Little Vikings Magazine (Issue 32)

York for kids Issue 32

FREE Autumn 2019

The Best of York for Families this Autumn

Hello!

The nights are drawing in, the temperature’s on the slide but we couldn’t be more excited about the new season. There’s a lot coming up in and around York this autumn for families to enjoy, from a host of ghostly goings-on for Halloween to awesome autumn activities.

If your child has just started school, you’re probably going to find yourselves at a birthday party most weekends (don’t worry, it does eventually calm down!). If you’ve got one to organise, take a look at our selection of some of the best parties in town. You’ll find even more in the Birthday Parties area of the Little Vikings website.

Remember that the Little Vikings website is packed with ideas for every day of the week, and you can find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram too.

Wrap up warm, have fun and see you at Christmas!

All at Little Vikings HQ

Since last issue, we have….

• Visited the Yorkshire Air Museum and marvelled at the machines.

It’s a great place and your ticket is valid all year - bonus!

• Had a great time at Countryfile Live, so we’re delighted that it’s returning in 2020 • Been fruit picking at The Balloon Tree. Now it’s all about the pumpkins - picking your own is much more fun than picking one up from the supermarket • Explored Skelf Island, the new adventure playground at Castle Howard. It’s epic and included in the admission price

Little Vikings was founded and is run by a York family. Contact us at hello@little-vikings.co.uk.

Office address The Hiscox Business Club, Peasholme Green, York YO1 7PR. Content © Little Vikings 2019/20. Little Vikings is a registered trade mark. Every effort has been made to ensure that this guide is up-to-date and accurate, but some things are liable to change. Always check details before you travel.

The Original Viking Encounter www.jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk Coppergate | York | YO1 9WT JORVIK Viking Centre is owned by York Archaeological Trust. A registered Charity in England & Wales (No. 509060) and Scotland (SCO42846)

igyork.com Book today at d rk | YO1 8NN St Saviourgate | Yo DIG is owned by York Archaeological Trust, a registered Charity in England & Wales (No. 509060) and Scotland (SCO42846)

The best of October half term Spooky Halloween adventures and autumn days out

Pick and carve your pumpkin at Piglets Adventure Farm

Trick or Treat Trek with York’s Chocolate Story

Get ready for stacks of Halloween family fun at Piglets Adventure Farm’s Pumpkin Festival, back this October.

Pick your own FREE homegrown pumpkin for every child and enjoy the NEW skeleton stilt walkers! There’s a 30 minute magic show from The Magic Hatter, the beach will be open and see if you dare to enter Mischief Manor!

That’s on top of all the usual Piglets fun.

Join Count Fectionery and Miss Terry on this fabulous Halloween walking tour of York from York’s top chocolate attraction. Expect gruesome tales, eerie entertainment and a sweet treat or two. Dress to scare and you might just win a prize! It's great fun.

Why not take the chance to visit the attraction itself, too? There's a combined ticket off - ask at the attraction for details.

Every weekend from 5th October and every day from 26th October to 3rd November 2019 - pigletsadventurefarm.co.uk

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The trek takes place from 19th to 31st October 2019. Visit yorkschocolatestory.com.

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AS SEEN ON

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

Saw-cery at The Deep Head to The Deep in Hull this October half term and be amazed as they explore the myths and legends around one of the world’s most endangered species, the sawfish.

Take part in the very special magical interactive presentation at 11am, 1pm and 3pm daily, complete the fun-filled activity trail as you make your way around the building and take part in family activities in Craft Corner.

rugbytots.co.uk

The world’s favourite rugby play programme

26 October – 3 November 11am – 4pm l Hallowe’en s ! cene ghtfu dland l.

Discover fri her eerie clues s in the woo i p i c as you explore the tra De ine-tingling new wo p s e h o t dland Romp in ! adventure playground

The Deep is a great place to visit for old and young children alike, and is the ideal option for a rainy day (get there early to beat the queues!).

11am and 4pm. 19th October to 3rd November 2019 - thedeep.co.uk

www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

Burton Agnes, E Yorks, YO25 4NE

Scare yourselves silly at Mother Shipton’s

The Halloween Adventure at Stockeld Park

Visit Mother Shipton’s, England’s Oldest tourist attraction, for a good old-fashioned scare that’s suitable for all ages. Follow the haunted trail through the historic woodland to find monsters, ghosts and skeletons hiding around every corner. The attraction will be transformed into a ghoulish event for all the family, and if their excellent summer event is anything to go by, it's going to be spooktacular.

Enjoy some spooky adventures at Stockeld Park’s Halloween Adventure, from a walk through the Enchanted Forest (watch out for witches!) to ice skating, nordic skiing and more. Keep an eye out for ghouls in the maze, too. After dusk, don’t miss the Winter Illuminations in the forest. For older kids, book tickets for Stockeld Dark with its ice disco, haunted farmhouse and The Shooting Dead Laser Adventure.

Saturday 26th October to Sunday 3rd November 2019, 10am to 4.30pm (last admission 3.30pm).

For discounted tickets book online at mothershipton.co.uk

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26th October to 3rd November 2019 - stockeldpark.co.uk

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Love dance like we do enpointeyork.co.uk

School Principal Teacher Miss Donya with student Lily-Rose (Grade 5)

Ballet . Jazz . Tap . Lyrical . Contemporary . Technique . Pointe Work . Acro Gymnastics Classes start from 2yrs to adults . 7 days a week . Studios in York . Start a trail this term

Spooky Scarecrow Trail at Lotherton

Fountains by Floodlight

The ever-popular Spooky Scarecrow Trail returns for 2019, taking visitors through the haunted woods of Lotherton. Spot the scarecrows as you tiptoe around the estate, just make sure you don’t wake them up! Look out for spooky spiders, ghoulish ghosts and wicked witches hidden all over the house and grounds of Lotherton.

Visit ‘Skeletown’ to see the scary side of the Wild West and get involved with creepy craft activities every day of the holidays. Dressing up is encouraged for all the family.

Experience Fountains Abbey as you’ve never experienced it before: listen to the choir as you enjoy the abbey glowing with light. Join an evening guided tour to learn all about its history and try to catch a glimpse of the abbey's mysterious roving monk.

Warm up with delicious hot food as you explore the water gardens and see the statues and follies glowing against the night sky. Gift aid prices are £10 for adults, £5 for children or members get in for free with their National Trust card.

26th October to 3rd November 2019 - museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov. uk/events/spooky-scarecrow-trail

5th, 12th, 19th, 25th and 26th October 2019 and 1st & 2nd November 2019 - nationaltrustorg.uk/fountains

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Pop in to Paint Pottery ...if you dare

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!

Spooky Woodland Trail at Burton Agnes Hall

Autumn activities at Beningbrough Hall Autumn activities are in abundance just like the fruit in the Walled Garden at Beningbrough. Head over for apple celebration week from 6th – 13th October (closed Monday) and have a go at picking, pressing and sampling the delicious juice from the many varieties they grow. During half term, create magical outdoor autumn adventures with garden trails, walks and storytelling, bushcraft activities, broomstick making and leafy crafts.

Every Halloween, fearless visitors are invited to embark on an eerie hunt round the Hall’s atmospheric woodland where clues are hidden among spooky Halloween scenes, with fishing skeletons and much more.

Once you’ve solved the puzzle, a treat awaits in the gift shop. After the thrill of the spooky woodland trail, refuel and warm up with a home-cooked meal or treat from the café. You could even do some - whisper it - Christmas shopping from the courtyard shops.

Saturday 26th October to Sunday 3rd November 2019 (closed Monday) activities vary each day, and some have a small fee - check online for details - nationaltrust.org.uk/beningbrough

26th October to 3rd November 2019 - Trail included in admission price - burtonagnes.com

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H U L L

C I T Y

C E N T R E Over 5,000 animals

Daily dive show and animal feeds

Ghostly tours at Treasurer’s House Grab a hard hat and join the guide at Treasurer’s House as they lead you down into the cellar that played host to ghostly Roman soldiers, marching along on the buried Roman road that lies beneath the house. It's a fascinating tour that will have you wondering what's real and what's not.

Treasurer’s House ghost cellar tours are running from 11am3.30pm on Saturday 26th to Thursday 31st October and cost £4 per person. You don’t need to buy a house ticket to join a tour.

Get hands on with interactives

magic & saw-cery

Join us this October half term for a celebration of sawfish and the myths and legends that surround them.

Magic show

www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

19 Oct -3 Nov

Sawfish trail

Family crafts

www.thedeep.co.uk info@thedeep.co.uk Tower Street, Hull, HU1 4DP 01482 381000

Terror in the Trees at Dalby Forest

Spooktacular times at Nunnington

Explore the spooky woodland and strange goings-on along Dalby Forest’s Halloween trail. What awaits in the Tunnel of Terror? Who lurks in the dark and what tales will they share? Meet a rogues’ gallery of despicable characters, listen to twisted storytellers, have a go at the zombie paintball target range, see live bats and have a go at creepy crafts. It’s a family friendly evening out – the walk is suitable for 5+ (under 5s permitted at parental discretion free of charge and don’t require a ticket) . Don't miss the new Shaun the Sheep trail too.

Experience the spookier side of Nunnington. Pick up your potion poem from the reception desk at the entrance and wander Halloweenthemed rooms, past witches, skeleton cats and things that go bump in the night. Are you brave enough to search through the cobwebs and into all the darkest corners to find the spooky trail ingredients for your potion? Take part in creepy crafts and, if it’s the weekend, join the family friendly ghost tours and hear tales of Nunnington Hall’s mysterious visitors. Visit the website for dates and times.

Thursday 31 October - Walks start at 5.30pm at 10 minute intervals until 8.00pm - forestryengland.uk/dalbyforest Terror in the Trees at Dalby Forest

nationaltrust.org.uk/nunnington-hall

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Š National Trust 2019 . Registered charity, No. 205846. Š National Trust Images .

Your family memories made with the National Trust Let your little ones explore indoors and out at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, Beningbrough Hall, Gallery & Gardens, Treasurer's House and Nunnington Hall.

These are the places that make us. nationaltrust.org.uk/yorkshire

Brave Skelf Island

The Big Draw at York Castle Museum

Across the dormant water of the Great Lake lies Castle Howard’s new adventure playground, Skelf Island and the naughty Skelves who live there are up to no good. Are you brave enough to join Corvus the Crow on his mischievous woodland adventure to find out the seasonal secrets of his hidden world? Enjoy a day of outdoor trails and adventure play, with a series of ingenious treetop nest structures, connected by rope bridges, slides, nets and climbing equipment. No age restriction just a brave restriction!

Get creative as part of this year’s Big Draw. Drop in and unleash your artistic side at the family-friendly Big Draw sessions. Use everyday objects from York Castle Museum’s collection to inspire your drawing - there’s plenty of them to choose from! Included in admission, no need to book.

26th October to 3rd November 2019, 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm - yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk

26th October to 3rd November 2019 - castlehoward.co.uk

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TM

ant esvery child to love w ter lly. a wimm w e W ing, respect the autifu e and swim b

e. qu i n u h is c a ro Aquanatal app Tha r u classes o t’s wh d n a y our stand t s e Baby and h ards are the hig 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

THE GREAT YORK GHOST SEARCH

YORK ART GALLERY - MAKE A MASTERPIECE

Calling all mini ghostbusters! The fantastic Great York Ghost Search is back for 2019 and we’re delighted because it’s great, free fun for families.

From 11th October to 1st November, discover the 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.

Drop into family-friendly activities based on York Art Gallery’s current exhibition, Making a Masterpiece: Bouts and Beyond. While you’re at the gallery, don’t miss the Coast to Coast exhibition. As well as some inspiring art that’ll bring back memories of your summer holidays, there are hands-on activities for kids too.

Included in admission, no need to book. Drop-in sessions on Saturday 26th October, Sunday 27th October and Saturday 2nd November 2019, 10.30am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm. yorkartgallery.org.uk

Visit visityork.org.uk

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YORKSHIRE MUSEUM - PHOTO FABULOUS!

CITY CRUISES YORK - STEP ABOARD THE HALLOWEEN CRUISE THIS OCTOBER

Some of the earliest photographs of York date back to 1844. To accompany a new exhibition in York Museum Gardens, head to the Yorkshire Museum this half term to have a go at self-led activities. Recreate some of the first portraits taken in York as you dress up and become a leading Victorian visionary!

Hop aboard a City Cruises boat this October for a special Halloween event with more tricks than treats!

Find out what the Black Jester, the famous Yorkshire prophetess Old Mother Shipton and the outrageous statesman and poet George Villiers, the 2nd Duke of Buckingham, have in store. As they gaze into York’s dark past, they’ll bring to life some of York’s most infamous ghost stories, stories of sinister scoundrels and tales of grizzly goings on.

Included in museum admission.

No need to book. Saturday 26th October to Sunday 3rd November 2019 - yorkshiremuseum.org.uk

Book at citycruisesyork

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NORTHERN LIGHTS AT YORK MINSTER 2019 The Northern Lights light and sound spectacular was a huge hit at York Minster last year, and it’s back again for 2019. Even better, there’s a new bedtime-friendly early showing that’s designed with a younger audience in mind.

Once again, Northern Lights will transform York Minster’s cavernous Nave with images and audio inspired by its medieval stained glass and stone. You can even explore the empty Nave after dark before the installation illuminates the space, spanning the full length of the ceiling and West End and surrounding the listener with soundscapes and music.

Designed by renowned projectionist Ross Ashton and sound artist Karen Monid, and featuring recordings from the York Minster Choir, the events have been organised to raise funds to protect the cathedral’s medieval stained glass. Funds from the events will support the Minster’s 20-year campaign to ensure all its 128 windows, which hold the largest collection of medieval stained glass in the country, have external glazing to protect them from the elements.

York Minster Northern Lights event times and prices There will be two showings each evening* at 7pm and 9pm, with doors opening 45 minutes beforehand. The experience will last approximately 30 minutes. Tickets are £6 in advance or £8 on the door. The performances taking place on Sunday 27th of October are at the earlier times of 6pm and 8pm and have a reduced capacity. These are the ones we’d recommend for families with younger children.

Northern Lights runs at York Minster from 24th October to 31st October 2019

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BRASS, STEEL AND FIRE AT THE NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM As if there weren’t enough reasons to visit the Railway Museum (it’s great, it’s free and it has lots of hands-on activities for kids), here comes legendary Stephenson’s Rocket and a new exhibition, Brass, Steel and Fire. Meet the everyday people who were inspired by Rocket to create their own small-scale inventions at home. Discover how these experiments pushed boundaries and influenced the course of the Industrial Revolution. Free tickets will be available to book online - visit the Railway Museum website to find out how.

Railway Museum, Leeman Road, York YO26 4XJ - 26th September 2019 to 13th April 2020 - railwaymuseum.org.uk

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As the most haunted city in Europe, York is apparently groaning with ghosts. Famed for its gory past, there are lots of ways for brave little vikings to explore the city’s spookier side this Halloween.

Visit York Dungeon One for kids aged 8+ who aren’t afraid to be scared, York Dungeon is entertaining, unpredictable and horribly hilarious. With live shows, authentic actors and thrills around every corner, just don’t blame us for the nightmares!

12 Clifford St, York YO1 9RD - thedungeons.com/york

Brave the cellar tour at Treasurer’s House Don your hard hat and join a guided tour of the cellar where Roman soldiers were spotted in the 1950s, according to the legendary York ghost story. Even the doubters might find themselves converted by this intriguing tale. Age 5+, prebooking advised. Minster Yard, York YO1 7JL nationaltrust.org/treasurers

Join the Bloody Tour of York or a ghost tour A ghost tour will bring the tales of haunted York to life, and there are plenty to choose from. The Bloody Tour of York is one of our family-friendly favourites as your guide, Mad Alice, will adapt the tour to the age of the audience. thebloodytourofyork.co.uk Issue 32

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See Dick Turpin’s grave Stand and deliver! Visit the grave of the notorious highwayman in St George’s churchyard St George’s churchyard (6 Lead Mill Ln, York YO1 9QH)

Visit Guy Fawkes’ birthplace York’s naughtiest former resident was born just a stone’s throw from York Minster, now a pub. Visit Guy Fawkes Inn for a spot of plotting (or not) over a drink or Fawkes-themed meal!

25 High Petergate, York YO1 7HP - guyfawkesinnyork.com Pick up a copy of the annual free Little Vikings Family Guide to York for more great things to do in and around York for families, handpicked by us. It’s widely available at attractions, transport, shops, restaurants and many other places across Yorkshire.

K B O OI N E L N O W NO

TRICK OR T R E AT

H A L LOW E E N FA MI LY WA L K I N G TO U R S 19TH – 31ST OCTOBER 2019 Available between 1PM – 5PM

YO R K S C H O CO L AT E S TO RY. CO M

LITTLE VIKINGS BRAVE THE BLOODY TOUR OF YORK!

If you can’t revel in York’s darker side at Halloween, when can you? And goodness knows there’s a lot to revel in, with links to some of history’s most dastardly dudes, from Guy Fawkes to Dick Turpin. Of course you could find out about them by trawling from one landmark to the next, but trawling anywhere with children in tow can be more trouble than it’s worth. Besides, the best way to bring York’s history to life is by joining one of the many tours.

After a summer of watching Horrible Histories avidly, we decided that it was about time to take the kids along to The Bloody Tour of York, the Visit York Tourism Award-winning tour run by Mad Alice. We won’t give away Mad Alice’s real identity, but suffice it to say that she’s York born and bred, and there’s nothing she doesn’t know about the city’s plague-ridden, baddieinfested history.

The tour begins at St William’s College, just behind York Minster and is a 90-minute deep-dive into York’s macabre, funny and downright ridiculous past.

Our group was a mixture of visitors and locals, among them an older couple from as far away as California and a father and son from the wrong side of the Pennines. Just as impressive as Mad Alice’s ability to bring the tales to life is her ability to remember everyone’s names (seriously, how does she do that?!) and to tailor the tour to the group. No-one is singled out but everyone feels included, and our kids appreciated it when some of the sillier parts of the tour were aimed squarely at them. Mad Alice is a natural performer who lives and breathes the role, bringing a huge amount of entertainment to stories that could be killed by a dry re-telling.

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I worried that our four-year-old might be worried by the more gruesome parts - like the various stages of hanging she was fine. Perhaps it was all those episodes of Horrible Histories, or perhaps it was the friendly and lighthearted tone. Who knows? But what we do know is that The Bloody Tour of York is a brilliant way for the whole family to discover York’s horrible history.

The Bloody Tour of York runs on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays (times vary during winter months) - adults £7, under 14s £4, under 4s free - thebloodytourofyork.co.uk

Super Science October Half Term <Holiday Club> Mon&Tues @ VoY Academy Wed&Thurs@Knavesmire Primary This half term we’ll be delving into the super world of science. Join us for a week full of explosive experiments and brain boggling biology!

@tip_york

@tip_york

/technologyinplay-york

Email us on: york@technologyinplay.club Or call us on: +44 (0) 7853 125151

LITTLE VIKINGS AWARDS 2020 NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN!

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We are delighted to announce that nominations for the Little Vikings Awards 2020 are open, sponsored by Bootham School! Now in their fifth year, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your annual chance to say a huge thank you to the brilliant York businesses that offer a warm welcome to children. All nominations are made by public vote through the Little Vikings website so that the results are a true reflection of the places that York families really love. So itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s over to you - hop across to the Little Vikings website and place your votes!

SPONSO

In brief: How do I nominate? Hop over to little-vikings.co.uk/vote When do nominations close? Friday 1 November 2019 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 the New Year.

The all-important categories: Nominate in as many, or as few, categories as you like.

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

• Best tour of York Days Out - Sponsored by Wild Things Forest School • Best day out...with an adventure playground

Attractions - Sponsored by En Pointe

• Best day out...with rides

• Best family attraction in York

• Best day out...with animals

• Best family attraction (Yorkshire Coast)

• Best festival for kids

• Best family attraction (Yorkshire Dales)

• Best rainy day destination • Best Christmas experience (including Santa’s grotto)

• Best family attraction (North York Moors)

Classes for kids

• Best chocolate experience

• Best baby/toddler swimming class

• Best gory experience

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• Best swimming class (aged 4+)

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• Best active class (not swimming)

Accommodation

• Best drama class

• Best family-friendly accommodation

• Best dance class

• Best family-friendly camping and glamping

• Best pregnancy class • Best music class

Food & drink

• Best creative class

• Best family-friendly breakfast

• Best STEM class

• Best family-friendly lunch

• Best holiday club/workshop

• Best family-friendly Sunday roast

Birthday parties

• Best place for ice cream

• Best birthday party provider

• Best date night destination

• Best birthday party entertainer

Childcare

Entertainment

• Best nursery

• Best cinema

Nominate your favourites at little-vikings.co.uk now!

• Best theatre

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A Grand Day Out to Northwood Trail anticipation as the seasons turn and we enter magic too. It’s a great time to get outdoors and experience the changes up close, from

Northwood Trail is York’s newest family attraction, nestled in 100 acres of stunning woodland just outside Stamford Bridge. Run by the family behind Jollydays Glamping and North Star Club, this is something a little different: a fairy trail and museum. To date, our fairy-based encounters had been limited to semi-regular transactions with the Tooth Fairy (one gold coin in exchange for one averagely-brushed tooth), but we'd never had sight of her or dwellings. We didn’t know what to expect from a fairy sanctuary, then, but we were excited to find out.

After a longer journey than necessary (an old-school paper map is advisable unless you have a more reliable SatNav than ours), we found the track that leads into the woods and the small car park. We were greeted by a sign that read ‘WELCOME - You won't find WiFi in the woods but we promise you'll find a better connection’. The effect was almost immediate: we relaxed, breathed and didn’t check our phones. Note that slots on the trail need to pre-booking.

Although this requires a little planning, it’s worth it for the fact that the car park will never be packed and the paths won’t become overcrowded and spoil the peace. We checked in at Northwood’s base, Northwood Kitchen, where we Issue 32

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picked up a trail map and set off on our way, safe in the knowledge that there would be good coffee and great cakes available on our return.

The trail itself is a not-too-long, not-too-short walk through the woods and the history of Northwood and its fairies, brought to life through assorted fairy doors, gigantic mushroom rings and even fairy villages up in the trees, complete with walkways and bridges. It’s witty, charming and utterly enchanting. This is no Disney-approved vision of how fairies might live - all twinkly Tinkerbells - but a back-to-nature representation that lets children’s imaginations run wild.

Speaking of running wild, we ran wild in the willow walled maze. Buoyed by our success in conquering York Maze in record time this year, we thought we’d be in and out in a flash. It was not to be: after a lot of dead ends and about-turns (and maybe, ahem, a little help from other visitors coming in the opposite direction), we finally made it out. It was a proper challenge, and all the more fun for it.

While our eldest’s highlight was the maze, our younger girls loved all the fairy details. As we reached the water, our normally cynical four-year-old insisted that we all be quiet so that she could listen. She had heard a mermaid singing in the distance and she wanted us all to hear it too. I’d have struggled to believe that www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

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just half an hour in the woodland would have had such an effect on her and her power to believe in magic, but clearly it had. It was great, too, that she'd walked the whole way on her own without complaining. The trail is long enough to feel as though you’ve immersed yourselves in nature but short enough to be do-able for little legs. At the end of the trail is a little area for children to play, with logs to balance on and jump off. It’s another simple pleasure which is what Northwood adventures are made of.

Tempting as it was to head straight for the coffee and cake, we couldn’t miss a trip to the little fairy museum first.

Our youngest was wide-eyed at the collection of fairy costumes, complete with leaves, wings, feathers and other natural accessories, while the two older ones were delighted to find out what was behind the wardrobe door…

We'll leave you to discover that for yourselves.

We ended our trip at the Northwood Kitchen, where the food and drink tasted as good as it looked: proper coffee served in beautiful earthenware Issue 32

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mugs; slabs of millionaire’s shortbread that had the children licking the plates (sorry about that). If you’ve ever visited Jollydays or Northwood Club, you’ll recognize the trade mark dark, sultry and sophisticated interiors (how we wish they’d do a sideline in interior design services). And just like those two businesses, Northwood has the same commitment to surprising and delighting its guests. Magic.

Trip essentials

Address - Northwood Trail, Buttercrambe Moor Woods, Buttercrambe, York, North Yorkshire, YO41 1AP Price - Adult £8.90, child £6.90, family of 4 £27.50 Website - northwoodtrail.co.uk

Review: Four reasons for families to visit Burton Constable Hall We’ve always found a lot of reasons to visit the Yorkshire coast, and we’ve just added another one: Burton Constable Hall. Situated just outside Bridlington, this stunning stately home with its huge swathes of parkland warmly welcomes families. We did it as a day trip from York but you could also work it into a weekend at the coast. Here are four reasons to try it.

1. Hands-on activities From the dressing up area in the courtyard (little ones can pretend to drive a horse and carriage) to geology-related activities within the house, children are generally encouraged to engage with the house and grounds through the interactive activities dotted around. There’s a teddy bear trail throughout the house, too, and our children enjoyed counting them up (although we did lose track). You can pick up an explorer pack for the house and get your magnifying glass out too. There are I-Spy cards that you can use to enhance your visit, too.

2. So much outside space There’s a little play area that’s suitable for younger children, while older ones can enjoy a game of giant chess or draughts. More impressive, though, is the parkland. See if you can persuade the kids to take a walk around it (resort to bribery if necessary – it works for us). Why not pick up a pack from the ticket desk to do the wildlife sculpture trail too? The sculptures represent animals and birds that you might see for yourselves, from hares to owls.

3. Holiday activities There are reular themed holiday activities, so keep your eye out for special events. Halloween thrills and spills are coming up at October half term, and festive family fun at Christmas.

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4. The Stables Kitchen is lovely If ever there was time to forget your picnic or flask of tea, this is it. We thought the Stables Kitchen was lovely, with really good coffee served in proper mugs, delicious Northern Bloc ice cream and proper, mouthwatering homemade cakes. There’s a good kids’ menu, service is friendly and you can sit outside if the weather’s nice.

Trip essentials Opening hours – Vary according to time of year; visit the website for details Address – Burton Constable, Skirlaugh, East Yorkshire HU11 4LN Price – Family (2+2) £30.50 or £18 for grounds and stables only; under 5s free Website – burtonconstable.com

10am–5.30pm Weekends from 5th Oct & Daily from 26 Oct – 3 Nov

FREE PUMPKIN FOR EVERY CHILD

PUMPKIN FESTIVAL

Book Discou nte Tickets d Online

10,000 home grown pumpkins to choose from / Laser Disco / Mysterious Maize Maze / Wizardry Magic / NEW Skeleton Stilt Walkers / Pumpkin Patch / Mischief Manor / Pumpkin Carving and more PIGLETS, NR YORK YO32 9ST TEL 01904 499183 PIGLETSADVENTUREFARM.COM

Little Vikings visit...

Yorkshire Air Museum What is it? The Yorkshire Air Museum is based on the side of former RAF Elvington, a World War Two airfield used by allied bomber crews during the war. As a result, it’s brimming with incredible stories of daring, danger, tragedy and triumph. See the living quarters, set up as they would have been, and imagine what life would have been like. Climb the watchtower to see where and how the air traffic was controlled. It’s sobering to see how they counted the planes in and out after their bombing missions.

What’s in it for kids?

There’s a lot for children to enjoy at the museum. As well as a trail - always a winner to keep them occupied - there’s the obvious attraction of seeing the various types of aircraft, from the very old and rudimentary to those used in 21st century warfare. We were lucky enough to see them roaring in the skies above (look out for special event days) and to watch them being demonstrated at ground level. Primary aged children will know some of the names and Issue 32

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stories: Amy Johnson, Neil Armstrong and the Wright brothers all star. That’s as well as Future Pilot Trail (pick up a copy at the ticket office).

Food & Drink There’s a NAAFI style licensed restaurant serving hot and cold food and drinks, or you can take your own and find a spot to eat (there’s plenty of green space).

Good to know Already good value, your admission ticket is valid for a whole year so try not to lose it! Top tip: keep it somewhere safe in the car.

Trip essentials Opening hours - Open daily except 25th & 26th December and 1st January (10am to 5pm summer, 10am to 4pm winter) Price - Family ticket (2+3) £40; under 5s free Address - Yorkshire Air Museum, Elvington, York YO41 4AU Website - yorkshireairmuseum.org

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Autumn Issue 32

theweb Adventure Park Birthday Parties

Y A D H T R I B IES! PAAweRsomTe party

EXCLUSIVE

Little Vikings O ffer!

Book a pa rty with at least 10 guests Birthday Ch and your ild goes fr ee!

Offer ends 31st Octo ber and you m ‘Little Viki ust quote ngs Party Deal’ at the tim e of bookin g (phone or in person only).

es! g a ll a r o f s e ic o ch

Great for adventurers, animal lovers, craft enthusiasts, thrill seekers and play explorers!

With a private party room, host, tasty food, free entry for adults, invites and sweet bags, you can relax too!

Wide choice of parties starting at just £8.95!

• Easy Peasy (play and food only)

• Animal Petting

• High Ropes

• Bug Tastic

• Crafty

• Laser

• UV Glow Bug Tastic

• Make a Bear

• Dinosaur or Unicorn

For more information see our Party Zone at www.webadventurepark.co.uk • t: 01904 692221 •

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Lakeside Watersports and Family Fun...

53 acres of beautiful lakes and woodlands with activities and facilities for all ages!

Inflatable Aqua Park Paddleboarding Sailing Kayaking Pedalos Multi Activity Days Playground Feed the Fish Melbourne Road, Allerthorpe YO42 4RL | 01759 301444 Open: Tues to Sun 9am - 5pm | Open Monday in school holidays

www.allerthorpelakelandpark.co.uk

BIRTHDAY PARTIES IN YORK: OUR GUIDE It’s that time of year when there’s often a flurry of party invitations, but never for the grown-up members of the household.

If you have a celebration to plan, there’s a huge amount of birthday party choice in and around York to make most birthday boys and girls happy. Here are some to get you started, and you’ll find a full selection on the Little Vikings website (little-vikings.co.uk).

The Web Adventure Park

York MotorSports Village

We’ve lost count of the number of parties we’ve been to at The Web Adventure Park, but no two are the same because there are so many options. There’s a glow party, animal petting party, make-a-bear party, high ropes (great for older children) and even a dinosaur or unicorn party! These are popular parties for a reason: you don't need to lift a finger, and happy children are guaranteed

Girl or boy racers aged four upwards can hurtle around the track at York MotorSports Village (Monks Cross, York) in a fun-filled karting party. Don your helmets, get tips from the race marshals and race your friends in pursuit of the winning trophy!

Visit ymsv.co.uk

SPECIAL OFFER - Book a birthday party for ten children and the birthday child goes free if you mention Little Vikings! Terms and conditions apply.

Visit webadventurepark.co.uk.

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Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Parties

for 2- 8 years old

Tree Top Nets Ripon Enjoy a birthday party celebration up in the trees at Tree Top Nets, Ripon. Bounce around on the nets, play with the bouncy balls, climb, slide and more. Reserve a picnic area or take advantage of the cafe for ice cream, drinks and snacks.

Visit treetoptrek.co.uk/parties

Make it a special party!

Call us today! didi rugby gift for the birthday child

emma.cutress@didirugby. cutress@didirugby.com com

tel:07730 596663 www.didirugby.com

didi rugby North Yorkshire and East Riding

ESCAPE

ROOM BIRTHDAY

PA RT I E S www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

CANYOUESCAPE.CO.UK/YORK-DEALS

didi Rugby

Alpamare Scarborough

Celebrate your child’s birthday in a safe, fun and sporty environment with didi Rugby. These active parties guarantee to tire everyone out and make sure that they have a laugh too. They've been holding birthday parties for years and promise to tire the kids out for you at no extra charge. Count us in!

All the way from the Alps, Alpamare is an adventurous waterpark that's a hit with kids of all ages.

We know lots of families who travel over to Alpamare with a car or two full of giddy children for a waterbased birthday celebration.

The Scarborough waterpark, with its epic slides, wave machine and indoor and outdoor pools, is packed with water-based activities.

Visit on your actual birthday (with some form of ID) and you’ll even get free entry (ts & cs apply - see the website)!

Check out didi Rugby’s weekly classes, too, for classes from 18 months+.

Visit didirugby.com or email emma.cutress@didirugby.com

Visit alpamare.co.uk

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Yorkshire

Beetle Bank Farm Beetle Bank Farm in Murton is a fun place for a family day out, but did you know that they do birthday parties too?

Spend a couple of hours on the farm, have a private â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;touch and tellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; session with the small animals, ride the toy tractors, enjoy the sandput, play in the adventure playground (with brand new zip wire!) and enjoy a lovely party tea.

Highly recommended by many Little Vikings readers!

Visit beetlebankopenfarm.co.uk

Halloween Treetop Trail

Come and join us this half term for a frightfully fun adventure in the high trees!

Book at www.treetoptrek.co.uk/ripon and bring this voucher for a FREE TREE CLIMB

Allerthorpe Park

Can You Escape?

This family-run lake and parkland just outside Pocklington offers a range of fun water-based activities - from pedaloes to paddleboarding - that you can base your child’s party around. A fun, active party in the great outdoors.

Can You Escape? in York is bound to be a hit with budding spies. The concept’s simple: you and your fellow teammates will arrive at the HQ where you’ll enter a themed room and be given 60 minutes to complete the puzzles and riddles inside and - hopefully - escape! The birthday party package includes an escape room session plus pizza and a drink at Pizza Express.

Birthday or not, Allerthorpe has a host of water sports including kayaks and canoes . Younger children will enjoy the adventure playgournd and a walk around the lake. Feed the fish and say hello to the goats and donkeys too!

Visit canyouescape.co.uk/york

SPECIAL OFFER - Mention Little Vikings for 2 for 1 pedaloes and kayaks when you show the advert in this magazine.

Visit allerthorpelakelandpark.co.uk

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Stockeld Park

Story Craft Theatre

Celebrate your birthday at the home of the Enchanted Forest, Stockeld Park. The parties on offer vary according to the time of year, but might involve skating or adventure play. Entry to all the favourites, from the Enchanted Forest to the pedal go-karts - is included in the price.

Professional actors, Janet and Cassie, host storytelling and craft parties for 3 to 7-year-olds. Their interactive adventures are based on themes that children love and are all totally original.

Visit stockeldpark.co.uk

Story Craft Theatre has 3 different party packages; Twinkle, Glitter, and Sparkle. Please check out their website for a breakdown of each package, as well as prices. Parties can be delivered in any venue so whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s at your home, in a hall or in a field, they are happy to accommodate.

Don't miss their weekly Crafty Tales sessions at York Theatre Royal, Goose Harrogate and Rural Arts Thirsk.

Visit storycrafttheatre.co.uk

Review: A birthday party at DIG - An Archaeological Adventure Our little Vikings have enjoyed visiting the JORVIK Group attractions since they were really young, so it was no surprise that our daughter jumped at the chance to have her seventh birthday party at DIG: An Archaeological Adventure. She was really excited about being able to invite a group of her closest friends to one of York’s best family attractions for a couple of hours of fun and games with a very appropriate Viking theme.

How it works - Birthday parties at DIG take place at the weekend, from 11am to 1pm or 2pm to 4pm. Our two-hour slot flew by, packed as it was with digging in the archaeologists’ pits to uncover bits of history (including the all-important toilet), playing games, feasting and crafting. It’s a very well-organised affair, with a knowledgeable guide and a hilarious Viking host overseeing proceedings and keeping everyone entertained.

The activities - Digging in the pits is always a novelty, no matter how many times the children have done it (which, in the case of our children, is a lot). All of the children seemed to love discovering the treasure lurking beneath the ‘soil’ and hearing the stories behind it. From there, we went up to the mezzanine Issue 32

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level and into our own room to decorate shields. With party guests ranging from four to almost ten, this was a great activity that everyone could join in with (and they could take the shields home afterwards too - bonus). After the birthday feast - of which more below - there were games galore with our Viking friend, and again he made sure that everyone joined in and there were no tears (a rare thing indeed).

The food - Lunch was a real highlight, with the children all feasting together, Viking-style, at a table set with goblets, Viking helmets and other accessories that made it really fun. We chose the stress-free option of including catering and were very glad that we did: there was an abundance of food, from platters of sandwiches to a huge array of fruit, crisps and cupcakes for the kids to tuck into.

There was so much that we couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t eat it all, but hopefully the leftovers fuelled the staff through the afternoon. All we had to provide was the cake, but we still managed to forget the candles! Thankfully the staff were able to magically produce a number 7 candle to save the day.

The party bags - Party bags are an additional ÂŁ3, and as someone who has devoted too much time to sorting out party bags in the past, I would recommend them.

The bags contain a nice little selection of things from the DIG shop, like mini panpipes and Viking coins, and our children were really pleased with them. It was lovely not to have to source them ourselves and we felt that they were good value.

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Autumn Issue 32

The verdict - We would wholeheartedly recommend a birthday party at DIG. They’re well-organised, fun and it’s a real treat to shave a party at one of York’s star attractions. The birthday girl really enjoyed herself, and her four-year-old sister enjoyed it so much that she’s asked to have her birthday party there too!

The essentials Availability - Saturdays and Sundays, at 11am-1pm or 2pm-4pm Age range - 4 to 12 Capacity - Minimum 12, maximum 25 children Prices - From £10 per child; catered £15 Optional extras - Party bags £3, invitations 50p each Contact - Call on 01904 615505 (lines open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-2pm) or email birthdays@yorkat.co.uk For more information about parties at DIG - An Archaeological Adventure, visit the DIG website Issue 32

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An ‘Excellent’ rated, vibrant and supportive school

community, set in 220 acres

of beautiful North Yorkshire Countryside.

We welcome day students

from 3 months to 19 years

and boarders from 6 years to 19 years.

Academic, sport, music and

drama scholarships available

for students in Years 7 to 13.

The No.1 independent

secondary school in the North of England (QE College).

Sunday Times Schools Guide 2019

Minibus service

across Yorkshire.

Open day 28th September 10.30am - 3.00pm

Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate “To be the best that I can, with the gifts that I have.” www.qe.org | admissions@qe.org | 01423 333330 | York YO26 9SS

Eating out with kids, a date night review and a delicious crumble

Eating with the kids at...Nought E at Cycle Heaven We got on our bikes to try out the new cafe at York’s premier cycling shop.

It’s all change since we last visited Cycle Heaven, York’s love letter to all things two-wheeled. While the vast array of bikes, cycling accessories and knowledgeable experts remains the same, the cafe is now under relatively new ownership. The jolly new mural on the wall says it all: Nought E (an independent local business) are at the helm and they’re very happy to be there.

I went along with my seven-yearold in tow, initially to pick up a new bike helmet (when will these children ever stop growing?!). But the delicious smells from the kitchen proved irresistible so we decided to stay for lunch. A quick glance Issue 32

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at the blackboard suggested that both of us would have plenty of choice, with lots of veggie options, all-day brunch dishes and a children’s menu.

A quick chat with the friendly staff also confirmed that kids are welcome to have smaller versions of the adult offerings - perfect if they aren’t in the mood for a sandwich and a packet of crisps.

My daughter opted for pancakes from the main menu, topped with berries and accompanied by a little jar of maple syrup. Prettily presented with a dusting of icing sugar, she was delighted with her choice (even if she couldn’t quite finish the lot - all the more for me…).

I tucked into a quesadilla stuffed with a tasty homemade veggie chilli with crisps and salad on the side - great for refueling after a bike ride or before a long afternoon of parenting. The cafe itself is a lovely place to sit: light, airy and relaxed. There are highchairs, colouring, books, games and baby changing for little ones and plenty of room for buggies. Cyclists and parents (and cycling parents) sat alongside each other happily, enjoying themselves before the next adventure.

Nought E at Cycle Heaven, 31 Hospital Fields Road, York YO10 4FS noughtefoodcompany.co.uk www.facebook.com/LittleVikingsUK

OPEN DAY 27th November, 10am - 12 Noon ‘This is a happy school with a down-to-earth, family atmosphere and a positive, forward-thinking feel.’

TATLER SCHOOLS GUIDE 2019

To book a place call 01653 648227 or email: admissions@terringtonhall.com

TERRINGTON HALL Co-ed I Independent I 3-13 www.terringtonhall.com I 01653 648227

DATE NIGHT DINNER: ROOTS YORK If there’s one new eatery that’s been causing a ripple on the York food scene, it’s Roots, the second restaurant from celebrated Yorkshire chef Tommy Banks. It’s had glowing reviews from hard-to-please food critics; in fact The Sunday Times’ Giles Coren enjoyed it so much that he declared York “the food capital of the universe”. High profile praise indeed, but it did cause us two problems: (1) to book a table at a sociable time - neither the kids’ teatime nor verging-on-bedtime - on the day that you want, you have to think a couple of months ahead, and (2) it sets expectations at almost-unachievable.

later than we’d normally go for. We decided to go along early anyway to enjoy a drink in the upstairs bar and take advantage of some rare child-free time. Speaking of kids, Roots isn’t a place that you’ll see many children: under fives aren’t allowed in the dining room and there’s no separate kids’ menu. Unless you have children with more adventurous eating habits than ours, then, you’ll probably want to view Roots as a place for a grownup experience.

The Roots building is almost unrecognizable from its previous incarnation as The Bay Horse pub (and I should know, having ended many a night out there as a sixth former). It’s undergone a transformation worthy of Cinderella,

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from sticky-carpeted boozer to a light and airy restaurant, that’s both spacious and intimate. The bar is a good place to kick off proceedings, with an array of cocktails, beers and wines to choose from, many local and with given a Roots twist. It was a good chance to browse the menu and debate about whether to choose dishes from the a la carte selection or go all-out and opt for the Feast tasting menu.

On the grounds that (a) we don’t get out much and (b) we’re terrible at making decisions, we pushed the boat out and justified the Feast menu to ourselves. And boy, were we glad we did. Not only did it take the confusion out of trying to choose between the many tempting menu options, but it also meant that we got to try so many delicious dishes. As a vegetarian, it was a rare and exciting treat to have an entire vegetarian tasting menu

(and great for my resident carnivore that he could opt for the meaty option). With one exception - the bao bun was a bit underwhelming - everything we ate was, in one way or another, remarkable. The muchpraised Lincolnshire Poacher custard and seed crackers won us over early doors and - with the exception of an underwhelming bao bun - we oohed and aahed our way happily all the way to a selection of delicate and remarkable puddings. Staff are friendly and service is good without being in-your-face or overly formal.

We’d previously toyed with going to Tommy Banks’ flagship restaurant, The Black Swan at Oldstead, but we I doubt we'll bother. With cooking this special just a 15 minute walk from home, why would we?

Roots York, 68 Marygate, York YO30 7BH - rootsyork.com

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Autumn Issue 32

Little Vikings make...apple and blackberry crumble Autumn is the season of mellow fruitfulness, so this is the perfect pudding for this time of year. Apples are abundant and you might even get lucky and be able to pick a handful of brambles instead of buying them from the shop (we’re hoping our allotment will literally bear fruit this year). Cooking the crumble and fruit separately is a bit cheaty but means you’ll get a nice crisp topping with lovely soft fruit underneath. Our kids love making (and eating) it.

Method

Ingredients

1. Pre-heat the oven to 190C/170C/gas 5.

For the fruit

2. Make the topping: in a large bowl, rub 60g butter into the flour until it’s like fine breadcrumbs, then mix in the sugar and oats.

• 3 eating apples, peeled and in 2cm cubes • 30g unsalted butter • 30g brown sugar • 150g blackberries • Sprinkle of cinnamon

3. Pour the topping mixture onto a baking tray and bake for 15 minutes or until starting to turn golden. Remove from oven but keep the oven on.

For the topping • • • •

4. Make the fruit mixture: In a large pan, melt 30g butter and then add the brown sugar. Stir until it melts.

130g plain flour 60g caster sugar 60g unsalted butter A handful of oats

5. Add the apples, blackberries and cinnamon to the pan and cook gently for around 10 minutes, until the fruit is starting to soften.

6. Pour the fruit mixture into a large dish, then top with the crumble topping.

7. Put the dish in the oven for around 15 minutes, then enjoy with cream, ice cream or anything else you like.

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The

Mount School York

“The quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent excellent.”

THE MOUNT JUNIOR SCHOOL GIRLS AGE 4-11

Curiosity Creativity Confidence

“The quality of the pupils’ development is excellent excellent.”

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), November 2018

www.mountschoolyork.co.uk OK BO DAY TO

admissions@mountschoolyork.co.uk

HALF TERM SWIMMING COURSES

STAGES 1, 2, 3 and 4 ROOKIE LIFEGUARDING COURSE

OCTOBER HALF TERM Monday 28 October – Friday 1 November

www.york-sport/holidays

Prices from £39.99 A Great Choice For School Shoes We offer a child friendly professional measuring and fitting service for children of all ages.

Mon – Sat 9am-5pm

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

RICOSTA | GEOX | SUPERFIT | PETASIL | ECCO | FRODDO | NOEL | SHOESME

SATURDAY 26 OCTOBER – SUNDAY 3 NOVEMBER

Halloween at Skelf Island Join us at Castle Howard this October half term for a Halloween experience like no other.

Across the dormant water of the Great Lake lies our new adventure playground, Skelf Island and the naughty Skelves who live here are up to no good. Are you brave enough to join Corvus the Crow on his mischievous woodland adventure to find out the seasonal secrets of his hidden world?

Families of all ages can enjoy a day of outdoor trails and adventure play, with a series of ingenious treetop nest structures, connected by rope bridges, slides, nets and climbing equipment. No age restriction, just a brave restriction.

Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA www.castlehoward.co.uk

Books, jokes & a craft...

Little Vikings Book Club There's no better time of year to curl up with your kids and a stack of books, no matter how old they are. Here's our pick of the best new releases this season. It's also the ideal time to make the most of your library card - just try to return them on time!

York

for k

ids

100 CATS BY MICHAEL WHAITE (for little ones) A purrfect piece of picture book perfection! With adorable and hilarious illustrations, this is a fantastic book to be read aloud or to engage early readers with some excellent examples of adjectives.

ALADDIN AND THE ENCHANTED LAMP

BY PHILIP PULLMAN (ages 5-8) An excellent re-telling of a timeless tale from much-loved author Philip Pullman, with glorious illustrations from Chris Wormell. A wonderful gift but also great for kids who loved the new Aladdin film!

THE LAND OF ROAR- JENNY MCLACHLAN (9-11) A Waterstones York favourite of 2019, this is sure to become a classic. A story of adventure, imagination and page upon page of fun, highly recommended for fans of Cressida Cowell and Jessica Townsend.

Thank you to Catriona from Waterstones York for the reviews.

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Every great story has a strong beginning

For sport, music, languages, technology, swimming, an amazing trip programme and so much more...give your child the best start in life.

Join us on our Open Day

www.stpetersyork.org.uk/clifton/openday

Clifton 3–8

St Olave’s 8–13

Registered Charity Number: 1141329

St Peter’s 13–18

Little Vikings Make...

A Monster Puppet 1. Completely cover your polystyrene ball/ egg in masking tape.

2. Using the masking tape mould your Monster's features. You can add cheeks, or a large nose, a chin or even some antennas.

3. Using strips of Masking tape add your googly eyes. Tear the strips in half and stick the eyes with a stip on the top and the bottom of the eye to create eyelids.

4. Push the chopstick/lollypop stick into the back of the Monsters head.

5. Cut a small hole (big enough for the stick to move freely through) in the top of the cup and in the body of the cup half up.

You will need:

6. Mix the PVA glue with a little water.

• A Paper Cup • A Polystyrene Ball or Egg • An old Wooden Chopstick or large Lollypop Stick • A Roll of Masking Tape • Some Coloured Tissue Paper • Some Googly Eyes • And Some PVA Glue.

7. Tear the tissue paper up into small strips and dips them in the Pva mixture and stick them to the monsters head. Once the head is completely covered, do exactly the same on the cup/body only using larger strips of tissue, building up layers to create texture.

8. Leave to dry for twenty-four hours and then put the head and body together and go and create some spooky Halloween puppet shows

Thanks to Gemma from Hoglets for providing the craft. Hoglets us a weekly drama and storytelling class in York for babies and toddlers from 0-5 years. See www.hoglets. org.uk for more info.

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What sort of sweets do you get in prison?

Why are tennis players often in trouble?

Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re always in court!

Jaily babies!

What comes before tennis?

Nine-ish!

What do pigs sleep in?

Ham-mocks!

What did the bread say to the butter?

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m on a roll!

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.

®

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.

Why Little Vikings loves...

DALBY FOREST Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free admission, just pay to park

Take your own bikes (or hire them) and embark on a cycling trail

Lots of walking routes for all abilities

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a brand new Shaun the Sheep alien trail (download the free app)

Brilliant adventure playground suitable for all ages Pack a picnic or eat at one of the cafes

See the seasons change

Have some outdoor adventures

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Fear in

the Forest

Are you brave enough?

Thursday 31 October, Dalby Forest Guided Halloween trail, creepy crafts for kids, live bats and bugs. Fancy dress welcome!

ÂŁ6 per person. Under 5s free.

Trail suitable for children aged 5+.

Information & tickets: forestryengland.uk/dalbyforest

In association with Lady Lumleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School

forestryengland.uk/dalbyforest

O D T

’ N S IS

M

October Half Term!

With family-friendly exhibitions and activities, don’t miss a visit to our award-winning gallery this October half term.

yorkartgallery.org.uk York Museums Trust is an independent charitable trust which manages York Art Gallery, York Castle Museum, the Yorkshire Museum, York Museum Gardens and York St Mary’s. Charity number 1092466.

Photography by Frank Dwyer and Anthony Chappel-Ross.