Little Vikings Magazine (Issue 27)

York for kids Issue 27

FREE Autumn 2018

The Best of York for Kids this Autumn

ILLUMINATED ABBEY Thu 25 – Wed 31 October 6pm – 9.30pm See Bram Stoker’s inspiration in a new light as Whitby Abbey is bathed in dramatic illuminations once again.

10 %

OFF

ONLINE OFFER Book before 19 October

Whitby, North Yorkshire YO22 4JT

The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.

Hello and welcome to our October half term issue!

Autumn is one of our favourite times of year: it’s beautiful outside, there are lots of lovely things going on in and around York and there’s the glimmer of Christmas in the distance. It’s also an exciting time for us because it’s the time that we launch our Little Vikings Awards - the only rewards scheme that rewards the best of York for kids. Make sure you hop over to our website (little-vikings. co.uk) to have your say on the best places, people and businesses in York for families.

Without further ado, flick ahead for our handpicked selection of events and activities this season, including a couple of events of our own at York Food Festival and York Balloon Fiesta - hope to see you there!

Since last issue, we’ve...

• Had an amazing weekend glamping at Jollydays near Stamford Bridge - a magical place to escape the world with your children • Climbed aboard the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, a unique experience and a great way to get to the seaside!

• Been chuffed with our kids for completing the Summer Reading Challenge with Explore York libraries. A summer life-saver.

• Organised some great free children’s activities at York Balloon Fiesta and York Food Festival - don’t miss them!

Little Vikings is an independent publication, founded and run by a York family. We publish six issues a year to cover each school holiday, reaching over 30,000 readers. We are also online every day at little-vikings.co.uk.

www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Autumn Adventures Issue 27

Horrible half term Halloween fun!

The Great York Ghost Search

Haunted Hall tours at Brodsworth Hall

We loved last year’s Great York Ghost Search and we’re delighted that it’s back. From 26th October to 2nd November, discover 26 individually designed ghost lamps and mini ghosts hidden around the ancient streets of York as you explore every corner of one of the most haunted cities. Try to find all the lamps to be in with the chance to win some spooktacular prizes thanks to York Dungeon – the home of Halloween. Head out at twilight (5pm to 7pm) to see if you can pick up one of the hidden mini ghosts to take home.

Join a candlelit tour of Brodsworth Hall for spooky (family-friendly) stories and the chance to explore after dark. Look behind you and keep your wits about you! Tours last an hour and a bringing torch is a very good idea. Daytime fun at Brodsworth - a lovely English Heritage property near Doncaster - includes the chance to meet a Victorian undertaker!

Visit english-heritage.org.uk/ brodsworth for all the details and to book

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These spooky events are firmly family-friendly: all the thrills with none of the nightmares

Venoms v poisons at The Deep

Scarborough Castle Ghost Tour

Was snow white’s apple venomous or poisonous? Did Dory get bitten or stung?

Are you feeling brave? Embark on a candlelit ghost tour at Scarborough Castle this October half term! Stay up late to hear some spooky (but family friendly!) stories, explore the castle after dark, and be on your guard for things that go bump in the night.

Don’t forget your torch! Tours last one hour and booking is essential. It's a great place for a daytime visit too.

Delve into the lives of toxic creatures at The Deep this October half term (20 October to 4 November) and find out which animals use venom and which use poison. Don’t miss the interactive shows at 11am, 1pm and 3pm to discover how animals use their amazing abilities to survive. You can make your own slime for just £1 too.

Call 0370 333 1183 to book.

Visit english-heritage.org. uk/scarborough-castle

Tower Street, Hull HU9 1TU. 20th October to 4th November - thedeep. co.uk www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Join Count Fectionery’s Tour with York’s Chocolate Story

Illuminated Abbey at Whitby Abbey Head to the home of Dracula to see Whitby Abbey as you’ve never seen it before. We visited the illuminations for the first time last year and really enjoyed it - it’s a unique event with a lovely atmosphere. The little ones loved the lights while the bigger one enjoyed the spooky shows. It’s also one of the best photo opportunities of the year! Stop by the historical traders’ market to warm up a hot chocolate or something to eat. Thursday 25th to Wednesday 31st October 2018, 6-9pm.

During the daytime, get creative with creepy crafts. Whitby Abbey, Abbey Lane, Whitby.

This Shocktober half-term, York’s SHOCKolate Story are celebrating the scariest time of year with their ever-popular walking Trick or Treat Tour. Join Count Fectionery and the maniacal Miss Terry to hear terrible tales along the spooky streets of York, joining ghoulish games and savouring sinister samples. Along the way, hidden histories of some ghastly confectionery giants will be revealed like Rowntree’s Fright Pastilles. Why not put on your best spooky fancy dress and enter Count Fectionery’s Creepy Costume Competition? Runs from 20 to 31 October (1pm, 3pm and 5pm); children £5.99, adults £4.99.

Book tickets online or at the attraction. th

Visit english-heritage.org. uk/whitby-abbey. Call 0370 333 1183 or book online.

st

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Prepare for the new term, starting with what you choose for your children’s feet

Child Friendly

Expert Fitting

Great Choice

Free Parking

Footloose, 47 Market Place, Pocklington,York,YO42 2AP T: 01759 301 201 | E: Footlooseshoes@btconnect.com | www.footlooseshoes.co.uk

Treat or Treat Tour with The York Dungeon

Pirates v Zombies at Castle Howard Uh oh. Castle Howard has been taken over by a gang of ghostly pirates and ghoulish zombies and they’re on the lookout for new recruits! Hidden deep within Castle Howard’s burnt out wing lies the ancient cure to zombification.

There’s a hoard of lost pirate treasure waiting to be unearthed in the woodland and an epic clash about to begin between the two camps of the living dead. Will you be #TeamPirate or #TeamZombie? There are indoor and outdoor trails, craft activities and fun workshops to learn the ways of the zombies and the pirates, before a daily battle commences. Why not channel your inner Jack Sparrow and dress up too?

The York Dungeon becomes The Home of Halloween, but there’s no need for younger children to miss out. The Trick or Treat Walking Tours return from the 27th to 31st October at 11am, 2pm and 4pm each day and are great fun. Designed for children under the age of 10, you’ll be taken on a whistlestop tour of York and hear the strange history behind the sights. Led by two hilarious Dungeon actors, it’s a funny Halloween experience without the scares. Slightly older children (10+) can try the Dungeon City Bus Tour where they’ll enjoy the gorier side of the city, or visit the attraction for more thrills and new shows.

27th October to 4th November.

Visit castlehoward.co.uk

Visit thedungeons.com/ york for info and to book

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MAGICAL BEASTS Come and see creepy creatures and hunt for mythical beasts this Halloween!

Mythical Beast Sculpture Trail Creepy Crafts Meet Lizards, Snakes and Bugs Adult: Child (3 – 15): Concession:

£6.95 £5.95 £5.95

Family Ticket: £22.50 2 Adults + 2 Children Age 2 and under: FREE

Open 10am – 5pm (Last Entry 4pm).

BOOK ONLINE TODAY!

Askham Bryan College, York YO23 3FR T 01904 772270 E wildlife@askham-bryan.ac.uk

www.abcwildlifepark.co.uk

Awesome autumn adventures for all the family this October half term

The leaves are turning golden brown, the conkers are falling and the pumpkins are ripe for the picking! There’s no better time to get out and make some memories - just don’t forget your coats! Here are some lovely things to do in and around York this October half term.

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Free pumpkin at the Piglets Pumpkin Festival

Pick a pumpkin at The Balloon Tree Sure, you could just chuck a pumpkin in your shopping trolley on your next trip but where’s the fun in that? Why not head out to our favourite farm shop in Stamford Bridge to pick your own from the huge pumpkin patch?

While you’re there, remember there’s the cafe that serves homecooked seasonal food and the outdoor play area.

Think you know the Piglets Pumpkin Festival? Think again!

New for 2018 is the end-of-day laser disco. There’s also pumpkin carving, the mysterious maze challenge, the spooky mischief manor and the legendary ride to the pumpkin patch where you can take your pick from over 10,000 home grown pumpkins. The Magic Hatter will be appearing as his wizard alter-ego too - catch one of the two daily shows.

Open daily. Stamford Bridge Road, York YO41 1NB. Visit theballoontree.co.uk

27th October to 4th November 2018 - Piglets Adventure Farm, Towthorpe, York YO32 9ST. Visit pigletsadventurefarm.co.uk

www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Spooky Scarecrows at Lotherton Hall

Magnificent Medieval Monsters at Barley Hall

Join the spooky scarecrow trail at Lotherton Hall, where opening hours extend to a star-lit 8pm (last entry 6.30pm) during half term.

Visit Skeletown and enjoy even more activities on Halloween Fun Day, 31st October. The many play areas are perfect for running off some steam, and don’t forget to visit the penguins and flamingos too.

Discover weird and wonderful creatures of the medieval imagination and their uses in magic and protective charms.

Head down the spooky snickleway to one of our favourite hidden gems to discover creatures that would have been used in medieval medicine, charms and spells, and the truth behind the power of eye of newt or venom of snake. There’ll be magical crafting, too.

Why not enter our competition to win a family ticket to Lotherton Hall's spooky trail?

27th October to 4th November.

Visit leeds.gov.uk/lotherton

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30th & 31st October 2018 - Barley Hall, Coffee Yard, York YO1 8AR - Visit barleyhall.co.uk

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Creepy crafts & more at Beningbrough Hall & Treasurer’s House

Magical creatures at Askham Bryan Wildlife Park Askham Bryan Wildlife & Conservation Park will be filled with magical creatures for the half term, as their annual mythical beasts sculpture trail returns for a third year. We went last year and really enjoyed it. Spot mandrakes and mermaids, kelpies and kappas, and then meet some real life creepy creatures such as lizards and snakes. Make a magical mask or create a spooky spider in the craft room, and enjoy exploring the beautiful arboretum in autumnal shades Don’t miss the refurbished play park, and why not warm up with a hot drink and slice of cake in the Hive cafe afterwards?

Take the apples of your eye to Beningbrough Hall, Gallery and Gardens from 7th to 14th October for apple picking, pressing and juice sampling (the trees are groaning with fruit - make sure you visit the gardens to take a look). During half term week (27th October to 4th November (closed Monday)) there’ll be garden trails, creepy crafts, scary beasts and twilight walks, spine-tingling storytelling and costume parades.

Feeling brave? Join a twilight tour of Treasurer’s House or go during the day for Halloween stories, crafts and spooky trails.

Askham Bryan, College YO23 3FR. Visit abcwildlifepark.co.uk

Visit nationaltrust.org www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Fruity fun and spooky spells at Nunnington Hall

Spooktacular Halloween fun at Flamingo Land Enjoy 2-for-1 admission if you head to Flamingo Land in fancy dress - visit the website for details.

There’ll be a Greatest Showman concert at 5pm each day, too (free with a standard day ticket, or £10 for an evening ticket, which permits entry to the park from 4pm). That’s on top of the usual attractions, from the zoo to rides for all ages.

It’s harvest festival time at Nunnington Hall from 18th to 21st October, with displays and trails, apple juicing and bobbing battles. From 23rd October, don your ghost-hunting hat and follow the haunted trail. Find potion ingredients to make a spooky spell or make a creepy craft. For a proper scare, join a Fright Night ghost tour on 31st October, led by a gruesome guide (booking essential).

Kirby Misperton, Malton YO17 6UX. Visit flamingoland.co.uk

Visit nationaltrust.org. uk/nunnington-hall

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Delve into the lives of toxic creatures this October half term (20 October to 4 November) and find out which animals use venom and which use poison at Hull’s award-winning aquarium.

York Maze Halloween There’s just as much fun to be had at York Maze in October as during the summer months. The giant maze may be gone, but there’s plenty else to do, with over 20 attractions, rides and shows and pumpkin carving (free pumpkin for every child: bonus!).

Note that there are no fireworks at York Maze this year - read on for alternative places 27th October to 4th november 2018 - York Maze, Elvington Lane, York YO19 5LT - visit yorkmazehalloween.co.uk

Join us for the Venoms and Poisons Show at 11am, 1pm and 3pm and discover how animals use their amazing abilities to survive.

Head on down to the Learning Centre to make your own sticky slime to take home too!

www.thedeep.co.uk

Balloons, Dragons, Friendly Giants and Engineering Fun

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Up, up and away!

York Balloon Fiesta is back!

The York Balloon Fiesta returns for the second year and it’s going to be bigger than ever. Head down to York Knavesmire the weekend of 28th 30th September to see balloons of all shapes, colours and sizes float up into the air. It’s a spectacular sight, as is watching them drifting across the city. New for this year, The Balloon Fiesta has teamed up with Little Vikings to run an afternoon of free, dropin children’s activities on the Saturday and Sunday (12 noon to 4pm) Visit the Little Vikings website for all the details little-vikings.co.uk.

www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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Newsflash: Dragons spotted in Malton!

Children can let their imaginations run wild at this year’s Ryedale Book Festival, the annual celebration of all things literary in Malton. There’s a dragon theme to proceedings, with none other than Cressida Cowell - celebrated author of the How to Train Your Dragon headlining with a family-friendly reading and film screening (Friday 21st September). On Saturday 22nd there’s a packed programme of events, with illustration workshops, ceramic painting/storytelling sessions and much more. Some events need pre-booking, so do check the website early for details.

Visit ryedalebookfestival.com

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The Big Friendly Giant arrives in York!

Everyone’s favourite giant, the BFG, arrives at York Art Gallery this October. Roald Dahl fans old and young will enjoy this exhibition of original Quentin Blake illustrations. Curated by Blake himself, you’ll see rare illustrations that never made it into the book. See how this much-loved character developed and enjoy the chance to see some charming pictures from the best children’s illustrator in the business. The exhibition runs from 12th October 2018 to 24th February 2019 at York Art Gallery.

Visit yorkartgallery.co.uk.

York Musical Theatre Company presents

Halloween Holiday Camp

TIP OR treat Monday 29th October York - Osbaldwick Junior School Tuesday 30th October York - Vale of York Academy North Leeds - Otley Courthouse Wednesday 31st October York - Huntington Memorial Hall Harrogate - Harrogate High

Devised and Directed by Paul Laidlaw

Thursday 1st November York - Knavesmire school

JOSEPH ROWNTREE THEATRE, YORK

07853 125151

york@technologyinplay.club

4 - 6 October

FAMILY TICKET OFFER £40* TICKETS £14 CHILDREN £10 Josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk Box Office 01904 501935 *terms and conditions apply

Future engineers at the National Railway Museum Engineering has become pretty cool recently, and the National Railway Museum’s electrifying half term activities might just inspire a new generation of scientists, engineers and experimenters. At Future Engineers, children can get hands-on with activities that will set their imaginations alight and spark their creativity. Entry is free, as always, with a small charge for some activities. Among headline performers this year is award-winning science presenter, author and rapper Jon Chase who returns for a second year to treat audiences to live hip-hop that covers everything from steam to science and Star Wars. This year there’s also a focus on women in engineering, with 50% of visiting engineers being female. While you’re there visit Testing, a new exhibition that brings people face to face with the UK’s latest railway technology from Crossrail, HS2 and the UK’s first Hyperloop pod.

An inspiring visit is guaranteed.

27th October to 4th November, 10am to 6pm. Visit railwaymuseum.org.uk

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Explore miles of footpaths, world-class bike trails, trails, Go Ape and Tree Top Junior, Forest Segway, bike hire, play areas, picnic sites, cafes, fantastic scenery and Dalby Activity Centre.

5 miles north-east of Pickering. Parking charges apply. Discovery Pass available. For more information call 01751 460295 or visit:

dalbyforestfc

@dalbyforest

forestry.gov.uk/dalbyforest

A Great Escape to Bolton Abbey With caves, waterfalls, rolling hills and steam railways, castles and coves, there’s loads to see and do. We headed over to Bolton Abbey for a weekend of fresh Yorkshire air and plenty of outdoor adventures.

morning. If you prefer four solid walls, there are plenty of hotels nearby, including the rather smart Devonshire Arms (possibly one for a child-free weekend) and family-friendly Premier Inns within a 20 minute drive.

Getting there

What we did

It was just over an hour by car down the A59 from our house in York to Catgill Campsite, our home for the weekend. It can get busy at weekends but we didn’t encounter much traffic, in spite of it being a sunny Friday afternoon.

Aside from the usual camping antics - sitting around the fire toasting marshmallows, letting the kids run wild and getting bitten by mosquitoes - we had a fantastic day at Bolton Abbey (boltonabbey.com). It’s a stunning place with lots of things to do for active families: embark on a riverside walk, have a picnic by the river Wharfe and check out the abbey ruins. We played in the river for ages, paddling and throwing stones, and then walked up to the old priory where there’s a children’s quiz to keep them interested.

Where we stayed This was our first camping trip of the year, and pitched our tent at Catgill Campsite (catgill campsite.co.uk), just outside Bolton Abbey. It’s a friendly, family-run site with beautiful views that’s a short walk to the attractions of Bolton Abbey. Get there early for the best pitches: we arrived late and had to set up camp on a slope, meaning a lot of rolling around during the night. Fresh coffee and croissants from their breakfast coffee shop made us feel more human the following Issue 27

We walked back down to the river to the stepping stones (really fun but not one for little legs) and then embarked on the Welly Walk, a free walk through the woods for families with slightly older children. We managed it fine 22

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with our three kids (8, 5 and 3) but it’s not suitable for buggies or wheelchairs as it’s uneven and steep in places. It’s a fantastic walk with various activities dotted along the route: climb the ladder and slide down the snake; climb through the spider’s web, make your way out of the maze and walk the slackline. Our children loved all the climbing, sliding and balancing so much that they forgot to complain about the fact that they were walking.

Reward yourselves at the end with a treat from the tearoom or a picnic by the river. It would be hard to find a more picturesque place to rest and it’s all free, just pay to park (£10 per car).

Happy Days. We had lunch - a hearty all-American feast of ribs, nachos and pancakes - and then headed to the undercover play area to run some of it off (£2 per child and you must be dining in the restaurant). There are two areas: one for under 7s and one for older kids, which means nobody’s left out. Two hours later and all three of our children were hot, sweaty and happy (and asking for ice cream, made on the premises). Hesketh Farm Park looks like another good rainy day option, but we’d be tempted to suggest that you just put on your waterproofs and get exploring as there’s so much to see and do. As always, we ran out of time to do everything we wanted to the perfect excuse to go back. See you there?

If it rains Believe it or not, the sun doesn’t always shine in Yorkshire, but when the heavens open there are still things to do. Having seen the forecast, we planned ahead and booked a table at the legendary Billy Bob’s Parlour (billybobsparlour.com), just outside Bolton Abbey. It’s an all-singing, alldancing 1950s American diner in the heart of the Dales where you can eat, play and pretend to be extras from www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

For more ideas for days out from York and family-friendly places to stay, visit the Little Vikings website (little-vikings.co.uk). For more information on the Yorkshire Dales, visit yorkshiredales.org.uk

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Little Vikings Awards 2019: Nominate now!

The Little Vikings Awards are back! Now in their fourth year, it’s your annual chance to give the thumbs-up to the brilliant York businesses that go the extra mile for families. As always, all nominations and voting are done online, by you - no pressure! So get nominating those wonderful places to go and things to do to show them some much-deserved love.

2019

York for kids

In brief: How do I nominate? Hop over to little-vikings. co.uk/vote. : Nominate in as many, or as few, categories as you like.

When do nominations close?

Friday 14th October 2018 How are finalists chosen?

Shortlists will be based on the number of nominations received.

When can we vote for the winners?

Once the shortlists are announced, you will have until midnight on New Year’s Eve to vote for your winners. Winners will be announced in early January.

Sponsored by Supported by Issue 27

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Special recognition award

Birthday parties • Best birthday party provider • Best birthday party entertainer

Nominate any person, place or organisation that you think deserves special recognition for the work they do for or with families in York

Entertainment • Best cinema • Best theatre

Attractions

Accommodation

• Best attraction • Best chocolate experience • Best gory experience

• Best family-friendly self-catering accommodation (including camping and glamping) • Best family-friendly B&B • Best family-friendly hotel

Days Out • Best day out...with an adventure playground • Best day out...with rides • Best day out...with animals • Best festival for kids • Best rainy day destination • Best Christmas experience (including Santa’s grotto)

Food & drink • • • • • • •

Classes for kids • • • • • • • • • •

Best baby/toddler swimming class Best swimming class (aged 4+) Best active class (not swimming) Best drama class Best dance class Best pregnancy class Best music class Best cookery class Best STEM class Best holiday club/workshop

Best family-friendly breakfast Best family-friendly lunch Best family-friendly dinner Best family-friendly Sunday roast Best place for ice cream Best place for hot chocolate Best date night destination

Childcare • Best nursery

Nominate your favourites at littlevikings.co.uk now!

Out & About • Best shop for families • Best shoe shop for kids

www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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YORK CHILDCARE day nurseries YORK CHILDCARE out of school management service

St Barnabas Out of School Club

ACOMB WESTBANK PARK

Heathers Day Nursery THE

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The Playden Out of School Club

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For your all year round childcare needs visit: www.yorkchildcare.co.uk

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Dringhouses Out of Sch

3 dedicated Day Nurseri

Please see our website for October Half term opening times

Kool Kids Out of School Club

RAWCLIFFE

CLIFTON

HOMESTEAD PARK

Josephs Day Nursery

OVER THE

f School Club

RAINBOW

HEWORTH

PRESCHOOL AND OUT OF SCHOOL CLUB

Over the Rainbow Day Care

HOLGATE

YORK

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WESTBANK PARK

FULFORD ROWNTREE PARK

HOB MOOR

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Scarcroft Green Day Nursery

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Nurseries | Management support for 5 Out of School Clubs

Bang!

Where to see fireworks in York Sparklers at the ready, it’s time to gather around the bonfire, glue your teeth together with toffee apples and see the skies light up with fireworks. If you don’t fancy having a go in your garden, why not head to one of these family-friendly displays?

Firework Spectacular at Stockeld Park: Enjoy a 30 minute show, live entertainment and dare-devil fire breathers.

Admission is included in the day pass. Sunday 4th November.

Visit stockeldpark.co.uk

Dunnington bonfire, fireworks and live music: This popular community firework event includes a quiet firework display that’s ideal for younger children or those that aren’t keen on big bangs. Saturday 3rd November.

Dunningtoncommunityevents.org.uk

Poppleton fireworks: The Poppleton Centre’s bonfire event is always a hit, thanks to the live music, bar, fireworks, hot food and lovely atmosphere.

Visit poppletoncentre.org.uk for details and tickets.

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WIN WITH Win a family ticket to the Trick or Treat Walking Tour with York Dungeon Halloween wouldn’t be Halloween without a spine-tingle or two, and York Dungeon has it covered for thrill-seekers for all ages. From hilarious walking tours for younger ones to gruesome bus tours, ghostly river cruises and late night openings, it’s all happening. We’ve teamed up with our frightening friends at The York Dungeon to offer one lucky family the chance to win up to five places on the Trick or Treat Walking Tour of their choice between 27th and 31st October. Expect funny stories, silly games and a treat or two. To enter, just email competitions@little-vikings.co.uk with your name and postcode

by Sunday 21st October 2018.

TRICK OR TREAT WALKING TOURS 27th – 31st October, 11am, 2pm and 4pm The Dungeon experience, on the streets of York and without all the scary bits; perfect for children under 10!

DUNGEON CITY BUS TOUR

20th October, 6:30pm and 8:00pm

The darker side of York, and the weird but true stories from its 2000 year history. Designed for older families (ages 10 and above.)

NEW SHOW + MORE!

Late night opening on Halloween, 10 live shows and 2000 years of York’s dark history, open every single day!

BOOK TICKETS ONLINE

WWW.THEDUNGEONS.COM/YORK

LITTLE VIKINGS! Win one of two family tickets to the Spooky Scarecrow Trail at Lotherton Hall!

We love the sound of Lotherton Hall’s Spooky Scarecrow Trail (27th October - 4th November), and we’ve got two family tickets (2 adults/3 children) to give away! Visit Skeletown and enjoy even more activities on Halloween Fun Day, 31st October. The ticket includes full admission to the grounds, house and Wildlife World. To be in with a chance of winning, just email competitions@littlevikings.co.uk with your name and postcode by Sunday 31st October 2018.

BOOK ONLINE NOW

TRIC K OR TRE AT HALLOWEEN WALKING TOURS

Ghoulish Count Fectionery will weave terrifying tales, hand out spooky samples and cause plenty of mischief on the city’s ancient streets 20TH – 31ST OCTOBER 1pm, 3pm and 5pm CHILDREN – £5.99 ADULTS – £4.99 (must be accompanied by a child)

FAMILY – £19.99 (2 adults & 2 children)

YORKSCHOCOLATESTORY. COM

MINIFIGS & BRICKS We offer a unique shopping experience for ® LEGO fans of all ages.

New and pre-loved sets Minifigures (including build your own) 1000's of bricks and pieces you can buy by weight like a giant pic'n'mix Collectables (including sets & minifigs) Come and play in our dedicated ® LEGO room which has a massive brick pit and build tables for children and adults.

Simply pay by the hour and use your creativity to build something truly unique.

At the end of the session you can even buy what you have built!

Not creative? Choose from one of our 200+ sets to build.

Looking for a new and exciting party experience for your child and their friends? ®

We now host LEGO Brick Parties designed for 5-12 year olds which are structured to keep children focused and engaged at all times.

Visit www.brick-party.co.uk or

/ BrickPartyYork

Or call Bev on 07746 598865 for more details.

Wigginton Road, York YO32 2RH Tel. 01904 690527

l l

www.minifigsandbricks.co.uk / MinifigsAndBricks

LEGO® is a registered trademark of The LEGO Group. Minifigs & Bricks is in no way ® endorsed by, representative of or officially associated with LEGO or The LEGO Group.

Love dance, like we do. enpointeyork.co.uk

FOUR TO BOOK NOW Horrible Histories live at the Grand Opera House We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is that everyone is dead! But head to the Grand Opera House this autumn (Tuesday 30th October to Saturday 3rd November) and you’ll see them brought to life with hilarious results at Horrible Histories live! Choose between two cracking shows: Terrible Tudors and Awful Egyptians. Visit atgtickets.com to book.

The Elves and the Shoemakers at York Theatre Royal Little Vikings are proud to be sponsoring this year’s children’s Christmas show at York Theatre Royal, running from 11th December to 5th January. It’s one of our favourite children’s stories, and we can wait to see it on stage.

Visit yorktheatreroyal.co.uk Skating at Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland Your chance to get out on the ice comes but once a year, so book your slot at Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland to catch it while you can (17th November to 6th January). Children who can walk can - in theory at least - skate, and it’s good fun. Warm up in the cafe afterwards and pretend you’re in an Alpine lodge.

Visit yorkshireswinterwonderland.com Your Father Christmas experience Tickets for many of the Father Christmas experiences are on sale now, and the popular ones do sell out early. From Castle Howard to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Beningbrough Hall to Piglets Adventure Farm, there are many to choose from.

Keep an eye on the Little Vikings website for the festive latest: little-vikings.co.uk Issue 27

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www.little-vikings.co.uk

FREE KIN U P MP ERY V E FOR CHILD

Book Discou nte Ticket d s Online 10am–5.30pm Every weekend from 6th October (6 & 7, 13 & 14, 20 & 21, 27 & 28) Daily from 27 Oct – 4 Nov

PUMPKIN FESTIVAL 10,000 Pumpkins to choose from / Mischief Manor / Wizardry Magic / Pumpkin Carving / Mysterious Maize Maze / NEW Laser Disco / Trailer Ride to the Pumpkin Patch / Corn Cannon & more

PIGLETS, NR YORK YO32 9ST TEL 01904 499183 PIGLETSADVENTUREFARM.COM

The

Mount School York

OPEN DAY

SAT 13TH OCTOBER 10:00AM - 1:00PM mountschoolyork.co.uk

admissions@mountschoolyork.co.uk

Little Vikings Make... a Slime Monster Door Hanging 1. This is the messy part so we suggest doing this outside, on the kitchen floor or a surface that is easily cleaned (keep away from Mum’s carpet or this could cause a far more gruesome Halloween scene!).

Cover your work surface with newspaper and then place your paper cup on it upside down.

another two holes in its slime covered body.

6. Take the two pipe cleaners and thread one into each of the holes on your monster’s body to create arms. Once in place, gently twist the pipe cleaners around your finger to make a spring like shape; this will help them stay in place.

2. Taking your poster paints one by one, squeeze a number of dollops of paint around the top (bottom pointing up of you cup).

Then let gravity do the rest, the paint will slide down your cup giving a slimy effect, don’t worry if your colours mix, it makes it look more monstrous. Leave your cup to dry - this may take some time.

7. Finally take your length of string and tie a large knot in one end. Thread the other end through the hole in your Monsters head and you’re done. You have your own slippy, drippy Slime monster which will petrify any party. Have a slime-mazing Halloween!

3. Whilst your cup is drying it’s time to make your monster’s mouth. Take your piece of black card and cut out an oval shape. Then taking your white, cut out the shape of sharp or jagged teeth. Glue your teeth onto your black card oval to create a creepy mouth.

You will need: • • • • • • • •

Various colours of poster paints A paper cup A length of string Some googly eyes Two pipe cleaners A pair of scissors A small square of black card A small square of white card • A glue stick • A very sharp pencil • And some old newspaper

4. When your slime monster’s body is dry, stick on as many googly eyes as you want and stick on your mouth.

5. This job may require a little assistance.

Take your super sharp pencil and pierce a hole in the top of your monster and

Thanks to Gemma from Hoglets for providing the craft. Hoglets runs weekly drama and storytelling classes in York for babies and toddlers from 0-5 years.

See www.hoglets.org.uk for more info.

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Little Vikings Book Club Autumn is the perfect time to curl up with a good book, and there are lots of new titles on the shelves. Here’s our pick of the new books this season (and don’t forget that there are lots of incredible children’s books at the Explore York libraries that you can borrow for free!).

York

for k

ids

For younger readers (under 5) OI DUCK-BILLED PLATYPUS! – KES GRAY & JIM FIELD (Picture Book) Get ready for a brand new story from the creators of beloved Oi Frog!

Giggles guaranteed with some real tongue-twisting, impossible to rhyme animals and where they sit!

Thank you to Catriona from Waterstones York for the reviews! If you would like to be in with winning a handpicked book from Waterstones as part of the Little Vikings Book Club, send in a short review of anything you’ve read (or had read to you) to us at hello@little-vikings.co.uk.

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For slightly older ones (5 to 8ish) THE 104-STOREY TREEHOUSEANDRY GRIFFITHS AND TERRY DENTON (5-8) If you haven’t discovered the 13-Storey Treehouse series yet, then you are in for a treat. Best friends Andy and Terry share their crazy adventures in these hilarious comics. Perfect for newly independent readers. For even older ones (9 to 11ish) RIDDLE OF THE RUNESJANINA RAMIREZ (9-11)

Play Cafe PoP UP Fridays 10am - 4pm

Friends Meeting House, Friargate, York, YO1 9RL

f @DinosaursLoveFairyCakes c @DinosaursLoveFairyCakes

td

.

www.dinosaurslove.co.uk

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The first children’s novel from the wonderful historian Janina Ramirezalumni of York University. A gripping mystery with Vikings: if you like Robin Stevens, Rick Riordan, or both, then this is a must-read.

Date Night Dinner The Cat’s Pyjamas It’s hard to believe that York was once a bit of a culinary wasteland: when I was growing up, Pizza Hut was one of the poshest of a handful of options on offer. Now, swanky eateries and stylish street food stalls are popping up down every snickleway and up every alley.

Not that we’re complaining, but it does make it difficult to decide where to eat out on a rare child-free evening.

On our latest adult night out, we followed the scent of fragrant spices to The Cat’s Pyjamas, a new eatery just off Clifford Street that specialises in Indian street food and craft beer.

Since coming back to live in York, we’ve been hunting for the perfect curry - we had a favourite curry house in London, but it’s a bit far to travel for a really good saag paneer. So the Cat’s Pyjamas claim to serve the best Indian street food this side of Delhi was worth investigating.

restaurant of old: no huge upholstered chairs or carnations. Instead, vibrant colours inspired by Indian street art, utilitarian wooden tables and atmospheric lighting give it a young, 21st century feel where students, families and couples can eat happily side-by-side. The vibe is more funky than fussy.

Service is warm and friendly: our server talked us through the menu and suggested a couple of dishes that we might like to try. To try a good range of flavours - and because we couldn’t choose just a couple of things

First things first: this is a relaxed and modern kind of place, and a far cry from the traditional Indian

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from such a tempting menu - we ordered a few dishes to come at the same time. This was the right strategy: we ended up with a table groaning with little dishes of deliciousness that we could dip in and out of.

Our stand-out choice was the achari paneer tikka, beautifully cooked paneer slices, perfectly seasoned, with the unmistakable grilled taste from being cooked in a tandoor. Our two curries - a very good chana dal (and we’ve eaten a lot of them) and a pindi chole that I’d love to know how to recreate at home - were faultless. There are plenty of meaty choices, too, but it’s great to see vegans and veggies so well catered for. We ordered okra fries as a bit of a joke but they were actually really good - who knew? With a piping hot garlic naan and some steamed rice on the side, and a couple of fruity craft ales to wash it down, we were in our element. Good news: we’ve finally found our new favourite curry place in York. Even better: they deliver!

The Cat’s Pyjamas, 2 Cumberland St, York YO1 9SW - Visit thecatspjs.co.uk

The Princess A puppet show for ages 4+

Helmsley Arts Centre Sat 3 November 2.30pm

£7 child £8 adult Presented by Norwich Puppet Theatre and Rene Baker Puppetry

www.helmsleyarts.co.uk 01439 771700

Little Vikings eat... waffles at Trinacria While we love the change of seasons, the chill in the air might have some of you daydreaming about that wonderful holiday in the sun you had just a few weeks ago. One York eatery where the sun shines all year round is Trinacria, the family-run Sicilian cafe and bar on Bishopthorpe Road.

We’re lucky enough to live just around the corner and it’s a regular spot for our end-of-term treats and the occasional weekend lunch. We thought we knew the menu insideout, but then they launched a new waffle menu and it was our duty (and definitely not a chore) to check it out. I took along our youngest little viking - 3 ½ going on 13 - for a daytime lunch with the promise of an epic pudding.

Tempted as we were to jump straight to the waffles, in the interests of trying to attain a balanced diet, I thought we should at least attempt a main course.

I chose the caponata, a traditional Sicilian cold dish of sweet and sour vegetables and a tang of capers, served with bread. It’s one of my favourite things on the menu and didn’t disappoint - the perfect light dish when you know what’s for afters! My little companion chose a large slice of pizza, gooey with mozzarella and with a pleasingly thick crust. She kindly donated the accompanying salad to me and ate the lot (crusts aside, obviously).

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AS SEEN ON

which to choose was much harder. The classic waffles selection is respectably low-key, like those with a dusting of icing sugar and cinnamon or banana and honey. The gelato waffles, on the other hand, are all-singing, all-dancing affairs, topped with homemade ice cream and a wide variety of toppings.

We shared a Berry Blast (pretty sure it’s not one of your five-a-day. Sorry) and it was epic: the waffle piping hot, crisp on the outside and deliciously soft inside, groaning under the weight of berry ice cream, berry sauce and whipped cream (£6.50). It was awesome. Service was as friendly as ever, and very family-focused (plastic cups and cutlery for the kids, tons of highchairs to hand). If it hadn’t been for the buzz of Bishy Road through the window, we could have been on holiday.

Trinacria, 27 Bishopthorpe Road, York YO23 1NA. Visit trinacriacafebar.co.uk

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

TRY RUGBYTOTS

Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. For more details, just call or email.

0345 313 6716

york@rugbytots.co.uk

rugbytots.co.uk

The world’s favourite rugby play programme

York Dance Works

Mini All Stars Musical Theatres Street Dance Ballet Ballroom Contemporary Jazz Tap

October

07981 553465 yorkdanceworks@live.co.uk www.yorkdanceworks.co.uk

Little Vikings bake... bonfire night parkin A chunk of this warmly spiced parkin will stop you feeling parky by the bonfire this Guy Fawkes’ Night.

It makes a big sponge and keeps for ages so you can enjoy it for a few weeks if you store it right (wrapped in baking paper and foil).

the cake: it is ready when it’s coming away from the sides, firm to touch and slightly crusty on top. Don’t let it brown too much.

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 160C (140C fan) or gas mark 3.

8. Cool in the tin. It’ll taste better if you keep it wrapped in foil and baking paper for a few days, but good luck resisting!

2. Grease a 20cm x 20cm tray and line with baking paper.

Ingredients

3. In a small bowl, beat the egg and milk with a fork.

200g unsalted butter 250g self-raising flour 100g oatmeal (we blitzed porridge oats in the blender) 80g soft brown sugar 80g black treacle 1 and ½ teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon mixed spice 1 large egg 5 tablespoons milk

4. In a large pan, gently hear the syrup, treacle, sugar and butter until it’s all melted and dissolved. Remove from heat.

5. Add the oatmeal, flour and spices to the syrup mixture and mix well.

6. Add the egg and milk mixture and stir until well combined.

7. Put the mixture into the tin and bake for 40 - 60 minutes. Keep a close eye on Issue 27

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Pottery painting fun for all ages!

Rainbows Ceramics Painting Studio, 15/17 Bootham, York YO30 7BW. Tel: 01904 675533 www.rainbowsceramics.co.uk FB: Rainbows Ceramics Painting Studio OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! LATE NIGHT THURS UNTIL 7PM!

Keep the spirit of adventure alive this October near you Collect conkers, make apple juice and celebrate nature with plenty of haunted happenings in half term.

Make a day of it at Beningbrough, Nunnington and Treasurer's House.

Call 01904 624247 (Treasurer's) 01439 748283 (Nunnington) 01904 472027 (Beningbrough) for details nationaltrust.org.uk/treasurershouse /nunnington /beningbrough

Š National Trust 2018. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. #nationaltrust Photography Š National Trust Images\Chris Lacey.

Jokes & Vouchers How to you use an Egyptian doorbell?

Where do ice creams go to school?

You toot-and-come-in!

Sundae school!

Why don’t fish like computers?

What happens when a frog’s car breaks down?

They’re afraid of the net!

It gets toad away!

What was the tortoise doing on the road?

What language to swans speak?

About 15 inches an hour!

Portu-geese!

10% off baby & pre school swimming Call 07825 269146 to book (New customers only ­ please quote Little Vikings when booking)

2 for 1 STUDIO FEE Rainbows Ceramics Painting Studio 15/17 Bootham, York YO30 7BW

VALID MON - FRI ONLY WITH THIS PRINTED COUPON. Not valid for eve bookings or party bookings. Exp.31st October 2018.

t every child n a to love w ter lly. swim a w e ming, respect the autifu W e and swim b

e. qu i n u h is c a ro Aquanatal app Tha r u classes o t’s wh nd a y our stand t s e Baby and ards are the high Pre-school Age 0-4

Classes available at ROKO Health Club, New Earswick, Energise (hydrotherapy pool) and Archbishop Holgate’s School.

T: 07825 269146 E: york@puddleducks.com Find out more: puddleducks.com

Join any time

Why Little Vikings loves...

Piglets Adventure Farm Indoor Bale Play Baarn for when the weather turns northern

Great seasonal events, like the Pumpkin Festival and Santa’s Sleigh Ride

A good size for little ones - plenty to do but not overwhelmingly big

Lots of outdoor fun including mini tractors, bouncing pillows and crazy golf

Tasty homemade food and good coffee Lots of cute animals to meet

Piglets Adventure Farm, Towthorpe Moor Ln, Towthorpe, York YO32 9ST - Visit pigletsadventurefarm.com Issue 27

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Halloween Half Term

Saturday 27 October – Sunday 4 November Join us at Castle Howard this October half term for a Halloween experience like no other. The House and Grounds have been taken over by a gang of ghostly pirates and ghoulish zombies and they’re on the lookout for new recruits! But which team will you join – #TeamPirate or #TeamZombie?

Families of all ages can enjoy a day of indoor and outdoor trails, craft activities and fun workshops to learn the ways of the zombies and the pirates, before a daily battle commences. Why not come dressed for the part?

For more information and to book please visit www.castlehoward.co.uk Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA castlehowardest

castlehoward

castle_howard

Kids Go

FREE

*

12 Oct 2018 – 24 Feb 2019

In support of

The Big Draw Festival 2018

®

A touring exhibition from House of Illustration, curated by Quentin Blake.

Image: Cover artwork for ‘The BFG’ (Jonathan Cape, 1982) © Quentin Blake

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yorkartgallery.co.uk

*Kids go FREE – Children 16 and under go free with a paying adult; maximum 4 children per adult. Information correct at time of print.