Little Vikings Magazine (Issue 5)

York for kids Issue 05

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New Year 2015

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little-vikings.co.uk

It’s easy to find out the best things to do in York with kids during 2015….

Look no further than Little Vikings!

Visit us little-vikings.co.uk Follow us on

@LittleVikingsUK

Like us on

facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

Email us at info@little-vikings.co.uk

And pick up a copy of the Little Vikings magazine (it’s out at Easter, May half term, the summer hols, September and Christmas!)

Welcome Hello and a very happy new year to you!

The decorations are back in their box and you’ve managed to wrestle the Christmas tree out of the house or back into the loft, but there’s no need to feel sad.

It might be the darkest and coldest time of year, but there’s plenty going on in York for families to be cheerful about. There’s the fantastic annual JORVIK Viking Festival, and the York Residents’ Festival too. To top it off, there’s a host of fun things happening during February half term for everyone to enjoy.

Wrap up and get out there. See you in the spring!

Little Vikings is brought to you by a York family on a mission to help other families enjoy the city

What’s On in York for kids this February half term From Vikings to suffragettes, dragons to Paddington, there’s loads on in and around York this February half term for families. Here’s our pick of the best.

Buried treasure at the Yorkshire Museum Little Vikings can follow the trail around the museum and claim their own chocolate treasure if they’re successful (every day; 50p per trail). On the 18th and 19th (11am – 1pm, 2pm – 4pm), see what treasure you can find with metal detectors. There’s also the chance to dress as a Viking pirate and make your own mini longboat (every day), and to make your own dragon (21st February, 10am – 5pm).

14th to 22nd February – Yorkshire Museum – Normal admission prices; kids go free (YorkCard holders free)

All about Aero at York’s Chocolate Story This half term, York’s CHOCOLATE Story is paying tribute to the nation’s favourite minty chocolate bar, the Aero, which turns 70 this year. There’ll be special demonstrations and hands-on activities.

14th to 22nd February – York’s CHOCOLATE Story – normal admission prices Bird detectives at Fountains Abbey Thousands of birds call Fountains Abbey home and this is your chance to find out more about our feathered friends. Tackle a trail to become a bird detective, then call into Swanley Grange to make a fluttery, feathery bird mobile from paper and card. Tuesday to Thursday, make a bird box home for your garden (17th & 19th February, 10am, 11am, 1pm & 2pm).

Fountains Abbey – 14th to 22nd February – normal admission charges apply (booking required for bird box making, additional £5 per child)

Votes for Women at York Castle Museum Women’s right to vote is the order of the day at York Castle Museum. Put on a sash or policeman’s helmet and join the Suffragette on Kirkgate – the museum’s Victorian street – and march with placards, demonstrate and protest for your cause. Just try not to get arrested!

There’ll also be Suffragette themed art and craft activities.

14th to 22nd February 2015 – York Castle Museum – Normal admission charges; kids go free (free with YorkCard) www.little-vikings.co.uk www.little-vikings.co.uk

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What’s On - Issue: 05

Meet Paddington at the National Railway Museum The bear of the moment, Paddington, will be appearing at the National Railway Museum. There’ll be a Paddingtonthemed science show, craft activities and a chance to dress up as the bear himself.

14th to 22nd February – National Railway Museum – Free Outdoor fun at Stockeld Park Stockeld Park opens this half term for lots of active outdoor fun. There’s ice skating, the ever-popular Enchanted Forest with its many play areas, and an indoor play area if the weather turns northern.

14th to 23rd February - Stockeld Park – From £8 excluding skating

Watch How to Train Your Dragon at the Yorkshire Museum A firm favourite with the little vikings in our house, the Yorkshire Museum is holding a special screening of How to Train Your Dragon.

Saturday 21st February, 3pm – Yorkshire Museum - £5 (entry to museum is extra) – purchase tickets from reception

Jorvik Viking Festival This is the week that York goes back to its roots and is once again populated by Vikings. There’s lots for families to enjoy at the festival; see our handy guide in this issue for all the details.

JORVIK Viking Festival – 14th to 22nd February – events across York

Everyone loves a story, so it’s great that the York Festival of Storytelling is returning this year with a Day of Story. Taking place on Saturday 7th February at the Quaker Meeting House, York, there’s a packed programme with lots for little Vikings to enjoy. Choose from magical storytelling, interactive adventures, a shadow puppetry workshop and more. A family day ticket (1 adult and 3 kids, or 2 adults and 2 kids) is £20, or pay for events individually (£4 adults, £2 under 16s). Visit www.yorkfestivalstory.co.uk for more info.

Day of Story – 7th February 2015 - Quaker Meeting House, Friargate, York

www.trinacriacafebar.co.uk Follow us on Twitter @trinacriacafe Bishopthorpe Road, York 01904 640104

Homemade ice cream, biscuits, cakes and savouries. Fabulous menu including Sicilian specialities, pastas, salads and tasty snacks. Fully licensed.

Cakes made-to-order.

Open daily Tuesday to Sunday.

Bistro open Friday & Saturday evenings.

10% discount on food in February when you bring this advert

York Residents’ Festival -

Be a tourist in your own town!

When did you last smell a Viking village or look down on the city from a few hundred feet up? Have you checked out York’s Chocolate Story since it opened or visited the Castle Museum’s toy exhibition? If you’re local and you spend your weekends ferrying the kids between birthday parties, it’s probably been a while since you checked out what York has to offer. There’s so much to see and do, but half the time we let the visitors have all the fun. So what better time to become a tourist in your own town than the annual York Residents’ Festival?

Once a year, many of the attractions throw their doors open for free as a thank you to residents for welcoming York’s millions of visitors and not grumbling too much when it takes twenty minutes to get from one end of Stonegate to another because of the crowds.

This year it takes place on Saturday 31st January and Sunday 1st February and lots of attractions (museums, trains, boats, theatres...) are taking part. This is our pick of the most family-friendly. Prebooking not necessary ,and events taking place on both Saturday and Sunday, unless stated. Dig out your YorkCard and enjoy!

Something historical

Clifford’s Tower

– See the city from above. 10am to 4pm (last admission 3.45pm). 100 free entry tickets will be available on a first come first served basis (book in advance on 01904 646940) and all residents will receive a discounted entry rate of £1 with YorkCard (no prebooking needed).

Barley Hall – One of York’s hidden

gems. Free admission from 2pm onwards, on presentation of York card or proof of residency.

www.little-vikings.co.uk www.little-vikings.co.uk

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Residents’ Festival - Issue: 05

DIG

– making archaeology fun. 10am to 4pm. Residents can’t pre-book tours but spaces will be allocated on arrival.

Special ‘Little Diggers’ sessions will run throughout the weekend. Limited spaces available (no pre-booking).

Something different

Jorvik Viking Centre

– Take a tour through a Viking village. 2pm to 5pm (prepare to queue!).

York City Football Club – Behind the scenes tour of the home of YCFC, Bootham Crescent. Saturday 31st January only - Pre-booking essential.

Treasurer’s House – A National Trust treasure close to the Minster. 11am to 3pm.

Holgate Windmill

– York’s only surviving windmill. 11am to 4pm.

Richard III Experience at Monk Bar – the gruesome history of York MotorSports Village

Discounted karting sessions. Sunday 1 February only; visit the website for further details.

one of York’s major gateways. 2pm to 5pm

Something theatrical

YorkBoat

– 30-minute sightseeing tours through the city, departing from Lendal Bridge and King Staith landings – tours depart 11am, 12 noon, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm.

York Theatre Royal - See what goes on behind the scenes at York Theatre Royal on a backstage tour. Sunday 1st February only; half hour tours from 12 noon to 4pm. Booking essential; contact the box office for more information.

York

House

– fab chocolate workshops. Sat 8.30am6pm, Sun 10.30am-5.30pm; book via the Cocoa House’s website using code YorkRes2015.

Joseph Rowntree Theatre

– One of York’s finest community theatres.

10am to 4pm. Behind the scenes tours and children’s stage craft workshops.

Pre-book children’s workshops – email festival@jrtheatre.co.uk.

Cocoa

CHECK DETAILS BEFORE YOU SET OFF AS THINGS CAN CHANGE!!

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For more details of everything going on at this year’s Festival, Beningbrough Hall, Gallery & visit the Little Vikings website.

Further afield

Gardens – one of our top local days

Why get a YorkCard?

out for families. 11am to 3.30pm

If you’re a York resident and you don’t have a YorkCard, you’re missing out! For just £3 you’ll get a card that entitles you to various discounts for 12 months. Benefits include free entry to the Castle Museum and Yorkshire Museum, and discounted entry to various other attractions. You also get discounted entry at council-run leisure centres like Energise.

Every family member needs his or her own card. Get them from your local library.

Castle Howard – the perfect place for a bracing winter walk (the house itself is closed). Saturday 31st January until Sunday 8 February, 10am to 5pm Eden Camp - Saturday 31st January

until Sunday 8 February 10.00am – 5.00pm, last admission 4.00pm.

Kirklees Light Railway

- 10am – 5pm. Customers are able to enjoy unlimited travel throughout the day, Train Departures 11.00am – 3.40pm.

Outstanding education from age 2+ Apply now for entry in September 2016

Clifton St Olave’s St Peter’s 01904 527361 3–8 8–13 13–18 www.cliftonyork.org.uk www.little-vikings.co.uk

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Registered Charity Number: 1141329

Coming up for families in York in 2015…

There’s a lot for families living in and visiting York to look forward to in 2015.

Here are some of the highlights of the year.

Paddington visits the National Railway Museum The bear of the moment, Paddington himself, will be appearing at the National Railway Museum during February half term. There’ll be lots of Paddingtonthemed activities throughout the week too.

York Explore reopens!

York Explore – formerly York Central Library – opens its doors again in January after a major refurbishment. The children’s library, always a favourite with families even before the refurb, is bigger and better than before.

JORVIK Viking Festival This annual festival of all things Viking has tons for little Vikings to get involved in. See our guide in this issue for all you need to know.

The Railway Children returns If you haven’t already seen it – and even if you have – you’ll have the chance to watch York Theatre Royal and the National Railway Museum’s awardwinning production of The Railway Children this year. It runs throughout the summer holidays and you’ll need to book early for the best track-side seats.

York Art Gallery reopens Just around the corner from the newly reopened York Explore, there’s another grand opening in the offing. This time it’s the turn of York Art Gallery, which reopens in 2015 after an £8m redevelopment. With expanded galleries and exhibition space, there’ll be plenty to excite young minds.

York Theatre Royal re-opens York’s oldest theatre will re-open at the end of the year following an exciting refurbishment that will see it through another few centuries of top notch entertainment. Oh, and the panto!

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www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

Jorvik Viking Festival 2015: The Best Bits for Kids No sooner have we started to enjoy a bit of post-Christmas normality than York has started to gear up again, this time for the annual JORVIK Viking Festival.

This celebration of York’s Viking heritage is one of the highlights of York’s calendar, and it’s well worth checking out. It runs from February 14th to 22nd and there’s a plenty to entertain children, from sword combat to Viking crafts, a beard contest and even a whole day devoted to poo...

Meet the Vikings at Central Camp Steading and find out about the animals Vikings kept. There’ll be host Camp

of livestock including sheep, pigs, a pony and a calf as well as geese, ducks and chickens. Resident experts will be on hand and you can pet some of the animals too.

14th & 15th February – 10am to 4pm Central Camp, Parliament Street - free

The Vikings have returned to York and set up camp like they did over 1,000 years ago!

Visit their new central encampment featuring a Viking longship kitted out for war - and learn about life at sea and on dry land. Hear sagas from Norse myths and legends, have a go at Viking games and meet the armourers to find out about Norse weapons and warfare.

14th to 22nd February – 10pm to 4pm (storytelling 11am, 1pm, 3pm) Parliament Street - free

Kids’ Film Club: Asterix & The Vikings

Head to DIG for a special screening of this animated Asterix classic. Price includes fruit squash drink & haribo mini pack for each child.

14th February – 11am - DIG - £3.50 per person; children must be accompanied by an adult - Pre-booking advised.

Pet a Viking pony at the Central Camp Steading New this year! Visit the Central www.little-vikings.co.uk www.little-vikings.co.uk

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What’s On - Issue: 05

Little Diggers: Visiting Vikings

Legendary Combat Arena: Fire Vs Ice!

We like DIG a lot, especially the Little Diggers sessions for 2-5 year olds.

During this session, help the warriors dig for lost Viking finds and rummage through a Viking loot bag.

16th February – 10am to 11am - DIG - £3 per child (inc. one accompanying adult) (also at the same time on 17th February (Norse songs and games), 18th February (valiant Viking heroes), 19th (dress like a Viking) and 20th (Norse sagas and stories)

This fast paced, action-packed family show sees storytellers take you back to the creation of Norse life as we know it. How will the Icy lands of Niflheim fare against the might and power of Muspelheim, the land of fire? What happens next?

16th February – 12noon, 1.30pm, 3pm - York Guildhall - £3 adult, £2 concessions – pre-booking advised (the story continues on 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th February)

Craft & Play the Viking Way

Poo Day!

Try a range of fun and historical crafts, games, competitions and activities.

Have a go at making a Viking pot; try willow weaving, beading, braiding and rune stamping; dig for Viking treasure; help build a Viking shelter; design and make a festival badge or T- shirt, and much more!

16th to 19th February – 10.30am to 4pm - St Sampsons Square Marquee - Free (small charge for some activities)

Visit Barley Hall to learn about the dirtier side of archaeology! Have a go at making your very own replica historic poo and discover how poo is used to solve ancient mysteries.

17th February – 10am to 12noon and 1pm to 3pm - Barley Hall - Normal admission prices apply

Jeremy Strong : There’s A Viking in My Bed & Other Stories

Meet fantastic children’s author, Jeremy Strong. He’ll chat about his hilarious Viking stories and how he transforms his ideas into characters and adventures. Ask him a question of your own and have your book signed!

Suitable for ages 7 and up. Includes FREE child’s ticket to JORVIK Viking Centre for each child’s ticket purchased, valid for 12 months.

18th February - 2pm - Merchant Adventurers’ Hall - £7.50 per person

Have-a-go Sword Combat

A great chance for younger Vikings to learn battle skills (don’t try them out in the playground) and prepare for the first battle of the Brave New Viking World.

16th to 22nd February – 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm, 3.30pm Merchant Adventurers’ Hall - £3 per child – very popular, so pre-booking is advised

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@LittleVikingsUK

Brawl at the Guildhall: Strongest Viking Competition For the fourth year, muscle-bound competitors from the UK and Europe vye for the title of Strongest Viking and the chance to receive the coveted trophy. There’ll be a special guest judge appearance from Stuart Garrington, winner of Mr Universe 2013 and owner of York’s Ebor Fitness gym.

21st February – 10am - York Guildhall £3 adult, £2 concession March to Coppergate Watch the Viking warriors of The Brave New Viking World muster and march across the city to Coppergate in a fantastic show of strength as they prepare themselves for tonight’s fiery battle. It’s a real York sight to behold – cameras at the ready.

21st February – 1.30pm - Dean’s Park and throughout town – free

Best Beard Contest Entering its 8th year, this whimsical and fun competition has become something of a cult highlight, drawing huge crowds and some very competitive participants! www.little-vikings.co.uk www.little-vikings.co.uk

Young or old, male or female, all are encouraged to enter and try to win the highly prized beard trophies. Please note, homemade beards are permitted! No prebooking required.

21st Feb – 4.30pm - Central Camp, Parliament Street - Free A Brave New Viking World Spectacular Finale!

This year’s finale celebrates the Brave New Viking World. The spirits are reawakening the beginnings of the nine worlds of Yggdrasil is about to take place…York will once again become a fiery battleground with a finale display incorporating a cast of warriors, gods and monsters in thrilling live-action battle with sound and light effects and terrific pyrotechnics.

21st February - Doors open at 6pm, entertainment commences 6.45pm Eye of York (by Clifford’s Tower) - £12 adult, £9.50 concession, £36 family of 4 – Pre-booking advised Great Viking Bake Off! Fancy yourself as Star (Viking) baker?

Then get your aprons on and create something delicious and Viking themed for the Festival’s bake-off. There are various categories to enter, and lots of JORVIK goodies to be won. Contact Jorvik’s reservations team for an information and a signup sheet! Every participant will receive a special JORVIK Viking Festival certificate.

22nd February – 11am - York Guildhall - £2 to enter competition, free entry to spectators - Reservations: 01904 615505/ www.jorvikvikingfestival.co.uk

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14th to 22nd February 2015 Over 100 events and activities across 9 days, including: Have-a-Go Sword Combat Craft and Play the Viking Way Legendary Combat Arena Plus Vikings galore!

Discover more at www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

/JorvikVikingFestival

#JORVIKVikingFest

JorvikViking

JorvikViking

JORVIK Viking Festival is managed by York Archaeological Trust a registered charity in England & Wales (No. 509060) and Scotland (SCO42846).

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Classes for kids: Dance, drama and singing As we embark on a new year, what better time to try something new? Resolutions aren’t just for grown-ups: it’s a good time for kids to have a go at something they haven’t tried before, too (and who knows? They might even keep it up once you’ve invested in the uniform). This issue we’re looking at some of the dance, drama and singing classes on offer in York for children.

If they’ve been inspired by Strictly and want to dance…

En Pointe En Pointe opened in January 2013 and has expanded rapidly to run ballet classes all over York for everyone aged over one, and we’ve heard very good things.

Students from the age of four upwards study the R.A.D syllabus and can participate in exams if they like. There are summer schools and stage shows each year for the students to showcase their skills.

More info: www.enpointeyork.co.uk

www.little-vikings.co.uk

Baby Ballet Baby Ballet specializes in pre-school dance. Classes are informal, fun and non-competitive as a result. We’ve taken our 2 ½ year old along and she really enjoyed the simple, well-structured sessions and responded well to the lovely teacher. Every year, over-threes get the opportunity to take part in a show. The 3-week trial (£15) is a great way to work out if it’s right for your little Viking before you commit.

More info: www.babyballet.co.uk

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Yorkshire Rose Academy of Dance Children from 18 months upwards are welcome at the dance classes (ballet, jazz, street dance, tap & modern and musical theatre) run by the Yorkshire Rose Academy. They’ll be taught by highly trained teachers in classes designed to nurture talent, improve confidence and build friendships. Free trials available.

More info: www.yrad.co.uk Katie Ventress School of Dance Italia Conti-trained Miss Katie offers ballet, tap, modern theatre dance and drama/music theatre classes across York for children from 18 months upwards.

Sessions are imaginative, creative and fun.

More info: www.katieventressschoolofdance.co.uk Evolution Dance with Hayley Patrick New for York for 2015 are Hayley Patrick’s freestyle dance classes for children of all ages. Babies from as young as 6 months can enjoy the Boogie Babies sessions, and there’s something for every age group up to 18 years old.

More info: www.evolutiondance.net

BOOK A DANCE CLASS NOW! Call Hayley 07800 865 214

with rick y Pat le y a H

Email evolutiondancewhp@yahoo.com For more information visit our website www.evolutiondance.net

NEW! Freestyle Dance classes for children & young people of all ages are coming to your area from 12th January 2015!

Mondays Elvington Village Hall

09.30am 10.30am 16.00pm 16.45pm 17.30pm

– – – – –

10.15am 11.15am 16.45pm 17.30pm 18.15pm

Boogie Babies (6m – 18m / walking) Mini Movers (18m /walking – 3 years) Junior Freestyle (4 – 7 years) Senior Freestyle (8 – 12 years) Teen Freestyle (13 – 18 years)

Thursdays Oaken Grove Community Centre – Haxby

12.45pm 13.45pm 15.30pm 16.15pm 17.00pm

– – – – –

13.30pm 14.30pm 16.15pm 17.00pm 17.45pm

Boogie Babies (6m – 18m / walking) Mini Movers (18m /walking – 3 years) Junior Freestyle (4 – 7 years) Senior Freestyle (8 – 12 years) Teen Freestyle (13 – 18 years)

Friday – mornings Oaken Grove Community Centre – Haxby

09.15am – 10.00am 10.00am – 10.45am

Boogie Babies (6m – 18m / walking) Mini Movers (18m /walking – 3 years)

Friday – afternoons Orchard Park Community Centre – Huntington

13.00pm – 13.45pm 13.45pm – 14.30pm

Boogie Babies (6m – 18m / walking) Mini Movers (18m /walking – 3 years)

Tread the Boards Performing arts Classes for ages 3-16

Dance

Drama

Learn new skills

Singing

Have Fun

Boost Confidence

Classes at Clifton Moor and Poppleton

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Tread The Boards academy of Performing arts Tel: 01904 693661 email: alison@treadtheboards.org Web: www.treadtheboards.org

For future stars of stage and screen (and those who just love to sing) PQA Based at Huntington School, the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts run classes in performing arts for 6 – 18 year olds and, in the Poppets academy, for 4-5 year olds. Students can enjoy masterclasses from stage experts (makeup artists, stage combat professionals…) and perform in showcases at the academy and even in the West End. More info: james@pqacademy.com

Tread the Boards This academy of performing arts teaches 3 to 16 year-olds the art of dance, drama and singing in a positive and fun environment. With an emphasis on confidence-building, highly experienced teachers work hard to equip the students with skills they’ll need for life as well as the stage. A great option for children who want to learn a bit of everything in a supportive and friendly environment. Classes are held across York, both during the week and at weekends.

More info: Alison@treadtheboards.org

4 & 5 ye ar ol ds Fa nt as tic fu n fo r

e v e r y S a tu r d a y !

Co m e al on g an d jo in th e fu n at pq a

Find us at Huntington School, Huntington Road, Huntington, York, YO32 9WT Saturdays from 10 till 11.30am To enrol your child and for further information please visit www.pqacademy.com or call us now on 084567 32022

www.little-vikings.co.uk

Tel 0755 735 5562 principal@enpointeyork.co.uk �.enpointeyork.co.uk facebook.com/enpointeyork Classes from £3.25 1414

| Girls & Boys | All ages @LittleVikingsUK

York Youth Theatre The ever-popular York Youth Theatre is run by York Theatre Royal. Professional theatre practitioners run groups for 5 to 19 year-olds, teaching theatrical techniques and fundamental life skills. Every year, each group has the chance to perform in the theatre’s main house, studio theatre or another venue. The waiting list is long, so apply long before you’ll need the place.

More info: www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk Songbox Song Box’s fun and friendly creative musical play sessions are aimed at 0 – 4 year-olds. The combination of singing, action rhymes, movement, percussion, props and puppets entrances even the most active of toddlers, making these classes a firm favourite for many York families. We took our two eldest along and they both enjoyed it very much. Price is per family, not per child, making it great value.

More info: www.york-songbox.co.uk Hoglets Hoglets storytelling and drama classes are ideal for babies and toddlers. Fun and engaging classes kick off with a story performed by Mama Hoglet – actress Gemma Sharp – followed by games, songs, crafts and advice on methods used and how parents can use them at home.

Weekly classes at various York children’s centres.

More info: hoglets.org.uk

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lSong Box Family music groups for 0-4 year olds All over York Mon-Fri “It's the best thing we've tried. Izzy sings all the way home!” Sara Mair

07855 126 408 www.york-songbox.co.uk www.facebook.com/SongBoxYork

York for kids - on a budget Most families feel the pinch in January, but the good news is that you don’t need to miss out just because you’re watching the pennies. There are plenty of things for families to do in York for free or at a discount (and even more if you’re local and have a YorkCard). Rain or shine, a limited budget is no barrier to enjoying the city. Here are just a few of our favourites.

Boat-Spot by the River

Walk the Walls

There’s almost 3.5km of medieval wall to choose from, all with fantastic views.

If little feet aren’t up to a big hike, just choose a small section. It’s easy to hop off once you’ve had enough.

We say – This is a brilliant way to get a different perspective on the city, but it’s better suited to older children and is a no-go for buggies. It can get crowded, so perhaps try an early morning stroll.

Good to know – Some sections don’t have railings, so it’s best for children who can be trusted to walk safely. The walls are particularly beautiful in spring when the daffodils are in bloom.

www.little-vikings.co.uk www.little-vikings.co.uk

Provided that it hasn’t burst its banks in one of our famous floods, a stroll by the river is pleasant at any time of year. Try walking from the city centre, along the river Ouse, up to the Millenium Bridge (between Fulford and South Bank) and back. It’s no more than a couple of miles and there are plenty of interesting sights to keep children interested (pleasure boats, rowers, bridges and wildlife).

We say – This is a lovely way to spend a couple of hours. Combining it with a trip to Rowntree Park is a good option too.

Good to know – the paths along the river are buggy-friendly (just make sure you don’t stray into the cycle path!).

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York on a budget - Issue: 05

Take in the Trains at the National Railway Museum

It’s difficult to believe that a museum as good as the National Railway Museum is free, but it is. Not just for trainspotters, this museum has something to interest everyone of any age. As well as the permanent exhibitions (think Flying Scotsman, Mallard and more), there’s always something new going on and there’s a real focus on family-friendly activities.

We say – This is one of York’s star attractions for a reason. The family activities are excellent and will appeal to children of all ages.

Good to know – there’s a small indoor play area for pre-schoolers in the Great Hall (where we’ve spent many an hour building a tower). There are a few picnic benches, inside and out, so you can take your own lunch to keep costs down.

National Railway Museum, Leeman Road, York YO26 4XJ www.nrm.org.uk/

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THE PAULINE QUIRKE ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS IS ENROLLING NOW! With outstanding Performing Arts tuition for 4 to 18 year olds, your very own movie screened at the cinema, free Trinity exams and our West End show - what are you waiting for?

PQA York is enrolling now.

Find us at Huntington School, Huntington Road, Huntington, York YO32 9WT Academies run on Saturdays from 9.45am until 1pm To enrol your child and for further information please visit www.pqacademy.com or call us now on 084567 32022

Stroll Through the Streets

Wandering around the city streets is one of the best things you can do in York and it costs nothing. There’s plenty to interest everyone, from fantastic street entertainers to genuinely talented buskers to tiny alleyways and secret passages, cobbled streets and grand squares. Marvel at the Minster, take a turn around the bottom of Clifford’s Tower, skip along Whipmawhopmagate and amble through The Shambles.

Good to know – Parliament Street plays hosts to regular markets, including a continental market and a local farmers’ market. Check the City of York website for the latest dates. www.little-vikings.co.uk

Look Out a Library

Most children love books, so what could be better than spending a while flicking through all that the library’s children’s section has to offer? If you’ve got a YorkCard, you can even take some home.

There are weekly storytimes and, for older children, reading groups to join.

Good to know – As well as the newly reopened York Explore Library – a handy stone’s throw from town and the Museum Gardens – there are smaller libraries in York’s outlying areas.

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Larks in the Parks

York is full of fantastic parks and open spaces, available to everyone at no cost.

Wrap up warm and take a picnic if you’re peckish. See details of all the parks in our guide at the back of this issue.

Other ways to save: - Use Your YorkCard Visitors, look away now. If you’re a York resident, get yourself down to your local library and pick up a YorkCard for a small fee (free for under 18s) if you haven’t already. Each family member will need one. It’s well worth it because you’ll benefit from a variety of discounts on leisure activities like swimming, as well as free entry to attractions such as York Castle Museum and the Yorkshire Museum.

- Consider a membership The initial outlay might seem steep, but if you keep returning to the same places for daytrips it’ll probably save you money in the long run. We’re members of the National Trust and Historic Houses, and definitely save money on our many trips to Beningbrough Hall, Newby Hall and the like.

- Buy once, go back for a year Lots of attractions let you visit all year for the price of one admission.

Check out the deals at Eureka! in Halifax, the Yorkshire Museum, York Castle Museum, DIG and the Jorvik Viking Centre.

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Food & Drink A budget-friendly lunch and a recipe to win over your valentine.

Food - Issue: 05

Little Vikings Eat Out Lunch at Cosmo While your heart says that going out for a family lunch would be a nice way to break up a bleak January weekend, your head (well, wallet) might think twice. We thought that Cosmo - a fixed price global dining experience - might fit the bill for eating out at this time of year.

The concept Cosmo bills itself as ‘pan-Asian and world banquet dining’. It’s something we didn’t think existed: a fairly high-end all-you-can eat buffet where you don’t need to worry about the food hygiene rating. Meals are a set price (drinks extra), varying according to the day and time (weekday lunches are cheapest).

Whether you fancy eating Italian, Mexican, Japanese, British, Indian, Thai or all of the above, there’ll be something to pile on your plate.

The lowdown The choice of food is immense, so indecisive diners can end up with a fairly random selection. Our kids enjoyed spring rolls, curry, nachos and roast beef. Together. But the thing that they talked about for a week afterwards was the chocolate fountain, just one of the many pudding options. They loved filling their bowls with liquid chocolate and choosing what to dip into it (cue a long negotiation over marshmallows and the rather less exciting – to their minds – fruit).

Why it’s family-friendly Our eldest little Viking loves pasta; his sister can’t stand it. She loves eggs but he won’t touch them. It’s hard to find a meal they’ll both eat or a restaurant that they can agree on, so it’s great to take them somewhere that they’ll each find something they like. The restaurant itself is large (plenty of room for buggies), stylish and relaxed. It was heaving with families when we visited, so you’ll be in good company. Not having to wait for the food to come keeps moaning to a minimum – bonus!

The verdict Our little Vikings really enjoyed their lunch at Cosmo. While their choices might have been a bit questionable – nutritionists would not approve – it was lovely for them to make their own decisions about what to eat. And if they’re happy, we’re happy. This was one of the most relaxed lunches we’ve had as a family in York (and we’ve had a fair few), so we’ll go back. We might just have to hope that the chocolate fountain is out of order when we do.

Cosmo, 19 Bridge Street, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 6DA Open for lunch (Mon-Fri, 12noon to 3pm; Sat 12 noon to 4pm) and dinner (Mon – Fri 5pm to 10.30pm; Sat 5pm to 11pm). Open all day Sunday 11.30am – 9.30pm

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Little Vikings Cook

Valentine shortbread ‘sandwiches’ These cute little shortbread and strawberry ‘sandwiches’ tasty biscuits filled with cream and fruit - will melt anyone’s heart. They look gorgeous and taste even better (but – top secret – they’re really quick and easy).

Method

1. Preheat oven to 180 degrees celcius/350F/gas 4 and lightly grease a couple of baking trays.

2. Sift flour and sugar into bowl.

3. Add butter and vanilla extract. Rub lightly together between your fingers.

4. Roll dough into a ball and then roll it out on a lightly floured board to 5mm thick.

5. Cut into heart shapes or 5cm rounds.

6. Bake for 10-15 minutes until pale brown. Cool on trays for 5 minutes, then move to a rack to cool.

7. To fill: whip cream with icing sugar and vanilla extract if using (by hand or with an electric whisk) until softly stiff. Sandwich cream and sliced berries between two biscuits. Sprinkle with icing sugar if you like. Serve to someone you love!

Ingredients (for about 10) 175g plain white flour 50g caster sugar

110g soft butter, broken up Few drops vanilla extract Filling

200ml double or whipping cream Icing sugar to taste This recipe is taken from Sam Stern’s Student Cookbook, available at all good book shops. Sam Stern is a York cook and author of six bestselling cookery books. www.little-vikings.co.uk

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Few drops vanilla extract (optional) Couple of handfuls of berries you like

Fun It’s that time of year - love is in the air! Add some valentine’s jokes to your collection and customise some stones to tell someone you love them (or just paint them a hedgehog!)

Jokes and random facts!

Fun stuff for little Vikings What did the stamp say to the envelope on Valentine’s Day?

I’m stuck on you!

Why is lettuce the most loving vegetable?

Because it’s all heart

Why did the banana go out with the prune?

Because it couldn’t get a date

What did the caveman give his wife on Valentine’s Day?

Ughs and kisses!

What did the boy octopus say to the girl octopus?

Can I hold your hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand?

What did the bat say to his girlfriend?

You’re fun to hang around with

www.little-vikings.co.uk

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Fun - Issue: 05

So you think you know about Vikings?

With the JORVIK Viking Festival coming to York in February, it’s time to gen up on our Norse forefathers (and mothers). We might think of them as big hairy louts in horned helmets, but maybe that’s not quite right.

Here are some other things you might not know....

Vikings didn’t wear horned helmets.

Even old horses had their uses - Vikings ate them.

Viking men showed off by running along the side of a ship, jumping from one oar to the next.

Good exercise for young men was throwing heavy rocks.

Viking ice skates were cow or horse bones tied on the feet with leather cords.

Vikings ate breakfast and dinner, but usually skipped lunch.

Children’s jobs included weeding vegetable patches and scaring away hungry birds.

Vikings were really clean! Archaeologists have found Viking tweezers, razors, combs and ear cleaners made from animal bones and antlers.

Viking men spent most of their time farming, not fighting!

Vikings skied for fun. They even worshipped a god of skiing, Ullr.

Viking gentlemen preferred being blond.

Vikings with brown hair —usually men— would use a strong soap to bleach their hair.

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Craft: Valentine’s stones Anyone can send a Valentine’s card, so how about giving someone you love (your mum, brother, hamster…) a lovely stone that you’ve personalised instead? It’ll last much longer and won’t end up in the recycling.

- painting a picture of the person you’re giving it to on it

Here’s how you make them:

1. When you’re next in the park or at the seaside, pick out a few Or if you aren’t in a valentine stones that you like the look of. mood, use your paints to turn your stones into animals, 2.

When you get home, give dominoes or even – if you collect 26 of them – the letters them a wash and let them dry. of the alphabet! Glue magnets 3.

Dig our your paints (most to smaller stones (available types will work fine; use acrylic from craft shops) to stick on if you want a glossy finish) and the fridge or use bigger ones as get to work! You can paint the paperweights. whole stone (you may need to leave it to dry before painting on top of it) or just part of it. The possibilities are endless.

How about: - painting a heart on it and covering it in glitter - using a black marker pen to write a lovely message on it

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Guide It might be cold, but that’s no excuse for staying inside! Wrap up warm and head outside. These are some of our favourite places for families, in York and just beyond. There’s something for every budget and all weathers, even if it rains.

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The Guide: Places to go, things to do Star attractions The National Railway Museum Lots of train-related fun for families, all for free.

NRM, Leeman Road, York YO26 4XJ DIG Fantastic hands-on archaeological fun for budding Indiana Joneses.

DIG, St Saviour’s Church, St Saviourgate, York, YO1 8NN

Cliffords Tower An iconic landmark with picture-perfect views of the city. Tons of steps, so not one for buggies.

Cliffords Tower, Tower St York, North Yorkshire YO1 9SA

Sport and Leisure

York Minster The city’s most famous landmark. Kids can borrow an Explorer Backpack to make their visit even more fun.

York Minster, Deangate, York YO1 7HH

Energise As well as a 25m pool, there’s a gym, crèche, climbing wall, dance studio and outdoor pitches. Swimming lessons, birthday parties and classes and courses for kids.

Energise, Cornlands Road, York YO24 3DX

Jorvik Ride through a reconstructed Viking village and meet ‘real’ Vikings.

JORVIK Viking Centre, Coppergate, York, YO1 9WT

York Sport This new £9m facility has a 25m pool, 18m learner pool, football pitches and gym. There’s a café too, and plenty of swimming lessons.

York Sport Village, Lakeside Way, York YO10 5FG

The Yorkshire Museum Dinosaurs, fossils, intriguing Roman artefacts and much more. Plenty of hands-on activities for children.

Yorkshire Museum, Museum Gardens, York YO1 7FR City Walls Almost 3.5km of medieval walls with fantastic views, all for free. Not a great option for buggies or wobbly toddlers. www.little-vikings.co.uk

Yearsley Step back in time at this 50 yard Edwardian swimming pool, with poolside changing cubicles.

No-frills: don’t expect wave machines or slides!

Yearsley Pool, Haley’s Terrace, York YO31 8SB Tenpin Out-of-town bowling alley with plenty of lanes and a fun atmosphere. Pool tables, arcade games and a small café. Tenpin, Stirling Road, Clifton Moor Centre, York YO30 4WZ

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Guide - Issue: 05

Joseph Rowntree Theatre This community theatre opened early last century and is still going strong. The everchanging programme has a strong familyfriendly slant.

Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road, York YO31 8TA

Cinemas and Theatres City Screen Picturehouse Kids’ Club, Toddler Time and the Big Scream screenings are weekly favourites for children at this fab riverside arthouse cinema. Good cafe.

City Screen, 13-17 Coney Street, York YO1 9QL Vue A 12-screen out-of-town cinema complex with lots of free parking.

Vue York, Clifton Moor Centre, Stirling Road, York YO30 4XY Reel Fairly small, no-frills cinema often showing a good selection of family films.

Reel Cinema York, Odeon Buildings, Blossom Street, York YO24 1AJ York Theatre Royal The city’s oldest theatre. Lots of family shows and a world-famous panto. Classes for kids and a very popular youth theatre. Close York Theatre Royal, St Leonard’s Place, York YO1 7HD Grand Opera House A theatre specialising in touring shows, including family favourites like Peppa Pig and the Gruffalo.

Grand Opera House, Cumberland Street, York YO1 9SW

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York Barbican Former leisure centre-turned-arts-venue that plays host to touring artists and family shows.

York Barbican Centre, Paragon Street, York YO10 4NT

Parks and Open Spaces Museum Gardens This ten-acre botanical garden plays host to the Yorkshire Museum. Its riverside location and stunning medieval ruins make it a special place.

Museum Gardens, York YO1 7FR Rowntree Park A beautiful place with lots going on. Two well-equipped play areas, a small lake with ducks and geese, tennis courts, a skate park, a basketball court and gardens. And a great café.

Rowntree Park, Terry Avenue, York YO23 1JQ

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Dean’s Park A lovely, if compact, open space next to York Minster. This is a great spot to stop for a sandwich or ice cream during the summer if you’re in town and can’t face the cafe queues.

North side of York Minster, adjacent to the entrance.

Piglets Adventure Farm Park, The Farmer’s Cart, Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe Moor Lane, York YO32 9ST Wacky Warehouse A fairly small but self-contained soft play centre based just outside York, next to the Flying Legends pub.

Flying Legends, Clifton Moor Retail Park, York YO30 4XY

Homestead Park Beautiful gardens, grassy areas for ball games, well stocked play areas and a pond. Lots of benches for picnics.

The Homestead Park, 40 Water End, York YO30 6WP

Gory York

Askham Bog Woodlands, meadows and flocks of birds just outside the city. A good option for a short, buggyfriendly walk thanks to the boarded path.

Just off the A1036, York YO23 2UB The Knavesmire Home to the racecourse, but also an ideal open space for running off steam, kite-flying or kicking a ball about.

York Dungeon A tour of gory York, brought to life with sounds, smells and actors, for brave little Vikings (10+).

The York Dungeon, 12 Clifford Street, York YO1 9RD Barley Hall Restored medieval house that hosts the Horrible Histories exhibition. Other hands-on stuff for kids too. Barley Hall, 2 Coffee Yard, York YO1 8AR

Chocolate York’s Chocolate Story Join a tour to learn about the history of chocolate then make your own chocolate treat to take home.

York’s Chocolate Story, King’s Square, York YO1 7LD

The Knavesmire, York YO23 1EX

York Cocoa House Enchanting café, shop and chocolate school.

Regular workshops for children and adults.

York Cocoa House, 3 Blake Street, York YO1 8QJ

Adventure Playgrounds and Soft Play

Creepy Crawlies/The Web Adventure Park Almost 2 acres of indoor and outdoor activity for children of all ages.

The Web Adventure Park, Wiggington Road, York YO32 2RH Piglets Adventure Farm Park Lots of farm-based outdoor fun, open seasonally.

Slides and ropes, crazy golf, go-carts, barrel rides, farm animals and much more. www.little-vikings.co.uk

Goddards Former house of York chocolate-making family, the Terrys, now owned by the National Trust.

Lovely gardens.

Goddards, 27 Tadcaster Road, York YO24 1GG

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Guide - Issue: 05

Beyond the Walls

Beningbrough Hall Fab National Trust destination for families with great gardens and adventure playground.

Beningbrough Hall, Beningbrough, York YO30 1DD Nunnington Hall An attractive National Trust manor house 45 minutes from York. Gorgeous gardens but no playground. Giant garden chess and peacocks, and regular events for families.

Nunnington Hall, Nunnington, Near York, YO62 5UY Harewood House Stunning stately home near Leeds with a fantastic adventure playground and bird garden with flamingos, penguins and much more. Seasonal opening.

Harewood House, Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LG Newby Hall A favourite day out for York families because of the impressive adventure playground, miniature railway and magical gardens. Seasonal opening.

Newby Hall & Gardens, Ripon, North Yorkshire HG4 5AE Castle Howard A beautiful grand house and gardens in the Howardian Hills. Walks in the woods, great adventure playground and regular kids’ holiday activities.

Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA

Stockeld Park A fantastic seasonal attraction.Activities vary but can include nordic skiing and ice skating.

The Enchanted Forest is truly enchanting.

Stockeld Park, Wetherby, LS22 4AW Tropical World It’s home to the largest collection of tropical plants outside Kew, but kids love the snakes, butterflies, birds, meerkats and other beasts at this Leeds Council-run attraction. Opens after refurb in Feb 2015.

Tropical World, Princes Avenue, Roundhay, Leeds LS8 1DF Helmsley Castle The ruins of this ancient monument are a great excuse to visit the pretty market town of Helmsley.

Helmsley Castle, Castlegate, Helmsley, North Yorkshire YO62 5AB Royal Armouries Museum Huge collection of all things armour-related, with loads of hands-on stuff for kids.

Royal Armouries Museum, Armouries Drive, Leeds LS10 1LT Yorkshire Sculpture Park A stunning open air gallery; world-class sculpture set in gardens and woodland.

Perfect outdoor day out when the sun shines.

Yorkshire Sculpture Park, West Bretton, Wakefield WF4 4LG

Check opening times before you travel!

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Viking Voice Rugbytots, York This issue’s Viking Voice is Maya Fitzgerald, 5, from York. She tells us about how she loves going to Rugbytots in York.

“I like Rugbytots because I like kicking the ball and running. I like to kick the ball really high. I also enjoy the games we play.”

Want to be the next Viking Voice? Tell us what you enjoy doing in York.

Email us at info@little-vikings.co.uk

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Kids Go

FREE

in 2015*

Votes & Vikings • 14 – 22 FEBRUARY 2015 •

Discover the stories of the Suffragettes who fought for OR women’s right to vote at

York Castle Museum

Become a Viking and search for buried treasure at the

Plus

Yorkshire Museum — SPECIAL FILM SCREENING —

agon How to Train Your Dr ities at the and dragon-themed craft activ Yorkshire Museum Saturday 21 February

IAL —

FILM — SPEC

G—

EENIN

— SCR

S VOfTorE N! E WOM

Activities Daily from 10am to 5pm

For more information, event times and prices please visit

www.yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk *Kids go FREE with a paying adult – offer does not apply to organised groups.