The May half term holiday is nearly here and it’s the ideal excuse to unwind, relax and plan some family fun.
In the hope that our British weather comes up trumps as we embrace the warmer months, this issue is full of ideas on how to entertain the troops in the great outdoors. And, of course, there are lots of rain-proof, indoor options with kid-friendly concerts, galleries, and handson museums, who are all half term ready! There’s plenty going on to keep everyone happy, so we can all enjoy the longer, brighter days ahead. You’ll also find all events and activities neatly pulled together, day by day, in our Diary section to help you plan the perfect week for your little ones.
We’ll be back again in July with our summer edition, full of inspiring ideas and destinations to help fill your holiday calendar! Until then, enjoy a great half term break with your families.
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4 UPCOMING EVENTS
6 HALF TERM ACTIVITIES
9 WHAT’S ON WHEN
12 EDUCATION WATCH
14 FAMILY THEATRE GUIDE
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The days are getting longer, the weather a little warmer, and so the long-awaited season of events, inside and out, begins! Get set for all sorts of fun, and all manner of entertainment for the family to enjoy. Here’s our pick of the best for you to start planning days out to remember
Your circus is back! Running at Aintree Racecourse on these dates, plus other dates and locations in the North West too. With more than 30 International artistes, new special effects, new productions, springboard, aerial acts, clowns, high-wire, acrobatics, Motorbikes in the Thunderdome and even a supersonic rocket, GLITTERATI simply has it all! It is a non-stop, choreographed, theatrical production to leave audiences thrilled and amazed. Tickets from only £9.99 at every show and kids go free at certain shows! (Ts & Cs apply). Head over to their website to see these, and all the other money saving offers, and make it an unmissable date in your 2023 calendar!
W: www.gandeyscircus.com
Disney100: The Concert, the UK arena tour that celebrates Disney’s music and timeless storytelling is in its milestone 100th anniversary year. Showing at M&S Bank Arena Liverpool on 2nd June at 7pm, expect a multimedia experience featuring legendary film scenes on a giant screen, whilst the magical musical moments are brought to life by the Hollywood Sound Orchestra. Strictly Come Dancing star and Disney super-fan Janette Manrara will host the tour, which will feature a cast of star soloists and ensemble performers from recent Disney in Concert tours. The shows will feature the greatest songs from films such as The Lion King, Aladdin, Frozen, Beauty and the Beast, Mary Poppins, Encanto, and more; as well as highlights from Pixar, Star Wars and Marvel.
W: www.disneytickets.co.uk/disney-100-the-concert-tickets
Drop into free workshops for families at the Tate Liverpool over the school holidays, running from 27th May-4th June from 11am-3pm. You’ll be encouraged to create your own artworks inspired by the art in their free displays. Share photos of your creations with them on social media and tag @tateliverpool. They also have free Explore and Draw sketchbooks available every day.
W: www.tate.org.uk
The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra gets ready to share a tale or two in this fabulous family concert on Sunday 18th June at 2.30pm. Join them on the classic musical adventure that is Peter and the Wolf, then - along with the help of author Zeb Soanes and live on-stage painting from the series illustrator James Mayhewthey’ll delve into the world of Gaspard the friendly fox and all his furry chums. With captivating storytelling and incredible images, this is the perfect way to introduce children to the magic of a live orchestra.
W: www.liverpoolphil.com
May half term is nearly here and with warmer weather to come, it’s time to start heading out to the great value attractions dotted around the county. Many are geared up for brilliant half term activities with lots of interactive things to do or see, while other venues offer superb family days out for this holiday and beyond. Take a look, then relax knowing you’ve got your family fun time covered!
Round up the family and head to BeWILDerwood this half term to enjoy their sparkly new event Such a Hoot, running until 30th June. Meet new characters, see a brand-new story at the Storytelling Stage, get your faces painted and get crafty in the Big Hat - all included in your ticket! As well as all the fun free activities you can also discover slippery slides, wobbly zip wires, muddled mazes, plus lots, lots more whilst on your WILD adventure! BeWILDerwood Cheshire is open from 10am-5pm, with most explorers spending all day running WILD! Tickets can be purchased online or on arrival.
W: www.bewilderwood.co.uk
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the Flower Fairies from Cicely Mary Barker’s well-loved, nature-inspired storybooks, at the Lady Lever Art Gallery in Port Sunlight. The new exhibition features more than 40 original illustrations and celebrates 100 years of the Fairies. Go and experience the magic, Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm and Mondays during local, school holidays until 5th November. Book online. Tickets are free with a suggested donation of £3 to £5. W: liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/flowerfairies
Take to the track with a brand-new racing themed area, featuring the Grand Prix Racers Rollercoaster and a stomach-churning 360° thrill ride Overdrive. Grand Prix Racers is the perfect rollercoaster for young thrill seekers. Buckle up for twists and turns that are sure to get the entire families pulses racing. Overdrive is the first ride of its kind at Gulliver’s World. Will you brave their most daring attraction that will turn your world upside down? Plus, there’s photo opportunities on a podium with Gully and Gilly Mouse, a play area for toddlers, carinspired music and so much more!
W: www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Essex makes for the perfect family getaway, with the warmest climate, rolling countryside, 350 miles of coast and over 200 attractions. Visit the world’s longest pleasure pier, spend time on the beach and go wild at Adventure Island amusement park in Southend. Visit the Roman city of Colchester where you can visit Colchester Castle, Colchester Zoo, take a rowing boat in Dedham or hunt for shark teeth at Cudmore Grove country park. Why not hop on board one of the many steam trains, go seal watching, or take shade in award winning museums. For places to stay, check out Waldegraves holiday park, Park Inn Southend for great coastal views or Talliston House accommodation, based on a novel about magic and mystery. Stay in a castle; Hedingham Castle offers unique accommodation and it’s also a great place to visit with its own escape room and jousting events. There is great glamping too!
W: www.visitessex.com
The Atkinson in Southport offers a fun, creative and varied day out, with lots to do under one roof (and for free too!). Be inspired in the galleries and discover an impressive variety of artworks on display - painting, sculpture, digital art and more. You can get creative too, there are always activities in the gallery ‘Art Box’ including artist led craft sessions for children. In the Theatre, families can enjoy seasonal pantomimes, magic shows, music and dance, as well as adaptations from best-selling authors. Every seat in the auditorium has a great view of the stage and booster seats are available for little ones. Plan your visit online.
W: www.theatkinson.co.uk
Discover the stories of the original influencers, the Olympian gods, and a world where they were a part of everyday life. Enter their mythical world and explore the lives, loves and legacies of the Ancient Greek and Roman gods, in the epic exhibition Return of the Gods at World Museum, Liverpool. Myths come to life as you learn how Apollo, god of music, slayed a snake to build his temple and Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, turned a shepherd into a stag so she could bathe in peace. Discover which mythical symbols can still be seen in our everyday lives too. Members and under 17 years olds go free. Book online.
W: liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/returnofthegods
The Heritage Trail invites visitors on a journey to explore more than 300 years of Liverpool’s history. Discovering the events, places and people that shaped Liverpool.
W: www.liverpool-one.com
Discover the stories of the original influencers, the Olympian gods, and a world where they were a part of everyday life. Enter their mythical world and explore the lives, loves and legacies of the Ancient Greek and Roman gods, in the epic exhibition Return of the Gods at World Museum, Liverpool. Book online, members and under 17 years olds go free.
W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Liverpool ONE’s Nature Trail is the perfect excuse to get outdoors and tour Chavasse Park’s vast array of resident plants and wildlife. The trail is guided by a free map available online or at the Information Centre on Wall Street. The Nature Trail allows young visitors to discover the park’s natural environment, while simultaneously learning about conservation.
W: www.liverpool-one.com
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 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.
W: www.delamerebikes.co.uk
Liverpool ONE’s PING! Tennis tables are a fun open-air opportunity to get competitive! The tables, are free to use, the perfect excuse to get the whole family out for some fresh air and battle it out.
W: www.liverpool-one.com
Have a hoot at BeWILDerwood Cheshire this half term and enjoy their sparkly new event Such a Hoot, running until 30th June, including during half term. Meet new characters, see a brand-new story at the Storytelling Stage, get your faces painted and get crafty in the Big Hat - all included in your ticket! 10am-5pm.
W: www.bewilderwood.co.uk
Sunday 21st
Pony Riding
Pony riding in Croxteth Country Park.
W: www.croxteth-hall.co.uk
Wednesday 24th
Gandeys Glitterati Circus
Gandeys Circus Returns with a spectacular new show ‘Glitterati’ in a non-stop choreographed theatrical production. At Aintree Racecourse until 5th June. Offers on tickets are available online now!
W: www.gandeyscircus.com
Saturday 27th
Tote Roman Day
A spectacular day of racing at Chester Races, alongside the racing the Open Course is turned into a Roman-themed hotspot for families and groups. Filled with free activities for attendees to take part in, this is a race day which appeals to everyone.
W: www.chester-races.com
Drop into this free workshop for families over the school holidays. You’ll be encouraged to create your own artworks inspired by the art in the free displays. Free Explore and Draw sketchbooks are also available every day. Running until 4th June, 11am-3pm. Tate Liverpool.
W: www.tate.org.uk
Construction Club
Young inventors, creators and builders are invited to drop in and play with the massive supply of LEGO. The Atkinson.
W: www.theatkinson.co.uk
Local sheep shearer David Norcott will be shearing some of the flock on a daily basis, don’t miss this opportunity to see them shed their woolly coats. Also on 28th May. Tatton Park, Knutsford.
W: www.tattonpark.org.uk
Monday 29th
New Rides, New Area!
Visit Gulliver’s World this half term to experience their new rides, now open! Gulliver’s World, Warrington.
W: www.gulliersworldresort.co.uk
Wednesday 31st
A fun morning of party games, crafts and storytelling in the gardens inspired by the much-loved story of Tiger Who Came to Tea. Tatton Park, Knutsford.
W: www.tattonpark.org.uk
Listen to the adventures of Polar the Titanic bear with the storyteller. Maritime Museum.
W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Thursday 1st
Musical Theatre Workshop
Explore and learn scenes from smash hit musicals with singing, dancing and acting in this uplifting, fun and highly creative workshop. Ages 8+. Crewe Lyceum.
W: www.crewelyceum.co.uk
Friday 2nd
Southport Food and Drink Festival
This annual event returns to Victoria Park on 2nd-4th June.
W: www.visitsouthport.com
Street Dance and Rap Workshop
Tuesday 30th
Flower Fairies
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the Flower Fairies from Cicely Mary Barker’s well-loved, natureinspired storybooks, at the Lady Lever Art Gallery in Port Sunlight. The new exhibition features more than 40 original illustrations and celebrates 100 years of the Fairies. Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm and Mondays during local, school holidays until 5th November. Book online. Tickets are free with a suggested donation of £3 to £5.
W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Be inspired by the emerging artists’ work on display in the Museum and create your own artwork to take home! 10.30am-12.30pm. Grosvenor Museum, Chester. Running until 1st June.
W: www.events.westcheshire museums.co.uk
Join artist in residence Dope Male Performance Company (DMPC) and learn different styles of street dance and how to write and perform your own raps. Ages 8+. Crewe Lyceum.
W: www.crewelyceum.co.uk
Saturday 3rd
Car Show
Celebrate the golden age of motoring at The Classic and Performance Car Spectacular, one of the UK’S most loved classic car shows. Also on 4th June. Tatton Park, Knutsford.
W: www.tattonpark.org.uk
Saturday 10th
1940’s Vintage and Victory Weekend at the Farm. Step back in time and celebrate all that was great from the 1940s & 50s! Also on 11th June. Tatton Park, Knutsford.
W: www.tattonpark.org.uk
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!
Runs on the 2nd Saturday of every month. 9am-1pm in New Ferry.
W: www.wirralfarmersmarket.org.uk
Saturday 17th
Treat your dog at DogFest, the nation’s favourite dog friendly festival. Also on 18th June. Tatton Park, Knutsford.
W: www.tattonpark.org.uk
Make a hanging chime to attract mythical creatures to the garden. These will be made from recycled materials and have a strong emphasis on colour and sound to attract fairies. These can be hung in the garden or by the window. 11am-12.30pm. Lady Lever Art Gallery. W: www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
Celebrate Father’s Day at Gulliver’s World. Adult tickets are 50% off throughout Father’s Day Weekend! This special offer is available at all Gulliver’s Theme Parks on both the Saturday and the Sunday.
W: www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Oulton Park’s traditional Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship summer party is back in June for three headline races on the Island circuit. An annual calendar highlight with thousands of fans camping out across the weekend.
W: www.oultonpark.co.uk
Thursday 22nd
Discover what makes Belvedere special at this open evening from 4-6.30pm. There will be three talks given by Mrs Taylor, Principal explaining how Belvedere plans to support students in their transition to secondary school, together with tours from current pupils.
W: www.belvedereacademy.net
Saturday 24th
Race for Life Pretty Muddy Kids is a brilliant muddy obstacle course just for the little ones. Take on the obstacles, crawl through the mud pit and have fun with friends, all the while helping raise valuable funds for life-saving research. Free for adults, £12 for children (children must be at least 1.2 metres tall). Tatton Park, Knutsford.
W: www.tattonpark.org.uk
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!
Thursday 29th
St Julie’s Catholic High school is a popular and vibrant learning community where academic excellence is standard and traditional values shape the delivery of a curriculum that is innovative and exciting. You can meet the staff and students at the open event on Thursday 29th June from 4-6pm.
W: www.stjulies.org.uk
Saturday 1st Supercar Pageant
Oulton Park circuit will be packed with the finest cars you can imagine, with Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Bentleys, Porsches and more filling the infield of the historic circuit. W: www.oultonpark.co.uk
Celebrating all things American from across the decades, the Classic American Stars & Stripes Car Show is the biggest and best of its kind in the UK. Family entertainment including live music and a children’s funfair, as well as specialist traders, parts suppliers and jumble stands. Tatton Park, Knutsford. W: www.tattonpark.org.uk
Friday 7th
Foodies Festival returns with celebrity chefs and headliners Sophie EllisBextor and Scouting for Girls. Running 7th-9th July. Tatton Park, Knutsford. W: www.tattonpark.org.uk
Belvedere Academy is holding their Open Evening on Thursday 22nd June from 4-6.30pm. There will be three talks given by Mrs Taylor, Principal, explaining how Belvedere plans to support students in their transition to secondary school. You will hear from pupils who will give their first-hand experience. Tours are available and will show the new Year 7 base, Forget Me Not building. They look forward to seeing you and hope that the evening gives you a taste of what makes Belvedere special.
W: www.belvedereacademy.net
St Julie’s Catholic High School is a popular and vibrant learning community where academic excellence is standard and traditional values shape the delivery of a curriculum that is innovative and exciting. In recent years students have left St Julie’s Sixth Form to go to universities in places such as Liverpool, Manchester, Oxford, Cambridge and the Royal Academy for Dramatic Art. Their last Ofsted inspection judged the school to be good, with outstanding leadership and management and pupil welfare and development. To find out more about a place for your daughter, please visit their website or go and meet staff and students at their open event on Thursday 29th June from 4-6pm.
W: www.stjulies.org.uk
Liverpool John Moores University’s Learning Development and Support degree provides professionals, such as teaching assistants, nursery staff and mentors who work in an educational setting, an opportunity to study for a part-time qualification while working. This course can be studied flexibly, with teaching sessions on Saturdays enabling you to work and study to a timetable that suits you. Graduate, Dawn commented: “The course opened my eyes to a variety of educational topics relevant to my job role, providing me with the knowledge and skills required to do it more effectively. I now feel equipped and empowered to explore a career which involves supporting ‘vulnerable’ children.” Find out more by visiting the LJMU website and book yourself on to an open day in Liverpool.
W: www.ljmu.ac.uk
Liverpool College is keen to give you timely and accurate information about themselves and their admissions process. Their school is the most oversubscribed school in the region and it is important to them that you have all the information you need to make an informed decision about applying to their school. The school seeks to develop the whole person through an exceptionally broad programme of academic and life learning and a visit to one of their Open Events will give you a good flavour of what they are about. Please also look at the admissions page of their website where you will find Admissions Information Booklets and details of the Open Events.
W: www.liverpoolcollege.org.uk
Southport
01704 533333
Wednesday 24th May
Richard Jones rose to fame as the only magician to ever win Britain’s Got Talent and has since won the prestigious Gold Star accolade within the Inner Magic Circle, the highest honour in The Magic Circle. Known as ‘The Military Illusionist’ he represents the very best in Cutting edge magic, mind-reading and psychological illusion.
Wednesday 31st May POP
A musical spectacular starring four fabulous fairy tale princesses who just love to sing! It’s the perfect mix.
Friday 2nd-Saturday 3rd June
This hilarious and spectacular pantomime-style show will include some of the best seasoned performers alongside top circus and speciality acts. Expect high energy choreography, loveable characters, colourful set and costumes.
www.thebrindley.org.uk
Tuesday 30th May
A highly energetic show, suitable for kids, tweens, teens, and adults alike, with lots of added extras including dance competitions, free giveaways and a meet & greet with the girls after the show.
Saturday 10th-Sunday 11th June
Roald Dahl’s gleefully witty ode to the anarchy of childhood and the power of imagination. This story of a girl who dreams of a better life and the children she inspires will have audiences rooting for the “revolting children” who are out to teach the grown-ups a lesson.
Wednesday 21st-Saturday 24th June
The unforgettable characters from Grahame’s classic novel spring to life in this musical adaptation. Mole, a curious creature who leaves his underground life for one of adventure meets Water Rat who agrees to show him the world. More than a show about animals, it is about the surpassing value of friendship.
Monday 3rd July
DANCE ACADEMY
Cathi Conroy-Jones productions are proud to present a dance event charity. Go along and support these amazing children raising funds for the Brain Tumour Charity.
www.crewelyceum.co.uk
Wednesday 17th-Saturday 20th May
Based upon one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Disney’s The Little Mermaid is an incredibly beautiful love story for audience members of all ages.
Thursday 1st June
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!
www.epsteintheatre.co.uk
Saturday 24th June
Featuring a soundtrack of top pop hits from artists such as Little Mix, Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor, and internet sensation, JoJo Siwa, plus songs from all your favourite films and musicals.
www.mandsbankarena.com
Monday 29th May
The award-winning, smashhit circus musical that is fun for all the family.
Tuesday 30th May
This exhilarating show will showcase the exceptional talent of TV’s hugely popular professional dancers, performed within the wonderful world of the BBC show, with its stunning costumes and sparkling sets.
Friday 2nd June
Featuring legendary film scenes on giant screen, whilst the magical musical moments are brought to life by the Hollywood Sound Orchestra along with star soloists, for a multimedia experience.
www.atgtickets.com
Monday 5th-Saturday 10th June
The smash-hit West End production of Annie, the world’s favourite family musical, returns to Liverpool for one week only.
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 24th June
From the producers of Sing-aLong-a Sound of Music and Sing-a-Long-a Frozen, the brand new smash hit film musical of 2021 about the Family Madrigal with lyrics on screen that everyone can’t stop singing.
www.everymanplayhouse.com
Tuesday 30th May-Saturday 3rd June ZOG
The smash-hit stage adaptation from Freckle Productions is back in Liverpool. With lively songs from Joe Stilgoe and directed by Emma Kilbey, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved Zog is a magical production for all ages.
Tuesday 4th-Saturday 22nd July
A funked-up remix of Lewis Carroll’s classic, where musical streams and digital dreams collide in a riotous adventure for all the family!
www.thelowry.com
Sunday 28th May
An imaginative adaptation of Michael Foreman’s environmental tale with dancing dinosaurs, fuelled by rock’n’roll. This riotous hour, packed with signature Roustabout silliness, will have you tapping your toes from start to finish. Ages 3+.
Wednesday 31st May-Friday 2nd June
Using the picture book as inspiration and through a series of games and challenges each show will be unique with different characters, locations, costumes and much more every time!
Saturday 3rd-Monday 5th June
Join an adventurous young girl and her seafaring father as they reimagine the story of a tiny snail’s incredible trip around the world, inspired by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved picture book.
www.homemcr.org
Thursday 1st-Saturday 3rd June
Five children dream of reaching the moon from their bedroom… join the ‘Starchitects’ as they plan their daring mission. Will they succeed? And if they do, what will they find there? Ages 3-12.
Saturday 3rd June
THE HERO NEXT DOOR
Ground-breaking new production created especially for 7-10 year olds celebrating difference, friendship and working together to do the right thing.
0151 709 3789
www.liverpoolphil.com
Sunday 18th June
PETER AND THE WOLF
Join the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Gaspard and his furry chums in a warm-hearted adventure. With captivating storytelling and live on-stage painting. 2.30pm.
ROYAL
www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com
Saturday 17th June
MINISTRY OF SCIENCE
Contact the venue for details.
