There are only 2 weeks left of the Summer Holidays and here at Days Out UK we want to make sure you don't waste a single second of your time. In order for you to make the most of the final weeks, we have put together a simple guide, giving you some helpful hints and tips for planning ahead.
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Think Local
Instead of travelling miles away to find fun things to do this Summer Holiday, why not check out your local area for great days out!? Whether you are from London, Essex, Greater Manchester or Merseyside, there are heaps of things to see and do, so find out what’s on your doorstep - instead of venturing far and wide. The time and money you can save by not travelling far away, can be spent on having fun, with all your family and friends.
Make Travel Plans
Try planning your route in advance, being sure to check for updates on traffic etc. before setting off. Whether you are travelling by car, bus or train, by planning ahead you will be able to: learn the quickest routes; save money - by avoiding toll booths, splitting travel costs etc. - and; plan how to get from attraction to attraction – if you are going on a multi-stop trip.
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Squeezing in Attractions
If you do have to venture outside of your local area and plan well enough, you may be able to fit more than one attraction into one day out. For example, if you are looking for a day out in Liverpool, you could start off by visiting the animals at Knowsley Safari Park, followed by a visit to the Albert Dock. Here you can make the most of all the award-winning attractions, from The Beatles Story to the Merseyside Maritime Museum. By planning a multi-stop trip you not only will save time on travelling, but you can also save money - with lots of attractions offering combined rates.
Pre-book
When planning a day out, especially when you have little ones to contend with, there is so much that can go wrong. By booking beforehand you can save time by avoiding queues, you can plan other activities around them and you will be able to stick with your planned budget (see Multi-stop trip and plan your budget).
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Plan your budget
Your budget can massively effect your options, when planning a day out with the family. Before setting off on your big day out, try to think about all of the things you will need to pay for during your trip, in particular taking into consideration the following things:
From free family events to paid excursions, there are heaps of things to see and do nationwide, this Summer Holiday. Be sure to check out our events and attractions pages, for some great days out ideas!
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Check the Weather
Before setting off on any trip, it is good to know what the weather is going to be like. This way you will be able to know what preparation is necessary, for example, what clothes to pack for the family. Visit our area pages, for an up-to-date weather forecast.
Have a Back-up
It’s always a good idea to plan a back-up activity that can still go ahead, if all else fails, especially when there are little ones involved. So if the weather takes a turn for the worse or your car breaks down, you will still have something planned to keep the whole family entertained.
With these helpful hints the whole family can enjoy a stress-free day out, making sure to not waste a single second of the precious Summer Holidays.
‘We’re all going on a Summer Holiday….’ or maybe not and that is why we all could do with knowing what’s going on in our local area, this Summer Holiday.
We all want to make the most of the precious 6 week holiday and with so much to see and do nationwide, it is hard to narrow down the choices. Here at DOUK we understand the importance of planning ahead...especially when it comes to having fun...so we have put together a list of activities and events for you to get your teeth into this summer.
Much like our '10 Things to do in Essex this Father's Day' piece, we will be focusing on Essex…the birthplace of DOUK! From themed family events to wildlife walks, there are heaps of things to see and do over the Summer Holidays in Essex and here are just a few that we have hand-picked, for the whole family to enjoy!
Venue: Adventure Island
Sat 23rd & Sun 24th July | 12:00-close | Included in admission price
Schools Out for the Summer and Adventure Island is inviting the whole family down to celebrate with them. Everyone is sure to be entertained with face painting, live performances, fancy dress and so much more!
Venue: Adventure Island
Sat 13th & Sun 14th August | 12:00-close | Included in admission price
Calling all Superheros! Adventure Island is hosting a fantastic themed event this summer, with face painting, dancing and lots more!
Venue: Audley End House & Gardens
Thu 28th – Sun 31 July | Thu-Sat 19:00 | Sun 11:00 | £14 Adult | £9 Child
The circus is coming to Audley End House and Gardens this summer, where visitors of all ages are welcomed to step inside the Big Top, to travel into a fairytale world full of surprises.
Venue: Audley End House & Gardens
Mon 15th – Fri 19th August | 11:00-17:00 | £18.30 Adult | £11 Child | £16.50 Conc. | £47.60 Family
Grab a magnifying glass and join Audley End this Summer Holiday, as they hunt for some mini beasts throughout the beautiful gardens.
Venue: Barleylands
Mon 25th July – Fri 2nd Sep | 10:00-17:00 | Included in admission price
Throughout the Summer Holidays, Barleylands is hosting a different theme each week, with heaps of activities to keep everyone entertained. Plus the farmyard is open as normal, with a full timetable of activities, including sheep racing and birds of prey.
Week by week:
25th – 29th July Bubblemania
1st-5th August Family Hoedown
8th-12th August Deadly Creatures
15th-19th August Crazy Entertainer
22nd-26th August Ultimate Inflatables
29th-2nd August Treasure Hunters
Venue: Colchester Zoo
Sat 23rd July – Wed 31st Aug | 09:30-18:00 | Included in admission price
Enjoy a family day out at Colchester Zoo this Summer Holiday, where the whole family can learn about the amazing species at the zoo and take part in some brilliant activities with their award winning education team!
Venue: Colchester Zoo
Sat 6th & 20th Aug | 09:30-20:30 | Included in admission price
Colchester Zoo is hosting two special Summer Late Night Openings, over the Summer Holidays, with extra special events and activities throughout the day…and night.
Venue: Beth Chatto Gardens
Sat 23rd Jul – Sun 4th Sep | All day | FREE Friends of the Garden | £6.95 Adults | £1 Under 16’s
Throughout the Summer Holidays, the whole family are welcomed to the beautiful Beth Catto Gardens to take part in one of the Wildlife Trails, where you can discover the heroes and villains of the garden…and the children go FREE if you book your tickets online in advance.
Venue: Beth Chatto Gardens
Tue 9th Aug | 10:30-14:00 | £5 accompanied child | FREE 1 adult per child | £2.50 additional adult
Bring the little ones along for a fun-filled activity day which is all about food and the garden, this Summer Holiday. From pizza making to dish creations (for some of the creatures found in the garden) the little ones are sure to have a fantastic time in the Garden Kitchen.
Venue: Hadleigh Park
Fri 22nd Jul | 21:15-22:30 | £4 Adult | £2 Child
Bring the whole family along to Hadleigh Park for a wonderful evening, where you will search for the magical and elusive glow-worm, meeting at Benfleet Station (south side) at 9.15pm.
Venue: Hadleigh Park
Sat 30th Jul – Sun 31st July | FREE to spectate
Hadleigh Park is holding their first UCI Junior World Series event, as part of the Hadleigh Park International UCI HC-class event, a fantastic mountain bike event with exciting cross-country races to keep the whole family entertained this Summer Holiday.
Venue: Mercury Theatre
Fri 29th Jul – Sun 21st Aug | 14:00 | 18:00 | Prices vary, see website or call for details
The Mercury Theatre is hosting the brilliant musical adventure, of the children’s classic Wind in the Willos. Join Toad, Badger, Rat and Mole on the adventure of a life time this Summer Holiday!
Venue: Marsh Farm
Sun 14th Aug | 10:00-18:00 | £19.99 Over 2’s | FREE Under 2’s
Bring the family along to Marsh Farm this Summer Holiday, for a fantastic event that is just like Glastonbury…but for kids! Enjoy a great line-up of activities, from performances by popular children’s acts to workshops for everyone to join in on.
Venue: Southend Pier
Sat 2nd Aug – Sun 3rd Aug | 11:00-17:00 | Included in admission price
Oh I do like to be beside the seaside…do you? This year is the Southend Borough Council’s 26th annual Puppet Festival, where the whole family can enjoy a classic day at the beach, with seaside entertainment and much more…all on the world’s largest pleasure pier.
Venue: RSPB Rainham Marshes
Tue 26th July – Wed 31st Aug | 10:30-12:00 | 13:00-14:30 | £1pp + normal admission price
Join Rainham Marshes for some special family activities. Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of the Summer Holidays, there will be special family activities to keep you entertained, from pond dipping to playing mini-beast detective.
Although we have focused on Essex, there is so much to see and do nationwide - from family friendly (Viking) Bear Hunts to Beer Festivals and Shakespearean performances - throughout the Summer Holidays. So make sure to check out all the other fantastic attractions and events, in your local area, so you can make the most of those valuable 6 weeks!
It's hard to find that perfect present for that special man in our lives, so why not treat Dad to a day out in Essex this Father’s Day, instead of the usual pack of socks or football mug? Here at DOUK we strive to find you great days out whatever your budget, across several locations nationwide, but today we are focusing on Essex…the birthplace of DOUK!
Here are 10 things to do in Essex this Father’s Day, that we have hand-picked especially for dads:
Classic Cars at Audley End House and Gardens
Time: 11:00-17:00
Price: £18.30 Adult | £11 Child I £16.50
Treat your dad this Father’s Day with a trip to Audley End House and Gardens, where the whole family can enjoy their brilliant Classic Cars event, with a charming collection of classic cars on display.
Father's Day Trains at East Anglian Railway Museum
Time: 10:30-16:30
Price: £9 Adult | £8 Senior | £4.50 Child
This Father’s Day, dads are invited to drive the vintage diesel engine at East Anglian Railway Museum…for FREE!
Father's Day - Dads go free at Barleylands
Time: 10:00-17:00
Price: £9 Child | £10 Adult | £9 Concessions | £34 Family
Barleylands are offering dads free entry this Father’s Day, when you book online, to meet the farmyard animals and join in on the family fun!
Big Sunday 2016 at various locations in Colchester
Price: Free
Treat your dad to a special day out in Colchester this Father’s Day, with a fantastic festival of dance, theatre, comedy, food and so much more across several venues.
Father’s Day at RHS Garden Hyde Hall
Time: 10:00-16:00
Price: Free
Take a wander around vintage horticultural and garden machinery, as well as a number of vintage tractors on display at RHS Garden Hyde Hall this Father’s Day.
Father’s Day at RSPB Rainham Marshes
Time: 09:30-17:00
Price: £5 Adult | £3 Child | £9 Family
There are heaps of activities for the whole family to enjoy at RSPB Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve this Father’s Day, as well as a special Ploughman’s lunch and free entry…just for dad!
1940s Weekend at Epping Ongar Railway
Time: 09:00-17:00
Price: £15 Adult | £8 Child | £40 Family
Travel back in time to the 1940s this Father’s Day, with re-enactors, vintage vehicles and live entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.
Time: 10:00-17:00
Price: £11.50 (on door)
Treat dad to a fantastic day out, with this Custom/Classic Car & Bike Show at Marsh Farm this Father’s Day, plus dads go free!
Father’s Day – Dads go free at Tropical Wings
Time: 09:30-17:30
Price: £10.95 Adult | £8.95 Child (2-15) | £9.95 Senior | £36 Family
Dads are invited to Tropical Wings for FREE this Father’s Day, where the whole family can come and see the amazing selection of animals.
Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea at Museum of Power
Time: 10:00-16:00
Prices: £15.95pp Afternoon Tea | £17.95 Guided Tour
Treat dad to a Gentleman's Afternoon Tea this Father's Day, at the Museum of Power.
Staying in the UK for a family holiday has never been better. Whether you’re hunting for peace and quiet in an idyllic surrounding or wanting to keep active on an action-packed adventure, there’s plenty on offer for you to enjoy.
Northamptonshire, in the heart of England, combines countryside relaxation with exciting activities and interesting sights. Known affectionately as the county of “squires and spires”, the rolling countryside region is steeped in history and beauty. With plenty to capture the imagination and hearts of your children, Northamptonshire has become a popular destination for many family holidays.
How to see the most of this beautiful county
Northamptonshire spans across many towns and cities such as Corby, Kettering, Northampton and Daventry. While driving is a great way to get between the various towns and take in the countryside views, there are many other ways to travel too.
Embrace times gone by with a trip on a vintage steam train from Northampton & Lamport Railway station, which will allow you to see the Brampton Valley, Northampton and Market Harborough.
With a peaceful waterway system sprawling across the county, seeing Northamptonshire by canal is also an unusual but great alternative to travelling by car. Perfect for families, it gives little explorers the opportunity to become captain of a ship, as they help you to navigate along the canal system and River Nene.
Finally, sometimes a bicycle is all you need to explore the countryside at your own leisure. Perfect for active families, there are plenty of cycle paths which allow you to experience fresh air and enjoy scenic views.
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Things to do
Whilst Northamptonshire is ideal for rest and relaxation, it also has a whole host of exciting family activities.
So, you can gather up your brood and head out to see the great sights of Northamptonshire, such as:
Silverstone
A visit to the iconic racetrack is a great day out. With plenty to see and do, it’s great for any petrol heads in the family. There are also kid’s zones, where your children can enjoy the buzz of the motor atmosphere and the thrill of watching the speeding cars.
Wicksteed Park
Little ones love the great outdoors, and Wicksteed Park is perfect for letting them roam free. With green spaces perfect for picnics and games as well as plenty of themed days and events, it is a firm favourite with families.
Budget friendly and with lots to do, it is a great choice for those on a budget.
Rockingham Castle
Line up your little soldiers for a great day out at Rockingham Castle, where they can play and learn all about this historical beauty.
Dating all the way back to the Vikings and William the Conqueror, this castle has played an important part of the county’s past. With over 450 years of battles, warring families and dramatic stories, Rockingham Castle promises tales that will truly capture your family’s imagination.
This attraction is also dog friendly, so even the four legged members of your family can enjoy some time outdoors.
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Catanger Llamas
If you want to do something unusual, then give llama trekking a go. This activity is sure to be a favourite with little animal lovers and offers you a chance to see the rolling terrain of the county in a memorable way.
You can choose from a sunlit dusk trek or a half-day experience where you meet these curious and furry friends, learn about their habitat and see the Northamptonshire countryside in a whole new way.
Where to rest your head
When it comes to accommodation, there is plenty in Northamptonshire to suit all budgets and requirements. No family is the same and there are lots of options available in the county.
If you’re looking for hotels, there are various styles and choices, from the cheap and cheerful to plush luxury surroundings.
One of the better options for families is to stay in a holiday park, where you can enjoy peace and quiet while having local amenities and entertainment just a stone’s throw away from your front door.
Billing Aquadrome, in the Nene Valley, is the perfect place to unwind and relax amongst 235 acres of glorious countryside. You can steal some time for yourself and let the children enjoy the outdoors, as there’s plenty of rides and play areas to keep them happy as well as exciting activities such as water zorbing. There’s also a lively restaurant and bar with regular entertainment, making Billing Aquadrome perfect for rest and rejuvenation as well as family fun.
With lodges and caravans to choose from, this holiday park provides families with a home-from-home with all the creature comforts required for a perfect break. There’s even room for you to bring your beloved family dog, so they can join in the fun too!
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Choose Northamptonshire for your next family break
So when you’re planning your next family trip, make sure Northamptonshire is top of your list. With beautiful countryside to explore including valleys, rivers and lakes, as well as plenty of interesting days out, this stunning county has something for every family to enjoy.
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Niamh Spence is a content writer for Billing Aquadrome in the Nene Valley – part of the Pure Leisure Group. Billing Aquadrome offers great activities for family holidays that are sure to please everyone, from big to small.
Your annual family holiday is your opportunity to spend some quality time with your loved ones.
When school finishes for the summer, you’ve got time and top weather on your side. So, here are some tips to help your family relax and enjoy your break away, free from any pesky everyday stresses.
Plan your budget in advance
Think about what you’ll need to pay for during your getaway and make sure your budget exceeds this amount. Take into consideration:
It’s much better to be over prepared than worried about spending more than you can afford. In order to really relax you’ll want to buy what you need, be able to say yes to the kids when they ask to do something and splash out occasionally - without feeling guilty!
Get the kids involved with your holiday calendar
Wherever you’re heading this summer, whether it’s the Lake District or the rolling Yorkshire countryside, ask your children what they’d most like to do while you’re there.
This isn’t to say that mum and dad aren’t in charge – the kids should know that you have the final say but that they’ve had an input into the planning of your fun-filled family holiday.
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Don’t forget to take their routine on holiday too
It’s easy to get swept up in all the excitement of a new place, surrounded by so many fun things to see and do.
But tired tots can quickly become teary ones. So, make sure the kids stick to their regular meal and bed times as much as possible to avoid tantrums.
Be flexible
Parents with younger children can often find it easier to leave behind rigid agendas in favour of some good old fashioned flexibility.
So that you don’t put yourself under any unnecessary pressure, it’s a good idea to have a loose plan in place but generally go with the flow.
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Book activities
Give yourself a back-up plan when it comes to keeping the children entertained throughout your family holiday, and prepare for the occurrence of a good old rainy day in the UK.
Find nearby indoor activities and attractions and book your family in for some guaranteed dry-time. To get the best of both worlds, book to do such activities in the mornings so that should the sun decide to shine, your brood won’t be missing out.
Booking activities in advance whenever possible has various key advantages, including:
Keeping your family holiday stress-free
Making sure that the whole family is able to enjoy a little R&R is all down to planning what you can, and taking everything else as it comes.
By focussing on getting controllable factors organised such as planned activities and budgeting, you can keep stress at arm’s length and ensure that your annual family holiday is as fun as possible!
Author Bio
Danielle Middleton is a digital content writer for Pure Leisure Group, the UK holiday home company with sites throughout the country including; the Lake District, Northamptonshire and Yorkshire.
Blackpool has been a go-to destination for holiday-makers since the 1800s and it’s
now a much loved UK resort bringing in millions of tourists each year to its attractions and sights. With fun for everyone, from little ones to teenagers and adults, it’s not hard to see why the northern seaside town has become such an iconic and treasured British retreat.
The resort has long been a popular destination for those seeking traditional holiday pleasures such as walks along the promenade, fish and chip suppers and eating ice cream on the beach. Now mingled with the age-old pastimes of its 19th century hey-day are 21st century wonders including The Blackpool Tower 4D Cinema, the sensory thrills of The Blackpool Dungeons and its ultra modern promenade.
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The Attractions
Fromthe Blackpool Pleasure Beach and The Blackpool Tower to the famous figures in Madame Tussauds and making new fishy friends at SEA LIFE, the variety of attractions in Blackpool draw crowds in from all over – and with good reason.
SEA LIFE offers the whole family a chance to discover the wonderful creatures of the deep, and lets them get up close and personal with starfish in the Interactive Rockpool Experience. Heading further down the busy promenade, everyone will love the chance
to spot legendary faces and stand next to their favourite celebrities in Madame Tussauds.
What trip to Blackpool would be complete without a visit to The Blackpool Tower? Don’t miss out on the breathtaking views of the spectacular northern coastline from The Blackpool Tower Eye; take the family to the top on a clear day to see miles of beaches stretching as far as the eye can see. You’ll just love testing your limits on The
Skywalk’s glass floor and feel as though you’re floating on air.
Another excellent attraction not to be missed is The Blackpool Tower’s 4D Cinema. The experience engages all of the senses and offers the chance to see Blackpool from a unique and exciting perspective.
The Blackpool Tower Circus is a must-see for families visiting this holiday hotspot, and nobody can resist the fun frolics of Mooky and Mr Boo as their slapstick humour makes your sides ache with laughter. Showcasing their acrobatic skills and aerial gymnastics, you can’t visit this beach resort without a trip to the circus.
Little ones will love exploring Jungle Jim’s Indoor Adventure Playground and the lost world within it while parents can take the opportunity to relax with a coffee, waiting for their little adventurers to discover hidden treasures.
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Exploring wildlife and meeting furry friends is another attraction the whole family will enjoy with a trip to Blackpool Zoo. Book ahead to make savings on admission before If rain threatens to spoil your fun then there’s no need to let boredom kick in, the
whole family can have hours of entertainment at Sandcastle Waterpark. Get your swimming costumes out and race to try one of the 18 slides and attractions at the UK’s biggest indoor waterpark, there’s plenty of fun for little kids and big kids too!
your trip to see the host of animals cared for at this zoo including tigers, giraffes, lions and even tarantulas!
Quiet, green spaces
Blackpool is full of iconic British sights and is a hive of activity, yet it is possible to seek quiet solace in this seaside town. Stanley Park offers escape from the crowds and plenty of family fun away from the promenade. A trip to Stanley Park is often a welcome break for families who might need a little bit of time away from the bustling tourist activities while making sure there is plenty to entertain kids of all ages.
A play area for two to eight year olds keeps young ones entertained for hours as they
get to grips with the interactive surfboard, rota web and the 3D spring ride-ons. Older children can explore the timber adventure playground or even bring their bikes to the BMX race track.
Keeping with the green and peaceful theme, Stanley Park Golf Course is within easy reach of the centre of Blackpool and is perfect for experienced golfers or juniors learning to tee off.
Even teenagers love Blackpool
Teenagers are notoriously difficult to keep entertained on a family holiday,
yet Blackpool still manages to engage many and keep boredom at bay. Let them explore away from the promenade and visit the shops at the Houndshill Shopping Centre where they can find all the glamorous brands they love.
A trip to The Blackpool Tower Dungeons is perfect for teens, as Lancashire’s exquisitely dark history is enough to thrill and excite all the family. Learning about the bloody history of the War of the Roses with the warring Lancastrians and Yorkists and the deadly plague that swept through the country killing many, has never been so spine-tingling!
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Theme parks are all part of the fun when visiting Blackpool; so brace yourself for the thrills and spills aboard The Big One and try out the new ride for 2015, The Red Arrows themed Sky Force. Visiting Blackpool’s Pleasure Beach is a must for the Things To Do list, and even smaller ones can have fun on the rides in Nickelodeon Land including The Rugrats log flume and SpongeBob’s Splash Bash.
With so many things to see and do, the whole family is spoilt for choice in Blackpool
and it’s easy to see why millions visit the beach resort every year. Steeped in history
and British traditions, Blackpool now offers everything from fun-filled tales of the past
to sensory experiences amidst the breathtaking coastal views.
By Niamh Spence
Niamh Spence is a content writer for VisitBlackpool, offering advice and guidance on everything at the UK’s top beach resort.
Tonight is all Hallows eve! But if you’re still stuck with ideas of what to do tonight, check out our list of the top 5 things you can do!
Visit the London/The York Dungeons
Is there anywhere better to go on Halloween, than to a dungeon?! It’s doubtful. With Sweeney Todd giving one of his famous shaves (well… almost) in London Dungeons and Eric Bloodaxe, the last Viking King of York showing you how he’s earned his nickname, it would be hard to choose between the two! One things for certain, the Master of Tricks will be playing his mischievous games in both, so beware…
Halloween runs until Sunday 2nd November in the Dungeons, so book now to avoid disappointment!
Links to the dungeons: http://www.thedungeons.com/york/en/
http://www.thedungeons.com/london/en/
Catching ghosts at Explosion! Museum of Naval Firepower
If walking around Dungeons aren’t your cup of tea, then maybe catching ghosts will be. Starting from 11am, the Explosion! Museum of Naval Firepower in Hampshire will help you create your own “ghost catcher with a simple film canister and baking powder, that will pop up and create a supernatural scare”! If that doesn’t float your ghost, if you can hold out until November 21st, you could stay overnight for a Paranormal Investigation…
Link to the museum: http://www.explosion.org.uk/
Bake some Halloween treats!
If you have some time before going out trick or treating, or before guests arrive for a Halloween party, bake some Halloween treats! There’s tonnes of recipes to follow online, there are loads of Halloween food puns to be made! Anyone for finger sandwiches?
Watch the scariest films
Horror and Halloween go hand in hand. There is no two ways about it. So why not gather some other friends who have no plans, stick on Omen or Nightmare on Elm Street, or whatever terrifies you the most, grab some popcorn and have a Fright Fest in your own home. Or have it on your own… if you feel brave enough.
Simply go Trick or Treating
Halloween is a lot more fun when you’re younger. Free sweets on this night, this year, every year? Amazing! So simply spreading the Halloween spirit this year to the younger generation, will surely brighten up your evening? Dress up in a make-shift, last minute costume and either go around with a younger relative, or hand out the sweets. (But please make sure the children are accompanied by an adult.
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Winter isn’t all that bad. Sure, the weather is freezing, noses start snivelling and there are Christmas adverts galore; but why should summer be only the season that we love? Why should summer be the only time of year where we try new things? Why should we only limit ourselves to the summer time? There’s nothing stopping you from taking those fantastic summer nights, through to winter. Setbacks be gone. Here are a few ways to make winter as memorable as summer.
For starters, fireworks. If you have kids, the chances are, they love fireworks. The bright flashes lighting up the early darkness that winter brings, and giving us a small bit of magic for a brief second. Most of us find them to annoying (especially when you’re trying to sleep) but why not bring them back into your life? Some wait for November fifth, and go to their local firework show. But why wait? Buy a few fireworks, a few sparklers, cook some good food and pour some good drinks, gather friends, family and other loved ones and just make a night of it. It’s probably a lot cheaper than buying a six pound burger from a van, and a lot quieter (ish). But if the idea of that just sounds like a lot of work, look out for your local firework show! Quite often, there’s a lot more than just fireworks going on, and if you can be in the cold for a while, there’s always a chance you’re going to have a good time.
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Which brings us to our second point of our wintery blog- Winter sports. This may be something you haven’t tried. The idea of trying to balance on skis might just sound like your idea of a terrible time, but before the end of the year is up, why not give it a go? There are plenty of indoor skiing centres scattered around the UK, including Chill
Factore in Manchester. Not only will this be a great way to keep up with your active lifestyle, but it’s a different and fun way to do so! Lessons cost money (unfortunately), so look for the closest indoor skiing centre near you and see how much they cost.
If the idea of winter sports seems like too much hard work, but the idea of lying in bed all day and watching films seems to appeal you more, then perhaps our next
suggestion will be more to your taste. Every year, the BFI Film Festival is held, every year they put on a mixture of films that will delight your inner film geek. For the horror fans out there, there’s always Film 4’s Frightfest. And never fear if you’re too far away to go, or if money is limited for you – lots of film festivals are held all over the country, and have tickets that are as cheap as £5.
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Another kind of festival rolls around this time of year. The Christmassy kind. With carolling, good food and plenty of things to buy, there’s no better way to get into that Christmas spirit. Some often have a Victorian theme, which will have actors dressed in Victorian clothing, singing old carols and riding in horse drawn carriages. It will show you how the Victorians would have celebrated Christmas, back in the olden times. Christmas festivals are generally a fun day out for all the family, but if you still can’t muster up some Christmas cheer, there’s always some mulled wine to get you through.
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But if the suggestion of going outside at all this winter is making you feel chilly inside, then maybe just try something new inside your home. Once summer passes, salads are forgotten about and soon the casserole dishes arrive. The hearty meals to warm you up inside are one of the few best parts about winter. If there was ever a time to
experiment with food and make something new and different, now would be the time. Look up a new recipe every week or maybe just grab some random ingredients and pull a Ready Steady Cook. However you do it, get creative this winter!
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Discover the fun and excitement to be had with the family in Blackpool this summer and beyond, including must-see attractions, activities and events.
Ideas and inspiration for summer days out with the family
Children always look forward to fun-filled days out with the family over summer, especially to Blackpool. From experiencing the Pleasure Beach roller coasters and taking exhilarating trips up The Blackpool Tower, to playing on the award-winning sandy beach and each of the three piers, it is clear to see why kids enjoy visiting the seaside town so much.
If you are planning on visiting Blackpool over the summer months and are looking for ideas and inspiration for your day trip, here are ten top activities to think about adding to your itinerary.
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| Blackpool Tower & Beach |
1) Thrill seeking at the Blackpool Pleasure Beach
The Pleasure Beach was recently voted the best amusement park in the UK. There are activities for kids of all ages, including white-knuckle roller coasters like The Big One and Ice Blast, old classics such as the Grand National as well as Nickelodeon Land which contains rides themed around popular Nickelodeon characters – perfect for any younger children.
Guaranteed to please everybody and keep children and adults entertained for hours, the Blackpool Pleasure Beach is always a must for families.
2) Soaring skywards at The Blackpool Tower
The Blackpool Tower is well worth a visit; prepare to be amazed by the 4D cinema experience which tells the story of a child’s journey through Blackpool in a way that engages all five senses.
Your family can also head up to The Blackpool Tower Eye and enjoy breath-taking scenes across the coastline. No doubt your kids will especially love the Skywalk experience, as the glass floor seems as though you are walking on air.
3) Animal watching at The Blackpool Zoo
A popular activity for family days out, Blackpool Zoo is home to many fantastic exhibits including the Big Cat House, Giraffe Heights and award winning Gorilla Mountain. With an ever-increasing and varied collection of birds, mammals, reptiles and more, your children can enjoy discovering some of the most amazing animals in the world.
There is also a Children's Farm, where kids can play and learn about smaller animals. We would highly recommend making a special visit to the new arrivals at the zoo, which includes the Orang-utan Outlook and the two endangered Siberian Tiger Cubs.
4) Splashing around at the Sandcastle Waterpark
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| SEA LIFE Blackpool Boris and Betty |
If your children are fans of waterslides, Blackpool is home to the largest indoor water park in the UK. There are 18 different attractions to keep them entertained, including fun pools, wave machines and water chutes. As your kids splash away in the pools, there is a burger bar and snack bar for you to take full advantage of for a few hours.
5) Exploring the underwater world at SEA LIFE
Children who visit SEA LIFE Blackpool are always wowed by the 2,000 aquatic creatures on display, including tropical sharks, sea horses, colourful fish and octopuses. For those feeling a little brave, there is an Interactive Rockpool Experience where children can hold or touch starfish. Your family should also walk through the underwater tunnel, where sharks and rays swim right overhead.
6) Becoming an Aztec adventurer at Jungle Jims
If you have younger children, a visit to the Jungle Jim’s indoor adventure playground is recommended. Located in The Blackpool Tower, your brave little explorers can swing, slide and climb through the soft play centre while you rest your feet in the Jungle Jim’s cafe.
7) Gazing up at the dazzling Blackpool Illuminations
The Blackpool Illuminations are always a favourite for parents and children as there are an array of different lights, designs and characters to gaze up at every year. In 2014, the Illuminations run from the 29th August until the 9th November. The Switch-On Festival Weekend is set to be one of the biggest Blackpool events of the year, with comedian Peter Kay switching on the Illuminations and chart toppers Little Mix headlining the show.
If you can only visit Blackpool during the daytime, visit the brand new Illuminasia. The world’s largest indoor illuminations attraction contains six interactive zones including The Mysteries of China, The Lazer Show and The Land of the Giants, where Chinese paper lanterns are used to create dazzling light displays.
8) Strolling down the beach and its piers
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| Central Pier |
A trip to the award-winning Blackpool beach is an absolute must during summer. With ice creams to indulge in, donkey rides for the kids and plenty of paddling opportunities, it is an ideal summer’s day activity.
Also, we would highly recommend taking the kids along to the central pier for a few hours. There are classic fairground rides like dodgers, waltzers and The Big Wheel as well as The Family Bar and The Showbar, both of which present live entertainment and shows throughout summer.
9) Watching in awe at the Blackpool Air Show
Great for summer days out on a budget, this activity is completely free for all the family. You can sit on the beach and watch as planes take to the sky to perform amazing stunts, aerobatic displays and even wing walking tricks. These fine displays are carried out by incredibly beautiful aircrafts, including the finest military and civilian aircrafts from both the past and present.
In 2014, the Blackpool Air Show will take place on Sunday 10th and Monday 11th August.
10) Enjoying family time at Stanley Park
Stanley Park is well worth visiting on a sunny day if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the promenade. It has recently received a Green Flag Award 2014 - which rewards the best parks and green spaces in the UK - and a 'certificate of excellence' from Tripadvisor due to the quality of reviews earned over the past year.
The 390 acre park has stunning landscape design including delightful Rose, Remembrance and Italian Gardens, water fountains, statues and a boat lake along with an impressive Bandstand and Cocker Tower. There is also a unique Art Deco cafe offering stunning views across the greenery and a large animal farm themed play area for children.
For attractions and activities that require tickets, we recommend buying them online beforehand. This will allow you to make the most of any online deals and discounts, while helping you to avoid certain queues on the day so that you can truly make the most of your time in Blackpool.
Author Bio: Cassie Forshaw is Head of Marketing at Blackpool’s Back. Blackpool’s Back is an information website about all of the top attractions, events and things to do in Blackpool.
Let's have a look at some of the top things to do in Kent for the kids!
Diggerland –
What’s not to love about Diggerland? Kids can drive and ride trucks and diggers under the safety and supervision of professionals (Diggerland makes sure all pieces of equipment and machinery are manned).
Recommended time at attraction: You could easily stay for a whole day here and go on all the rides and activities 2 or 3 times.
Cost: £19.95 for an adult and children 90cm or over. (Pssst… don’t forget to download our discount vouchers).
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The Hop Farm Family Park –
Where to start with Hop Farm? How about some giant jumping pillows? Boing! Once the kids have been bounced out, why not have a blast in the Mega blaster Arena or enter the Hop Farm’s Magic Castle! Other attractions include the Animal World and Birds of Prey Zone, kids driving school, outdoor play areas, crazy golf and the outdoor dig out zone.
Recommended time at attraction: Up to a full day.
Cost: Free to enter, activities cost around £1-£3 each.
Dover Castle –
Surely one of the best historical places to visit for kids in Britain, Dover Castle is packed with fun things to do including exploring the grounds and hidden tunnels, reaching the top of the great tower and loads of interactive exhibitions, museums and tours.
Recommended time at attraction: Between half a day and a full day. Expect lots of walking!
Cost: £45.50 for two adults and up to three children.
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| © English Heritage Photo Library | © English Heritage Photo Library |
Howletts Wild Animal Park –
Not much beats the amazement on a young child’s face as it watches a tiger tuck into its lunch! Highlights include a walkthrough lemur experience and the lowland gorillas.
Recommended time at attraction: Up to a full day.
Cost: £23.95 for an adult and £19.95 for a child aged 3-15 years. You can also upgrade your ticket to a passport ticket on the day of entry which allows unlimited access to the park for a whole year.
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| © Howletts | © Howletts |
Kent Life –
Kids will love all the farmyard animals which includes sheep, pigs, horses, donkeys, rabbits, goats, ducks and alpacas! The fun doesn’t end there either, with an outdoor and indoor play area, electric quad bikes, plus tractor rides for the adventurous!
Recommended time at attraction: Up to a full day. A membership pass allows unlimited access for a year.
Cost: £9.25 for an adult and £7.25 for a child aged 3-15 years.
Eagle Heights –
A birds of prey centre with over species of bird, most of which can be viewed in their daily demonstrations. There’s also a play area for kids who want to run off some steam!
Recommended time at attraction: 2-3 hours
Cost: £9.00 for an adult, £5.50 for a child aged 4-14 years.
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