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. And lastly, don’t forget to enter our competition on page 14 for your chance to win one of five Family Tickets to Kelmarsh Show taking place in April.
We will be back with our next issue in May, bringing you more of What’s on Where across the county, but until then, enjoy the break from school and the usual routines, and have a lovely Easter.
Louise
08 10 12 13 14
LOCAL NEWS
HOP INTO SPRING FAMILY EVENTS WOW COMPETITION BOX OFFICE
Local NEWS
We have lots to tell you about across the county; from schools to swimming or music lessons for children, with adult training options thrown in too.
A Home for Every Child: Discover Fostering Opportunities
Apex Fostering is an experienced fostering agency that matches children to families with great care. Offering monthly support groups with 24hr phone support including a dedicated social worker and local team. The group go on many outings where birth children are welcomed and paid for along with the rest of the family. Last year they went to destinations such as Drayton Manor Park, Woburn Zoo, and The Orient Express at Christmas where everyone wore pyjamas and had a great time!
Apex Fostering know money isn’t everything, however you’ll receive a weekly fostering allowance of £500 per week per child tax free plus additional holiday and birthday payments to support you. Full training will be given to help you develop the skills to be a foster carer. Please call 07807 225403 to speak to Nicola Clarke about opportunities. W: www.apexfostering.uk
Dry Kids’ waterproof clothing is essential for spring
Easter egg hunts are a beloved tradition, but the unpredictable spring weather can turn the fun into a soggy mess. Dry Kids’ waterproof clothing is essential to keep the little ones dry and comfortable during their outdoor adventures. Waterproof jackets, trousers, and boots allow kids to enjoy the hunt without worrying about getting soaked or chilled. Their garments also protect against mud and stains, making it easier for parents to clean up afterward. Investing in quality waterproof clothing ensures that the excitement of finding those hidden treasures isn’t dampened by the elements, allowing everyone to enjoy a memorable and worry-free Easter celebration. W: www.drykids.co.uk
Make music and memories –Saturdays with NMPAT
Looking for a place where your child can learn an instrument, join a band or orchestra, or take part in a drama production? NMPAT
Saturday Centres offer a wide range of music and artistic opportunities for children aged three and up. Each centre takes place on a Saturday morning and offers a range of sessions including various instruments, art, choirs, drama, early years and more. With options for beginners through to grade 3 standard, there’s plenty of room for progression. Locations include Brackley and Cheney, Daventry, Kettering, Nene Valley (Oundle), Towcester, Wellingborough and Northampton. New to NMPAT? Give your local Saturday Centre a try with a FREE taster session. Financial support is also available. Find your nearest centre and register at www.nmpat.co.uk/centres
Aspire Education Academy is a Training provider for adults 19+
Aspire’s School Support Courses are designed to support individuals in upskilling and preparing for a successful return to the workforce, particularly within the Education Sector. They offer six-week online School Support Programmes whereby learners complete accredited qualifications. During the courses, you will have the opportunity to meet with local employers and the National Careers Service to support you kickstarting your classroom career, as a Teaching Assistant or 1:1. If you have always wanted to work in the classroom but didn’t know how to take your first steps – one where your personal and professional growth is at the forefront, get in touch today and start your journey! Join Aspire Education Academy in creating a brighter future in education.
For more information contact Kristy Taylor at kristy.taylor@aspireeducationacademyco.uk or on 07863 248979
The Junior School Effect
The foundations for a bright future are built in Early Years. Children’s views of the world and social skills are shaped at a young age. For girls, this is even more striking as gender stereotypes are ingrained by age seven. In an all-girls school, Northampton High School subvert, rather than support, gender stereotypes, by believing in every single one of the girls, who in turn, learn to believe in themselves. They know that their girls, compared to girls in co-ed schools, are more resilient. 79% of the girls at age nine feel confident they can overcome problems in life, compared to 58% of girls nationally. They’re also more likely to take risks, communicate well and are prepared to make a difference in the world. Visit to see the power of an education which is 100% Made for Girls.
T: 01604 765765 W: www.northamptonhigh.co.uk
FREE Taster Session
A soft play party is perfect for kids
A soft play party at Daventry Leisure Centre will give kids memories that will last for years to come. Parties combine adventure, fantastic fun and safety, all in one go. Across one 90-minute session, the soft play area will be available to your child and their friends, meaning they can climb, explore and play games. The soft play is open to juniors only, with the recommended age limit being eight years old.
Daventry Leisure Centre is run by Everyone Active in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council. Everyone Active colleagues will ensure parents from the local community have an enjoyable, stress-free experience on the day! For further information, visit reception or phone 01332 414310
Sign up to Everyone Active’s award-winning swimming lessons, sport courses or a children’s party at participating sites and be rewarded with a 12-month membership to Kids Pass. Use Kids Pass to receive up to 40% off cinema tickets seven days a week, kids eat free deals, up to 56% off family days out including theme parks and up to 50% off holidays, plus more!
W: www.everyoneactive.com/kidspass
Open auditions – We Will Rock You
Are you ready to rock? VCL Productions are thrilled to announce auditions for their Summer Youth Project’s production of “We Will Rock You.” If you’re between the ages of 9 and 18 and have a passion for music and performance, this is your chance to shine! Auditions will be held on Sunday 4th May at The Old Savoy –Home of the Deco, offering a fantastic opportunity for young talents to showcase their skills and become part of an unforgettable experience. Successful candidates will participate in rehearsals and performances from 4th to 16th August. Whether you’re an aspiring singer, dancer, or actor, they welcome you to join an exciting journey into the world of rock. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of a vibrant and creative team – get ready to rock the stage!
Preparing
for school at Windermere Day Nursery
From the moment children join the Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ Windermere Day Nursery in Kettering, dedicated practitioners are preparing them for a seamless transition to school. With state-of-the-art resources and enriching environments including dedicated role play spaces and an allotment growing area, days are thoughtfully planned around individual interests to inspire a lifelong love of learning. As proud holders of the prestigious ‘Green Flag’ award from Eco-Schools, pre-schoolers can immerse themselves in environmental activities the whole year round, nurturing them as conscious citizens of the future. The nursery also boasts a comprehensive school readiness programme with topics including self-care and phonics and visits from local teachers, whilst families are guided by tailored support and masterclasses, ensuring both children and their parents feel confident and ready to embrace the next steps in education. For more information or to register for a place contact the nursery. T: 01536 520075 E: windermere.nursery@childbase.com
Welcome to The SwimSmith Swim School
E: producers@vcl-productions.com
W: www.vcl-productions.com
Saturday is a Swimming Day!
“My son has been taking lessons at The SwimSmith Swim School and we have seen a huge improvement in his confidence and ability in the water. The instructor is knowledgeable and encouraging, making each lesson enjoyable and effective.”
The SwimSmith Swim School specialise in providing swimming lessons personalised for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and those without. Their team is led by an instructor with advanced qualifications and extensive experience, and they are dedicated to creating a supportive, enjoyable and inclusive environment for all students. Their personalised approach, combined with the positive feedback they consistently receive, ensures that every child feels empowered to reach their full potential in the water. Contact to swim with confidence!
W: www.theswimsmith.com
SATURDAY 14TH JUNE from 12noon THE RACECOURSE PARK, KETTERING ROAD NORTHAMPTON NN1 4LG
You can get involved in this wonderful inclusive free community event… just email northamptoncarnival@yahoo.co.uk or visit www.northamptoncarnival.co.uk Follow us on Social Media – The Northampton Carnival Facebook Instagram
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!
Spring Spectacular at Gulliver’s Theme Parks
Make magical memories this Easter at Gulliver’s Theme Parks with their Spring Spectacular! Enjoy fantastic rides and attractions designed for kids aged 2 to 13. There are four Gulliver’s locations across the UK, including Warrington, Milton Keynes, Matlock Bath and South Yorkshire. Look out for amazing characters like Gully Mouse and the Easter Bunny, ready to bring extra magic to your day! Book in advance for the best ticket prices. Get ready for an unforgettable Easter adventure. W: www.gulliversfun.co.uk
Visit Tigers this spring
Tigers Indoor Play is excited to welcome everyone to their second site in the Kettering Leisure Village just off junction 8 of the A14. Offering Go-karts, a thrilling drop slide, massive play frame, and a dedicated under 5’s section with its own roleplay village, Tigers Indoor Play is suited for children of all ages. Tigers offers a great venue for children’s parties with two themed party rooms to choose from, those being the Seaworld room and the Jungle room. You will also receive a delicious buffet platter for the kids, unlimited cordial drinks and your own dedicated party host team. The centre is open from Wednesday to Sunday with three timed sessions per day. To book your party now or for any further information, please call on 01536 215448 W: www.tigersplaykettering.co.uk
Hop into a world of fun this Easter at Wicksteed Park
Visit between Saturday 5th and Monday 21st April 10.30am to 5pm, for two weeks of eggcellent adventures, thrilling rides, and family fun! Meet Wicky Bear as he strolls around the park and enjoy unlimited access to attractions, with wristbands starting from just £22. Family tickets are available from £56 for three people. Children under 0.9m can enjoy the Easter fun for FREE with a paying adult. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable Easter! Book online now.
W: www.wicksteedpark.org
Rides subject to availability. Regular parking charges apply.
Kids eat FREE with Easter holiday karting at Whilton Mill
Looking for an unforgettable Easter adventure? Whilton Mill Karting & Outdoor Activities offers heart-racing fun for children aged six and above. When you book an Arrive & Drive karting session on promotional days, up to two kids eat FREE with every adult’s main meal purchased! Young thrill-seekers can choose from three exciting activities: Arrive & Drive go-karting on the 450m outdoor track, junior offroad buggy experiences, or target-hitting fun with archery.
Starting from just £15, these activities provide the perfect opportunity to get kids active and create lasting memories this Easter break. This family-friendly venue offers full safety equipment and expert instruction for complete peace of mind. Scan the QR code to discover full offer details and book your adventure today!
W: www.whiltonmill.co.uk
Easter Adventures at Stanwick Lakes
Spring into action this Easter with family fun at Stanwick Lakes. The playground, play tower, and water play await, with the assault course and adventure trail just a short walk away. Refreshed kiosks and a tasty café menu will keep you going between adventures!
Join the Funny Bunnies on the DetEGGtive Nature Trail, learning about eggs around Solstice Lake with an activity sheet and prize. Inside the Visitor Centre, enjoy Easter paper crafts and pottery painting. Ranger-led pond-dipping and den-building run on Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout the holidays – make sure you book in advance! Explore the Bronze Age roundhouses or visit The Heritage Museum - thanks to National Lottery funding, or join a litter pick with the Nene Rivers Trust. W: www.stanwicklakes.org.uk
Family EVENTS
We have some fantastic events coming up over the next few months. Be sure to plan your diary as some of the events need tickets in advance.
Springtime Suprise Event at Weston Favell
FRIDAY 18TH APRIL
Get ready for an egg-citing adventure this Good Friday, 18th April, at Weston Favell Shopping Centre! The Easter Bunny is waiting for you to hop into action at this FREE holiday event. Step into the Easter Bunny’s world and set off on a magical adventure! Prepare for the journey by designing your own Easter basket, then take on exciting challenges to help save the Bunny’s missing eggs. Can you complete all the tasks and save Easter?
Expect plenty of surprises, laughter, and springtime fun for the whole family. Don’t miss this bunny-tastic day – take your friends, get creative, and enjoy an egg-stra special celebration! W: www.westonfavellshopping.com
Festival of Power: A Thrilling Family Weekend
FRIDAY 18TH – SUNDAY 20TH APRIL
Get ready for an action-packed, adrenaline-fueled Easter weekend at Santa Pod Raceway! Witness the raw power of Top Fuel Dragsters, Nitro and Nostalgia Funny Cars, and Pro Mods battling it out at over 250mph in the National Drag Racing Championships. Blink and you’ll miss it, as Jet Cars ignite the track in the Jet Car Shootout, reaching mind-blowing speeds! The Live Action Arena is set to thrill with Monster Trucks, stunt legends Terry Grant and Lee Bowers, and a Pit Party where you can meet the stars up close. Meet Bumblebee the Transformer, Bluey and enjoy Mini Monster Trucks, a funfair, plus so much more. Complimentary camping included with all multi-day tickets, and kids under 5 go FREE! Flexi-day tickets available. Don’t miss this unforgettable Easter extravaganza! Book now at www.santapod.com or call the box office on 01234 782828
A wonderful day out by steam on an Easter Egg Special
SUNDAY 20TH & MONDAY 21ST APRIL
Clamber aboard the Northampton & Lamport Railway and celebrate Easter with a relaxing, fun steam train ride, made extra special with a chocolate treat! All children will receive a free, delicious Creme Egg together with an encounter with the friendly Easter bunny and a chance for creative craft-making when you join them for an Easter Egg Special! Enjoy a tranquil, cosy journey, in fully heated coaches, through the attractive Northamptonshire countryside and take time to browse around their souvenir shop, stocked full of nostalgic memorabilia as well as a wide range of toys. When refreshments are needed, head to their buffet coach serving hot and cold drinks, tasty snacks and freshly prepared hot food. W: www.nlr.org.uk
Enjoy the magic of Easter at Holdenby House
SUNDAY 20TH & MONDAY 21ST APRIL
Holdenby’s “Magic of Easter” event is one of the county’s most popular way to celebrate the Easter Holiday and this year is no exception! Visit for Magical weekend, you will find a magician with all sorts of amazing tricks up his sleeve. Alice will be there hosting an Easter Egg Hunt including a Golden Egg containing £100 each day! Join the Queen of Hearts in the gardens where you can enjoy face painting and the traditional Egg Rolling. There will be wonderful displays by Icarus Falconry & Wildlife Centre a chance to get up close with the birds of prey and animals. For a little light retail therapy browse the Mini Easter Market and gift shop. If all that works up an appetite, enjoy delicious homemade cakes from the Tearoom or hot food from one of the vendors. W: www.holdenby.com
Grade 1 Gardens & Games
Event Open Sun & Mon 11am – 4pm
House Open Monday 12pm – 3pm
Kelmarsh Show
SUNDAY 20TH & MONDAY 21ST APRIL
SAVE UP TO 20% WHEN YOU BOOK ONLINE
The Kelmarsh Show arrives within the fantastic grounds of Kelmarsh Hall over the Easter Bank Holiday. With so much on the line-up already, this year’s countryside attraction is a must-add date to the diary! Set within the stunning grounds of Kelmarsh Hall, the Kelmarsh Show is nestled right in the heart of the Northamptonshire countryside and provides a stunning backdrop to the abundance of family-inspired performances on offer.
From the awesome Red Devils Parachute Display Team performing inside the Main Arena, to some of the finest countryside displays at the Countryside Arena, there are loads of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Of course, not forgetting the fast-paced action supplied from Outlaw Entertainments Jousting Team, there really is lots to keep all ages and interests covered!
Visitors can indulge in some tempting local cuisine at the Food Village, immerse in some amazing sounds at the Legends Tribute Stage and shop the latest goods and countryside accessories in the hundreds of stores across the showground. If you’re on the lookout for something different to entertain the family this Bank Holiday, then why not pre-book your tickets today. W: www.kelmarshshow.co.uk
See our competition on page 13 for a chance to win a Family Ticket!
Celebrate St George’s Day in Northampton
SATURDAY 26TH APRIL
Take the family along to Northampton’s Market Square between 11am and 2.30pm, on Saturday 26th April to celebrate St George’s Day, with FREE activities for all ages!
Juggling Jim will run his Silly Knight School where kids can try challenges to become a knight of the castle, followed by Circus Workshops, teaching juggling and balancing skills. St George and his giant friendly dragon will entertain crowds throughout the day, along with themed make and take crafts and storytelling, Yarn Bombing workshops, face painting and balloon modelling. Enjoy performances from a brass band and the ‘Rose & Castle’ Morris Dancers, along with ‘have a go’ workshops. Plus, visitors can also take a journey through the town’s past on the ‘Notable Northamptonians’ trail. Visit the town council’s website for more information. W: www.northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk
Daventry Comic Con
SATURDAY 24TH MAY
Bolt Events is overjoyed to be returning to Daventry for Daventry Comic Con! Why not go along to Daventry Leisure Centre to meet your favourite characters from TV, film and gaming? Take selfies with the amazing movie cars on display, browse exhibitor stalls filled with fantastic toys and collectable goodies, partake in FREE activities including gaming, photo opportunities, competitions, workshops and more! Tickets are available to purchase now!
W: www.bolt-events.com/daventry-comic-con
Northampton Carnival 2025
SATURDAY 14TH JUNE
FREE Annual Community Carnival at Racecourse Park on Kettering Road, Northampton. As the vibrant colours and electric energy of carnival season approach, the team gears up for one of the most anticipated events of the year! This year, celebrate not only the joy and unity that carnival brings but also reflect on a significant historical milestone; 2025 marks the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton. This monumental event in Northampton’s history will be commemorated with captivating stories scattered throughout the parade.
The theme for this year’s carnival, “The Elements of Carnival –Earth, Wind, Fire, Water,” serves as a fitting tribute to the forces that shape our world and community.
The park opens from 12pm with a fantastic line-up of local talent and a knock-out headline act, along with tasty treats from around the world, a thrilling funfair, arts and crafts, and not forgetting the spectacular parade which leaves the park at 2pm heading down Kettering Road into the town centre returning via Wellingborough Road to the park with vibrant performances, and heartfelt commemorations!
W: www.northamptoncarnival.co.uk
WOW
What’s on Where in Northamptonshire
THIS SPRING
Tigers Indoor Play
Daventry and Kettering Venues
www.tigersplay.co.uk
Two local soft play venues with great facilities, including play zones and activities for all ages, plus refreshments are available too. Perfect whatever the weather this spring!
Kids Eat FREE
Whilton Mill Karting
www.whiltonmill.co.uk
When you book an Arrive & Drive karting session on promotional days, up to two kids eat FREE with every adult’s main meal purchased! Children can choose from three exciting activities: Arrive & Drive go-karting on the 450m outdoor track, junior off-road buggy experiences, or target-hitting fun with archery. Prices start from just £15.
Kids Pass
Everyone Active Leisure Centres
www.everyoneactive.com/kidspass
Sign up to Everyone Active’s awardwinning swimming lessons, sport courses or a children’s party at participating sites and be rewarded with a 12-month subscription to Kids Pass!
Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th
March
Mother’s Day Weekend
Gulliver’s Land
www.gulliverslandresort.co.uk
Celebrate Mother’s Day at Gulliver’s Land, Milton Keynes. Adults go FREE when accompanied by at least one full paying child on both days.
Sunday 30th March
Mother’s Day Special
Northampton & Lamport Railway www.nlr.org.uk
Step back in time on Mother’s Day and experience travelling on a heritage steam train through the Northamptonshire countryside, visiting Boughton Station where the train will stop for a short while before continuing on your journey back to the Pitsford and Brampton Station.
Saturday 5th-Monday 21st
April
Spring Spectacular
Gulliver’s Land www.gulliverslandresort.co.uk
Bounce along with the Easter Bunny and Candy Crew for mad-cap antics and eggscellent entertainment this April at Gulliver’s Milton Keynes.
Easter Eggstravaganza
Wicksteed Park www.wicksteedpark.org
Enjoy egg-cellent adventures, thrilling rides, and family fun! Meet Wicky Bear as he strolls around the park and enjoy unlimited access to attractions, with wristbands starting from just £22. Family tickets are available from £56 for three people. Children under 0.9m can enjoy the Easter fun for free with a paying adult.
Easter Adventures
Stanwick Lakes
www.stanwicklakes.org.uk
The playground, play tower, and water play await, with the assault course and adventure trail just a short walk away. Join the Funny Bunnies on the DetEGGtive Nature Trail, learning about eggs around Solstice Lake with an activity sheet and prize. Inside the Visitor Centre, enjoy Easter paper crafts and pottery painting.
Sunday 6th April
The Fast Show
Santa Pod Raceway www.santapod.com
The season-opener for all performance and modified car enthusiasts including RWYB and clubs.
Tuesday 8th-Thursday 17th April
Ranger-Led Activities
Stanwick Lakes www.stanwicklakes.org.uk
Ranger-led pond-dipping and denbuilding run on Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout the holidays – make sure you book in advance!
Friday 18th April
Springtime Surprise
Weston Favell Shopping Centre www.westonfavellshopping.com
The Easter Bunny is waiting for you to hop into action at this FREE holiday event. Step into the Easter Bunny’s world and set off on a magical adventure! Prepare for the journey by designing your own Easter basket, then take on exciting challenges to help save the Bunny’s missing eggs. Can you complete all the tasks and save Easter?
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!
Friday 18th-Sunday 20th April
Festival of Power
Santa Pod Raceway www.santapod.com
Get ready for an action-packed family Easter weekend! Witness the power of Top Fuel Dragsters, Funny Cars, and Pro Mods go head-to-head on the quarter mile. Plus, Jet Cars, Monster Trucks and so much more. Under 5’s go FREE!
Sunday 20th & Monday 21st April
The Magic of Easter
Holdenby House
www.holdenby.com
Alice will lay the trail for the Easter Egg Hunt and eeach day she will hide her Golden Egg containing £100! Alice and friends will be on hand with lots of fun and activities for all to enjoy, from a magician, face painting, fete games, croquet, birds flying, delicious treats and shopping at the stalls.
Kelmarsh Show
Kelmarsh Hall www.kelmarshshow.co.uk
From the awesome Red Devils Parachute Display Team to some of the finest countryside displays, there are loads of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Plus, the fast-paced action supplied from Outlaw Entertainments Jousting Team! Indulge in some tempting local cuisine at the Food Village, immerse in amazing sounds at the Legends Tribute Stage and shop the latest goods and countryside accessories in the hundreds of stores across the showground.
Save up to 20% when you book online.
Easter Egg Specials
Northampton & Lamport Railway www.nlr.org.uk
A free Crème Egg for all children, meet the Easter Bunny on the station platform and join the Easter Egg Hunt competition. Enjoy a traditional return steam train ride through the Northamptonshire countryside.
Easter Fun
Rockingham Castle www.rockinghamcastle.com
Plan a visit to Rockingham Castle for plenty of egg-citement this Easter weekend! Children can follow the nursery rhyme trail around the grounds, complete their activity booklet, and claim an Easter treat. Don’t forget to look out for Billy the Bunny who is always happy to see visitors! You can also enjoy lunch or refreshments in the tearoom and explore the Castle too. 11am-4pm.
FREE activities for all ages! Children can try challenges at Silly Knight School, and there will be Circus Workshops, teaching juggling and balancing skills. St George and his giant friendly dragon will entertain crowds throughout the day, along with themed make and take crafts and storytelling, Yarn Bombing workshops, face painting and balloon modelling, performances from a brass band and Morris Dancers.
Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th
April
Toy Bank Weekend
Gulliver’s Land
www.gulliverslandresort.co.uk
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.
Saturday 3rd-Monday 5th May
Princess and Pirate Weekend
Gulliver’s Land www.gulliverslandresort.co.uk
There will be treasure treats, fancy dress events, themed activities and so much more at Gulliver’s Land’s Princess and Pirate Bank Holiday Weekend takeover! See voucher on page 9
Saturday 4th May
Open auditions – We Will Rock You
The Old Savoy www.vcl-productions.com
Auditions for the Summer Youth Project’s production of “We Will Rock You.” If you’re between the ages of 9 and 18 and have a passion for music and performance, this is your chance to shine.
Saturday 24th May
Daventry Comic Con
Daventry Leisure Centre www.bolt-events.com/daventry-comic-con
Meet your favourite characters from TV, film, and gaming! Take selfies with the amazing movie cars on display, browse exhibitor stalls filled with fantastic toys and collectable goodies, partake in FREE activities including gaming, photo opportunities, competitions, workshops and more! Tickets are available to purchase now.
Sunday 25th & Monday 26th May
Bluey Weekend
Steam
Northampton & Lamport Railway www.nlr.org.uk
Bluey will be appearing at intervals through the day. Go along to meet her and don’t forget your camera! Enjoy traditional return steam train ride through the Northamptonshire countryside.
Saturday 14th June
Northampton Carnival Racecourse Park, Northampton www.northamptoncarnival.co.uk
This year’s theme is “The Elements of Carnival, Earth, Wind, Fire & Water”. The streets will be alive with floats and costumes. Download an application form from the website for your school, church or community group to get involved!
Sunday 30th March
Opening Day of the 2025 Season
Mother’s Day STEAM
Mother’s Day Cream Tea Specials
20th & 21st April Easter Egg Specials 4th & 5th May Vintage Transport Weekend 25th & 26th May Bluey Weekend STEAM
The Kelmarsh Show arrives this Easter on Sunday 20th and Monday 21st April. Welcoming live Main Arena demonstrations, have a go features, dedicated child-friendly activities inside the Kids Zone, sporting competitions, shopping opportunities, and more.
For your chance to win a Family Ticket to this superb countryside showcase, send in your email titled Kelmarsh Show to competitions@primarytimesmag.com and you will be placed into our prize draw. When you enter make sure you give us your name, address, email, child’s age and school.
Say you saw it in Primary Times
Box OFFICE
Castle Theatre www.castletheatre.co.uk
Monday 7th April
WOMAN LIKE ME: THE LITTLE MIX SHOW
This show brings back-to-back chart-topping hits, incredible voices, and the electrifying energy of Little Mix to life on stage, captivating fans old and new in an unmissable celebration of their phenomenal music career.
Monday 14th April
POP PRINCESSES
This is the children’s pop concert with a big difference. The four fabulous fairy tale Princesses are back, and this time they are on their first World Tour! Join them on this epic around-the-globe show.
Wednesday 16th April
THE LITTLE MERMAID
Multi award-nominated Immersion Theatre invite you on a vibrant underwater adventure like no other in their most spectacular and fantastical family musical yet.
Wednesday 30th AprilSaturday 3rd May
ANNIE
With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City.
The Core www.thecorecorby.com
Wednesday 9th-Saturday 19th April
SHREK THE MUSICAL
Unforgettable adventure filled with laughter, love, and ogre-sized fun.
Tuesday 22nd-Thursday 24th April
THE TEMPEST – FIRST ENCOUNTERS
A perfect storm brings a feuding family and a king together on a magical island. The Royal Shakespeare Company present this perfect introduction to Shakespeare for younger audiences.
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!
Royal & Derngate
www.royalandderngate.co.uk
Saturday 12th April
MARK THOMPSON’S SPECTACULAR SCIENCE SHOW
Designed for children and adults alike, the show explores the strange and magical properties of matter with exploding elephant’s toothpaste, vortex-generating dustbins and even howling jelly babies!
Wednesday 16thSaturday 19th April
HORRIBLE HISTORIES
Prepare yourselves for two amazing shows with Horrible Histories live on stage: Terrible Tudors and Awful Egyptians. Using actors and eye-popping 3D special effects, these two astounding shows are guaranteed to thrill you and your children. Historical figures and events will come alive on stage!
Monday 21st & Tuesday 22nd April
THERE’S A MONSTER IN YOUR SHOW
Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures for big imaginations are leaping from page to stage, as the beloved Who’s in Your Book? series returns to Royal & Derngate in this musical show adaptation.
Silhouette Youth Theatre www.silyt.com
Friday 9th & Saturday 10th May
THE TEMPEST – FIRST ENCOUNTERS
The Royal Shakespeare Company present this perfect introduction to Shakespeare for younger audiences. A perfect storm brings a feuding family and a king together on a magical island, but will all be forgiven and forgotten? This 80-minute version of The Tempest uses an edited version of the original play to create the perfect first introduction for young people aged 7-13 and their families. Location: Emmanuel Church Studio, Weston Favell Shopping Centre.
