Keeping the kids entertained during half term can be challenging so it’s always good to get a steer towards places or activities that you may not have encountered before. Here is a selection of some of our favourite places around the UK that are open over the February half term.

YORKSHIRE

Whistlestop Valley Railway, Huddersfield – this year at Whistlestop Valley, they are looking to build on their existing offerings for local wildlife. They are already proud to be home of the Great Crested Newt, which is an endangered species protected by law. Along the railway line, there is a total of 21 ponds which were created by hand & non intrusively maintained by the volunteers of the 10 Villages Conservation Group, in association with Denby Dale Parish Countryside Project. Whistlestop Valley also have an active hedgehog population, and the team are looking at making the site more habitable for their prickly pals. Why not see if you can spot some local wildlife on a journey through the countryside on one of their Steam Trains.
Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield HD8 9XJ
www.whistlestopvalley.co.uk

RSPB Fairburn Ings, Castleford
26 February – Teacher Open Day – learn more about the RSPB’s schools on reserves programme and the outdoor learning opportunities, while giving your own children a really wild adventure at the same time. Event is free with valid ticket please contact.
RSPB Fairburn Ings, Newton Lane, Castleford, WF10 2BH
Rebecca.savage@rspb.org.uk for more information

Danum Gallery Library and Museum, Doncaster – built around the frontage of the historic Doncaster High School for Girls, the state of the art venue houses brand new libraries for adults and children, a Rail Heritage Centre, two museums and an art gallery. Admission is free. www.dglam.org.uk

Cusworth Hall: Cusworth Hall Museum & Park, Doncaster is a beautiful Grade I listed building set in acres of historic parkland offering spectacular views across the town providing a year round perfect location for a stroll. The museum is a great place to learn about the history of Doncaster from the 18th century to the present day. www.cusworthhall.co.uk

Brodsworth Hall, Doncaster – outside of the town centre is the stunning stately home of English Heritage’s Brodsworth Hall & Gardens with a collection of grand gardens in miniature providing a lovely family day out. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/brodsworth-hall-and-gardens

Bawtry Paintball Fields, Doncaster – Bawtry Paintball Fields isn’t only the best paintball centre in South Yorkshire. It is also the biggest and best paintball and outdoor activity centre in the UK, bigger than any in Europe! Activities include, Paintballing, wall climbing, laser combat, tree trek and zip park and so much more! www.bawtrypaintballfields.co.uk

Boston Park Farm, Doncaster is a traditional working farm. The farm park is open to the public and allows children to get up close with a wide range of farm animals. You can pet and feed most of the animals and also join in with animal handling sessions. www.bostonpark.com

Harrogate Theatre, Harrogate – Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventure For Kids
24 Feb
Oxford Street, Harrogate, HG1 1QF
www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk/whats-on/Shlomos-Beatbox-Adventure-for-Kids

JORVIK Viking Centre, York have still got their fabulous virtual Viking Festival:
That JORVIK Viking Thing, 19 -27 February
The JORVIK Viking Centre hosts the world’s largest online Viking Festival during February half-term, with interactive fun, livestreams, and video on demand so you can immerse yourself in Viking life at home! For full details, visit Jorvikthing.com

LONDON AND SOUTH EAST ENGLAND

The National Trust
Nymans, West Sussex – Ignite at Nymans – in the heart of the Sussex countryside, the gardens of the National Trust’s Nymans, West Sussex, form the perfect setting for a new, after-dark experience from 11 February – 6 March. Set against a gloriously romantic backdrop, Nymans is a garden made for garden lovers, a place where creativity has flourished and quirkiness is celebrated.
So, it’s no surprise that the cherished grounds will play host to a fantastic new light trail, wander between flickering flames and majestic trees, marvel as lights dance from one amazing space to another. Within this fiery interpretation of stars and spheres, illuminated flora and fantasy, there are moments of reflection and playful discovery set to a soundscape that will inspire and intrigue. Join with family and friends to immerse yourself in the shimmering effects of fire and light.

Try something new, expect the unexpected with fairies dancing in trees and fiery fish glowing at dusk. Glimpse woodland wildlife sculpted in willow as you stroll along tree-lined avenues into a winter landscape filled with wonder. The new after dark adventure has been specially designed for visitors of all ages to enjoy.Tickets are on sale now: https://igniteatnymans.seetickets.com/
COVID-19 guidelines are being followed and processes are in place to maintain cleanliness and aid social/physical distancing. Nymans, Handcross, Haywards Heath RH17 6EB

Avon Tyrell, Hampshire
21-24 February
Be Outdoor Days – get your kids outdoors where they can safely experience a whole day of exciting outdoor challenges and environmental discovery. Age: 8-12 years
Times: 08:30-18:00 (Drop off from 08:30-09:00 and collect from 17:00-18:00). Price: £30pp
Book online: www.avontyrrell.org.uk or straight to Avon Tyrrell (cinolla.com)
Avon Tyrrell also have many activities bookable for the half term and throughout the year:
Go Adventure – climb a route on our climbing tower, kayak or canoe across open waters, learn archery and test your skills on our Archery range, learn Bushcraft survival skills and much more. With so many options, you, your family and your friends can all discover a new adventure.
Various dates and times until August 2022. Age: 5+ years however some activities suitable for 8+ (e.g. climbing, high ropes, tree top trail due to harnesses). Price: £12pp
Book online: www.avontyrrell.org.uk or straight to Avon Tyrrell (cinolla.com)
Tree Top Trail – our exciting new Tree Top Trail will take you to new heights as you make your way across various obstacles and zip line through the trees. Book on with the family and experience it together or get them to watch you from the ground as spaces are available individually. The session will be 90 minutes, but this will include a safety brief, kit you up and have a go from top to bottom for everyone in the group. Various dates and times available over upcoming months. Ages: 8+ years
Price: £12pp. Book online: www.avontyrrell.org.uk or straight to Avon Tyrrell (cinolla.com)

SOUTH WEST AND WALES

Aerospace Bristol, Bristol
19 – 27 February
FREE with museum admission
Aston Martin Wings Series: A special exhibition of four flight-themed Aston Martin cars, including one inspired by our very own Concorde Alpha Foxtrot.
Aerospace Adventure: Join Alfie & Amelia on an interactive journey around the museum! Visit adventure.aerospacebristol.org on your mobile to access the free app.
Flight Science Show: 12pm on Tuesday 22nd, Thursday 24th & Sunday 27th
Spotlight Talks: Twice daily talks on a range of exhibits and topics from Bristol’s aviation history.
Out of the Archive: Join archivist and archive volunteers on Wednesday 23rd February as they bring material out of the archive and into the museum.
All of Aerospace Bristol’s half-term activities are free with museum admission, and your ticket entitles you to visit as many times as you like for a whole year!
https://tickets.aerospacebristol.org/WebStore/shop/ViewItems.aspx?C=OSS&CG=KOL

GreenWood Family Park, North Wales
19-27 February
Every day the Soft Play will be open – it’s a great activity to get the kids engaged and stimulate their senses, a fun space where they’re free to explore. The Woodbarn Cafe are also delivering a fabulous menu of Pancake Boards with all the toppings and sides for you to choose from.
Bush Rd, Y Felinheli LL56 4QN
www.greenwoodfamilypark.co.uk/things-to-do-february-half-term/

Dairyland Farm Park, Newquay, Cornwall
19-27 February
Teddy Bears Picnic
01872 510 246
www.Dairylandfarmpark.com

NORTH WEST

Williamson Park, Lancaster
12-20 February
Mammal Talk – Meerkat Enclosure
Seed Ball Workshop – Education Room
www.lancaster.gov.uk/sites/williamson-park/williamson-park-events

Arley Hall and Gardens, Cheshire
Hall Open 19-20 Feb
Totally Roarsome – from 18 February, this exciting trail, in the woods at Arley, is open on various dates throughout February, March and April. The adventure usually takes around an hour depending on how long it takes to find the clues, complete the trail and how many selfies you take! For further details and to book tickets Click Here
Discover Tree Climbing – 26 February – be brave and take part in this exciting day at Arley, suitable for young and old! – for further details Click Here

LEGOLAND Discover Centre, Manchester
12-27 February – an all new 4D movie – LEGO® MYTHICA – JOURNEY TO MYTHICA – is coming to LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Manchester. And, to celebrate the launch, the movie is being supported with an epic adventure event for the whole family.
www.legolanddiscoverycentre.com/manchester/whats-inside/events/mythica/

CENTRAL

Cadbury World, Birmingham
Weekends and schoold holidays until 27 March
Freddo’s Circus Stage Show
www.cadburyworld.co.uk/whats-on/upcomingevents

Stratford Butterfly Farm, Stratford-upon-Avon
19-27 February
Visit the Butterfly Farm during half term and receive a beautiful complimentary marble heart* to either keep or give to a loved one. In return we ask that you pledge your love to the environment by making a green action promise.
www.butterflyfarm.co.uk/attraction/news/half-term-at-stratford-butterfly-farm-1

National Civil War Centre, Newark-on-Trent
During school breaks in 2022, starting this Feb half term, make the museum yours at the ‘Year of Play’! There’s fun for all ages from games to costume selfies, family-friendly fun facts about objects and more! Plus, on selected dates, have a go at a pike drill in the Tudor Hall!
www.nationalcivilwarcentre.com/

West Midland Safari and Leisure Park, Bewdley, Worcestershire
Hey Dugee at the Park
22-24 February
www.wmsp.co.uk/wmsp-events/heyduggee/