Welcome to our May Half Term magazine. We’ve not long had the Easter break, but we are looking forward to the bank holiday weekend and half term coming up soon!
In our Half Term Fun feature you will find a huge array of activities, days out and events to choose from. From shows and museums to climbing and bowling, there is plenty to choose from.
The What’s on Where pages list everything in date order, making it easier to plan your weeks ahead.
Our next issue will be our bumper one, covering the entire summer holidays and more. Bring on the sunshine!
Louise
LOCAL NEWS
HALF TERM FUN WOW BOX OFFICE 04 06 10 14
Local NEWS
A round-up of local news from the area, with an update from a local school, college courses still available for September, and the amazing Bluey’s Big Play is coming to Liverpool for families to enjoy.
Don’t miss Bluey’s Big Play at M&S Bank Arena
Bluey’s Big Play is coming to the M&S Bank Arena from Thursday 2nd to Sunday 5th July! See the Heelers in their first live theatre show, featuring an original story, massive puppets, and brand new music.
Join Bluey, Bingo, Bandit, and Chilli for a heart warming adventure the whole family will love. Don’t miss your chance to see the magic live in Liverpool! Get tickets at www.mandsbankarena.com
Applications for Knowsley Community College are still open for September 2026
It’s not too late. If you know a young person finishing school and thinking about what comes next, now is the time to act. Knowsley Community College is currently taking applications for September 2026 and places won’t wait.
This is their chance to try something new, build confidence, and take steps toward big goals. These hands‑on vocational courses develop practical skills, unlock creativity, and prepare learners for the world of work. Along the way, they’ll make friends, gain independence, and create memories that last while shaping a future that feels right for them. Apply now and don’t miss out today.
W: www.knowsleycollege.ac.uk
St Julie’s Open Evening for girls in Year 4 and 5
St Julie’s Catholic High school is a popular and vibrant learning community where academic excellence is standard and traditional values shape the delivery of a curriculum that is innovative and exciting. Their last Ofsted inspection in 2023 judged the school to be good, and the Catholic Schools Inspectorate noted in 2024 “Students truly understand and embrace the charism and mission of St. Julie’s. They speak with pride about how they live out the Notre Dame values in their daily lives.”
As St Julie’s celebrate the 175th anniversary of Notre Dame Education in Liverpool this year, there has never been a better time to meet the Headteacher, staff and students. Visit the open event on Thursday 25th June from 4 6pm. Find out more at www.stjulies.org.uk
HotWaterComedyTheatreHire–OpentoSchools
Are you looking for the ideal venue for your school or club’s upcoming performance? Hot Water Comedy has multiple theatres available to hire, seating anywhere from 60 and 600 guests. This midweek venue hire is perfect for drama clubs, film previews, dance classes, presentations, assemblies, and so much more.
Located in the city centre, their venues feature professional lighting and sound, with a fully teched show run by a professional team. Situated inside Blackstock Market, it’s the perfect place to grab food and drink before or after your event.
W: www.blackstockmarket.co.uk
Half Term FUN
We have some great ideas of places to visit and things to do over the upcoming half term. From family games to days out, activities or even a show, there are lots to choose from to keep everyone entertained.
It’s an action-packed half term at The Atkinson
The Atkinson in Southport has a packed programme for May Half Term, with free, family friendly workshops, theatre and exhibitions. Get creative at an artist led Make It! craft session on Thursday 28th May. Enjoy a mammoth adventure in the chilly world of Ice Age Adventure Live on Friday 29th May, with a chance to meet the polar bear after the show. Budding scientists will love The Utterly Revolting Science Show on Saturday 30th May, a fun, high tech journey through the human body. The museum and galleries are always free. Perfect for families seeking affordable, educational days out together locally! Plan your visit online. W: www.theatkinson.co.uk
Calling all Bounty Hunters
On Wednesday 27th May, families are invited to enjoy some FREE family fun at the Strand Shopping Centre. Visitors can meet Star Wars characters including the Mandalorian, Grogu, and Stormtroopers, creating unforgettable photo opportunities for fans of all ages. The event also features FREE face painting, allowing children to transform into their favourite characters, and a craft zone where they can get creative. Visit the Lower Mall, from 11am to 3pm to join the fun.
May Half Term at RHS Bridgewater: The Great Garden Game-a-thon
Let the games begin! The Great Garden Game a thon is back at RHS Bridgewater from Saturday 23rd to Sunday 31st May. Will you rise to the challenge? Enjoy a fun packed week of outdoor adventures. Challenge your family at giant garden games‚ explore the meadow maze and see who can master circus tricks first!
W: www.rhs.org.uk
Family fun at The Climbing Hangar
W: www.strandshoppingcentre.com
Looking for an adventure filled family day out? Swing by The Climbing Hangar – the perfect place to get your little monkeys moving, learning and having serious fun. Their indoor climbing centres in North Liverpool (Sandhills) and South Liverpool (Matchworks) are safe, friendly and designed for all ages and abilities. They’re spaces where children build confidence, coordination and problem‑solving skills to take into everyday life. Great for first timers or families full of adventure, your half term in Merseyside is sorted. Get them climbing their walls instead of yours!
W: www.theclimbinghangar.com
A legendary bowling experience for all at Star Pins
Get ready for legendary times for the whole family this half term at Star Pins! Enjoy state of the art Ten Pin bowling lanes, as well as ice free curling, shuffleboard, an amazing arcade, private karaoke rooms and more.
And it isn’t just the games on offer; get stuck into delicious pizza, crispy chicken, loaded fries and burgers from the onsite kitchen. Sweet tooth? There’s slushies, chocolate and assorted goodies for afters.
Enjoy Liverpool’s newest entertainment venue where there’s something for everyone, now open in the heart of the city!
W: www.starpins.co.uk
The Wild World gallery is now open at World Museum
Experience life in thick rainforests, roam with a lioness as it prowls the savannahs of Africa, and travel through the frozen landscapes of the Arctic and Antarctica as Wild World: Dinosaurs and Natural History reopens at World Museum in Liverpool. Visitors can journey past the fearsome dinosaurs Allosaurus and Camptosaurus and learn how these immense animals lived and died, and also take in a brand new virtual reality dinosaur world. Located on the fourth floor of World Museum, the gallery is free to enter. Keep your eyes peeled for another roarsome summer of dino events coming up later this year!
W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Early Bird Special: bowl before 12noon and get 2nd game half price! Available during school holidays.
It’s an action-packed half term at the Floral Pavilion
Get off to a rocking start with Justin Live – Justin Time To Rock on Saturday 23rd May! Justin Fletcher’s brand new, high energy feel good family show is bursting with music, dancing and plenty of giggles.
The thrills continue with Superslam Wrestling on Sunday 24th May, with an action packed championship lineup of international wrestlers. And finally, join the ultimate wild rescue mission in Dino Tales – Jurassic Rescue on Tuesday 26th May. State of the art walking dinosaurs will capture the imaginations of kids and parents alike, with flapping frills and dino thrills. All these shows and many more can be booked online now.
W: www.floralpavilion.com
British GT Championship at Oulton Park
Cheshire’s world famous Oulton Park race circuit hosts a special bank holiday billing of the British GT Championship on Saturday 23rd and Monday 25th May.
Thrilling supercars bring high performance action to the track, with two headline one hour races on Monday. Expect to see priceless racing machines from Lamborghini, McLaren, Aston Martin and more balancing pit stops and driver changes in the hunt for glory!
Single seater action, courtesy of the GB4 Championship, will see the next generation of F1 hopefuls compete for silverware among a packed schedule of support races too.
Under 13s go FREE, with reductions for 13 15 year olds and discounts on all advance adult tickets. Check online for more information and to book tickets.
W: www.oultonpark.co.uk
WOW
What’s on Where in Merseyside
ONGOING
The Wild World Gallery
World Museum
www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Experience life in thick rainforests, roam with a lioness as it prowls the savannahs of Africa, and travel through the frozen landscapes of the Arctic and Antarctica as Wild World: Dinosaurs and Natural History reopens at World Museum in Liverpool. Visitors can also take in a brand new virtual reality dinosaur world.
Legendary Bowling
Star Pins, School Lane www.starpins.co.uk
In the heart of the city, this Liverpool venue is packed with bowling, a brilliant mix of interactive games, and food and drink that hit the spot – all in one place. From family outings to after work get togethers and special celebrations, Star Pins is your go to destination for good times, great flavours, and plenty of fun.
Little Liverpool Museum of Liverpool
www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
A hands on fantasy world especially for children under the age of six to play and learn. Entry is by ticket, which can be collected from the welcome desk on the day of your visit or booked online in advance. 50% of tickets for free sessions are available online and 50% are held back for collection from the welcome desk on the day. Each session in the Little Liverpool gallery lasts about 30 minutes. Days and times vary during term time and school holidays. Check online for details.
The Wind in the Willows:
A Garden Adventure
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Join Mr Toad, Ratty, Mole and Badger for an interactive garden experience celebrating nature and friendship.
Planetarium
World Museum
www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Marvel at the universe and learn about our solar system. Watch space shows in this full dome planetarium.
Every Wednesday
Story & Rhyme Time
The Atkinson, Southport www.theatkinson.co.uk
Explore stories through rhyme and help develop your child’s language and communication skills while meeting other parents and carers. Together with friendly librarians, babies and under fives will enjoy learning new songs, dancing, and making friends. 11.30am 12.15pm. Admission is free.
Thursday 21st May
Tiddlers: Seaside Explorers
World Museum
www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Join on selected Thursday mornings from 10 11am in the Aquarium for Tiddlers – Seaside Explorers! This is a relaxed, drop in session filled with nature inspired and underwater animal activities perfect for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Ideal for parents, carers, and nursery groups. No booking needed and it’s completely free! Older siblings welcome too.
Saturday 23rd May
For the Love of Art
Lady Lever Art Gallery www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Splatter and stick offers an inclusive environment with the aim to develop a child’s self confidence, natural exploration skills, hand eye co ordination and manual dexterity, through the exploration of arts and crafts with sensory play.
Saturday 23rd & Monday 25th May
British GT Championship
Oulton Park
www.oultonpark.co.uk
Thrilling supercars bring high performance action to the track, with two headline one hour races on Monday. Expect to see priceless racing machines from Lamborghini, McLaren and Aston Martin. There will also be a range of support races. Book online in advance for discounted tickets.
Saturday 23rd – Sunday 31st May
Giant Games
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Prepare for some giant fun with a range of giant garden games. Grab your friends and family‚ take your competitive spirit and embark on a giant gaming adventure.
Meadow Maze
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Perfect for explorers big and small, wind your way through the meadow maze. Will you find your way out?
Monday 25th – Wednesday 27th May
Circus Skills
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Roll up, roll up! Join Circus House and try your hand at plate spinning, diablo, hula hooping and juggling. Running on Monday 11am 1.30pm, Tuesday 1 3.30pm and Wednesday 11am 3.30pm.
Half Term Fun
Early Bird Special Star Pins, School Lane www.starpins.co.uk
Bowl before 12noon and get your 2nd game half price! Available during school holidays.
Climb into Half Term
The Climbing Hangar www.theclimbinghangar.com
The indoor climbing centres in North Liverpool (Sandhills) and South Liverpool (Matchworks) are safe, friendly and designed for all ages and abilities. Kids can climb, move and build confidence.
Use code KIDS10 for 10% OFF your first climb!
Wednesday 27th May
Calling all Bounty Hunters
The Strand Shopping Centre www.strandshoppingcentre.com
Meet your favourite characters: Stormtroopers, The Mandalorian and Grogu, FREE face painting, and craft zone! Young Padawans, Hutts, Jedi Knights and Sith Lords, this is one event you won’t want to miss!
Thursday 28th May
Craft Workshop
The Atkinson, Southport www.theatkinson.co.uk
Be inspired by the museum, gallery and theatre programme in an arts and crafts workshop suitable for all the family. There’s something for all ages, with all materials supplied and all for free!
Return of the Detector Dogs
World Museum
www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Detector dogs work with a handler from Border Force to detect hidden objects and smuggled goods. The Museum is hosting a special visit from these highly skilled dogs with a unique chance to see them in action and find out more! Demonstrations will take place in the Treasure House Theatre at 12noon, 1pm and 2pm.
Thursday 28th & Friday 29th May
Family Board Games
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Join Ann from Cards or Die who will be on hand to teach and recommend games from a huge selection. Find retro favourites and modern classics, with something for every age and ability.
Saturday 30th May
Roman Day
Chester Racecourse
www.chester-races.com
KIDS GO FREE
Experience an action packed historic family fun day. Kids go FREE, and all activities are included! Don’t worry adults, they haven’t forgotten about you! Get ready for thrilling racing, toe tapping music from the DJ and plenty of good times.
Sunday 31st May
Relaxed Screenings
World Museum
www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
A planetarium screening tailored to visitors with sensory sensitivities. The relaxed shows have adjustments to be more inviting for visitors with sensory needs and their friends and families. People may like to chat or respond to shows while they are running. There will be a small number of sensory toys and objects available for visitors to borrow on request.
Tuesday 16th & Wednesday 17th June
Royal Cheshire County Show
Clay House Farm, Knutsford www.royalcheshireshow.org
With over 5,000 animals, exciting competitions, hands on activities, a fun fair, shopping, and delicious food, there’s plenty to explore. Enjoy live music across the showground, including “Late at the Show” on Tuesday evening, featuring a children’s show from 4.30pm with Bluey, more special guests, and plenty of kids’ entertainment, as well as performances at the Music Bowl.
Thursday
25th June
Tiddlers: Seaside Explorers
Museum of Liverpool
www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
FREE
Join on selected Thursday mornings from 10 11am in the Aquarium for Tiddlers –Seaside Explorers! This is a relaxed, drop in session filled with nature inspired and underwater animal activities perfect for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Ideal for parents, carers, and nursery groups. No booking needed and it’s completely free! Older siblings welcome too.
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
Local theatres have a variety of stage shows and concerts scheduled to entertain families over half term and beyond, with tickets available to book online now.
The Atkinson www.theatkinson.co.uk
Friday 29th May
ICE AGE ADVENTURE LIVE
Journey back in time to meet incredible prehistoric animals in the coolest family show this side of the arctic circle. Join fearless explorers as they trek through snow packed valleys, outwit sabre toothed surprises, and make friends with the coolest cavemen, even bringing back some extinct dodo friends for the ride. This icy adventure is sure to knock your snow boots off! After the show, get up close like never before and meet your prehistoric pal; the polar bear!
Saturday 30th May
THE UTTERLEY REVOLTING SCIENCE SHOW
The spectacular, hilarious, highly explosive science stunt show. Brace yourselves for the Rude Science team’s hilarious, high tech, highly explosive new journey through the human body, packed with burp biology, fart physics and revolting edible chemistry. Expect enormous bottoms, edible fireworks, burp machines and the world’s loudest fart in this riotous science spectacular. On the surface it’s a rollercoaster of disgusting experiments built to delight young audiences, but under the bonnet it’s a brilliantly constructed curriculum driven adventure designed to inspire kids with a lasting fascination for science.
Saturday 13th June
Sunday 24th May
Friday 3rd – Sunday 5th
July
NICE! STORIES & RHYMES WITH MICHAEL
SUPERSLAM WRESTLING
ROSEN
Poetry legend Michael Rosen celebrates his 80th birthday with a brand new live show! Michael looks back at a lifetime in poetry, performing beloved classics including Hot Food, No Breathing and Chocolate Cake, along with never before heard poems from his new collection Peas On Your Knees. a show for all ages, from the young to the young at heart.
Floral Pavilion
www.floralpavilion.com
Tuesday 19th May
K-POP ALL STARS TRIBUTE
Feel the power of stadium sized anthems, razor sharp choreography, and a cast that delivers every beat with precision and passion. The show lights up the stage with breathtaking visuals, original choreography, and non stop energy from start to finish.
Saturday 23rd May
JUSTIN LIVE
Get ready to sing, dance and laugh along with BAFTA Award winning Justin, star of Something Special, Justin’s House, Gigglebiz and Gigglequiz as he and his friends are back in a brand new live theatre show bursting with music, dancing and plenty of giggles.
Don’t miss another action packed championship line up! Featuring top British titleholders who will face a host of international wrestlers, including stars from the USA, who promise to bring some American razzmatazz to New Brighton wrestling fans in this star studded bonanza.
Tuesday 26th May
DINO TALES
There’s a baby Ankylosaurus lost in the forest who needs your help and you must find her before the Evil Zookeeper Scientist does… You’ll encounter Freya the dancing Raptor, Dylan the Dilophosaurus, Angie the Ankylosaurus, Scar the Spinosaurus and Bruce the mighty T Rex. With a captivating story and an immersive finale that will bring the house down, Dino Tales is an unforgettable family adventure starring Europe’s largest walking dinosaurs to ever roam the stage.
M&S Bank Arena www.mandsbankarena.com
Thursday 28th May
WWE: EUROPEAN SUMMER TOUR
See your favourite WWE Superstars in action on the European Summer Tour.
Saturday 20th June
MISS AMERICANA – A TRIBUTE TO TAYLOR SWIFT
Step into the unparalleled world of Taylor Swift and her Eras experience in this electrifying show featuring the incredible Xenna.
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!
BLUEY’S BIG PLAY
See the Heelers in their first live theatre show, featuring an original story, massive puppets, and brand new music. Join Bluey, Bingo, Bandit, and Chilli for a heart warming adventure the whole family will love. Don’t miss your chance to see the magic live in Liverpool!
Sunday 12th July
K-POP ALL STARS
Experience K pop live, featuring hits from Blackpink, BTS, Twice, and more, with stadium sized anthems, choreography, and dazzling visuals.
St Helen’s Theatre
Royal www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com
Wednesday 27th May
FLOWERS AND FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS
Get ready for a dazzling explosion of music, dance, and excitement as Flowers and Friendship Bracelets takes to the stage! Join for the ultimate pop concert and celebrate the biggest hits from five of the hottest artists of the moment.
Thursday 28th May
DINOSAUR
ADVENTURE LIVE
Step back in time to a world of living, breathing, life like dinosaurs in this brand new ROAR some adventure! Taking you on an unforgettable journey through the Jurassic era, experience the thrill of getting up close with spinosaurs and feel the thunderous roar of a T Rex, learn about their history and even feed them.
Wednesday 10th June
PEPPA PIG’S BIG FAMILY SHOW
Peppa Pig and friends are back in their brand new live stage show! Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show is packed full of music, adventure and surprises for little ones and is the perfect introduction to theatre.
