Hooray – the school break is almost upon us! Treat kids to a well-earned treat with one of these fun-packed activities.
Leeds
Whole Lot of History
Gather round the Royal Armouries this half term from 24th October to 1st November and listen as a host of storytellers recount the exploits of brave warriors in epic battles, often pitted against terrifying monsters or plagued by terrible curses.
Discover myths, legends and epic poems at the daily storytelling sessions. You can also get your hands on some related arms and armour, as well as having a go at warrior combat skills.
There’s also the opportunity to put your craft skills on show and create monster masks, and on 29th and 30th October, the Yorkshire-based animation company, Inspired Workshops, will be helping you to make and animate a variety of characters.
Visit Royalarmouries.org.
Out of the Ordinary
This October half term Eureka! is taking a look at all things gross!
From 24th October through to 1st November 2015, the infamous Dr Frankenstein will be exploring the ickier, stickier, distinctly yuckier side of the human body along with his notorious monster and a few unusual medical professionals!
In the monster mash-up, join Dr Frankenstein for regular 30 minutes shows to meet his latest creation, discover some disgusting facts and delve deeper into the workings of the human body. Blergh!
If you’re feeling brave you can head into the Eureka! gross lab to get hands-on and grossed out! Mix and stir to make your own slime in which lots of fun (and a bit of mess) will be guaranteed.
Visit Eureka.org.uk.
Autumn Glory
Fans of the outdoors will be in their element – and reluctant adventurers will be converted – during half term week at Harewood House.
Celebrate autumn in all its glory by embarking on a whole host of activities at the premises – test your knowledge with the wildlife trails, watch the birds being fed, journey on the castle walk or deer park safari, and amp up your creative skills with a spot of badge making. There are also unique opportunities for anyone with a hankering for delicious dining, such as the seasonal food display, and biscuit decorating in the Pastry Room. And rest assured; the bookroom is perfectly equipped for any exhausted parents eager for a cup of tea and reprieve from all the fun.
The range of events will run at Harewood House from 24th October until 1st November.
Visit Harewood.org.
Manchester
Theatre Fun
Following five-star hits ‘Stick Man’ and ‘Tiddler & other Terrific Tales’, Scamp Theatre are presenting a truly heart-warming adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s hotly anticipated new book ‘The Scarecrows’ Wedding’ at The Lowry from 28th October to 1st November.
The extravaganza presents the story of Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay and the preparation for their wedding.
Harry sets off to search for their wedding day essentials including a dress of feathers, a bunch of flowers and a necklace made from shells. However, when the farmer notices he is missing a scarecrow, he replaces Harry with the devilishly smooth but dangerous Reginald Rake. Dashing, daring and ever so cool, can Reginald persuade Betty that he is the scarecrow for her? Will Harry make it back in the nick of time before Reginald ruins their special day?
Bursting at the seams with Scamp Theatre’s style, this epic love story promises wit, drama, and wedding bells!
Visit Thelowry.com.
Walk the Walk
With a renewed crispness in the air, why not immerse yourself in all things nature?
Head up to Queen’s Park in Heywood to enjoy a series of seasonal walks. Queen’s Park is an ideal spot for bird lovers – the lake area and river bank are home to herons, sand martins, kingfishers, goosanders and ducks. The park has dedicated bird walks which run on the first Friday of every month. For people wanting to keep fit, the park hosts health walks every Thursday which are designed to suit all abilities.
Additionally, Blackley Forest Nature Reserve covers 20.5 hectares of mixed deciduous forest and incorporates the River Irk. The area of heathland is unique to the city and was given Local Nature Reserve status in June 2005. A series of short walks are great for autumn ambles including the regular health walks and bat spotting events.
Visit Blackleyforest.com and Rochdale.gov.uk.
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