Primary Times Cheshire & The Wirral - October Half Term 2025
This is one of my favourite issues of the year. I love this season with the crisp autumnal colours, the evenings starting to draw in and the hint of the festive season on the horizon!
Plus, my children absolutely love pumpkins and dressing up and there are so many activities and events to incorporate this. Head to page 8 for our roundup of places to choose from and you’ll find a voucher for Gulliver’s Theme Parks too – I know they are well sought after.
Our What’s on Where pages are handy to see everything listed in date order, hopefully this makes planning your weekends and half term that bit easier! We even have a preview of what’s to come in the festive season from page 17.
Have fun and enjoy your autumn with the children. We’ll be back after the fireworks have faded away to bring you all things Christmassy in our Winter Issue.
Best Wishes,
04 LOCAL NEWS
08 AUTUMN HALF TERM
14 WOW
17 BOOK FOR CHRISTMAS
A
18 BOX OFFICE
SATURDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2025
Local NEWS
Snippets of the latest news from in and around Cheshire and The Wirral, with some exciting events coming up, an award announcement, updates from local schools and information on important vaccines.
Rehearsed, Refreshed, Reopened
Exciting news – the new Theatr Clwyd is almost fully ready, and the team can’t wait to welcome you back! After more than three years of renovations the building looks absolutely stunning, and the countdown is on. The autumn season is currently bringing life back into the two main theatre spaces and they’ve just announced their huge return to form with a fully programmed venue for spring 2026. You can book now for live events, cinema, and the brand-new restaurant, Bryn Williams at Theatr Clwyd. So, get ready – the curtain is about to rise! W: www.theatrclwyd.com
Calling all LEGO fans in Chester!
Sunday 9th November
Get ready to build memories at the National Brick Events LEGO Show in Chester! Visit Cheshire County Sports Club on Sunday 9th November for a day of LEGO fun.
It’s the perfect family day out with an incredible selection of displays, a huge variety of rare and retired LEGO sets for sale, and thousands of bricks for you to get hands-on with.
Don’t miss this opportunity to start a new family tradition –it’s the ideal day out for LEGO fans of all ages! Book your tickets and secure your spot today! W: www.nationalbrickevents.co.uk
Record breaking GCSE Success at The King’s School Chester
The King’s School Chester is celebrating a landmark year of GCSE results, with an outstanding 83% of all grades awarded at 9–7 (A*/A equivalent) – the school’s strongest performance in 16 years. Headmaster Mr. Hartley praised the students’ achievements: “This success reflects not only their academic ability, but also their resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to learning. Typical of King’s pupils, this year group continued to shine beyond the classroom, excelling in sport, music, drama and more. They are a testament to the value of the well-rounded education we provide at King’s.”
Apply now for September 2026 entry to Year 7. E: admissions@kingschester.co.uk W: www.kingschester.co.uk
Are your children’s vaccinations up to date?
You can check your child‘s personal child health record ‘Red Book’ or the NHS App to check their vaccinations are up-to-date, or speak to your GP surgery. If you’re not vaccinated, you’re not protected. Measles is circulating in your area right now. If your child hasn’t had the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccination they are at risk of measles. Measles can be a very serious disease. Complications can include chest and ear infections, fits, diarrhoea, encephalitis (infection of the brain) and brain damage. Those who develop complications may need to be admitted to hospital for treatment. Two doses of MMR vaccine are needed to get the best protection.
To book an MMR vaccine appointment for your child, call your GP surgery. At the appointment the surgery will check that your child is up-to-date with all their routine vaccinations. Don’t forget about other family members... they might also need vaccinating.
The Lord Mayor’s Fireworks Extravaganza is back
Saturday 8th November
Are you ready to light up the night at Chester Racecourse? The iconic Lord Mayor’s Fireworks Extravaganza will return to the Roodee on Saturday 8th November. With a dazzling fireworks display, LED light performers, fairground rides and tasty treats, this is set to be a real firecracker! But this isn’t just about entertainment – it’s about giving back. Every ticket sold helps support local charities, so your night out becomes a meaningful contribution to the heart of Chester’s community spirit. Don’t let this opportunity fizzle out! Grab your tickets and be part of Chester’s most dazzling event of the year. W: www.chester-races.com
Consider The Grange School at Year 3
Choosing The Grange School at Year 3 gives your child the best start in a caring, nurturing environment where outstanding pastoral care ensures they settle quickly and thrive. With seamless progression to the Senior School, children can continue their education without the stress of entrance assessments. Specialist teaching in purposebuilt classrooms for science, art, music, drama, design technology, and sport inspires a love of learning. Smaller class sizes mean more individual attention and tailored support, helping every child to reach their potential. With over 40 enrichment activities, children are encouraged to explore new skills, discover passions, and grow in confidence. W: www.grange.org.uk
Discover AESG Prep School –where brilliance meets balance
Visit for Open Week and experience the vibrant, nurturing environment of AESG Prep. Explore how the school’s unique approach blends academic excellence with creativity, wellbeing, and joy. Meet their passionate teachers, tour inspiring learning spaces, and see how the girls grow in confidence, curiosity, and character.
Why AESG Prep? A warm, supportive community where every girl is known and valued, a dynamic curriculum from STEM to the arts, a strong focus on wellbeing and resilience, and guaranteed Senior School entry for Prep pupils. AESG look forward to welcoming you and seeing your daughter thrive. W: www.aesg.co.uk
BeWILDerwood celebrates Silver Award for ‘Best Theme Park for Toddlers’
BeWILDerwood is thrilled to announce it has been awarded Silver in the ‘Best Theme Park for Toddlers’ – Small Attraction Category at the 2025 UK Theme Park Awards. The award recognises the park’s ongoing commitment to creating magical, family-friendly adventures for even the youngest explorers. This award follows an exciting few years for BeWILDerwood, with the introduction of the Toddlewood Ticket, the launch of the much-loved Minty character (who has been extremely popular with visitors), and the release of the new Minty and the Big Stink book – all specially designed to capture the imagination of younger children. These new additions have welcomed a whole new audience into the enchanting world of BeWILDerwood.
W: www.bewilderwood.co.uk
Autumn HALF TERM
Our favourite half term of the year! Gorgeous colours outside and so much to do, from seasonal trails and spooky parties to pumpkin picking and circus entertainment. Plus, some light walks too now that the evenings are drawing in.
Don’t miss Fright Fiesta at Gulliver’s
Spooky season has arrived, and Gulliver’s Theme Parks is the perfect place to enjoy all of the frightful festivities.
Fright Fiesta is bursting with colour, costumes and music. Come together for the spookiest season of the year at Gulliver’s with fabulous family activities, frights and theme park fun.
Tickets start from just £19pp making for a great value Halloween event at four different UK locations in Matlock Bath, Warrington, Milton Keynes and Rotherham. Theme Park entry is included along with a whole host of fiendishly friendly family activities and entertainment. Guests can showcase fancy dress costumes, discover spooktacular rides, explore Haunted Houses, and so much more!
Extend the fun with a Fright Fiesta sleepover. Choose from a range of themed accommodation, including enchanting Princess Suites, fantastic Fairy Dens and roarsome Lost World Lodges. Book tickets online at www.gulliversfun.co.uk
A snapshot of autumn at Liverpool ONE
Autumn is here and so is the fun at Liverpool ONE! Families can enjoy high-energy entertainment at Gravity MAX, quirky selfie spots with Paddington and at the Upside Down House, gift-hunting across shops like LEGO, The Entertainer, John Lewis & Partners, Kenji and MINISO. Refuel with favourites such as PizzaExpress and wagamama or grab-and-go treats from Mooboo and Bagel Factory. The Halloween Party returns on Sunday 26th October with free street performances, spooky characters and a fancy dress competition for all ages. Plus, from 24th October until 2nd November, as the nights draw in, River of Light will once again illuminate Liverpool with stunning installations across the city. Don’t miss the must-see artworks on the trail, perfect for an evening family walk. This year’s theme is Optics –Science and Light. W: www.liverpool-one.com
Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular
Saturday 25th October – Sunday 2nd November
Something spooky is coming this way! Gandeys Circus returns once again with a brand-new action-packed legendary Halloween Spooktacular Big Top Show for all the family at Trentham from Saturday 25th October until Sunday 2nd November. From the thrill acts to the big production numbers Gandeys are famous for, it’s all there and you will be on the edge of your seat with excitement, rolling in the aisles with laughter, and hiding under your coats from the spooky thrills! This event gets more popular every year so it’s advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment. W: www.gandey.com
Pumpkin fun this Halloween at Gordale
Join the Halloween fun at Gordale Garden Centre this October! Take part in the indoor Halloween Trail – hunt for the hidden pumpkins, collect the letters, and discover the secret password. With the password, you can enter the Pumpkin Patch and choose your very own pumpkin to take home (no muddy wellies needed!). For even more spooktacular excitement, book a place at the A-Z Safari Party interactive Halloween workshop. Tickets are limited and must be pre-booked online. With free parking and plenty of family fun, Gordale is the perfect place for magical Halloween memories! W: www.gordale.co.uk
Seasonal fun for the whole family at Bents
This half term, Bents is bubbling up a cauldron of family fun with plenty of spooktacular activities to enjoy. Little monsters can unleash their creativity at Halloween crafting sessions or Build a Buddy to take home and love. Or why not visit for a Spooky Tea Party, packed with magical moments, delicious treats and lots of Halloween fun. Families can also embrace the outdoors with the Windy Bank Woods nature trail, a beautiful 5k walk through the countryside. Pick up an Explorer Map and let the little ones lead the way, ticking off discoveries along the journey. Check online to find out more. W: www.bents.co.uk
Use code PT5 to get £5 off ringside seats
Get creative in North Wales this autumn
Let nature spark your creativity in North Wales this autumn with hands-on family fun at Bodnant Garden and Plas Newydd. From leaf art to sketching mountain views, it’s the perfect time to explore, imagine, and enjoy the season together.
Make sure you check the National Trust website before visiting to plan your day.
Bodnant Garden, Conwy 25 – 31 October
Visit Bodnant Garden in the Conwy Valley this October half-term for a week of nature-themed fun with ‘Inspired by Bodnant’—a celebration of all things autumnal and getting creative outdoors, all set against the glorious autumn colours of a fabulous world-class garden. Explore the sights, sounds, and colours of the season as you follow the family trail. Head off on a seasonal adventure together to discover interactive games and creative activities that encourage little ones (and grown-ups too!) to slow down and engage with nature. From making beautiful leaf art to crafting poems with word stones, there are plenty of ways to get hands-on and let your imagination run wild during an autumn adventure at Bodnant Garden. Whether you’re taking part in a leafy scavenger hunt, creating your very own natural masterpieces, or simply enjoying the crisp autumn air as you kick through the russet and gold of the fallen leaves in the glades or down in the Dell, be Inspired by Bodnant this autumn—it’s the perfect way to spend quality time together during half-term.
Plas Newydd House and Garden, Anglesey 25 October – 2 November
Autumn is a wonderful time to visit Plas Newydd House and Garden, where there’s plenty to keep families entertained whatever the weather.
Splash in muddy puddles and crunch through golden leaves as you make your way around the garden and enjoy the changing colour of the trees. You never know—a red squirrel might cross your path along the way! Explore the play area or climb up to the treehouse—what can you see from the top? This October half-term, Plas Newydd invites you to take part in The Big Draw—a global celebration of art and creativity. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Menai Strait, Plas Newydd has long been a source of artistic inspiration, most famously for Rex Whistler. Now it’s your turn to be inspired. Gather the family and “draw together” in this remarkable setting. Become an artist in the garden, capturing the changing landscape just as Whistler once did. Or why not pick up a pencil and add to a shared drawing inspired by Whistler’s famous dining room mural? Finish your day by treating yourself to a delicious hot chocolate and some warm wedges from the Old Dairy Café.
Autumn at Bodnant Garden
Enjoy autumn at
Bodnant Garden
Autumn crafts
Move more for less this October
You’ve heard of Brio, the much-loved leisure centres across Cheshire West and Chester. The place where kids make a splash, smash a shuttlecock, or thrive in a sports club. They also have 450 weekly classes, a fully equipped gym, cafes, and so much more! At Brio, they aim to make every day a great day, and to help the whole community be physically and socially active. No jargon, no overcomplicated tech. Just the good stuff, made to suit you. This October, you’re in for a treat. Get three months for £25 per month, or 10% off a junior or adult annual membership. That means more savings for family fun while kick-starting your fitness journey. Say hello to your local Brio and join the crew. Use code OCT25 at the checkout to secure your discounted membership. Terms and conditions apply. October offer only. Find out more at www.brioleisure.org
Halloween Ghost Trains at the East Lancashire Railway
Go batty for Halloween as the East Lancashire Railway celebrates the Year of the Bat! Are you ready for a fang-tastically frightening time on board the Ghost Trains? Count Brian the Vampire, his trusted henchman Bogeye and the whole monster squad are dying to meet you.
Prove your bravery by passing through the Haunted Halloween Walkthrough at Bury Station, soak in the atmosphere with creepy characters on the petrifying platform then board the spooky steam train to join the terrifying tale of the Blood Bat of Irwell Vale. Running for three days from Thursday 30th October until Saturday 1st November. Find out more and book online now. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
A festival for kids at Storyhouse this half term
WayWord Festival celebrates the power of words to ignite imaginations, go on an adventure and discover something new. There will be children’s authors and illustrators including Jacqueline Wilson and Rose Ayling-Ellis live on stage, plenty of enchanting theatre performances for kids, workshops, storytelling, arts and crafts, and much, much more! WayWord Festival is running from Saturday 25th October to Sunday 2nd November at Storyhouse in Chester and you can book tickets online. W: www.storyhouse.com
NEW: Halloween at BeWILDerwood – Spooooky fun for everyone
Enjoy a magical mix of daytime adventure and spooky surprises at BeWILDerwood. Dress in your best Halloween outfit and get ready to clamber, climb and zip your way through the wild woods during the day and go Twig or Treating with the BeWILDerwood characters. Complete your Halloween adventure and follow the Glowing Light Trail as the sun begins to set. It’s the best of both worlds – all the Halloween magic without the late bedtime! Open 11am-6pm, weekends and half term in October, everything is included in one day ticket. W: www.bewilderwood.co.uk
Say you saw it in Primary
SpookWood at GreenWood Family Park is not to be missed
This October half term, experience SpookWood at GreenWood Family Park! Nestled in the heart of North Wales, GreenWood is the perfect place for families, curious minds, and wild imaginations to run free. Little monsters can go dressed up and enjoy a full day of adventure, from soaring through the trees on the world’s only people-powered rollercoaster to splashing down on the UK’s first solar-powered water ride. GreenWood will be transformed into a spooky forest adventure ideal for families, plus with face painting, Halloween crafts, live shows, and woodland trails filled with surprises, there will be fun around every corner. Visit for a frightfully good half term! Pre-book online and save. W: www.greenwoodfamilypark.co.uk
Skellies and Wellies at Tatton Park
Tatton Park’s gardens get a spooky twist this Halloween with the return of the Skellies and Wellies Trail! Explore 50 acres of autumnal fun and discover 10 hilarious skeleton scenes, each with a punny joke. Kids are encouraged to wear fancy dress and wellies to join the skeleton crew. Pick up an activity sheet at the entrance and enjoy a self-guided adventure suitable for all ages. Standard garden and parkland entry applies; garden entry is free for National Trust and RHS members. Book online to save 10%. Running Saturday 25th October until Sunday 2nd November (closed on Mondays). W: www.tattonpark.org.uk
Fun for all the family at Norton Priory this October
Explore 900 years of history and 42 acres of woodland and gardens at Norton Priory Museum and Gardens, Europe’s most excavated monastic site. Visit on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th October and experience the fabulous Quince and Apple Weekend.
For 2025’s October half term, don’t miss ‘A Brooke Family Halloween’ – there are mysterious happenings at the old Brooke mansion, can you help the household investigate? It is perfect for primary-aged children, and a giant spider will be visiting to make a frighteningly good time for all! Learn about the site and seek out the spooky trail, or try your hand at spiderthemed crafts on the Monday, Tuesday and Friday of half term! Check online for more details. W: www.nortonpriory.org
11th - 31ST OCTober 2025
AT Gulliver's Theme Parks!
Admits up to 5 people for the price of 2 full-paying adult/child tickets when purchased at the gates. Exchange this voucher at the entrance of any Gulliver’s Theme Park from 11th-31st Oct 2025. Original magazine voucher only; digital versions or photocopies will not be accepted. Cannot be pre-booked online. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to availability. Please check online for full park opening times and gate prices.
WOW
What’s on Where in Cheshire & The Wirral
This October
Membership Offer
Brio Leisure www.brioleisure.org
This October, get three months for £25 per month, or 10% off a junior or adult annual membership. Use code OCT25 at the checkout to secure your discounted membership. Terms and conditions apply.
Saturday 11th –Friday 31st October
The Pumpkin Patch at the Farm Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
Head down to the Farm for a day of seasonal fun where you’ll meet all your favourite farmyard animals before setting off on a hunt for the perfect pumpkin.
Enjoy a festival-style Halloween celebration that’s bursting with colour, costumes and music. Theme Park rides and attractions included.
Saturday 11th October –
Sunday 2nd November
Spooooky Fun for Everyone
BeWILDerwood www.bewilderwood.co.uk
Enjoy a magical mix of daytime adventure and spooky surprises! Dress in your best Halloween outfit and get ready to clamber, climb and zip your way through the wild woods during the day and go Twig or Treating with the BeWILDerwood characters. Complete your Halloween adventure and follow the Glowing Light Trail as the sun begins to set. Open 11am-6pm. Running on weekends and daily during half term.
Saturday 18th –Friday 31st October
Pumpkin Patch Trail
Gordale, South Wirral www.gordale.co.uk
Set off on an adventure in search of the hidden pumpkins on this Halloween trail, then select your favourite pumpkin from the Pumpkin Patch to take home. £4.50 per child for trail and pumpkin. No need to book, just turn up.
Friday 24th October –
Sunday 2nd November
River of Light
Liverpool ONE www.liverpool-one.com
As the nights draw in, River of Light will once again illuminate Liverpool with stunning installations across the city. Liverpool ONE will play host to one of the must-see artworks on the trail, perfect for an evening family walk. Free. This year’s theme is Optics – Science and Light.
Saturday 25th October –
Sunday 2nd November
SpookWood
GreenWood Family Park www.greenwoodfamilypark.co.uk
GreenWood will be transformed into a spooky forest adventure ideal for families! With face painting, Halloween crafts, live shows, and woodland trails filled with surprises, there will be fun around every corner. Fancy dress welcome. Pre-book online and save.
Seasonal Fun
Bents Garden & Home www.bents.co.uk
Bents is bubbling up a cauldron of family fun with plenty of spooktacular activities to enjoy. Little monsters can unleash their creativity at Halloween crafting sessions or Build a Buddy to take home and love. Families can also embrace the outdoors with the Windy Bank Woods nature trail, a beautiful 5k walk through the countryside. Pick up an Explorer Map and let the little ones lead the way, ticking off discoveries along the journey.
Halloween Spooktacular Big Top Show
Trentham www.gandey.com
Gandeys Circus returns once again with a brand-new action-packed legendary Halloween Spooktacular Big Top Show for all the family. From the thrill acts to the big production numbers Gandeys are famous for, it’s all here and you will be on the edge of your seat with excitement, rolling in the aisles with laughter, and hiding under your coats from the spooky thrills.
Use code PT5 to get £5 off ringside seats
Skellies and Wellies
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
Explore 50 acres of autumnal fun and discover 10 hilarious skeleton scenes, each with a punny joke. Kids are encouraged to wear fancy dress and wellies to join the skeleton crew. Pick up an activity sheet at the entrance and enjoy a self-guided adventure suitable for all ages.
Festival for Kids
Storyhouse, Chester www.storyhouse.com
WayWord Festival celebrates the power of words to ignite imaginations, go on an adventure and discover something new. There will be children’s authors and illustrators including Jacqueline Wilson and Rose Ayling-Ellis live on stage, plenty of enchanting theatre performances for kids, workshops, storytelling, arts and crafts, and much more! Pre-booking required.
Autumn Adventures Await
National Trust North Wales www.nationaltrust.org.uk
From spooky trails to Halloween crafts, autumn scavenger hunts, and wildlife wows – October half term offers something for all ages at National Trust sites across Wales. Get ready for a half term adventure.
The award-winning Land of Lights Lantern Festival returns to Warrington for a third season! Discover gigantic lanterns, mesmerizing light installations and festival vibes. Running on selected dates.
Sunday 26th October
FREE Halloween Party
Liverpool ONE www.liverpool-one.com
It’s back! Families can enjoy a free day of spooky fun, with street performers, ghoulish characters and plenty of free entertainment. Don’t miss the fancy dress competition, where children of all ages can join for their chance to win prizes.
Monday 27th –Friday 30th October
A Brooke Family Halloween
Norton Priory Museum & Gardens www.nortonpriory.org
There are spooky goings on at the old Brooke mansion house. The members of the household are preparing to investigate, but they may need some help... This family-friendly event invites visitors of all ages to enjoy Halloween fun in a historic setting. Venture into the eerie woodlands, encounter ghostly figures, see creepy critters and hear spooky tales as you explore the atmospheric surroundings. Suitable for ages 5-11 and their grownups. 6-8pm.
Tuesday 28th October
Family Deer Workshop Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
Join the knowledgeable Education Team for a fun, family event, which shares the history and significance of Tatton Park’s deer herd.
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise!
Halloween and half term are round the corner and there’s no better time to plan a family day out at Liverpool ONE.
Mark your diaries as the free Liverpool ONE Halloween Party is back on Sunday 26 October, bringing a free day of spooky fun for families. Expect street performers, ghoulish characters, and the ever-popular fancy dress competition – perfect for witches, ghosts and little monsters of all ages, enter for your chance to win prizes.
As the nights draw in, River of Light once again will illuminate Liverpool with stunning installations across the city from 24 October to 2 November. Liverpool ONE will play host to one of the must-see artworks on the trail, perfect for an evening family walk. This year’s theme is Optics – Science and Light.
There’s no shortage of things to keep the kids entertained at Liverpool ONE!
For action-packed fun, Gravity MAX is the ultimate destination, with everything from e-karts and AR bowling to VR adventures and immersive games spread across two huge floors. If you’re after something a bit different (and the perfect selfie opportunity) step into the Upside Down House, where nothing is as it seems and every room is an illusion.
Right outside Waterstones, sits a very special visitor… Paddington Bear is waiting, with a marmalade sandwich in hand, for children of all ages to meet him and snap a selfie. And when it comes to shopping, Liverpool ONE has something for the whole family. From pocket-money treats and stationery gems at Kenji and MINISO, to timeless toys at LEGO, The Entertainer, Build-A-Bear Workshop and John Lewis & Partners, there’s something for everyone!
All that excitement is bound to work up an appetite, with family favourites including PizzaExpress and wagamama to grab & go options like Mooboo and Bagel Factory, there’s something to suit every taste.
For families with accessibility needs, Liverpool ONE offers a range of support, from accessible toilets and Shopmobility services to apps like WelcoMe, Sociability and Waymap.
Liverpool ONE PLUS+ is your key to unlocking offers, birthday rewards, early access to events, competitions and much more… and it’s totally free! The perfect way to make your visits to Liverpool ONE extra special.
Find out more and plan your visit at www.liverpool-one.com
Spooky Animal Encounters
Gordale, South Wirral www.gordale.co.uk
Go face-to-face with giant African land snails, snakes and tortoise, then put your fears to the test with haunting ‘trick’ or ‘treat’ trails. £5 per child, £1 per adult. Online booking required.
Tuesday 28th –
Thursday 30th October
Spooky Tea Party
Bents Garden & Home www.bents.co.uk
Join the enchanting Wizard as he weaves a spellbinding evening of Halloween magic and unforgettable fun! Watch in awe as he amazes the children with his mesmerizing tricks and keeps the excitement alive with a medley of party games. The ticket also includes a Halloween food plate, for your little one to enjoy. Plus, dress to impress in your most bewitching attire, because there will be prizes for the best fancy dress and the most spirited dancers. 5-6.30pm.
Wednesday 29th October
The Wizarding Adventure
East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Get ready for a whirlwind of spells, creatures and magical mayhem, because at Wizard Academy, the impossible is just the beginning! Master the art of magic and meet this Wizard’s Fantastical Familiars.
Thursday 30th October
Mini Mindfulness
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
An engaging session for 3-6 year olds, based in Dairy Wood; an often unexplored area of the parkland.
Thursday 30th &
Friday 31st October
Myth, Magic and Mystery
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
Explore superstitions and legends throughout history and have a go at brewing a magic potion, inspired by gruesome medicines from the past.
Thursday 30th October –
Saturday 1st November
Halloween
Ghost Trains
East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Are you ready for a fang-tastically frightening time on board the Halloween Ghost Trains? Count Brian the Vampire, his trusted henchman Bogeye and the whole monster squad are just dying to meet you to celebrate the Year of the BAT!
Celebrate Bonfire Night and enjoy hours of theme park rides, attractions and entertainment, complete with a spectacular fireworks display in the evening.
Northwich FireFest
Verdin Park www.firefest.org.uk
Featuring a bonfire, a spectacular fireworks display, a funfair, music by Radio Northwich and various food, drink and craft vendors.
Saturday 8th November
The Lord Mayor’s Fireworks Extravaganza Chester Racecourse www.chester-races.com
Are you ready to light up the night? The iconic Lord Mayor’s Fireworks Extravaganza will return. With a dazzling fireworks display, LED light performers, fairground rides and tasty treats, this is set to be a real firecracker! Every ticket sold helps support local charities.
Sunday 9th November
National Brick Events
Cheshire County Sports Club
www.nationalbrickevents.co.uk
A perfect family day out with an incredible selection of displays, a huge variety of rare and retired LEGO sets for sale, and thousands of bricks for you to get hands-on with. It’s the ideal day out for LEGO fans of all ages! Book your tickets and secure your spot today.
Book for CHRISTMAS
Here we have a preview of what’s coming up in the festive season! This is your chance to plan ahead and book some magical events and shows for your family to look forward to.
RHS Glow at RHS Garden Bridgewater – a sparkly Christmas adventure for the whole family
Get ready to light up your winter! From 26th November to 30th December, RHS Garden Bridgewater becomes a glittering wonderland – and it’s bursting with festive fun for kids and grown-ups alike. Wander through a world of twinkling magic, where glowing trails lead you past shimmering trees, sparkling sculptures, and brand-new light displays, some making their debut this year! RHS Glow runs on selected dates and tickets must be booked in advance – so grab your spot early and make this Christmas one to remember! W: www.rhs.org.uk
Christmas silent disco at Plas Newydd House and Garden
Put on your dancing shoes this Christmas – the whole family is invited to a silent disco in the Music Room at Plas Newydd in North Wales.
The ‘Dancing Marquess’, 5th Marquess of Anglesey, held his own Christmas party in the very same room over 100 years ago. Dancing styles may have changed since then, but it’s still a great place for a dance. So put on your best party outfit and visit this Christmas. From 90s pop to Christmas family favourites, take your headphones and choose your music channel before you dance the day away. Weekends only from 29th November to 28th December, with additional dates on 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 29th, 30th and 31st December. Tickets must be booked in advance. W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/plas-newydd
Book in your annual dose of Christmas festivity
It isn’t Christmas without a bit of panto chaos! This December, catch the magic live on stage with Aladdin at Brio Northwich, and Cinderella at Brio Civic Hall, brought to you by much-loved Anton Benson Productions. Expect immersive scenery, sparkly costumes, ridiculously funny songs, and the occasional splash of water! Perfect for the whole family, these pantos are full of laughter, surprises, and festive mischief, and with plenty of show times to choose from, there’s absolutely no excuse to stay at home! So, warm-up your very best “ooo’s”, “ahhh’s”, and “he’s behind you!” and join the fun! Tickets are on sale now at www.brioentertainment.org
The Enormous Crocodile – The Musical at Lowry
The Enormous Crocodile is weaving his way through the jungle to Lowry in search of delicious little fingers and squidgy podgy knees… Only the other jungle creatures can foil his secret plans and clever tricks, but they’re going to have to find a large amount of courage to stop this greedy brute.
This mischievous musical based on Roald Dahl’s snappy book has toetapping tunes featuring a menagerie of puppets. Snap up your tickets today for this wickedly funny musical adventure, perfect for the whole family this winter! Running from Wednesday 10th December until Sunday
Box OFFICE
All the very best theatre shows near you. Book some half term entertainment and plan ahead for Christmas too, giving you something to look forward to, and pick of the best seats!
Brio Entertainment www.brioentertainment.org
Sunday 26th October
BEETLESPOOF
Join a gothic girl on a deadly funny adventure to rescue her haunted house with the help of an unlikely hero, Dame Betty Bettle! Magical illusions, pop songs and things that go bump in the night all form the essential ingredients of this bewitching plot sure to delight youngsters and adults alike. Northwich Memorial Court.
Sunday 7th –Wednesday 31st December
ALADDIN
Expect immersive scenery, sparkly costumes, ridiculously funny songs, and the occasional splash of water! Northwich Memorial Court.
Saturday 13th –Wednesday 24th December
CINDERELLA
Christmas family fun. Ellesmere Port Civic Hall.
www.thelowry.com
Monday 27th October –Saturday 1st November
THE SMEDS AND THE SMOOS
Soar into space with this Olivier Award-nominated adaptation of the much-loved book by superstar duo Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise!
Sunday 9th November
JUSTIN LIVE – JUSTIN TIME TO ROCK
Justin and his friends are putting together a rock band. But with so many songs to choose from, they are going to need your help to choose the best songs to sing and dance to.
Sunday 9th November
MC GRAMMAR LIVE – BOOKS, BEATZ AND BARZ
Get ready for book bangers, epic rhymes and non-stop vibes! It’s the ultimate family party.
Saturday 15th November
OPERA NORTH: THE BIG OPERA MYSTERY
Featuring live music from the Orchestra of Opera North, this is the perfect first encounter with opera for the whole family.
Wednesday 10th December – Sunday 4th January
THE ENORMOUS CROCODILE –THE MUSICAL
Sunday 26th October –Saturday 1st November
TWELTH NIGHT (FOR KIDS!)
Created specifically for young people. Journey to Illyria for a fast-paced, abridged re-telling of Shakespeare’s classic tale that will run for around 50 minutes. Developed as part of WayWord Festival, this is a fantastic opportunity to introduce younger audiences to Shakespeare.
Thursday 30th October
THE DINOSAUR THAT POOPED A ROCK SHOW
When Danny and Dino’s favourite rock band are playing their last ever concert, they go on a quest to get the last two tickets. But with a villainous band manager lurking, nothing goes to plan. Will the band perform? Will Danny rock out? Or will Dino’s rumbling tummy save the day? Adapted from the number one best-selling books by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter, the whole family will have a poopy good time enjoying a brand-new story for the stage!
The Enormous Crocodile is weaving his way through the jungle to Lowry in search of delicious little fingers and squidgy podgy knees… Only the other jungle creatures can foil his secret plans and clever tricks, but they’re going to have to find a large amount of courage to stop this greedy brute. This mischievous musical based on Roald Dahl’s snappy book has toe-tapping tunes featuring a menagerie of puppets.
Storyhouse www.storyhouse.com
Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th October
PIRATES LOVE UNDERPANTS
Based on the beloved book by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort. Join the swashbuckling party of pirates on their quest to find the fabled Pants of Gold for the Captain’s Treasure chest!
Theatr Clwyd www.theatrclwyd.com
Saturday 18th October
CRAFTY FOOLS: ADVENTURES IN SCIENCE!
Join ‘The Magical Mr West’ on an incredible adventure into the world of science! Aided by his cartoon companion Crowbert and a collection of curious contraptions, Mr West demonstrates the fundamental principles of scientific enquiry.
Saturday 22nd November – Saturday 17th January
CINDERELLA – THE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL PANTO
Featuring live music and the biggest rock, pop and soul hits! Expect magic, romance and wicked sisters, rocking tunes and funny tongue twisters!
