hall at Chetham’s, Manchester www.stollerhall.com
Get ready to travel across the world to discover new tales and tunes exploring who we are, and where we come from. Perfect for children aged 5-7 and their families, Terra Musica weaves together different musical cultures, celebrating our different backgrounds through fun and engaging performances. Bringing the festival feel to Stoller Hall, this summer’s Terra Musica will feature new music and a story written by Samba musician Tony Watt, played by a group of talented young musicians from around Manchester.
Wednesday 17th July
RHS Flower Show
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
A day out for all the family, with unique gardens, talks and tips, children’s activities, floral installations, markets, stalls and lots of tasty food and drink to enjoy. Runs until 21st July.
Friday
19th July
Dinosaurs in the Park
Heaton Park
www.dinosaursinthepark.co.uk
Heaton Park transforms into a prehistoric playground. Marvel at 40 life-sized dinosaurs that move and roar! Enjoy the Dinosaur Trail, a Dino-Fun-Zone, and delicious food. Running until 4th August.
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise!
LOADS LOADS Summer Summer TO TO DO DO
Sing, play, make... there are loads of activities for all ages of young people this Summer. There’s loads to do at loads to do. co . uk /schoolhols
Saturday 20th July
Dome Show
Jodrell Bank
www.jodrell.net
A brand-new adventure in the Jodrell Bank Space Dome, join ‘The Great Schiaparelli,’ showman extraordinaire, on a death-defying journey to the planets. From the sun-scorched surface of Mercury to the icy expanses of Pluto and beyond, explore the wonders and perils of our Solar System in this breathtaking immersive adventure.
Summer Fun
Jodrell Bank
www.jodrell.net
A summer of astro-adventure is just around the corner with a jam-packed line up of activities, events, new Dome Shows and mind-blowing live science shows! For space explorers and enthusiasts of all ages. Runs until 1st September.
The Great Garden Adventure
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk/bridgewater
With Shaun the Sheep! Join Shaun as he learns from the experts how to grow the best fruit and veg to keep him baarilliantly healthy! RHS members go free. Running until 1st September.
Tuesday 23rd July
Summer of Adventure at the Farm
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
From getting up close and personal with all your farmyard favourites to delicious cookery demonstrations, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy. Look out for Little Grey Fergie the Tractor, and You Tube star, who will be on the farmyard for photos. The outdoor woodland play trail provides shaded play before a game of hide and seek in the Maize Maze! Book farm tickets online and save on parkland entry with a Summer Parkland Saver! Runs until 23rd August.
Thursday 25th July
Spring into Summer
Bents Garden & Home www.bents.co.uk
So much to do over the summer holidays; fun on the beach, golfing with dinosaurs or making mythical adventures to name a few. Plus, a choice of delicious dining venues to choose from.
Trails & Activity Sheets
National Football Museum www.nationalfootballmuseum.com
The free trail and activity sheets help bring collections and displays to life, and are a great way to keep the little ones entertained during your visit.
Saturday 27th July
Manchester Day
Venues across Manchester www.manchester.gov.uk/manchesterday
Inspired by an international summer of sport, enjoy a day of free family fun, featuring pop-up performances, astounding acrobatics and have-a-go activities. With some of the UK’s best street acts and the north west’s most talented young musicians, plus fantastic food and drink stalls, there’s plenty to delight the family and get the school holidays off to a great start.
Olympic Celebrations
Merseyway Shopping Centre, Stockport www.merseyway.com
Visit for an unforgettable Olympic celebration! Experience the thrill of live sports, interactive games, and athletic challenges for all ages, whilst taking advantage of Merseyway’s free-to-use outdoor beach, Merseybay. Running until 1st September.
Tuesday
30th July
The Tale of Peter Rabbit Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
Explore the gardens on a delightful storytelling tour based on the Tale of Peter Rabbit. 10.30am-12noon and 1-2.30pm.
Friday 2nd August
Little HOME HOME, Manchester www.homemcr.org
Embark on an adventure filled with interactive performances, hands-on workshops, and endless fun for all ages. Discover the magic of storytelling with immersive theatre performances, spectacular circus acts, get stuck into arts and crafts, and enjoy games and activities. Running 2nd-4th August and 10th-11th August.
Saturday 3rd August
Day Out with Thomas East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Take a trip on Sodor’s number one tank engine and meet Sir Topham Hatt on this spectacular Day Out with Thomas. Your adventure begins at Bury Station where you’ll meet Sir Topham and climb aboard a carriage so Thomas can take you on a trip up the line. Once you return you will find lots more fun and games waiting for you across the road at Bury Transport Museum. Also on Sunday 4th August.
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise!
STOCKPORT GRAMMAR SCHOOL
An independent school for children ages 3-18 years
Assistance with fees available at 11+ and 16+ (means tested), academic and music scholarships
Book online for:
Senior School Open Events
Saturday 21st September
Saturday 9th November
Junior School Open Event
Saturday 21st September
Sixth Form Open Evening
Tuesday 8th October
Junior, Senior and Sixth Form school day tours
Tuesday 6th August
Museum Tours
National Football Museum
www.nationalfootballmuseum.com
Learn more about the game through objects on a guided tour, included in the price of admission. Their friendly museum guides will tell you more about the museum, some of the incredible objects on display and the fascinating stories behind them.
Wednesday 7th August
Manchester’s Play Day Venues across Manchester www.loadstodo.co.uk
Free and fun activities for children of all ages to celebrate National Playday. There will be arts and crafts, den building, freely chosen play, team sports, cycling, karate taster sessions, drumming and a book club. Plus, many more things to get involved in at libraries, leisure centres, galleries, parks, holiday playschemes and cultural venues across the city. There’s something for everyone – and it’s all free!
Say you
saw
it in Primary Times
Viking Life
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
Become one of Harald’s Shield Warriors or Shied Maidens and learn about Viking history and way of life through a workshop and series of hands-on activities.
Friday 9th August
Travel to Wonderland
East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
You’re late, you’re late, for a very important date! It’s time to take a tumble down the Rabbit Hole for a curious adventure through Wonderland with Alice and her friends. Also on 30th August.
Tuesday 13th August
Tatton’s Fairytale Postman
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
The lovable but forgetful Tatton Postman has got his letters muddled up. Can you solve the clues to work out which fairy tale character each letter is for? Ages 3-6. Also on 22nd August.
Wednesday 14th August
Tatton Tales: Cinderella
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
Visit the Mansion to step inside the magical story of Cinderella. Work in the cellars to experience what life was like for Cinderella before she became a princess and then tour the Mansion State Rooms like a Lord or Lady. Ages 3-6. Also on 28th August.
Thursday 22nd August
Peppa Pig
East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Meet Peppa Pig at intervals on 22nd and 23rd August!
Saturday 24th August
Summer Country Fayre at the Farm
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
A weekend of traditional English fayre and fun. Traditional country crafts, food and drink plus demonstrations. Runs until 26th August.
Thursday 29th August
Once Upon a Time in the Gardens
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
A beautiful storytelling tour bringing to life characters and events from a selection of fairy tales. Ages 3-6.
Saturday 31st August
Summer Sparks Spectacular
Gulliver’s Theme Park, Warrington www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Summer Fireworks spectacular with extended opening hours 10.30am8.30pm, ahead of a fantastic fireworks display starting at approx. 8.45pm.
Sunday 1st September
Relaxed Openings
Jodrell Bank
www.jodrell.net
Runs on the first Sunday of every month, creating an inclusive and accessible environment for all visitors. With reduced noise and light levels in the exhibitions, plus a quiet space in the First Light Pavilion, Relaxed Openings are a calmer start to the morning for anyone who might appreciate it. 10-11am.
available in your local area
Local NEWS
Read on for the latest news from in and around Manchester, from new openings, to news from local schools and performing arts too.
PizzaExpress Manchester Piccadilly Gardens is ready to welcome diners!
Following a recent remodel, PizzaExpress Manchester Piccadilly Gardens is now open and ready to serve pizza with pizzazz for its customers! Located in the heart of the city, PizzaExpress Manchester Piccadilly Gardens is the perfect place to sit back and take in the scenery over a slice of the brand’s famous pizza. Featuring delicious food combined with a vibrant location, the restaurant is perfectly situated to offer a taste of Manchester’s best: from a view of the Piccadilly Gardens green space, to being just a short walk from the city’s shopping precinct and theatre district, the pizzeria is the perfect destination. Kids can enjoy the much-loved Piccolo menu, consisting of Dough Balls, pizza, pasta or salad, dessert and a Bambinoccino all for just £7.95. Customers can also join the PizzaExpress Club, which provides incredible rewards every time they dine. W: www.pizzaexpress.com/club
Award-winning school with care at its heart
2024 saw Burnage Academy for Boys win the Mental Health and Wellbeing Award at the Educate North Awards, a reflection of the school’s commitment to caring for staff and pupils alike. Care is embedded within the school, from the unrivalled pastoral team to the curriculum focusing on developing resilience and independence. Pupils develop the skills, knowledge and understanding to be successful learners and responsible citizens who make a positive contribution to society. Academically, the school ranks amongst the very best in the country too when it comes to the progress of boys. The combination of personal and academic development ensures that boys continue to do better at Burnage. W: www.burnage.manchester.sch.uk
Discover so much more on our planet with Kids Planet
Kids Planet is a family-owned, award-winning group of 191 nurseries across the UK. At Kids Planet, they know how important it is for you to feel assured that your little one is going to be happy, safe, and secure. Their calm, neutral environments and well thought out resources, are purposely placed to support and extend children’s learning, the convenient all-inclusive fees include nappies, wipes, formula, and sun cream, helping to save money and time each day.
Kids Planet Nurseries provide an environment full of opportunities that stimulate curiosity and challenge thinking. Discover so much more about the care and education provided by Kids Planet, find your local nursery and book a show round at www.kidsplanetdaynurseries.co.uk
SGS Dance Show delights audience
Stockport Grammar School’s dance show, This is The Place, took the audience on a dazzling journey through time, exploring the heritage and culture of SGS, Stockport and Greater Manchester. Pupils from across the year groups showcased different points in history, through Industrialisation, Protest, The Twentieth Century and the Modern Day. As well as performances to classical music, the show featured tunes from the musicals such as She Used to be Mine from Waitress, Revolting Children from Matilda the Musical and One Night Only from Dreamgirls.
The show closed with a performance of The Place - a piece specially created for the Sadler’s Wells’ Making Moves project and which the pupils will perform at the Sadler’s Wells theatre in London. Mrs Downing said: “The show is a chance to celebrate our amazing dancers and to showcase the pieces the pupils have created themselves and to give all our pupils the chance to perform – some for the very first time.” W: www.stockportgrammar.co.uk
Stagecoach offers Musical Theatre Exams to boost confidence and UCAS points!
Stagecoach Altrincham and Urmston provide quality part-time training in the arts for children aged 4-18 years. Their aim is to nurture and develop young potential through singing, acting and dancing classes in south Manchester. No experience necessary, they cater to each individual child’s needs, and you can trial the classes for two weeks before committing to a full term. They also accept tax free childcare, universal credit, and childcare voucher payments. Students at Altrincham Stagecoach are busy preparing for their Musical Theatre Exams this term. Altrincham follow the LCM London College of Music Board of Exams and have been offering their students the opportunity to take the exams for the past 16 years with an excellent success rate. Principal Marion Hankin spoke about the exams, “Many of our students use the UCAS points from these exams for their University applications as they can increase their points considerably, and as teachers we really do see the benefit the students get from taking their exams. Boosting their confidence, performance skills and stage presence. I just love to see them perform.”
Urmston - T: 07507 177258 W: www.stagecoach.co.uk/urmston
Altrincham - T: 07904 451199 W: www.stagecoach.co.uk/altrincham
Boys do better at Burnage
Once again, we’re proud to be recognised as one of the highest-performing schools in the country. In 2023, boys at Burnage achieved grades that were significantly above the national average - in every single subject. No matter your son’s strengths, passions or interests, he will achieve better grades here at Burnage than any other school in Greater Manchester. With enrichment, personal development and outstanding pastoral care at the heart of the school, boys do better at Burnage.
Box OFFICE
We
HOME, Manchester www.homemcr.org
Saturday 13th July
KUNG FU PANDA 4 (PG)
Cinema. After three deathdefying adventures defeating villains with his unmatched courage and mad martial arts skills, Po, the Dragon Warrior, is called upon by destiny to… give it a rest already. More specifically, he’s tapped to become the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace.
Saturday 13th-Sunday 14th July
ZOG
AND THE FLYING
DOCTORS
Based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling sequel, Freckle Productions (Zog, Stick Man, Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales) are back, with music and lyrics by Joe Stilgoe (Zog), for this truly modern take on the classic fairy tale.
Saturday 20th July
DOUBLE BILL: SUPERWORM + THE SMEDS AND THE SMOOS (U)
Cinema. Enjoy a double bill of family favourites from the charming creative world of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
2nd-4th August & 10th-11th August
LITTLE HOME
Little HOME invites families to embark on an adventure filled with interactive performances, hands-on workshops, and endless fun for all ages. Discover the magic of storytelling with immersive theatre performances, spectacular circus acts, get stuck into arts and crafts at HOME’s Creativity Corner, and let your imagination soar with engaging games and activities.
Manchester Palace Theatre and Opera House www.atgtickets.com/manchester
Tuesday 30th July-Saturday 10th August
101 DALMATIANS
When fashionista Cruella de Vil plots to swipe all the Dalmatian puppies in town to create her fabulous new fur coat, there’s trouble ahead for Pongo and Perdi and their litter of adorable, tail-wagging young pups.
Thursday 15th-Sunday 18th August
THE
13-STORY
TREEHOUSE
Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton’s hilarious, multi award-winning book comes to life on stage!
