Welcome to our Summer Issue, jam-packed with oodles to do over the summer!
We have lots of lovely family-friendly events, days out and places to go over the summer season.
With the long school holidays coming up, this magazine can help you to plan your weeks ahead and balance your time –whether you are looking to spend family time together or whether you need to book some holiday clubs and activities to entertain the children.
There are some special offers and a voucher for Gulliver’s Theme Parks in here too, so be sure to utilise those!
Good luck to all our Year Six leavers who are moving on to secondary school, and we will be back to start the new school year in September. In the meantime, say hello to summer!
Louise
Local NEWS
Snippets of news from across the county. College applications are still open, an update from the NHS on vaccinations, and there is a new product on the market to combat muscle fatigue and cramp. Plus, upcoming auditions for young musicians!
Protect your child against measles
Measles spreads easily and quickly – just a cough or sneeze can spread the measles virus to others. 1 in 5 children with measles will need hospital treatment and may develop serious complications.
Two doses of an MMR containing vaccine protects your child from measles. This also protects against mumps and rubella. All of these can be serious illnesses. Younger children may be eligible for the chicken pox vaccine (varicella).
Please contact your child’s GP practice today. They can check your child’s vaccination record and provide all outstanding vaccines. W: www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/mmr-vaccine
National Children’s Orchestras auditions are open!
Auditions are open for young musicians aged 8-13 who play an orchestral instrument to take part in one of eight fun, creative and welcoming orchestras!
NCO’s Orchestral Weekends take place in Bolton, Birmingham, Tiverton and London. They are for children playing at at least grade 3 level who come together to play a range of brilliant music, play alongside professional guest artists and perform for their families.
At NCO’s Orchestral Weeks, young musicians aged 11-14, playing at grade 4 and above, take their playing to another level. They stay for the week, take part in rehearsals, wellbeing and creative sessions, and perform in a public concert. It’s free to audition, submissions are by video and the deadline is 9am on Friday 31st July. Membership fees apply, but financial support is available.
WatchNationalChildren’sOrchestrasinconcert!
NCO’s next concert near you is at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall at 4.30pm on Saturday 1st August
Take your family to experience the sounds of America in a vibrant concert brought to life by NCO’s remarkable orchestra of 13-14 year olds. Music includes George Gershwin’s An American in Paris and Leonard Bernstein’s Mambo from West Side Story.
Apply now to Knowsley Community College for September 2026
As GCSEs come to an end, all eyes turn to the future. For many school leavers, that means thinking about college and the opportunities ahead: choosing a course, meeting new people, and stepping into a new environment.
If you’re still making your decision, don’t worry – applications to Knowsley Community College are still open for September 2026. College is a chance to explore your interests, gain new skills, and start shaping your future, so take the opportunity and apply now. Visit www.knowsleycollege.ac.uk/apply26 to take your next step.
The game changer
Cramp Killa is a recently launched product designed to support individuals who suffer from muscle fatigue and cramp, helping to restore performance when it matters most.
In today’s busy world, maintaining a consistently active lifestyle is not always possible – and even when it is, motivation and recovery can become limiting factors.
Cramp Killa offers fast, effective cramp relief, delivering a two-stage functional response: an immediate neurological reset, followed by deep, systemic hydration. This combination is designed to help stop cramps within seconds and support rapid recovery.
It can also be used proactively as a preventative measure, helping to reduce fatigue and cramping so you can continue to perform your activities without interruption.
The product is available in two refreshing flavours: Electric Lime and Sunburst Orange, and it is already becoming a preferred choice among athletes, including Olympians and Commonwealth Games representatives.
Cramp Killa proudly supports Brain Tumour Research, contributing to awareness and support for vital research initiatives.
We have a huge selection of things to do and places to go to keep children entertained over the school holidays, with plenty of opportunities to make family memories along the way. Say hello to summer!
School’s out. Game on.
Get ready for legendary times this summer at Star Pins! Enjoy state-of-the-art Ten Pin Bowling lanes, ice-free curling, tech darts, an amazing arcade and even more in the heart of Liverpool. And it isn’t just the games that are amazing! Get stuck into delicious pizza and crispy chicken, as well as sweet treats and slushies from the desserts counter. You won’t want to miss it. Book now to secure your spot!
W: www.starpins.co.uk
The Atkinson offers fun and crafts over the holidays
Planning a fun, affordable family day out this summer?
Discover The Atkinson in Southport, packed with free activities for all ages. Join the ‘Make It’ artist-led craft workshops every Thursday from 23rd July until 27th August, where children can get creative and take home their own creations. Teens aged 14-18 can explore future careers in the Young Curators Summer Sessions starting from Saturday 18th August. Plus, the museum and galleries are always free to explore together. It’s the perfect mix of creativity, learning, and fun close to home. With something exciting guaranteed for every family member this summer, start planning your visit today!
W: www.theatkinson.co.uk
SummershowsatShakespeareNorthPlayhouse
TwelfthNight
Tuesday 21st –Friday 24th July
Get in a fight. Cross-dress. Throw on some yellow stockings. Love can make you do the funniest things…! The critically acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company present their own brand of Shakespearean mayhem.
Separated at sea, twins Viola and Sebastian wash up on the island of Illyria, both fearing the other lost forever. Plied pranksters, puritanical pillocks and perhaps even true love await them as they forge their own paths through this new world of fools, jewels, duels and dual identities.
Family-friendly fun with live music and audience participation!
ReynardTheFox
Wednesday 22nd July
Meet Reynard the Fox, the woodland’s most infamous scoundrel, who prides himself on being the trickster of the forest. But when the Woodland Court announces the theft of the King’s Crown Jewels, the animal kingdom immediately blames Reynard. Now Reynard must do everything he can to prove his innocence and avoid certain death. But will the gift of his silver tongue be enough to save his own tail?
Reynard the Fox is an engaging theatre show for family audiences of all ages, performed upon a traditional wooden cart and featuring storytelling, puppetry, original live music and bespoke animal headpieces.
The(Almost)Complete HistoryofBritain
Friday 14th & Saturday 15th August
Join the critically acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company on a breathless race through the centuries in this delightfully inventive show that tells the entire story of Britain in under two hours.
Have you ever wanted to see the life of Henry VIII told as a romantic comedy or the tale of the Spanish Armada reimagined as a light operetta? Probably not. But that won’t stop The Pantaloons retelling great moments from the country’s past in a variety of surprising genres! Featuring live music, audience interaction and wild historical inaccuracy.
W: www.shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk
Get ready for giant adventures like no other this summer at Gulliver’s
Theme Parks
There’s a great selection of rides and attractions available alongside play areas that are perfect for younger children at each of the four UK Gulliver’s resorts in Matlock Bath, Warrington, Milton Keynes and Rother Valley.
You can extend the adventure with an Eat, Sleep, Play! package, which includes a charming one night’s stay in a choice of themed rooms and lodges. An evening meal is included too, alongside entertainment, a breakfast bite, and lots of cherished family memories.
And don’t forget parking is completely FREE every time you visit! W: www.gulliversfun.co.uk
Blackstock Market’s free Family Fundays take place every Sunday from 10am
Get ready for an amazing day of family fun at Blackstock Market. Blackstock Market’s FREE Family Fundays run every Sunday from 10am-1pm. They have a fantastic range of activities including entertainers, music, games, face painting, mascots, hair braiding, soft play, dancing and so much more. And after the Funday, you can carry on the laughs at Hot Water Comedy Club’s FREE Comedy for Kids show from 1-2pm. With a lineup that changes weekly, there’s always something new for the whole family! Best of all, entry is completely FREE as a way to give back to the community and spread positivity! Enjoy some fantastic Sundays. W: www.blackstockmarket.co.uk
Become a Brick Explorer this summer at RHS Garden Bridgewater
Families can explore the garden and uncover incredible brick-built wildlife sculptures inspired by the plants, animals and fungi that call the gardens home. Creative minds can get involved with hands-on brick-building activities, discovering how plants can bring urban environments to life, or enjoy an immersive Buzz storytelling theatre experience to learn the importance of biodiversity!
Perfect for curious minds and nature lovers, Brick Explorers is running from Saturday 18th July until Monday 31st August and encourages children to look closer at the world around them and see their own outdoor spaces as havens for wildlife.
Stomp, roar and explore with Dino Takeover at World Museum
Summer 2026 is set to be a roarsome one at World Museum, as dinosaurs prepare to take over for a packed July and August – from special workshops, sensory play and a chance to meet the museum experts as they delve into how life was for a whole host of prehistoric creatures. Visitors can take part in their very own dino digs, enjoy relaxed, afterhours events, and even get up close and personal with some amazing dinosaur puppets! Dino Takeover runs from Wednesday 22nd July until Thursday 27th August at World Museum. You can find out more details by following World Museum on Instagram and Facebook for behind-thescenes dino fun all throughout summer or visit the website.
W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/dino-takeover
Family fun at Liverpool ONE
Sunshine, family fun and unforgettable days out are back at Liverpool ONE this summer.
From the arrival of Beach Fest and the return of Tickle the Ivories to al fresco dining, great shopping, entertainment and plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re building sandcastles, enjoying delicious food or making memories with family and friends, Liverpool ONE is the place to be this summer!
W: www.liverpool-one.com/family
BeWILDerFEST – music, stories and family fun
Watch stories brought to life with music at the stage, take part in an interactive Flower Power Trail, meet your favourite characters, and enjoy all the usual family fun
BeWILDerwood has to offer this summer.
SPECIAL OFFER
To celebrate the launch of the summer holidays, you can get 25% OFF tickets in July with discounts running for the rest of summer – head to the website for more details and offers!
*T&Cs apply, limited time offer. Book your summer adventure in the woods today!
W: www.bewilderwood.co.uk
Explore The Beatles Story Museum
Liverpool’s Beatles Story Museum is a brilliant destination for families seeking fun and learning. Alongside the fascinating exhibits, a themed fun trail keeps younger visitors engaged as they explore. All ages can enjoy the hands-on Discovery Zone, designed to spark curiosity through interactive play and regular free workshops that make learning feel creative. After exploring, the café serves treats such as the Octopus’s Garden hot chocolate, a firm favourite with kids!
With children’s birthday party hire launching this summer, there is even more reason to check out this award-winning attraction in the heart of Liverpool!
W: www.beatlesstory.com
Summer of Fun at Gravity MAX
Get ready for a summer packed with big laughs, big energy and non-stop fun at Gravity MAX. Every day brings a new way to play, with seven action-packed experiences across the week. Think bowling battles, arcade wins, immersive gaming, family challenges, and feel-good moments everyone can get stuck into. Whether you’re planning a family day out, keeping the kids entertained or meeting friends for some friendly competition, there’s always something happening at Gravity MAX. With great value offers, all-day play and activities for every age, Summer of Fun is your excuse to get out and make every day count!
W: www.gravity-global.com
Summer family fun at M&S Bank Arena
Keep the kids entertained this summer with unforgettable live experiences at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena. Kick off July with Bluey’s Big Play from Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th July, bringing the beloved Heeler family to the stage with delightful puppetry and music.
Pop fans can catch K-POP All Stars on Sunday 12th July, an explosive live celebration featuring massive anthems, razor-sharp choreography, and hits from BTS and Blackpink. Then, from Friday 14th to Monday 24th August, the massive Liverpool Indoor Funfair returns! Enjoy unlimited rides in a safe, climatecontrolled environment, perfect for British summer weather.
W: www.mandsbankarena.com
WOW What’s on Where in Merseyside
THIS SUMMER
The Heritage Trail and Nature Trail
Liverpool ONE
www.liverpool-one.com
Discover these free self-guided trails this summer. Step back in time with the Heritage Trail and explore more than 300 years of Liverpool’s fascinating history, or become a mini explorer on the Nature Trail through Chavasse Park, uncovering the plants and wildlife that thrive in the heart of the city. Both trails are free, fully accessible and available via the Liverpool ONE app, online or from the Information Centre on Wall Street.
The Beatles Story Museum
Royal Albert Dock www.beatlesstory.com
Alongside the fascinating exhibits, a themed fun trail keeps younger visitors engaged as they explore. All ages can enjoy the hands-on Discovery Zone, designed to spark curiosity through interactive play and regular free workshops that make learning feel creative. After exploring, the café serves treats such as the Octopus’s Garden hot chocolate, a firm favourite with kids!
Planetarium
World Museum www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Marvel at the universe and learn about the solar system. Watch space shows in the full dome planetarium.
Summer of Fun
Gravity MAX www.gravity-global.com
Daily deals, all summer long! Every day brings a new way to play, with seven action-packed experiences across the week. Think bowling battles, arcade wins, immersive gaming, family challenges, and feel-good moments everyone can get stuck into.
Kids Eat Free or for Less Liverpool ONE www.liverpool-one.com
Eating out is even better when it’s budget-friendly! This summer, enjoy Kids Eat Free or discounted kids’ meals at a range of Liverpool ONE restaurants, making family dining delicious and affordable.
BeWILDerFEST
BeWILDerwood
www.bewilderwood.co.uk
Music, stories and family fun! Watch stories brought to life with music at the stage, take part in an interactive Flower Power Trail, meet your favourite characters and enjoy all the usual family fun. You can get 25% OFF tickets in July with discounts running for the rest of summer – head to the website for more details and offers! *T&Cs apply, limited time offer.
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.
Legendary Bowling Star Pins
www.starpins.co.uk
Enjoy state-of-the-art Ten Pin Bowling lanes, ice-free curling, tech darts, an amazing arcade and even more in the heart of Liverpool. Plus, get stuck into delicious pizza and crispy chicken, as well as sweet treats and slushies from the desserts counter.
Tickle the Ivories
Liverpool ONE
www.liverpool-one.com
Back for its 16th year, the piano festival brings the joy of live music to the streets of Liverpool ONE. With brightly coloured pianos, designed by local artists, everyone is welcomed to take a seat and play – whether you’re a seasoned pro or just fancy having a go! Free.
Non-Stop Family Fun
Liverpool ONE
www.liverpool-one.com
From the exhilarating Gravity MAX, offering everything from VR experiences and e-Karting to e-bowling and an arcade, fun-filled rounds of golf at Junkyard Golf Club, Liverpool ONE is bursting with action. And don’t miss the quirky Upside Down House, the perfect spot for the ultimate photo opportunity!
Open until Friday 31st July
Audition for 2027
National Children’s Orchestras www.nco.org.uk
Whether you’re new to NCO or you’ve been a member before, they would love to receive your audition. Everyone auditions afresh each year.
Every Sunday
Free
Family Funday
Blackstock Market www.blackstockmarket.co.uk
Visit every Sunday 10am-1pm for a fantastic range of activities that may include face painting, balloon animals, mascots, magicians, soft play, movies, live music, dancing, incredible reptile and creepy crawly shows, and lots more. Free entry. Plus, enjoy delicious food all day from Liverpool’s largest food market. Don’t miss the “Comedy for Kids” show afterwards in the main theatre from 1-2pm. This show is a free event, but due to limited spaces be sure to book your tickets online.
Saturday 18th July – Friday 28th August
Brick Explorers Build Station
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Get creative at the brick building station and help transform a grey city into a greener, more wildlife-friendly space. Add your own nature-inspired brick creations and discover how plants and gardens can bring urban environments to life. Drop in 11am4pm. Suitable for all ages. Running Saturday 18th to Friday 24th July in the Marquee, and every Tuesday to Friday from 28th July until 28th August in the Learning Studios.
Saturday 18th July – Monday 31st August
Beach Fest
Liverpool ONE www.liverpool-one.com
Visit Chavasse Park for an actionpacked summer of family fun with a beach, family friendly rides, activities and family-friendly events.
Brick Explorers Sculpture Trail
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Find the incredible brick-built wildlife sculptures hidden around the garden, collect their superpowers and match the stickers in your activity booklet. Along the way, discover how you can support garden wildlife and create thriving habitats for nature. 10am6pm. Suitable for all ages.
Saturday 18th July – Tuesday 1st September
Summer Soundwaves
Gulliver’s World, WA5 9YZ
www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Join an unforgettable summer of fun at Gulliver’s. Get ready for thrilling rides, amazing shows, and special character appearances.
See the special offer voucher in this magazine!
Sunday 19th July
Chess Fest
Liverpool ONE www.liverpool-one.com
Chess Fest returns to Chavasse Park for a day of giant outdoor chess boards, games for all ages, live demonstrations and interactive sessions with chess masters. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned player, everyone’s welcome to join in! Free.
Wednesday 22nd July –Thursday 27th August
Dino Takeover
World Museum
www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Dinosaurs are taking over the museum this summer! There’s a whole host of family fun to enjoy this summer including special workshops, curator discussions, museum trails and even some very special prehistoric visitors.
Dino Treasure Hunt
World Museum
www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Grab a treasure map and embark on your adventure around World Museum to discover dinosaurs. Borrow your treasure map from the Information Desk.
Thursday 23rd July –
Thursday 27th August
Thursday Craft Workshops
The Atkinson www.theatkinson.co.uk
Join the ‘Make It’ artist-led craft workshops every Thursday from 23rd July until 27th August, where children can get creative and take home their own creations. Drop in, 11am-3pm.
Roarapalooza!
Meet the Dinosaurs World Museum www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Various locations around the museum at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 3pm and 4pm. Every Wednesday and Thursday. Come face-to-face with giant dinosaurs like Zuki the Stegosaurus and Salsa the Megalosaurus, enjoy fun shows, and meet sweet baby dinos, perfect for photos! Suitable for all ages.
Saturday 25th July
Construction Club
The Atkinson www.theatkinson.co.uk
Unleash your imagination with a massive supply of LEGO® bricks. Takes place on the last Saturday of each month. Admission is free, but spaces are limited, so arrive in good time. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 10.30am-12.30pm.
Saturday 25th July – Monday 24th August
Buzz – A Theatre Experience
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Discover the magical world of Buzz, an enchanting interactive theatre experience from Colour the Clouds Theatre Company. Join Betty the Beekeeper on an immersive storytelling adventure and discover how biodiversity helps nature thrive, inspiring the whole family to care for the world around us. Running on Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th July, plus Monday 3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th August. 20-minute shows at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Suitable for all ages.
Friday 14th – Monday 24th August
Liverpool Indoor Funfair
M&S Bank Arena
www.mandsbankarena.com
Perfect for families, children, and thrill-seekers of all ages, this indoor funfair offers a safe, weather-proof, and climate-controlled environment packed with unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a wide range of jawdropping rides and funfair attractions!
Tuesday 18th – Thursday 28th
August
Young Curator Summer Sessions
The Atkinson www.theatkinson.co.uk
In these FREE summer sessions, 14-18 year olds can work with industry professionals to develop creative skills and an understanding of museum collections. There are four sessions (Tuesday & Thursday each week) and priority is given to those who can make all four sessions, but there may still be availability for individual sessions – indicate which workshops you are interested in attending when booking. 11am-3pm, lunch included.
Saturday 29th August
Construction Club
The Atkinson www.theatkinson.co.uk
Unleash your imagination with a massive supply of LEGO® bricks. Takes place on the last Saturday of each month. Admission is free, but spaces are limited, so arrive in good time. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 10.30am12.30pm.
Saturday 5th September
Summer Fireworks Finale
Gulliver’s World, WA5 9YZ
www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Celebrate another magical summer season at Gulliver’s World with the annual Summer Fireworks Finale! Enjoy extra ride time with extended opening hours ahead of a fantastic fireworks display in the evening.
See the special offer voucher in this magazine!
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!
Donations welcome Find out more
Box OFFICE
Liverpool
Philharmonic Hall
www.liverpoolphil.com
Saturday 1st August
NATIONAL CHILDREN’S ORCHESTRAS
AMERICAN CONCERT
Join National Children’s Orchestras and musicians for an afternoon of glorious American music. For NCO’s eldest musicians, just 13 and 14 years old, this concert is the culmination of their final weeklong NCO residential of the year, which has included rehearsals, creative sessions and more. They are delighted to share the stage today with musicians from In Harmony Liverpool Philharmonic.
M&S Bank Arena
www.mandsbankarena.com
Friday 3rd – Sunday 5th July
BLUEY’S BIG PLAY
Back by popular demand Bluey, Bandit and Chilli are returning to Liverpool! Experience the magic of Bluey live with the official theatrical adaptation of the children’s television series. Packed with music, laughter and brilliant puppetry, this show is an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike.
Sunday 12th July
K-POP ALL STARS
The explosive live celebration of the music, the artists, and the culture taking over the world. Feel the power of stadium-sized anthems, razorsharp choreography, and a cast that delivers every beat with precision and passion. The show lights up the stage with breath-taking visuals, original choreography, and non-stop energy from start to finish.
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!
Shakespeare North Playhouse
www.shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk
Tuesday 21st – Friday 24th July
TWELTH NIGHT
The critically acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre
Company present their own brand of Shakespearean mayhem. Separated at sea, twins Viola and Sebastian wash up on the island of Illyria, both fearing the other lost forever. Family-friendly fun with live music and audience participation!
Wednesday 22nd July
REYNARD THE FOX
Meet Reynard the Fox, the woodland’s most infamous scoundrel, who prides himself on being the trickster of the forest. An engaging theatre show for family audiences of all ages, performed upon a traditional wooden cart and featuring storytelling, puppetry, original live music and bespoke animal headpieces.
Friday 14th & Saturday 15th August
THE (ALMOST) COMPLETE HISTORY OF BRITAIN
Join the critically acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company on a breathless race through the centuries in this delightfully inventive show that tells the entire story of Britain in under two hours. Featuring live music, audience interaction and wild historical inaccuracy.
Thursday 27th August
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
A breathtaking open-air performance of William Shakespeare’s beloved comedy. Enjoy Shakespeare’s dazzling verse and Folksy’s twist of live music, audience interaction and impressive multi-rolling! Suitable for all ages. Take along a picnic and chair!
