Primary Times Cheshire & The Wirral - May Half Term 2024

Hello Readers,

May is here and hopefully bringing us brighter, longer days, more consistent weather, and a taste of summer to come! In anticipation, we bring you an issue full of value-added entertainment and places to visit to help liven our mood and plan for the holidays ahead. Organise your May school break with our guide to the best things to do in the local area. The bank holiday weekend means you’ll find an ever-growing number of events and activities for all ages, with a variety of attractions inviting us to join them for music events, festivals, outdoor trails and shows. And if the sun shines, simply head outdoors to the numerous local parks and playgrounds with a picnic! Elsewhere, as ever, you’ll find a round-up of local news and detailed diary pages for day-to-day planning to help keep everyone happy and amused! We’ll be back again in July with our summer edition, bursting with inspirational ways to fill your free time! In the meantime, enjoy the issue and have a wonderful half term break with your families.

INSIDE

04

06

10

14

19

The latest news from in and around Cheshire

HALF TERM FUN LOCAL NEWS

Destinations and activities to fill your half term

FAMILY EVENTS

A round up of some great events taking place in the area

WOW BOX OFFICE

What’s on Where! A variety of places to visit this season

An array of theatre, arts and films near you

Local NEWS

Read on for the latest news from in and around the Cheshire area, including a free trial offer for a local drama school.

Perform classes – designed to help your child shine

This term, Perform children are having a blast and your child can try a free class! 4-7s are enjoying an adventure set in the Fairytale Forest, with much-loved classic fairytales all mixed up with funky moves and grooves. Meanwhile, 7-12s are off on an exhilarating journey with Robinson Crusoe – he’s stranded in space, not on a desert island! What makes Perform classes so special? Perform is a unique children’s drama school. Focusing on child development, a specially formulated mix of drama, dance and singing is used to bring out every child’s true potential. Games and activities during the classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination and Concentration, but all while having the best fun of the week. Why not book a free class to see if your child enjoys it?

Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class in Heswall or West Kirby today!

Laying strong foundations to help your child thrive

At the Grange, they understand your desire as parents to give your child every opportunity available, and they believe quality education during the early years lays a strong foundation for a child’s academic, social, and emotional growth. Independent primary education may be more affordable than you imagine, especially if you are already accustomed to the expense of day nursery. Their Junior School fees can be comparable to those for a child in nursery full-time. The Grange School provides a supportive, inclusive, forward-thinking, first-class educational experience, that is tailored to your child. Go to their Open Morning and you’ll see exactly what they mean. W: www.grange.org.uk

Enjoy a family adventure at Plas y Brenin this summer!

We’re excited to tell you about the popular Family Adventure programmes at Plas y Brenin national outdoor centre. They offer a selection of half and two-day courses running throughout the summer to introduce families to the joy of outdoor activities in a safe, fun, and engaging manner using their experienced and enthusiastic instructors. Complete beginners are welcome, and they have all the equipment you need ready and waiting. Stay full board at their centre in the beautiful mountains of north Wales and take part in a wide range of exciting activities including paddle sports, climbing, gorge walking and more. Your adventure awaits!

W: www.pyb.co.uk

Half Term FUN

Discover thrilling theme parks, sparkling science shows, outdoor adventures and family fun days out this half term and beyond. Great destinations for young ones with boundless energy who need some good alternatives to screen time!

Gulliver’s Theme Parks guarantees you one of the best value family days out in the UK

There’s a great selection of rides and attractions available alongside play areas that are perfect for younger children at each of Gulliver’s four UK 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

See the voucher in this magazine for ‘5 for the price of 2’ at all Gulliver’s Theme Parks!

Fuel their thinking with Curious Kids: The Explosive Science Show at Jodrell Bank

Spark their curiosity and ignite their imagination with the return of Curious Kids: The EXPLOSIVE Science Show at Jodrell Bank this half term from 24th May to 10th June! A live science show to blow your socks off, Curious Kids explores the forces of the Universe and invites audience members to get involved and test their science smarts with a Kids vs Adults quiz! Curious Kids is offered on a first come, first served basis so arrive early to avoid disappointment! Plus, catch their newest temporary exhibition in the Space Pavilion Gallery, ‘Time is Running Out’ exploring important questions being asked by climate scientists in the fight to look after our planet and perfect for kids 8+, giving them the tools to ask their own questions and think creatively about the world around them. W: www.jodrellbank.net

Can ‘ewe’ find the flock at Tatton Park?

Head to Tatton Park’s 50-acre gardens this spring, and you’ll find 12, super-sized Shaun the Sheep sculptures grazing in new pastures. In collaboration with Wild in Art and Aardman, some of the sculptures have been inspired by the flora and fauna you’ll find in Tatton’s gardens from around the world. The ewe-nique arts trail is great for families who are looking for a colourful outdoor adventure! Stay and play this half term from 25th May-9th June; pack a garden picnic, find the flock, and challenge friends and family to take part in Shaun the Sheep’s baa-rilliant garden games! For more details visit their website. W: www.tattonpark.org.uk

Plan your visit to Freedome and let them jump for joy this half term

Jump into happy and reach new levels of fun at Freedome Adventure and Trampoline Park! It’s the perfect indoor destination for kids of all ages, come rain or shine, so you won’t need to worry about the weather wreaking havoc this half term! Bouncers of all ages can defy gravity on the wall-to-wall trampolines, practice their tricks into the giant airbag, or take on the ninja course. Little ones can enjoy a safe and fun environment during Toddler Takeover sessions for ages 1-6 years. Ages 4+ can bounce to their hearts content during Open Jump or experience a cool nightclub atmosphere at weekend Sunset Sessions. Planning a party? Choose a party package for a 100%-funzero-stress experience! Just choose a date and time, invite your guests, and leave the rest up to Freedome! W: www.freedomeparks.com

Photo

Snow leopards arrive at Chester Zoo!

Discover over 37,000 incredible animals at the UK’s most visited zoo, plus… Snow leopards have arrived at the zoo too! In a state-of-theart, Himalayan-themed habitat, visitors can come face-to-face with these incredible big cats for the first time. This year, get closer than ever to some of the UK’s most iconic species in an unforgettable 360° immersive experience, brought to you by the filmmakers behind BBC and ITV documentaries. As a not-for-profit conservation charity, every visit to Chester Zoo helps fund vital conservation work across the globe. So, you can support wildlife on your next day out! Book today online. W: www.chesterzoo.org

Get ready to go WILD this May half term!

Leave the real world behind and enter the magical world of BeWILDerwood Cheshire this half term! Relive the magic from the BeWILDerwood books as you follow in the footsteps of the curious characters that live in the woods. Enjoy a full day of family fun exploring giant slippery slides, extra-long zip wires, muddled mazes, crafts, stories at the Storytelling Stage and more! Plus, everything is included in your ticket which really does make BeWILDerwood a great value day out. It’s the perfect place to create lasting memories this half term! Book tickets on the BeWILDerwood website. W: www.bewilderwood.co.uk

Half-term happiness with Brio Junior Memberships!

Say goodbye to the winter chill and hello to new adventures this May half term with Brio Leisure’s Junior Memberships! From just £13 per month, your under 11’s can splash into casual swimming and enjoy off-peak racquet sports. Elevate the excitement for your 11-17-yearolds at £17 per month, unlocking supervised gym sessions and selected fitness classes (over 14’s only) too! Keep the momentum going all year long with their annual options! Wave goodbye to the post half term blues and dive into a world of fun and fitness with Brio. Whether it’s a splash in the pool or a spin in the gym, they’ve got something for every junior to seek out and enjoy. Create unforgettable memories, forge new friendships, and make this May half term one for the memory books! Visit your local Brio centre or explore online to kickstart the excitement. W: www.brioleisure.org/memberships

Let the kids go wild at GreenWood this half term

Head down to the woods this May half term, where GreenWood Forest Park’s Ranger Jess will be hosting fun and fascinating forest school activities including nature trails, bug hotel building and fire making! Voted the best family attraction in North Wales for seven years running, GreenWood is also home to the iconic Green Dragon Rollercoaster – the world’s only people-powered ride of its kind. This May, you can also be among the first to ride the new Forest Glider –an exhilarating 75-metre slide, powered by nothing but your push-off and gravity itself. W: www.greenwoodfamilypark.co.uk Book your tickets online and save up to 15%!

Let your young gardener get hands-on at RHS Garden Bridgewater this holiday

RHS Garden Bridgewater, Salford promises plenty of fun this half term with a family trail, hands-on planting sessions, seasonal crafts and interactive story sessions across over 150 acres of beautiful garden, a stone’s throw away from central Manchester. For horticultural inspiration, families can travel throughout the seasons to explore a year in gardening with the Family Trail, and growing gardeners can get hands-on with seed planting workshops. The festival will also include plenty of fun crafting activities where little ones can make their own sunflower seed packets and there will be a host of interactive storytelling sessions to inspire young imaginations. Little gardeners aged 3-6 can also participate in an exciting garden adventure where they will discover all of the garden’s best secrets with an RHS expert. Dates, times and activities vary - for more information, prices and to book tickets, please check online. W: www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater

Let Tracs get your family cycle-ready for outdoor fun

Tracs (UK) Ltd is based in the heart of Delamere Forest and offers individuals of all ages and ability the opportunity to experience cycling through their scenic forest either on wide open, family-friendly forest roads or for the more skilled there are miles of uninterrupted singletracks to discover. There is also a skills area for the more experienced riders. Tracs offer an extensive variety of hire bikes including a choice of child seat, buggy and tag-a-long, so it is perfect for families this half term! They also have a shop on site to take care of all your needs including a range of new bikes, parts, safety equipment and toys. Children’s parties, guided rides, even learn-to-ride days are available to book with Tracs. T: 01606 881 802 W:

Family EVENTS

Together with the dream of warmer weather, May half term is around the corner! Read on to discover the family-friendly events going on, guaranteed to put a spring in your step and keep all ages entertained!

22ND MAY – 7TH JULY

Disney’s Aladdin flies into the Palace Theatre Manchester!

Already seen by over 14 million people worldwide, the spectacle is filled with unforgettable magic, comedy, breathtaking sets, dazzling costumes and smash-hit songs from the animated film! There’s also new music by Tony, Olivier, Grammy and eight-time Academy award-winner Alan Menken, including A Whole New World, Arabian Nights, and Friend Like Me. Everyone will be enchanted by the timeless story of Disney’s Aladdin, a penniless scoundrel, the courageous and determined Princess Jasmine and the Genie who may be the key to their future. Alongside the much-loved Iago and the fearsome Jafar, audiences will be transported on a wondrous journey of self-belief and friendship, where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite. See Disney’s Aladdin at the Palace Theatre Manchester from 22nd May-7th July. W: www.atgtickets.com/manchester

Three action-packed family shows are coming to Cheshire!

SATURDAY 1ST & SUNDAY 2ND JUNE

Astle Park Country Fair takes place in parkland near Chelford and brings a whole barrowful of family attractions including Scurry Driving, Falconry, Gun Dog Scurry, Fun Dog Show, Axe Throwing events plus much more.

SATURDAY 13TH & SUNDAY 14TH JULY

The Cheshire Steam Fair near Daresbury will offer a great day out and will feature the Jez Avery Stunt Show, Tractor Pulling, Wall of Death, Traction Engines, Vintage Vehicles, plus a Children’s Corner and Fairground.

SATURDAY 10TH & SUNDAY 11TH AUGUST

Astle Park Traction Engine Rally will feature over 90 Traction Engines, Vintage Vehicles, Goldwing Display, Saturday Night Fireworks, and Children’s Corner and Fairground for your young ones to enjoy. Day Tickets or weekend camping available. W: www.outdoorshows.co.uk

SATURDAY 25TH MAY

Hands-on ancient fun at Chester Racecourse Roman Day

Race through history at the Chester Racecourse Roman Day in partnership with Via Roma. Canter on down on Saturday 25th May and experience one of the most popular race days of the season. Perfect for families, this race day promises to be jam-packed with a host of free activities on the Open Course (accessible with their best value ticketthe Roodee enclosure). This year, they’ve teamed up with Deva Fest to provide an array of performers to entertain the little ones throughout the day including Super Pirates, AmaSing, Laughter Tots, Bubble Inc and more! You can also expect their team to be there with their usual annual activities such as archery, super fun slides and inflatables galore! W: www.chester-races.com

22ND, 23RD & 29TH JUNE

Gear up for the British Touring Car Championship and Supercar Pageant Festival at Oulton Park

Summer at Oulton Park will offer spectacular high-octane fun for the whole family with the Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) and Supercar Pageant festival in June! The BTCC will see cars from Ford, BMW, Hyundai and more fight in three headline races on 22nd & 23rd June. Star drivers like Tom Ingram and Jake Hill will be aiming to beat all-conquering 2023 champion Ash Sutton. You can meet the drivers in a free pit walk on the Sunday too! Exotic machines will take over at the Supercar Pageant on Saturday 29th June where pristine examples from Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini and other luxury brands will be on display at this brilliant day out. There will be racing from the GT Cup Championship and Porsche championships as well, plus stunt shows, live music, family entertainment and much more! Under-13s go FREE to all race events at Oulton Park, and there are discounted tickets available in advance. W: www.oultonpark.co.uk

FREE BUS FROM: Knutsford, Northwich and Altrincham train stations

SATURDAY 29TH & SUNDAY 30TH JUNE

Family-friendly fun at the Arley Garden Festival

Head to Arley Garden Festival and enjoy the dedicated plant nurseries and high-quality garden accessory traders, talks and demonstrations. With masses of entertainment for all, discover mouth-watering food traders, a crafts marquee, countryside marquee, face painting, and live music, as well as their Schools Gardening Challenge. Plus, new for this year is an Animal Teach and a fun dog show! Garden tours, entry to the Hall and Gardens along with talks and demonstrations, and free parking are all part of your ticket. Pre-booked Adult £17, Child (4-16) £5; Gate Adult £22, Child (4-16) £6. Tickets can be used on either day unless you have booked an afternoon tea in which case your ticket is only available on that day. W: www.arleyhallandgardens.com

SATURDAY 29TH JUNE

Classic Ibiza at Tatton Park

The family-friendly vibes of Classic Ibiza return to Tatton Park on 29th June for over five hours of Balearic-infused house music. Headlining the event is Urban Soul Orchestra, known for working alongside dance music greats like Groove Armada and Robert Miles. They’ll be reinventing iconic dance tracks from the last 30 years with DJ Goldierocks. Other highlights include a DJ set by former Pacha Ibiza resident Jose Luis and an awe-inspiring laser/ light show. Car-parking is free, and you can take your own picnic. Tickets: Adults (over 18s): £49.50, Children (aged 5-17): £25, Under 5s: free. W: www.classicibiza.co.uk

WEDNESDAY

31ST JULY All ages can celebrate the best of country life at the Nantwich Show

The Nantwich Show returns to Reaseheath College for the third year on Wednesday 31st July. An action-packed day out for the family with activities for all ages including Circus Skills, Climbing Wall, Young Livestock Handlers, Have-a-go Arts & Crafts, Food & Drink, Shopping, Main Ring Attractions and Fun Dog Show for your pampered pooches. Early Bird tickets are on sale until 15th July at only £15 for adults and £5 for 5-17-year-olds, with 4 and under going free. Don’t miss this vibrant day out celebrating the best of South Cheshire countryside life! Go online for tickets. W: www.nantwichshow.org

primar y

of

FUN THINGS TO DO LOCALLYWOW WHAT’S ON WHERE

in Cheshire

Ongoing

Find the Flock

Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk

Head to Tatton Park’s 50-acre gardens and you’ll find 12 super-sized Shaun the Sheep sculptures grazing in new pastures. In collaboration with Wild in Art and Aardman, some of the sculptures have been inspired by the flora and fauna you’ll find in Tatton’s gardens from around the world. The ewe-nique arts trail is great for families who are looking for a colourful outdoor adventure!

Family Fun

The Stoller Hall, Manchester www.stollerhall.com

Family fun with interactive workshops, live music, and family entertainment. Each month Stoller Story Sounds workshops have a different theme, taking pre-schoolers and their grownups on an interactive musical journey.

What Will You Discover?

Eureka Science + Discovery www.eurekadiscovery.org.uk

From the ‘what’s’ of the world around us to the ‘why’s’ of the human body, Eureka! Science + Discovery challenges visitors to look at the ordinary every day and see the extraordinary. Plus, Robots On The Run will be running over half term. Get ready for a whirlwind adventure through the wonders of robotics, technology and augmented reality!

Plan Your Visit

Chester Zoo www.chesterzoo.org

Discover over 37,000 incredible animals at the UK’s most visited zoo. Get closer than ever to some of the UK’s most iconic species in an unforgettable 360° immersive experience, brought to you by the filmmakers behind BBC and ITV documentaries. Snow leopards have arrived at the zoo too! In a state-of-theart, Himalayan-themed habitat, visitors can come face-to-face with these incredible big cats for the first time.

Make Tracs this May

Delamere Forest www.delamerebikes.co.uk

Tracs (UK) Ltd offers individuals of all ages and ability the opportunity to experience cycling through the scenic forest either on wide open family friendly forest roads or for the more skilled there are miles of uninterrupted single-tracks to discover.

Cap Com Go!

Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net

On 16th July 1969, three Astronauts blasted off to space to make the first ever attempt to land humans on the Moon. This short film allows you to relive the epic NASA Apollo 11 mission like never before. All ages. Tickets £5, available as an add-on to general admission. Runs until 31st May.

Family Adventure

Programme

Plas y Brenin

www.pyb.co.uk

Plas y Brenin offer a selection of half and two-day courses running throughout the summer with the objective of introducing families to the joy of outdoor activities in a safe, fun, and engaging manner using experienced and enthusiastic instructors. Stay full board at the centre in the beautiful mountains of north Wales and take part in a wide range of exciting, activities including paddle sports, climbing, gorge walking and more. You can book for summer now.

Reach for the Stars

Jodrell Bank

www.jodrellbank.net

Discover the Lovell, the UK’s largest working radio telescope, and learn the fascinating story of how it came to be, meeting incredible British innovators along the way.

Thursday 16th May

Time is Running Out

Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net

The newest temporary exhibition in the Space Pavilion Gallery, ‘Time is Running Out’ explores some of the most important questions currently being asked by climate scientists in the fight to look after our planet. Perfect for kids 8+, giving them the tools to ask their own questions and think creatively about the world around them. Included free with entry. Runs until 7th July.

Saturday 18th May

Foodbank Weekend

Gulliver’s Theme Park www.gulliversfun.co.uk

Book discounted theme park tickets from £14pp in support of local foodbank charities. Simply take a non-perishable food item to donate on the day to help support people in crisis across the UK. Also on 19th May.

Friday 24th May

Curious Kids: The Explosive Science Show

Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net

A live science show to blow your socks off, Curious Kids explores the forces of the Universe and invites audience members to get involved and test their science smarts with a Kids vs Adults quiz! Runs until 10th June.

Saturday 25th May

Stay and Play

Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk

Pack a garden picnic, find the flock, and challenge friends and family to take part in Shaun the Sheep’s baa-rilliant garden games! Runs until 9th June.

RHS Family Gardening Festival

RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk

Budding gardeners can get hands-on with the RHS Family Garden Festival from 25th May to 2nd June. Gardeners of all ages can participate in interactive planting activities, creative crafts, inspirational storytelling and fun garden trails to explore. Almost all activities are free and included with ticket prices, some need booking. Free entry for under-5s and RHS members.

Take 5 Pass

Brio Leisure

www.brioleisure.org/memberships

Shake off the winter blues and spark the energy with Brio Leisure’s Junior Memberships! For £13 per month, under 11’s get access to casual swimming and off-peak racquets. Elevate the excitement for your 11-17 year-olds at £17 per month, unlocking supervised gym sessions and selected fitness classes too (over 14’s only).

Roman Day

Chester Racecourse

www.chester-races.com

Roman Day is back at Chester Racecourse. Perfect for families, this race day will see a whole host of free activities on the Open Course. This year, they’ve teamed up with Deva Fest to provide an array of performers to entertain the little ones throughout the day including Super Pirates, AmaSing, Laughter Tots, Bubble Inc and more! You can also expect the usual annual activities such as archery, super fun slides and inflatables galore.

Family Garden trail

RHS Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk

Explore a year of family gardening, handy tips on what to do and when, allowing everyone to get gardening together. All ages. Runs until 2nd June.

Monday 27th May

New Forest Glider

GreenWood Forest Park

www.greenwoodfamilypark.co.uk

Head down to the woods where GreenWood Forest Park’s Ranger Jess will be hosting fun and fascinating forest school activities including nature trails, bug hotel building and fire making! Plus, you can also be among the first to ride the new Forest Glider – an exhilarating 75-metre slide, powered by nothing but your push-off and gravity itself. Book tickets online and save up to 15%

Say you saw it in Primary Times

Tuesday 28th May

Kids Activity Club

Moorland Adventure, Tegg’s Nose Country Park

www.cheshireeast.gov.uk

A great way to experience some varied exciting activities in the countryside. Each day focuses on different activities and it will give young people a taste of adventure. Ages 8-16.

Junior Farmers

Tatton Park

www.tattonpark.org.uk

Become a member of the team and explore the important work that goes into the running of the farm and caring for the animals.

Half Term Fun

BeWilderwood, Cheshire

www.bewilderwood.co.uk

Leave the real world behind and enter the magical world of BeWILDerwood!

Relive the magic from the BeWILDerwood books as you follow in the footsteps of the curious characters that live in the woods. Enjoy a full day of family fun exploring giant slippery slides, extra-long zip wires, muddled mazes, crafts, stories at the Storytelling Stage and more.

Junior Rangers Holiday Club

Chester Zoo www.chesterzoo.org

A three-day holiday club for children in years 4-6. It is perfect for young animal lovers and conservationists of the future. £120.

Freedome Trampoline Park

Coliseum Leisure Park www.airhop.co.uk

The perfect indoor leisure destination for kids come rain or shine this half term. Bouncers of all ages can defy gravity on the wall-to-wall trampolines, practice their tricks into the giant airbag, or take on the ninja course.

Friday 31st May

Imaginative Storytelling

RHS Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk

Join Magical StoryJars to create your own adventure based on their story ideas. All ages.

Saturday 1st June

Garden Adventure

RHS Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk

An adventure for little explorers aged 3-6. £2.50 per child. 11am, 12.15pm and 1.30pm.

Astle Park Country Fair

Astle Park, Chelford www.outdoor Shows.co.uk

Attractions include Scurry Driving, Falconry, Air Rifles, Terriers, Gundogs, Lurchers, Flycasting, Archery, Ferrets, Heavy Horses and a host of countryside attractions! Also on Sunday 2nd June.

Saturday 8th June

Dinosaurs Unleashed

Gulliver’s Theme Parks

www.gulliversfun.co.uk

Say hello to baby dinosaurs, accompanied by expert rangers, look out for fearsome velociraptors and beware of an eight-foot-tall herbivore. Look forward to a day out that’s full of dino surprises and fabulous theme park experiences! Also on 9th June.

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!

We are Stars Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net

Blast off on a journey to the centre of the Universe! ‘We Are Stars’ uses immersive animations to go all the way back to the Big Bang, with stop-offs throughout the stars which astroenthusiasts of all ages are sure to love! Tickets £5. Runs weekends and holidays.

Saturday 15th June

DogFest

Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk

DogFest is back and bursting with wonderful activities for you to enjoy with the whole family, four-legged included!

Father’s Day Weekend

Gulliver’s Theme Parks www.gulliversfun.co.uk

Adults go free when accompanied by one full paying child throughout Father’s Day weekend. This special offer is available at all Gulliver’s Theme Parks on both Saturday and Sunday.

Tuesday 18th June

The Royal Cheshire County Show

Clay House Farm, Knutsford

www.royalcheshireshow.org

Delivering acres of fun since 1838! See the giant tortoises, over 3000 animals and the Knights of Nottingham to name just a few. Children under five go FREE. Also on Wednesday 19th June. Plus, ‘Late at the Show’ takes place from 5pm on Tuesday 18th which is free for Tuesday Show attendees, or you can purchase an evening ticket. You can watch headlining bands in the evening including BOYZLIFE, plus support bands, fairground, food stalls & bars, face painting and more.

Scan the QR code in the advert on page 11 for 20% OFF full day tickets!

Saturday 22nd June

Kwik Fit British Touring

Car Championship

Oulton Park

www.oultonpark.co.uk

The BTCC will see cars from Ford, BMW, Hyundai and more fight in three headline races on 22nd and 23rd June.

Star drivers like Tom Ingram and Jake Hill will be aiming to beat all-conquering 2023 champion Ash Sutton. You can meet the drivers in a free pit walk on the Sunday too! Under 13’s go free.

Jamboree Weekend

Gulliver’s Theme Parks

www.gulliversfun.co.uk

Get ready for a huge Jamboree Weekend in partnership with The Scouts Association. Perfect for Uniformed Youth Groups, enjoy bushcraft sessions, cookery school, jamboree discovery trail and all our regular rides and attractions. Also on 23rd June.

Pretty Mudder Kids

Tatton Park

www.tattonpark.org.uk

Race for Life Pretty Muddy Kids is a brilliant muddy obstacle course just for the little ones.

Saturday 29th June

Classic Ibiza

Tatton Park

www.classicibiza.co.uk

The family-friendly vibes of Classic Ibiza return to Tatton Park for over five hours of Balearic-infused house music, headlined by a 32-piece orchestra.

Say you saw it in Primary Times

Supercar Pageant

Oulton Park

www.oultonpark.co.uk

Exotic machines will take over Oulton Park. Pristine examples from Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini and other luxury brands will be on display at this brilliant day out. There will be racing from the GT Cup Championship and Porsche championships as well, plus stunt shows, live music and much more! Under 13’s go free.

Arley Garden Festival

Northwich, Cheshire

www.arleyhallandgardens.com

Enjoy the dedicated plant nurseries, garden accessory traders and a Countryside Marquee. See the results of the schools gardening challenge flowerbeds. Also on 30th June.

Saturday 13th July

Cheshire Steam Fair

Warrington

www.outdoor Shows.co.uk

Attractions include stunt show, tractor pulling, falconry display, chainsaw carving, and a host of steam fair activities. Also on 14th July.

LOOKING AHEAD

Wednesday 31st July

Nantwich Show

Reaseheath College

www.nantwichshow.org

An action-packed day out for the family with activities for all ages including Circus Skills, Climbing Wall, Young Livestock Handlers, Have-a-go Arts & Crafts, Food & Drink, Shopping, Main Ring Attractions and Fun Dog Show for your pampered pooches. Early Bird tickets are on sale until 15th July at only £15 for adults and £5 for 5-17 year olds with children 4 and under going free.

Saturday 10th August

Traction Engine Rally

Astle Park, Chelford, Cheshire

www.outdoor Shows.co.uk

Huge display of Traction Engines & Vintage Vehicles, Falconry Display, Chainsaw Carving, Goldwing Display, Dr. Busker & Fireworks Display. Also on 11th August.

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 28th September

Come and experience The Grange Junior School, where our young people explore , learn and develop in a caring, warm, happy and modern space.

Pinecone Bird Feeder

What you’ll need:

• Large dry pinecones

• Birdseed

• Raisins and peanuts

• Grated Cheese

• Suet or lard

• A mixing bowl

• Scissors

• String

Instructions:

(1) Allow the lard to warm to room temperature then cut up and mix it in the bowl with raisins, peanuts, cheese & birdseed.

(2) Tie your pinecones together using the string by going under the spines around the tops.

(3) Using your hands, pack the mixture tightly into the gaps in the pinecones until flush with the edges.

(4) This will then need to set in the fridge for an hour or so before hanging in the garden

Can you unscramble the letters to reveal a word:

(1) gneersehuo

(2) lorewf

(3) hghoedge

(4) nedrag

(5) etres

(6) pstanl

(7) pocomst

(8) edsap

Racetrack

What you’ll need:

• Chalks in different colours

• A racetrack (a path)

• Decorations: Lego works well for this, but any branches could be used as seating for spectators, milk tops, sand and toy figures.

Instructions:

(1) Start with the outline, taking into consideration what type of track you want to create?

(Circuit or Drag strip).

(2) A dashed white line makes it look like a road.

(3) Runoff areas around the corners, with stands for spectators and crash barriers.

(4) Why not try writing some fun bug advertising such as ‘Redbugs’ or ‘F1 Snails’ Words

Strawberries

Allotment

Gardening

Herbs

Potatoes

Carrots

Cabbage

Rhubarb

Pear

Sammy

Spike

Doug

Bumble

Polly Buddy

Box OFFICE

All the very best theatre, arts and films near you. Book a spectacular show for your family this season.

DISNEY’S ALADDIN PALACE THEATRE

Albert Halls, Bolton www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk

Tuesday 28th May

HIGH JINX

A show jam packed with amazing tricks, grand illusions and crazy circus thrills, presented by Michael Jordan and the fantastic High Jinx dancers.

Thursday 30th May

PRINCESS LIVE

The ultimate hour-long princess pop party, featuring your favourite fairytale royalty in this all singing all dancing show.

The Bridgewater Hall www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Sunday 19th May

THE HALLÉ –THE MUSICAL STORY OF ENIGMA

Tom Redmond and the Hallé, conducted by Sir Mark Elder, will take you on a tour of the Enigma Variations as you learn about the stories behind the music. Perfect family concert for Key Stage 2 upwards.

The Lowry www.thelowry.com

Sunday 26th May

RUDE SCIENCE!

Brace yourselves for BBC

Gastronaut Stefan Gates’ revolutionary, high-tech, highly explosive new show, packed with outrageous science stunts.

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!

Tuesday 28th May –

Saturday 1st June

THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR SHOW

The critically acclaimed production of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show created by Jonathan Rockefeller features a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets. The production faithfully adapts four stories by author/illustrator Eric Carle: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, 10 Little Rubber Ducks, The Very Busy Spider and of course, the star of the show – The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

Saturday 22nd June

TRASH TEST DUMMIES

This award winning, side-splitting, slapstick comedy, circus routine takes the household wheelie bin to new heights and delivers a dump-truck full of hilarity!

Sunday 21st July

CILLIAN O’CONNOR – MY MAGIC WORLD

Magician Cillian O’Connor finished in the top three of Britain’s Got Talent last year. His show promises to enchant and amaze audiences of all ages with a show for the entire family. Featuring special guest Ryland Petty from America’s Got Talent.

Tuesday 23rd July –Sunday 4th August

CHARLIE COOK’S FAVOURITE BOOK

Charlie loves reading. Especially books about pirates. But his sister hates it – it’s boring! Can Charlie convince her that reading is fun?

A musical adaptation of the bestselling book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, with puppetry too!

Manchester Palace Theatre and Opera House www.atgtickets.com/manchester

Wednesday 22nd May

– Sunday 7th July

DISNEY’S ALADDIN

Based on the timeless Disney movie, Aladdin the musical follows the adventurous Aladdin as he embarks on a journey to win the heart of Princess Jasmine and defeat the wicked Jafar. With the help of his genie, Aladdin navigates the streets of Agrabah and discovers that there’s more to life than just material wealth.

M&S Bank Arena

Liverpool www.mandsbankarena.com

Friday 12th-Sunday 14th July

BLUEY’S BIG PLAY

A new theatrical adaptation of the Emmy award-winning children’s television series. Join the Heelers in their first live theatre show made just for you, featuring brilliantly created puppets, this is Bluey as you’ve never seen it before.

Storyhouse, Chester www.storyhouse.com

Friday 24th –Thursday 30th May

IF (U)

Storyhouse Cinema.

After discovering she can see everyone’s imaginary friends, a girl embarks on a magical adventure to reconnect forgotten IFs (Imaginary Friends) with their kids.

Say you saw it in Primary Times

Saturday 25th May

MORGAN AND WEST’S MASSIVE MAGIC SHOW FOR KIDS!

Garret Theatre. Expect gawps, gasps, and guffaws in this relentlessly funny and fantastical magic filled extravaganza, guaranteed to delight those aged five and 105, and indeed everyone in between!

Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th May

BUTTERFLY TALE (U)

Storyhouse Cinema. The butterflies are preparing for their annual migration, and everyone is aflutter! But when young butterfly Patrick (Mena Massoud) is told he must stay home as he’s not ready, he and his friends refuse to be grounded.

Sunday 2nd June

PETER AND THE WOLF

Storyhouse. Northern Chamber Orchestra presents a fun and education concert for all the family.

Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th June

ZOG AND THE FLYING DOCTORS

Storyhouse Theatre. Based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, a roar-some adventure!

Saturday 6th July

MINISTRY OF SCIENCE

Storyhouse. Join the presenters as they dive deep into the world of science and look at how science shapes the modern world we live in with a few loud bangs along the way.

AND THE