36,300 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN
Take your pupils on an immersive journey to discover the extraordinary stories behind some of the nation’s favourite portraits, in this captivating new experience inspired by the National Portrait Gallery’s Collection.
Stories – Brought to Life uses the latest digital technology to explore the lives and legacies of people who have shaped the UK’s history and culture, from the Tudor period to the present day.
Pick from Self-led, Facilitated or Relaxed School Sessions
Suitable from Key Stage 2
Tickets from £6
With the weather getting warmer and the days becoming longer we have an abundance of days out ideas for you to choose from in our Hop into Spring feature. Lots of local venues have fantastic Easter events and activities running over the school holidays, so you can be sure to find something that the whole family can enjoy. In our WOW (What’s On Where) pages you will find a handy list of things to do, all in date order, making it easy to choose what to do each day, from craft activities to museum visits. Keep an eye out for special offers including a great voucher from Gulliver’s Theme Parks below. Our Box Office page details some lovely on stage shows, with an Easter pantomime from The Albert Halls, Bolton which is sure to entertain the masses too.
We will be back in May bringing you more of What’s on Where across Manchester, but until then, enjoy the break from school and the usual routines, and have a lovely Easter.
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HOP INTO SPRING
Family-friendly days out to enjoy this Easter
FAMILY EVENTS
Fun events and shows to put in your diary
WOW BOX OFFICE
What’s on Where – plan your weeks ahead
An array of family shows to choose from
Local NEWS
We have lots to tell you about across the county; from schools to stage schools for children, with the iconic Soccer Aid event on the horizon and available to book too!
Plan your school visit: Stories – Brought to Life
Stories – Brought to Life is a groundbreaking immersive experience presented by FRAMELESS, in collaboration with the National Portrait Gallery. Launching on 2nd May in MediaCity, before touring the UK. Inspired by iconic portraits from the National Portrait Gallery’s Collection, this unique experience uses the latest digital technology to delve into the stories of individuals who have shaped the UK’s history and culture. Take your students on a transformative immersive journey, step inside portraits and experience them coming to life through an engaging, multisensory experience inspired by the National Portrait Gallery’s Collection. Suitable for Key Stage 2 and up, school groups can choose from facilitated sessions, self-led visits and relaxed sessions, with tickets from £6. You will also be provided teaching resources to support your visit as well as a range of dedicated online resources exploring original artworks. Go along to a FREE Teacher Taster evening on Tuesday 6th May at 5.30pm to find out more! Enquire online here: www.npgunframed.com/school-enquiries
Exceptional support for boys joining Burnage Academy
The transition to secondary school can be daunting, but at Burnage Academy for Boys, those offered a place are welcomed as part of the school community from the moment they receive their offer. As one of the highest-performing schools in the country, Burnage Academy was named Tes Secondary School of the Year in 2024 and won awards for Mental Health and Wellbeing at the Educate North Awards. Exceptional support is at the heart of the school’s ethos, with boys guided by the values of resilience, independence, and care. In this vibrant community, the move from primary school is only the first step on an outstanding educational journey. W: www.burnage.manchester.sch.uk
Soccer Aid for UNICEF –book your tickets now
Soccer Aid for UNICEF returns to Manchester on Sunday 15th June!
Old Trafford will host champions England against the Soccer Aid World XI as the Three Lions look to level the overall scores after last year’s memorable victory.
Red Devils legends Wayne Rooney, Gary Neville and Paul Scholes will lace up at the home of Manchester United once more, joined by some of the biggest names in entertainment, including pop royalty star Louis Tomlinson, boxing great Tyson Fury and Olympic hero Sir Mo Farah. Tickets are available now and will sell fast! W: www.socceraid.org.uk
University offers for pupils at Manchester Grammar School
The Manchester Grammar School is proud to announce that 32 of its pupils have received offers to study a diverse range of academic courses at the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. This year, 19 pupils have secured offers from Cambridge and 13 from Oxford, reflecting their exceptional dedication and achievement. The courses include Classics, Computer Science, English, Economics, Engineering, Geography, Japanese, Land Economy, Materials Science, Mathematics, Modern and Medieval Languages, Music, Russian and Arabic, History, Medicine, and Natural Sciences. The High Master at The Manchester Grammar School, Dr Martin Boulton, said: “The application process remains challenging and requires a high level of commitment; I would like to congratulate our pupils on their success, and thank our dedicated staff for all the work they have done in stretching these pupils well beyond the confines of the normal curriculum.” W: www.mgs.org
Mon 7 – Sun 27 Apr
Seek out the colourful eggs hidden throughout the spring garden. Grab a code breaker pack* to help you hunt down the clues to solve the mystery and claim a yummy treat!
*£2.50 code breaker charge applies
Book online and save
Bond: 60 years of setting the standard for 11+ prep
School entrance exams pinpoint pupils with strong abilities in English, maths, and reasoning - skills that signal academic potential. For many children these are their first formal exams, and the team at Bond understand that finding the right preparation materials can be confusing for parents.
With over 60 years of expertise, the Bond team believes that the best preparation involves mastering essential skills, continuous practice, and getting familiar with exam conditions. Bond’s comprehensive collection of over 140 books, crafted by 11+ experts, offers just that.
Bond nurtures bright minds from ages 5 to 11+. Assessment Practice books build core skills, 10 Minute Tests offer bite-sized practice, and Test Papers replicate exam conditions. Additional books target difficult skills, support children not yet at the required level, and challenge those seeking extra practice.
Plus, in collaboration with Century Tech, Bond offers AI-powered, adaptive online practice through Bond Online Premium and Bond Online Premium Plus, the only ISEB endorsed Pre-Tests practice.
If your child is gearing up for grammar school or independent school entrance exams, Bond has everything your child needs to get examready, whether preparing independently, with a tutor, or at school. Get ready for the 11+ and take the stress out of success with Bond!
W: www.bond11plus.co.uk
Junior & Mini Great Manchester Run 2025
It’s the kids’ time to shine! The AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great Manchester Run is back on Saturday 17th May, and entries are now OPEN! Once again, the AJ Bell Junior and Mini Great Manchester Run will be returning to the brilliant Etihad Campus, giving younger runners their own day to take centre stage the day before the Great Manchester Run. You can expect fancy dress, high-fives, and lots of local support from the Manchester crowd!
This is an event that gets the whole family involved every year, with Minis aged 3-8 taking on a fun 1.5k dash, and Juniors aged 9-15 tackling the 2.5k challenge. It’s an incredible event atmosphere and all part of the iconic Great Manchester Run weekend. Be part of it! W: www.greatrun.org
Nurturing Young Stars at Razzamataz Manchester
South
Razzamataz Theatre School offers a creative environment for children to discover new talents and build confidence through dance, drama, and singing classes. Their unique approach supports physical fitness, mental wellbeing, and communication skills, helping children to grow both on and off the stage. With a focus on fun and teamwork, children form lasting friendships while exploring their creativity. Try a FREE taster session at Razzamataz Manchester South to experience the joy of performing arts firsthand. Spaces are limited, so book today and give your child the gift of confidence and creative expression. W: manchestersouth.razzamataz.co.uk
Meet
Stagecoach Altrincham’s new Principal
“My Stagecoach journey began at the age of four when I first joined as a student. Having progressed through all the stages, I later became a Teaching Assistant and then an Early Stages Teacher, so stepping into the role of Principal at Stagecoach Altrincham is a dream come true!
My passion for performing arts led me to study Theatre and Performance at the University of Leeds, where I developed my skills in acting, directing, and theatre production. Now, I’m so excited to bring my experience to Stagecoach Altrincham and create an inspiring space where every child can thrive. I’ve experienced first-hand the confidence, creativity, and friendships that Stagecoach nurtures and I can’t wait to pass that on to our students. We have so many exciting opportunities ahead (including a fantastic summer school this year) and I can’t wait to see our students shine on their own Stagecoach journey! I look forward to hearing from you!” Georgia W: www.stagecoach.co.uk/altrincham
Hop into SPRING
We have a varied selection of days out to choose from this spring. With so many different options and Easter activities on offer, you can keep the whole family entertained over the school holidays!
There’s Loads to Do over the Easter holidays
Manchester City Council has teamed up with communities and activity leaders across the area to bring all school holiday activities and events on one website: www.loadstodo.co.uk
Manchester’s children and young people have been working hard all term. Now it’s time to celebrate their dedication and resolve, and make sure there are plenty of ways for them to stay stimulated and have fun when they’re off school.
Manchester City Council also runs a FREE holiday club programme for children on benefits-related free school meals, including thousands of FREE places for children’s activities over the school holidays. In addition to the activities, each booked place will include a FREE meal during the day. So, whether you’re looking for activities for younger children or older young people, there’s something for everyone on Loads to Do. W: www.loadstodo.co.uk/schoolhols
Sense-sational fun at the Science and Industry Museum
Spring into action with a sense-sational programme of FREE family fun inspired by a new blockbuster exhibition, Operation Ouch! Brains, Bogies and You. From 5th to 21st April, get hands-on, discover worldchanging ideas and see science in action in the free, permanent galleries. Add a ticket to Operation Ouch! Brains, Bogies and You and plunge headfirst into the incredible world of senses. From sight to sound, mini medics and curious kids can get stuck in to sense-sational science through interactive games and challenges.
Plus, you can play your way through the very best video games from the past five decades with a ticket to Power Up – the ultimate gaming experience. Start planning your visit online. W: www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk
Get ready for king-sized fun for the whole family at King Pins
Looking for the ultimate day out this Easter? King Pins has everything to keep the kids entertained, and then some!
From bowling to ice free curling, plus an arcade packed with games and prizes –there really is something for everyone. Take the whole family along to see who really rules the house – who’ll be wearing the crown? When it’s time to refuel, Marvin’s has you covered with delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas, fried chicken and more. They don’t call it The Crown Jewels of Bowling for nothing. W: www.kingpins.co.uk
Meet the Easter Bunny at BeWILDerwood
Hop, hop, hop your way over to BeWILDerwood this April and meet Cedric the Easter Bunny. Follow the Giant Easter Egg Trail and receive a special BeWILDerwood badge at the end! Head to the Storytelling Stage where you’ll see the Pesky Bunnies and meet Cedric the Easter Bunny on your journey too. Everything this Easter is included in your ticket, so it’s a great value day out for all the family to enjoy. Easter activities are on from 5th to the 27th of April. Tickets can be booked online and are completely flexible. Book your tickets online now! W: www.bewilderwood.co.uk
Get set for holiday fun at Bents
Make sure you plan a visit to Bents this spring! Get crafty with Easter-themed creations on Tuesday 8th and Tuesday 15th April, then build a cuddly new best friend at the Build-a-Buddy workshops on Thursday 10th and Thursday 17th April. Don’t miss their Easter Special Show on Thursday 17th April for extra giggles too! Plus, enjoy a Hoppy Easter Breakfast with the Easter Bunny, explore the outdoor adventure play area, dig into the covered beach, and feast at delicious dining spots. There’s fun for everyone – don’t miss out! Call 01942 266 300 or check online to find out more. W: www.bents.co.uk
Sing, play, make... there are loads of activities for all ages of young people this Easter.
Plus there are thousands of FREE places available to children eligible for free school meals, with a FREE healthy meal included.
There’s loads to do at loads to do. co . uk /schoolhols
Visit RHS Garden Bridgewater this Easter to hunt down the colourful eggs hidden throughout the spring garden, collect the clues to solve the mystery and claim your chocolate treat! The challenge is running at Bridgewater from Monday 7th until Sunday 27th April, make sure you grab your code-breaker
NEW this April – Adventures in Wonderland at Z-arts
Fall down the rabbit hole and have your very own magical adventure in Wonderland! A brand-new play experience for ages 1-8 has arrived at Z-arts! Follow the White Rabbit into scenes from the beloved book – splash into the pool of tears, make friends with the Cheshire Cat, have tea as the Mad Hatter, play croquet with flamingos, get lost in a card maze, and wake up back on the riverbank, just in time for tea. The adventures begin at Z-arts this April, book your tickets now! W: www.z-arts.org
At Graystone they offer tons of safe, indoor space for scooters, skateboarding, BMX, trampolining, bouldering, and freestyle gymnastics. A perfect destination for the school holidays! It’s an environment where there’s something for everyone to do and everyone is welcome to play and train. Graystone offers individual or group coaching in every sport… and the best birthday parties in town! Camp Graystone is the most fun you can have this spring. They also have a comfortable bar café with views over the park with fantastic food, great coffee and Wi-Fi with space to watch, work or just relax. W: www.graystoneactionsports.co.uk
Kick off spring at the National Football Museum
This Easter, step into the story of football at the National Football Museum with the new exhibition, From Pitch to Page: The Magic of Football Annuals. Explore four zones filled with iconic moments, interactive quizzes, and nostalgic editions.
Why not take on the Easter Football Challenge? Test your creativity, solve puzzles, and try something new! Football isn’t just about goals –it’s about strategy, resilience, and problem-solving. Engage in exciting family-friendly activities designed for players, fans, and everyone who makes the game happen. Are you ready for the challenge? Visit the National Football Museum this Easter and put your skills to the test! W: www.nationalfootballmuseum.com
Get ready for GANDEYS CIRCUS ‘Carnival’
A spectacular show that brings the thrills, colour and spectacle of circus and carnival to life! Running at the Trafford Centre from Saturday 5th April until Monday 21st April: step right up and experience the brand new, high-energy production from your favourite circus, bigger and better than ever, and making a triumphant return by popular demand is the hilarious Bippo! Prepare to be transported to the vibrant, lively world of Rio’s famous Carnival with stunning sounds, dazzling costumes, and an international cast full of flair and excitement. Gandey brand quality and unforgettable entertainment await you! W: www.gandeyscircus.com
Step Into the Land of Oz at Gulliver’s World This Easter
Get ready for a spellbinding adventure as the brand-new Land of Oz opens this Easter at Gulliver’s World, Warrington! Experience the magic with incredible new attractions, including the Upside Down House, the thrilling Winged Monkeys ride, and the whimsical Munchkin Motors. Perfect for a family day out, there’s something for all ages to enjoy. Plus, book your tickets in advance and save on entry! Don’t miss your chance to follow the yellow brick road to an unforgettable theme park adventure. Visit www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk to plan your visit today!
Spring into creativity at Aviva Studios
Join Aviva Studios on Water Street, for a season of crafts, live music and FREE events for all! Visit Tuesday to Friday , 11am-3pm, throughout the school holidays where there will be FREE, craft drop-in sessions running. Please do check their website for exact timings as they are subject to change. There is a café on site with great coffee and plenty to eat, or feel free to take your own packed lunch to eat in the space – you just won’t be able to reserve a table. W: www.avivastudios.co.uk
Family EVENTS
We have some fantastic events and on-stage shows coming up over the next few months. Be sure to plan your diary and book tickets in advance.
Get ready for traditional family fun at Daisy Nook Country Fair
SATURDAY 5TH – MONDAY 21ST APRIL
When you think of Easter, what springs to mind? Chocolate eggs, the Easter bunny and gathering with your family for a lamb roast dinner? But when you ask the people of Oldham, Failsworth and Ashton under Lyne, it’s Daisy Nook Fair that can be added to the celebrations! The Silcock family have presented this fair for many generations and have kept the tradition alive for local families by bringing some of Europe’s top attractions to Daisy Nook Country Park each year. This year, the fair returns from Saturday 5th until Monday 21st April, open from noon until 6pm each day. Expect lots of thrilling, high-energy rides, traditional family attractions, children’s rides, games, plus food and candy floss! W: www.silcocksfunfairs.com
Room on the Broom
TUESDAY 15TH – SUNDAY 20TH APRIL
Iggety ziggety zaggety zoom! Jump on board the broom with the witch and her cat in Tall Stories’ fun-filled adaptation of Room on the Broom, the best-selling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler at Lowry. The witch and her cat are travelling on their broomstick when they pick up some hitch-hikers – a friendly dog, a beautiful green bird and a frantic frog. But this broomstick is not meant for five and – CRACK – it snaps in two... just as the hungry dragon appears! Will there ever be room on the broom for everyone? Find out in the magical Olivier Award-nominated show for everyone aged three and up. W: www.thelowry.com
The Koala Who Could, live on stage
TUESDAY 8TH – SUNDAY 13TH APRIL
“In a wonderful place, at the breaking of dawn, where the breezes were soft and the sunshine was warm, a place where the creatures ran wild and played free ... A Koala called Kevin clung to a tree.” Based on the bestselling picture book about taking a chance. An empowering and chuckle-out-loud story about embracing change – whether we like it or not. Join Kevin, King of the staying-still-kings, and his friends the wombats, roos, and dingos as they learn that “life can be great when you try something new”.
Based on the multi-million copy selling book by Rachel Bright and Jim Field, published by Hachette Children’s Group, this brand-new adaptation for stage is directed by Emma Earle (Oi Frog & Friends), with music and lyrics by Eamonn O’Dwyer (The Lion Inside). W: www.thelowry.com
Meet Peter Rabbit at the Bury Transport Museum
FRIDAY 18TH & SATURDAY 19TH APRIL
The mischievous bob-tailed bunny, Peter Rabbit™, is visiting the East Lancashire Railway. Go along to see Peter at intervals throughout the day in the fantastic Bury Transport Museum.
There will be even more family fun with three fun fair rides suitable for toddlers, face painters and craft activities. Complete your day out with a ride along one of the heritage steam or diesel trains though Irwell Valley. Ticket price includes a ride on any train services on the day of your visit! General Admission tickets must be purchased online, so don’t miss out. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
The pantomime adventures of Peter Pan
SATURDAY 19TH APRIL
Set sail to The Albert Halls, Bolton this Easter and Join the Swashbuckling Adventures of Peter Pan in this high-flying pantomime for all the family! Soar through the skies to Barnacle Bay and the Enchanted Island in a brand-new pantomime adventure. The Island is in chaos and the hilarious Captain Smee and the outrageous Mrs Smee have had reports that the dastardly Captain Hook has returned from his watery grave and is looking for revenge. With Peter Pan in great danger and everyone in trouble, it’s time to get help from the Magical Mermaid who summons for the return of Wendy to help save the day, rescue the magical crystal and help Peter Pan conquer Hook once and for all. Be part of the panto magic - hook your tickets today… the croc is ticking! W: www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk
Don’t miss The Baddies at The Lowry
FRIDAY 2ND – SUNDAY 4TH MAY
Freckle Productions and The Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh presents The Baddies, based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Meet the very worst Baddies in the world! Don’t you dare to come too close to a witch, a troll and an ancient ghost! The Baddies love being bad. They roar, spook and cast wicked spells to try and scare a girl out of her wits… who will succeed? Or perhaps the girl is braver than they think… With songs by Joe Stilgoe (Zog and Zog and The Flying Doctors), The Baddies is a wickedly hilarious adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s smash-hit story. A laugh-out-loud riot for all the family at The Lowry this May! W: www.thelowry.com
Saturday 17 May
WOW
What’s on Where in Greater Manchester
THIS SPRING
Power Up
Science + Industry Museum
www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk
Play the very best video games from the past five decades from Pong to Pacman, Mario to Minecraft, plus a selection of games created in Manchester. Face off against friends and families in multiplayer showdowns, rediscover your childhood favourites and test out some of the latest virtual reality experiences. Running on weekends and during school holidays.
From Pitch to Page
National Football Museum www.nationalfootballmuseum.com
Step into the story of the beautiful game and experience the magic of football annuals with this brandnew exhibition From Pitch to Page: The Magic of Football Annuals. Featuring annuals from the fifties to present day, this is an immersive, playful journey through decades of football nostalgia, where fans of all ages can explore the important and unforgettable stories that have shaped the game. Running until 21st September.
King Pins
Trafford Palazzo & Manchester Arndale www.kingpinsbowling.co.uk
The ultimate bowling experience for all the family. You’ll find state-of-the-art Ten Pin bowling, as well as Duck Pin lanes, ice-free curling, shuffleboard, pool, ping pong, and a huge arcade.
Magical Adventure in Wonderland
Z-arts
www.z-arts.org
A brand-new play experience, follow the White Rabbit into scenes from the beloved book – splash into the pool of tears, make friends with the Cheshire Cat, have tea as the Mad Hatter, play croquet with flamingos, get lost in a card maze, and wake up back on the riverbank, just in time for tea! Booking required.
There’s Loads to Do in Manchester
Manchester City www.loadstodo.co.uk
Manchester City Council has teamed up with communities and activity leaders across the area to bring all school holiday activities and events on one website. Manchester also runs a free holiday club programme for children on benefits-related free school meals, including thousands of free places for children’s activities over the school holidays.
Textiles Gallery
Science + Industry Museum www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk
Find out how cotton transformed the city. Adventure through life in industrial Manchester and find out how ‘Cottonopolis’ changed the world we all live in today. Pick up a FREE activity trail and guide yourself through the gallery with fun games and challenges.
Operation Ouch!
Science + Industry Museum www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk
Brains, bogies and you – a sensesational exhibition! Get ready for a brand-new adventure of super-sized science and brilliant biology. Journey through an ear canal covered in gooey wax, squeeze past sticky snot and plunge headfirst into the incredible world of our senses. Get shrunk down to microscopic size and set out on a medical mission into Dr Chris’s brain headquarters. Curious kids can get stuck into science through interactive games, challenges and fun facts.
Experiment
Science + Industry Museum
www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk
Get hands on and see science brought to life in the free interactive gallery designed for the whole family to enjoy together.
Celebrate Mother’s Day at Gulliver’s World. Adults go FREE when accompanied by at least one full paying child on both days.
Saturday 5th –Sunday 13th April
Lambing Week
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
Meet new arrivals and enjoy informal talks from the team (closed on Monday).
Saturday 5th –Monday 21st April
Daisy Nook Country Fair
Daisy Nook Country Park, Oldham www.silcocksfunfairs.com
Expect lots of thrilling, high-energy rides, traditional family attractions, children’s rides, games, plus food and candy floss! Open 12noon-6pm each day with FREE entry.
Bounce along with the Easter Bunny and Candy Crew for mad-cap antics and eggscellent entertainment this April at Gulliver’s!
Easter Football Challenge
National Football Museum www.nationalfootballmuseum.com
Test your creativity, solve puzzles, and try something new! Football isn’t just about goals – it’s about strategy, resilience, and problem-solving. Engage in exciting family-friendly activities.
Gandeys Circus – Carnival Trafford Centre www.gandeyscircus.com
A spectacular show that brings the thrills, colour and spectacle of circus and carnival to life! Be transported to the vibrant, lively world of Rio’s famous Carnival with stunning sounds, dazzling costumes, and an international cast full of flair and excitement.
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!
Saturday 5th –Sunday 27th April
Meet the Easter Bunny
BeWILDerwood, Bickley Moss www.bewilderwood.co.uk
Follow the Giant Easter Egg Trail and receive a special BeWILDerwood badge at the end! Head to the Storytelling Stage where you’ll see the Pesky Bunnies and meet Cedric the Easter Bunny on your journey too.
Monday 7th –
Friday 18th April
Creativity Sessions
Aviva Studios www.avivastudios.co.uk
A season of crafts, live music and FREE events for all! Visit Tuesday to Friday, 11am-3pm, throughout the school holidays where there will be FREE, craft drop-in sessions running. Please do check their website for exact timings as they are subject to change.
The most exciting holiday camps around! These action-packed camps are all about having fun, learning new skills and making friends. Children of all abilities are welcome to be part of Camp Graystone; those new to action sports and experienced riders alike. No need to worry about lunch… a delicious meal served fresh from the bar and restaurant is included! Check online for options of dates and times for each age group.
Monday 7th –Sunday 27th April
Crack the Easter Egg-nigma code
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Hunt down the colourful eggs and collect the clues to solve the mystery and claim your chocolate –make sure you grab a code-breaker pack on arrival for £2.50.
Tuesday 8th-Thursday 17th
April
Easter Fun
Bents Garden and Home www.bents.co.uk
Get crafty with Easter-themed creations on 8th & 15th April and Build-a-Buddy workshops on 10th & 17th April. Don’t miss the Easter Special Show on 17th April for extra giggles! Plus, enjoy a Hoppy Easter Breakfast with the Easter Bunny, explore the outdoor adventure play area and covered beach.
Tuesday 8th –Monday 21st April
The Tale of Peter Rabbit Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
A delightful storytelling tour in the gardens inspired by The Tale of Peter Rabbit.
Wednesday 9th April
The Wizarding Adventure East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
During this magical interactive experience, you’ll take lessons in the basics of broomsticks, practice your potion making, be instructed in incantations and learn to tattle and talk with a tawny owl. Perfect for ages 5-12 but anyone is welcome. Includes a return railway trip.
Thursday 10th April
The Dino Adventure East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
A perfect adventure for ‘dino’ fans! Learn all about the adorable dinosaurs from expert handlers in this fully interactive experience that is both educational and entertaining for all the family. Earn your diploma in dino know how and begin your training as a palaeontologist of the future.
Friday 18th April
Easter Pop-Up Market
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
A family friendly Pop-Up Market in the Stableyard.
Friday 18th & Saturday 19th April
Peter Rabbit at Easter East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Go and see Peter Rabbit at intervals, there will be even more family fun with three rides suitable for toddlers, face painters and craft activities in Bury Transport Museum. Complete your day out with a ride along one of the heritage steam or diesel trains though Irwell Valley. Ticket price includes a ride on any train services on the day of your visit.
Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th April
Toy Bank Weekend
Gulliver’s World Resort www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Saturday 3rd –Monday 5th May
Princess and Pirate Weekend
Gulliver’s World Resort www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
3!
There will be treasure treats, fancy dress events, themed activities and so much more at Gulliver’s World Warrington. Buddy the Pirate will be on stage with some swashbuckling songs and Princess Gilly will be making special appearances throughout the day.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship Oulton Park www.oultonpark.co.uk
The 2025 Bennetts British Superbike Championship kicks off at Oulton Park, with a triple-header on the picturesque International Circuit this May.
Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th May
Supertato
Gulliver’s World Resort www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Go and see Supertato, the world’s first potato superhero, at Gulliver’s World for one weekend only! He’ll be appearing at intervals on both days.
Saturday 17th May
AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great Manchester Run Etihad Campus www.greatrun.org
Younger runners have their own day to take centre stage the day before the Great Manchester Run. You can expect fancy dress, high-fives, and lots of local support from the Manchester crowd! Minis aged 3-8 can take on a fun 1.5k dash, and Juniors aged 9-15 can tackle the 2.5k challenge. It’s an incredible event atmosphere and all part of the iconic Great Manchester Run weekend. Be part of it!
Enjoy discounted theme park entry from £15pp when you take along a new and unused toy (one per booking) to donate when you arrive. In support of KidsOut, your generous donations will help support local children in crisis.
From Friday 2nd May
Stories brought to Life: School Trips
MediaCity, Salford Quays www.npgunframed.com
Sunday 15th June
Soccer Aid for UNICEF
Old Trafford Stadium www.socceraid.org.uk
Schools can take pupils on an immersive journey to discover the extraordinary stories behind some of the nation’s favourite portraits, in this captivating new experience inspired by the National Portrait Gallery’s Collection. Suitable from Key Stage 2, tickets from £6. Running until 31st August.
Celebrities and footballing legends battle it out on the pitch as England take on the Soccer Aid World XI FC in the world’s biggest charity football match! Book your tickets NOW! BOOK AHEAD
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!
Box OFFICE
A selection of family-friendly shows on stage at local theatres this spring, including an Easter pantomime! Book your tickets now for pick of the best seats.
The Albert Halls, Bolton www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk
Wednesday 16th April
PRINCESS LIVE
The ultimate princess pop party, featuring your favourite fairytale royalty in this all singing all dancing hour long concert show.
Saturday 19th April
THE PANTOMIME ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN
Set sail this Easter and join the swashbuckling adventures of Peter Pan in this high-flying pantomime for all the family!
The Lowry www.thelowry.com
Wednesday 26th –Saturday 29th March
PIG HEART BOY
From the multi award-winning writer Malorie Blackman OBE, author of Noughts and Crosses, this brilliant novel is brought to life in a brand-new adaptation by Winsome Pinnock, and is directed by Tristan Fynn-Aiduenu in a Unicorn co-production with Sheffield Theatres and Children’s Theatre Partnership. Age 9+.
Tuesday 8th –
Sunday 13th April
THE KAOLA WHO COULD
Join Kevin, King of the stayingstill-kings, and his friends the wombats, roos, and dingos as they learn that “life can be great when you try something new”. Based on the multi-million copy selling book by Rachel Bright and Jim Field.
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 13th April
ANDY AND THE ODD SOCKS
Join the Odd Socks as they bring their brilliant madcap mix of songs, slapstick comedy and silliness to life with a show to entertain families of all ages.
Tuesday 15th –Sunday 20th April
ROOM ON THE BROOM
Based on the best-selling book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
Friday 2nd-Sunday 4th May
THE BADDIES
The Baddies is a wickedly hilarious adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s smash-hit story. A laugh-out-loud riot for all the family.
Manchester Palace Theatre www.atgtickets.com
Thursday 26th March –Saturday 25th April
MATILDA THE MUSICAL
Matilda The Musical features flashing lights, lasers and loud sound effects. Latex balloons are popped onstage and stage haze (smoke) is used. Actors interact in audience spaces. Age 6+.
The Met www.themet.org.uk
Thursday 27th March
FAMILY STORIES AND DRAGONS
A unique experience where families come together to explore a world of fantasy through storytelling and role-playing.
Friday 11th April
TEACH REX LIVE
This unique interactive show teaches children about the most mesmerising creatures that have ever roamed our planet – dinosaurs! Ages 3+.
Waterside Arts Centre www.watersidearts.org
Wednesday 9th & Thursday 10th April
THE SMARTEST GIANT IN TOWN
Based on the best-selling book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
Saturday 19th April
PLANT
A tender comic celebration of the natural world, abundance and sharing for ages 3-6.
Sunday 4th May
CURIOUS INVESTIGATORS
Scribble and Clipboard have a job to do: sort the recycling. But Scribble keeps finding new things to investigate. What will she discover on the way? A cracking adventure created in collaboration with engineering experts from Lancaster University, a surprising, highly visual show for 3–7-yearolds and their grown-ups.
Z-arts
www.z-arts.org
Saturday 29th March
SO UNFAIR!
Help Daniel Bye change the world, in an unexpectedly ridiculous adventure involving engineering challenges, bad dad jokes, and an extraordinary quantity of molten chocolate. Ages 7-10.
Saturday 3rd May
THE GIANT BALLOON SHOW
Dizzy O’Dare’s The Giant Balloon Show will have the audience in stitches and in awe. Expect feverous balloon sculptures, high energy comic performance and the all-important giant balloon!
Saturday 17th May
THE ULTIMATE BUBBLE SHOW
This show promises a whirlwind of excitement and surprises, as Ray uses various different gases to craft stunning bubble sculptures, effects, and magical displays. Ages 1+ and particularly suitable for children and adults with additional needs.
THE ULTIMATE BUBBLE SHOW | Z-ARTS
A Rose Original Production with Nicoll Entertainment, Lowry, Northern Stage, Unicorn Theatre, & MAST Mayflower Studios
