{"id":748359,"date":"2026-02-07T11:38:56","date_gmt":"2026-02-07T11:38:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/748359\/"},"modified":"2026-02-07T11:38:56","modified_gmt":"2026-02-07T11:38:56","slug":"31-things-to-do-with-kids-in-manchester-this-february-half-term","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/748359\/","title":{"rendered":"31 things to do with kids in Manchester this February half term"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you’re looking for things to keep the kids happy over the school holidays, look no furtherThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more<\/a>\"The<\/p>\n

The Super Duper Festival is in Manchester this February half term(Image: Science Museum Group)<\/p>\n

It might feel like the kids have only just gone back to class, but the school holidays are upon us once again and there’s so much happening over February half term.<\/p>\n

We never quite know what the weather’s going to throw at us so we’ve been taking a look at both indoor and outdoor events to give you a little inspiration in and around Greater Manchester.<\/p>\n

There’s lots happening for Chinese New Year, including the dragon parade<\/a> which comes to Manchester city centre on Sunday, February 15, and the Super Duper Family Festival returns with loads of free activities across the city<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Try MEN Premium NOW for just \u00a31<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

To make sure you’re always up-to-date with events, you can sign up to our Manchester Family newsletter<\/a> or join our free Family WhatsApp group HERE<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Here’s our full round-up of things to do in and around Greater Manchester this half term<\/strong><\/p>\n

Super Duper Family Festival<\/p>\n

Manchester will be transformed into one giant playground as it plays host to a free family event this half term<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The Super Duper Family Festival returns bringing loads of free-to-attend activities to iconic public spaces, cultural venues and landmark destinations across the city.<\/p>\n

Families are promised hands-on making, dancing, exploring, building, crafting, gaming, storytelling, sports and lots of surprises.<\/p>\n

With a vibrant line-up of cultural partners – including BBC<\/a>\u2019s Waterloo Road, CBeebies Bedtime Stories, Super League Basketball and the National Football Museum – the festival will bring back its much-loved play zones while introducing a host of exciting new additions.<\/p>\n

\"CBeebies<\/p>\n

CBeebies Bedtime Stories Live! storytelling sessions will be at Manchester Central(Image: Manchester Family \/ MEN)<\/p>\n

Activities will pop up across the city at iconic venues such as Aviva Studios, Great Northern Warehouse, Manchester Arndale, Manchester Central<\/a> Library, Manchester Central, People\u2019s History Museum, Printworks and the Science and Industry Museum.<\/p>\n

Tickets have already sold out for the CBeebies Bedtime Stories Live! storytelling sessions at Manchester Central and behind the scenes tours of Blue Peter, at Campfield Studios, but there is still so much for kids of all ages to get involved with.<\/p>\n

Aviva Studios is hosting everything from crafts and gaming sessions to a mini roller rink and a silent disco. While at Great Northern Warehouse’s Sports Hall there’s Scalextric racing, football tables, The Ping Hub introductory skateboarding sessions with Graystone Action Sports, basketball and more.<\/p>\n

The festival runs Wednesday, February 18 to Saturday, February 21. More details on the website here<\/a> and see more about this year’s new zones here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/p>\n

The Arcade zone will be inside the Printworks(Image: The Super Duper Family Festival)<\/p>\n

Science and Industry Museum<\/p>\n

Families are being promised an ‘epic space adventure’ with a new exhibition landing in Manchester this February half term<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Launching at the Science and Industry Museum a year before it arrives in London, it’s the first time the hit BBC<\/a> TV show Horrible Science has been brought to life as a major exhibition.<\/p>\n

Titled Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos, it’s designed to engage all the senses and even lets visitors catch a whiff of smelly space socks, snap a selfie on a space toilet, and take part in a micro-gravity optical illusion where they appear to float.<\/p>\n

The adventure begins in the lair of evil genius, Dr Big Brain, who recruits visitors for a series of cosmic challenges as he plots total galactic domination. From there, space explorers are sucked through a wormhole and dropped into Awesome Astronauts, where life aboard the International Space Station is revealed.<\/p>\n

Blending humour, theatrical storytelling and hands-on experiments, the exhibition promises to launch visitors into a high-energy journey through the Solar System. Expect big questions with messy answers: What does a star smell like? Could you stay standing during a moonquake? And what really happens when astronauts need the loo in space?<\/p>\n

Tickets to the exhibition are available online<\/a> and cost \u00a310 each, with family discounts available. Ages three and under go free.<\/p>\n

The exhibition will be accompanied by an extensive programme of supporting events, including accessible sessions, British Sign Language tours and space-inspired holiday programmes, including the February half term events planned as part of the free Super Duper Family Festival<\/a>. More details below.<\/p>\n

You could also check out the iconic Power Hall which reopened last year<\/a> giving visitors the chance to explore the working steam engines, some of which are running for the first time in almost a decade.<\/p>\n

\"Richard<\/p>\n

Richard David-Caine as Dr Big Brain in Horrible Science(Image: BBC)<\/p>\n

Bubble Planet Experience<\/p>\n

A new immersive bubble experience<\/a> is coming to Manchester in time for February half term.<\/p>\n

The Bubble Planet Experience<\/a> will open at Depot Mayfield, inviting visitors to ‘step into a joyful, dreamlike world where bubbles take centre stage’.<\/p>\n

Those behind the experience say visitors will be ‘immersed in a bubbly universe where colours, lights, textures and illusions blend seamlessly’.<\/p>\n

Following runs in 10 cities, including New York, Los Angeles, Milan and London, the venue – a former railway depot transformed into a vibrant hub for arts, entertainment, and large-scale experiences – is said to be ‘a fitting home’ for the experience, which is co-produced by family entertainment producer Exhibition Hub alongside events promoter and ticket provider Fever.<\/p>\n

From giant balloons to floating soap bubbles, each space is said to ‘offer a new perspective, encouraging exploration and playful discovery’. Designed to engage all the senses, Bubble Planet promises to transform ‘imagination into a tangible, interactive adventure’.<\/p>\n

Opening from February 7, the experience will cost \u00a317.90, plus a \u00a32 booking fee, for children aged three to 12. For 13+ tickets will cost \u00a323.90, plus a \u00a32 fee. Students, senior citizens and those with a disability cost \u00a320.90, plus a \u00a32 fee. Children two and under go free.<\/p>\n

You can also get a group bundle with a minimum of eight tickets, which brings the cost to \u00a321.90 per person, plus a \u00a31.50 booking fee.<\/p>\n

VIP tickets are also on sale which include entry, VR experience, cloakroom and Bubble Planet poster. These cost \u00a327.90 plus booking fee for children and \u00a333.90 plus booking fee for 13+. To buy tickets, visit the website here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"New<\/p>\n

New Bubble Planet Experience coming to Mayfield Depot in February(Image: Bubble Planet Experience)<\/p>\n

East Lancashire Railway<\/p>\n

Families are invited to hop aboard the East Lancashire Railway this half term where there are loads of events planned.<\/p>\n

Themed events include the Wonderland Adventure on February 18, The Wizarding Adventure on February 19 and The Dino Adventure on February 20.<\/p>\n

The interactive family events feature characters, games, songs and more. Food and drink is available to purchase from the caf\u00e9 on Platform 3\/4 at Bury<\/a> Bolton<\/a> Street Station and from the Rawtenstall Buffet.<\/p>\n

Tickets cost from \u00a318 and can be booked online<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"Wonderland<\/p>\n

Wonderland event at East Lancashire Railway(Image: Manchester Family \/ ELR)<\/p>\n

Knowsley Safari<\/p>\n

There’s a Tiger Takeover at the safari park this half term, giving families the chance to see six-month-old Amur tiger cubs, Akira and her brother Ozo, mostly making mischief and running rings around mum, Yuki.<\/p>\n

The Safari\u2019s Tiger Trail will be action-packed with tiger-themed crafts, games and activities between 11am and 3pm daily from February 14 to 22 – when there’s also 25% off tickets if you book in advance.<\/p>\n

Designed to bring visitors closer to the world\u2019s largest big cats, Tiger Stations will offer fun activities, including themed crafts where children can let their creativity run wild, as well as touch tables featuring tiger exhibits, and a selection of tiger games to test youngsters\u2019 coordination and endurance.<\/p>\n

After all that exertion, guests can relax in the Tiger Classroom with cosy storytelling sessions, suitable for children aged four to 10 years, where they can learn more about the plight of tigers in the wild and how their future can be protected.<\/p>\n

In addition to the fun of the Tiger Takeover guests have the entire Foot Safari, with giraffes, Andean Bears and meerkats, as well as the five mile Safari Drive with yak, Bactrian camels, African lions and rhino \u2013 and if visitors are lucky they may catch sight of new rhino calf Kamari out in the yard with her mum \u2013 among many other animals.<\/p>\n

Tickets cost \u00a318.75 for kids and \u00a320.75 for adults, or \u00a375 for a family of four. Book online<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"See<\/p>\n

See six-month-old Amur tiger cubs, Akira and her brother Ozo at Knowsley Safari(Image: Manchester Family \/ MEN)<\/p>\n

Dragon Parade<\/p>\n

Chinese New Year takes place during half term which means there are lots of activities planned to celebrate the event, including Manchester’s popular dragon parade.<\/p>\n

A quarter of the world’s population celebrate the event, which is also called Lunar New Year and Spring Festival and this year marks the Year of the Horse – specifically the Fire Horse.<\/p>\n

Ahead of the official New Year celebration on February 17, Manchester’s Chinatown will host a weekend of festivities on February 14 and 15 when the city centre will be transformed with red lanterns, live music and family friendly activities.<\/p>\n

The dragon parade – a huge procession featuring a stunning traditional dragon accompanied by dancers, drummers and acrobats – is one of the most popular aspects of the festivities and takes place on the Sunday, February 15, travelling through the city centre before finishing in Manchester Chinatown, where a final performance will bring the celebration to a thrilling close.<\/p>\n

Find out more about the event and other activities planned for Chinese New Year here.<\/p>\n

\"Thousands<\/p>\n

Thousands line the streets of Manchester city centre to celebrate Chinese New Year(Image: Kenny Brown | Manchester Evening News)<\/p>\n

Manchester Art Gallery<\/p>\n

Families can also celebrate the Year of the Horse at Manchester Art Gallery where a free drawing trail takes place.<\/p>\n

Pick up a sketchbook and pencil, then set off to explore the gallery on the special horse-themed trail that runs from 11am to 3pm on February 14 and 15. Track down a series of colourful posters and enjoy creative drawing activities inspired by the art collection. Children can show their sketches to a staff member at the end to claim a reward.<\/p>\n

From February 17 to 19 free Creative Families sessions are running between 1pm and 3pm offering ‘exciting workshops, hands-on activities and immersive experiences designed to spark your family\u2019s imagination and love for art’.<\/p>\n

Archie’s Atomic<\/p>\n

Trafford Palazzo’s bright pink roller rink is open this half term and there are some great deals to take advantage of.<\/p>\n

With Archie\u2019s signature hot pink branding, a retro-inspired design, and a huge spinning disco ball, the rink promises a feel-good throwback atmosphere perfect for those cold winter days.<\/p>\n

Archie\u2019s Atomic also houses the Arena gaming vault – an immersive, all-in-one activity featuring eight interactive games for up to eight players at a time. And there’s a state-of-the-art amusement arcade featuring SEGA games, basketball hoops, all the classics and more.<\/p>\n

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s also home to an Archie\u2019s diner, with all the burgers, shakes and treats the viral brand is known for.<\/p>\n

Skaters can get \u00a35 off per person with code ARENA5, both on peak and off peak, if they book online between now and the end of March. You can also get 50% off a group pass, allowing four people to skate on the rink for an hour for half the usual price. Book online using the code GROUPPASS50, which rings the cost down from \u00a360 to \u00a330.<\/p>\n

\"Archie's<\/p>\n

Archie’s Atomic inside Trafford Palazzo(Image: Manchester Family \/ MEN)<\/p>\n

Tatton Park<\/p>\n

The annual scarecrow festival is back at Tatton Park this half term and there’s a sporty theme this year.<\/p>\n

The Scarecrow Sports Day Festival runs from February 14 to March 1 and features scarecrows rowing and throwing, curling and serving, doing kickflips, backflips, high kicks and wickets.<\/p>\n

There’s also the chance to enjoy stories about life down on the farm with Aunty Mary and the Miller at weekends. Tatton’s Farm and Gardens are open across the school break, with the exception of Mondays when they close.<\/p>\n

Parkland entry fees apply and can be booked online<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/p>\n

The annual scarecrow festival is back at Tatton Park(Image: Manchester Family \/ MEN)<\/p>\n

Museum of Illusions<\/p>\n

The Museum of Illusions in Manchester city centre<\/a> is the first in the UK and offers a fun, indoor experience for all ages.<\/p>\n

Billed as ‘one of the world’s most Instagrammable museums’, exhibits range from holograms and optical tricks to full-scale illusion rooms and playful mirror displays.<\/p>\n

Through interactive optical illusions, it combines visual, sensory and educational elements, with visitors finding their clones in tricky mirrors, swapping faces with a friend, splitting themselves in two or even serving their head on a platter – all surrounded by ‘over 60 weird and wonderful illusions designed to baffle the brain and fill the camera roll’.<\/p>\n

You can take as long as you like inside the science-meets-entertainment attraction, but it typically lasts around an hour. Tickets, costing from \u00a319.50, can be booked on the website here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/p>\n

The Museum of Illusions in Manchester city centre(Image: Manchester Family \/ MEN)<\/p>\n

My Pet Pals workshops, Pets at Home<\/p>\n

If you’ve got a little animal lover or two then you might want to check out the free My Pet Pals workshops at Pets at Home stores which are returning this half term.<\/p>\n

Children can enjoy a variety of free activities, including getting hands-on with animals including rabbits and guinea pigs to find out which toys make them jump for joy, then become a master inventor as they design a toy of their very own.<\/p>\n

By the end of the workshop, they’ll learn why play is so important for an animal’s wellbeing, building their confidence and setting them up for responsible pet ownership, whenever the time comes.<\/p>\n

At the end of the interactive workshop, children will receive a My Pet Pals certificate, sticker, character headband and activity sheets to take home.<\/p>\n

The free 45-minute workshops start at 2pm and aimed at children aged four to 10. Spaces are limited to one adult per child. To book one near you visit the website here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"Free<\/p>\n

Free My Pet Pals workshops are back at Pets at Home(Image: Manchester Family \/ MEN)<\/p>\n

Heaton Park<\/a><\/p>\n

The half term fun fair is back at Heaton Park this February with rides for ‘thrill-seekers and little adventurers’.<\/p>\n

Thrill rides include the Runaway Train Rollercoaster and Dodgems, while those for little ones include the Ghost Train and Teacups.<\/p>\n

It opens daily from February 14 to 22 between noon and 5pm. Entry is free and rides cost from \u00a32 each with a Super Saver Family Deal.<\/p>\n

Unlimited ride wristbands are available on Tuesday and Wednesday for sessions between 12pm and 3pm and 2pm and 5pm. These cost \u00a314.99 each. Follow the Carousel Funfairs Facebook page<\/a> for more details.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/p>\n

The fair is coming to Heaton Park(Image: Manchester Family \/ MEN)<\/p>\n

Delamere Forest<\/p>\n

A free forest trail themed around the hit children’s book Room on the Broom has arrived in time for February half term<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Families are invited to ‘step into a magical forest adventure’ which promises to bring Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler\u2019s much loved story to life.<\/p>\n

Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the beloved book, the ‘enchanting’ trail – which Forestry England has brought to Delamere Forest – is packed with activities, fascinating forest facts, and plenty of hands on fun.<\/p>\n

Billed as ‘the perfect way for families to explore the great outdoors’, visitors can join Witch and her friends on ‘a spellbinding journey’ through the Cheshire forest. Along the way, children will help Witch find her lost hat, bow and wand, and collect magical ingredients to complete her spell. Each stop on the trail promises to be ‘packed with fun activities, fascinating forest facts, and a sprinkle of woodland magic \u2013 perfect for young explorers and families looking for an unforgettable day out’.<\/p>\n

The trail is a mile long and accessible to all. To make the adventure even more special, families can pick up a Room on the Broom trail pack for \u00a34. Each pack includes a themed lanyard, magic spell cards, stickers, a pencil, and a pop-out craft to create your very own witchy wand.<\/p>\n

Find out more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"A<\/p>\n

A free forest trail themed around the hit children’s book Room on the Broom has arrived in time for February half term(Image: Forestry England)<\/p>\n

National Football Museum<\/p>\n

There’s loads happening at the National Football Museum this February, with half term activities inspired by the current exhibition, Black in the Game.<\/p>\n

Activities include flag designing, fanzine making, trump cards and crafts, oral histories and a giant communal half and half scarf.<\/p>\n

Black in the Game is in the museum’s Score Gallery and showcases the cultural impact, unique achievements and untold stories of African and Caribbean communities within the English game.<\/p>\n

The exhibition champions the historical pioneers, the Three Lions ground-breakers, and those changing the game on and off the pitch, from Premier League clubs and grassroots communities to backroom staff, match officials and administrators behind the scenes.<\/p>\n

Residents who pay their council tax to Manchester City Council can visit for free. Otherwise it’s \u00a39 for children and \u00a315 for adults, which gives you access for 12 months. Under fives go free.<\/p>\n

For more details of the activities taking place across half term, visit the website here.<\/a><\/p>\n

\"The<\/p>\n

The National Football Museum(Image: Manchester Family \/ MEN)<\/p>\n

RHS Garden Bridgewater<\/p>\n

The Wind in the Willows: A Garden Adventure is coming to RHS Garden Bridgewater this half term.<\/p>\n

Families are invited to discover the interactive garden trail and activities based on the well-loved book by Kenneth Grahame.<\/p>\n

Follow Mole, Ratty and Badger and chase after naughty Mr Toad as you go on an expedition across the garden. You’ll encounter various characters and learn about nature, loyalty and friendship – and you could even enjoy a picnic like Ratty and Mole.<\/p>\n

The trail launches on February 14 and runs until the end of 2026. Other activities are running there too including crafts, storytime and planting sessions.<\/p>\n

General admission fees apply. Free to RHS members and children under five. Find out more on the website here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/p>\n

The Wind in the Willows: A Garden Adventure is coming to RHS Garden Bridgewater(Image: Manchester Family \/ MEN)<\/p>\n

Trafford Centre<\/p>\n

It’s all about Lunar New Year at Trafford<\/a> Centre this half term as Orient Way comes alive to celebrate the Year of the Horse.<\/p>\n

It’s teamed up with Manchester Chinese Centre to bring you Tai Chi demonstrations, musical lantern making, Chinese calligraphy lessons, and even a dragon dance. Free activities run from 11am to 3pm on February 17.<\/p>\n

Then from February 18 to 20 there’ll be free crafting sessions. Little artists can make their own dancing dragons, decorate beautiful paper lanterns and enjoy themed activities. Sessions run between 12pm and 4pm. More details on the website here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Kids eat free offers running at the Trafford Centre this half term include The Real Greek, Tampopo and Barburrito.<\/p>\n

\"Orient<\/p>\n

Orient Way will come alive to celebrate the Year of the Horse(Image: Trafford Centre)<\/p>\n

Adventures in Wonderland, Z-arts<\/p>\n

The Adventures in Wonderland experience is still running at Z-arts this February half term.<\/p>\n

Created in partnership with Macmillan Children\u2019s Books, the immersive play experience celebrates the 160th anniversary of one of the most loved children\u2019s books of all time, Alice\u2019s Adventures in Wonderland.<\/p>\n

Stepping into the shoes of Alice, children will find things in Wonderland become ‘curiouser and curiouser’. Greeting you as your storyteller is the White Rabbit, and from the shape shifting Cheshire Cat to a game of croquet with flamingos, there are scenes that will be familiar, including the chance to take your place at the Mad Hatter\u2019s tea party.<\/p>\n

Tunnels to crawl through, mazes to get lost in, fairground mirrors to amuse and a ball pool to ‘splash’ into, plus interactive games and sensory areas, all ‘bring Lewis Carroll\u2019s fantastical world to life’.<\/p>\n

The Z-arts\u2019 caf\u00e9, Butties and Books, also serves up tea party themed food and of course jam tarts.<\/p>\n

Tickets cost \u00a312<\/a> (plus 60p booking fee), with a family ticket for four priced at \u00a340 (plus \u00a32.40 booking fee). Book on the website here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

There’s lots more happening at Z-arts too, including a Meet the Hatter family dance show on February 14 and 15.<\/p>\n

Integrating dance, storytelling, original music, digital projection, lighting and animation, this epic production features a new retelling of the iconic Hatter character from Lewis Caroll\u2019s Alice\u2019s Adventures in Wonderland \u2013 but with a twist. Recommended for ages five plus, the show runs for an hour and tickets cost \u00a310 with a 50p booking fee.<\/p>\n

\"Adventures<\/p>\n

Adventures in Wonderland, Z-arts(Image: Lizzie Henshaw Photography)<\/p>\n

Manchester Museum<\/p>\n

The museum attracts visitors of all ages and there’s even more reason to visit this half term as it’s the final chance to the ‘Triceratops: Eat, Roam, Repeat’<\/a> exhibition.<\/p>\n

Visitors can get face-to-face with a magnificent, fossilised Triceratops skull, as part of the fun, family-friendly experience. It also reveals how this three-horned giant lived, what it ate and how it survived battles with predators like the mighty T-Rex.<\/p>\n

Junior palaeontologists will have fun with a series of hands-on, interactive elements, including a digital touch replica of the Triceratops skull that will allow visitors to feel its facial features to find out more about each one, as well as a fossil dig.<\/p>\n

Tickets can be booked online on the website here<\/a>. It’s free to enter but donations are welcomed.<\/p>\n

A drop-in Dino Den event is also running from February 17 to 20 with free activities including junk model dinosaur-making, re-creating scenes from the time of Triceratops, and opportunities to get up close to fossils and casts. Activities will be suitable for all ages and will run 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1pm to 4pm.<\/p>\n

Of course visitors will also delight at seeing Stan the T-Rex, the museum’s resident dinosaur, and checking out the Vivarium, a collection of live amphibians and reptiles, including many critically endangered species. The museum is completely free to visit and there\u2019s a cafe too.<\/p>\n

\"It's<\/p>\n

It’s you final chance to see the\u00a0‘Triceratops: Eat, Roam, Repeat’\u00a0exhibition (Image: Manchester Museum )<\/p>\n

Imperial War Museum North<\/p>\n

Free family activities are always on offer at the Imperial War Museum and there’s lots happening this half term.<\/p>\n

Families to dive into a deliciously different kind of history with A Taste of Home, February 14 to 22.<\/p>\n

As we mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War, it’s exploring how the global events that followed continue to shape the meals we enjoy today. Take part in an interactive market stall challenge to uncover the journeys of everyday ingredients. Get creative by decorating your own plate to take home and enjoy your favourite food on. Explore cherished recipes shared by members of the community, offering a \u2018taste of home\u2019 for you to cook and enjoy with your family.<\/p>\n

On February 19 there’s a Family Cookery Workshop where families will team up and try out their culinary skills together. Led by in-house chefs, children and grown-ups will work side by side to prepare a dish, offering a chance to connect through cooking and take home a recipe that tells a story behind the global changes that reshaped lives after the Second World War.<\/p>\n

At weekends there’s also Story Seekers, where, through objects, letters and stories, families can explore the story of John Cancellor, who worked in the Special Operations Executive as part of Force 136. As a trained Wireless Operator, he was responsible for communication behind enemy lines.<\/p>\n

Then, with your family, discover more real-life stories and explore the collection with the Story Seekers trail. From survival at sea to astonishing acts of bravery, learn about the people behind the objects and the extraordinary circumstances they found themselves in.<\/p>\n

On February 18, there’s a special We Were There event from 4pm to 6pm, letting visitors meet real-life veterans and eyewitnesses to war. Find out more about what’s happening on the website here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"There's<\/p>\n

There’s lots of free fun at the Imperial War Museum North(Image: IWMN)<\/p>\n

Alton Towers CBeebies Land<\/p>\n

If you’ve got little ones to entertain then Alton Towers has launched cheaper tickets for CBeebies Land this half term<\/a>.<\/p>\n

While the wider theme park doesn’t open until March 14, The Pirate Takeover returns to CBeebies Land and Mutiny Bay for the school holidays.<\/p>\n

Tickets, costing \u00a318 each<\/a>, give access to all the rides inside CBeebies Land including the Octonauts Rollercoaster Adventure, In the Night Garden Magical Boat Ride, Hey Duggee clubhouse, Get Set Go Tree Top Adventure and more.<\/p>\n

For those wanting something a bit more thrilling, then Spinball Whizzer and Marauder’s Mayhem are also available, providing you meet the respective 120cm and 110cm minimum height restrictions.<\/p>\n

There’s also a treasure hunt, the chance to visit Sharkbait Reef by Sea Life and Battle Galleons: Seadog Starkey’s Sailing School, inviting young sailors aboard for a fantastical adventure on the high seas.<\/p>\n

If you fancy turning your trip into a short stay<\/a>, and sleeping over in Alton Towers’ accommodation<\/a>, then there’s another special offer running to book a break for \u00a364 per person, which includes entry to both the theme park and the waterpark.<\/p>\n

Short breaks during Pirate Takeover, which runs from February 14 to 22, also include pirate-themed hotel entertainment, a buffet breakfast, free parking and nine holes of Extraordinary Golf.<\/p>\n

\"You<\/p>\n

You can get cheaper tickets for CBeebies Land this February half term(Image: Alton Towers)<\/p>\n

Pinocchio at the Lowry<\/p>\n

If you fancy a bit of theatre this half term then Pinocchio is coming to the Lowry theatre in Salford<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Stuff and Nonsense theatre company is bringing the family show to the stage from February 17 to 22.<\/p>\n

In this adaptation of Pinocchio, families are told to ‘expect the classic elements of the story \u2013 a poor woodcarver, the tell-tale growing nose, the dream of becoming a real boy \u2013 combined with Stuff and Nonsense\u2019s hallmark hilarity, skilled puppetry, original music, fantastic staging, outstanding performers and extraordinary physical tricks’.<\/p>\n

Recommended for ages three to 10, it’s billed as ‘suitable for all the family’. Tickets cost \u00a319.50 are available on the website here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"<\/p>\n

Pinocchio is coming to the Lowry theatre (Image: Manchester Family \/ MEN)<\/p>\n

Dino Falls Adventure Golf<\/p>\n

Dino Falls has an offer running throughout the school holidays where early bird kids can get a free hot chocolate to fuel their adventure.<\/p>\n

Children arriving before 10am for a round of pre-historic golfing action can claim their free by showing the web page here on arrival<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The offer applies from February 13 to 20 to those taking on one or both of the 18-hole courses – The Rapids, or The Volcano.<\/p>\n

Dino Falls is at the side of the M60<\/a> motorway at Trafford, where visitors play under the watchful eyes of the gigantic resident dinosaurs including Tyrannosaurus Rex, Allosaurus, Baby Triceratops, Pterasuria, Velociraptors Raptors, Iguanodon, Diplodocus and Triceratops.<\/p>\n

Opening times have currently been altered because of refurbishment works. It’s now open from 8am to 8pm, with final rounds at 7pm.<\/p>\n

Tickets cost \u00a310 for adults, \u00a38 for under 16s, or you can get a family ticket for \u00a332. Visit the website<\/a> to book.<\/p>\n

\"Kids<\/p>\n

Kids can get a free hot chocolate with a round of adventure golf <\/p>\n

Chaos Karts<\/p>\n

If you fancy a little Mario action this half term then the UK’s first live action video game karting experience is right here in Manchester.<\/p>\n

Inside the Arcade Arena next to the Science and Industry Museum, Chaos Karts combines real-life racing with augmented reality<\/a> and makes it feel as if you’re inside a game of Mario Kart<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Each player has their own kart and, just like Mario, you get to pick your own avatar and even the colour of your vehicle. The players are real, the karts are real and the racing experience is real – you whizz around an actual track. But the track changes each time, as it’s projected onto the floor along with the rest of the landscape that surrounds you.<\/p>\n

You use the buttons on your dashboard to fire forwards or backwards, dodging virtual obstacles like splattered eggs as you go.<\/p>\n

Drivers have to be a minimum age of 11 and be at least 5ft tall (1.5m) to take part. Chaos Karts tickets cost \u00a326.50 and can be booked online on the website<\/a>. Guests who aren’t playing can book a free companion ticket online.<\/p>\n

\"Chaos<\/p>\n

Chaos Karts(Image: Manchester Family \/ MEN)<\/p>\n

Pac-Man Live Experience<\/p>\n

Also inside the Arcade Arena is the new Pac-Man Live Experience<\/a>, which opened at the site last year using the entire floor space that hosts those Mario tracks.<\/p>\n

This interactive, immersive experience<\/a> lets you take on the identity of Pac-Man himself and again drops you into a real-life video game where you are chased by ghosts.<\/p>\n

You have your very own ‘Pac Master’ to oversee proceedings and tell you what game is coming next – reminding those whose vest becomes a ghost to take a breather as players take it in turns to take short breaks from the action.<\/p>\n

\"Pac-Man<\/p>\n

Pac-Man Live (Image: Manchester Family \/ MEN)<\/p>\n

Two separate teams of eight play separately on either side of the room and the goal is to beat your opponents by running around and collecting power pellets and fruit while desperately trying to avoid those pesky ghosts, Blinky, Pinky, Inky and Clyde.<\/p>\n

Pac-Man Live is suitable for anyone aged eight and above. It is a physical experience so you are on your feet for the duration.<\/p>\n

Tickets start from \u00a322 each, with a discount applied for family bookings. Tickets can be booked here.<\/a><\/p>\n

The Crystal Maze<\/p>\n

If you’ve always fancied giving the maze a go then you can get discounted tickets this half term.<\/p>\n

It’s an opportunity to work together with your team, solve puzzles, and conquer the maze, just like the contestants from the 90s’ TV show. Take your bold leap into this ‘frantic, frenetic and fun world of adventure and nostalgia’ as seen on BBC’s Blue Peter.<\/p>\n

Contestants get to tackle games in the zones including Aztec, Industrial, Futuristic and Medieval.<\/p>\n

Tickets, from \u00a343.20, can be booked on the website here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/p>\n

The Crystal Maze(Image: DAILY EXPRESS)<\/p>\n

Arcade Club Bury<\/p>\n

You can play for longer at the Arcade Club in Bury<\/a>, which extends its opening hours in the school holidays.<\/p>\n

The Ela Mill venue features hundreds of retro and modern machines over four floors and gamers have been flocking there since it opened in 2015.<\/p>\n

There’s everything from Pac-Man and Space Invaders to Donkey Kong and Sega Rally and kids can play their modern favourites like Fortnite and Rocket League.<\/p>\n

It’s open Wednesday, February 18 to Sunday, February 22 in half term, opening at 11am and closing at 8pm on Wednesday, 11pm on Thursday and Saturday, midnight on Friday and 8pm on Sunday.<\/p>\n

The \u00a310 entry fee is for kids aged five to 15 to play all day long. If adults want to play too it’s \u00a318 per adult, or \u00a346 for a family. For more information, or to book tickets, visit the website<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"Arcade<\/p>\n

Arcade Club Bury (Image: Manchester Family\/MEN)<\/p>\n

Legoland Discovery Centre Manchester<\/p>\n

Master Model Builders will guide young Lego enthusiasts this half term with a Lego Creativity Academy at Legoland Discovery Centre Manchester inside Trafford Palazzo.<\/p>\n

With hands-on challenges, scavenger hunts and a Creativity Academy Passport to fill out, there’s all sorts of Lego fun for little ones.<\/p>\n

Tickets cost from \u00a312.50 for children, or \u00a316 for adults, or you can get a family ticket from \u00a340. You can save more with a joint ticket for Legoland and Sea Life and you can visit at different times. Visit the website<\/a> for more details.<\/p>\n

\"Legoland<\/p>\n

Legoland Discovery Centre(Image: Manchester Family \/ MEN)<\/p>\n

Sea Life Manchester<\/p>\n

If you are thinking of heading to Sea Life, which is also inside Trafford Palazzo, it’s hosting a Jurassic Seas event this half term.<\/p>\n

Younger visitors are invited to become Sea Life Rangers with activities including fossil digs, themed photo opportunities and close-up encounters with creatures ranging from Northern Sea Otters to Black Tip Reef Sharks.<\/p>\n

The event is running at Sea Life Manchester from now until March 1. Tickets cost from \u00a316.50 for kids and \u00a320 for adults. Family tickets start from \u00a351.<\/p>\n

Chinese New Year, Wigan<\/p>\n

There’s more Chinese New Year fun happening in Wigan<\/a> this half term with music, dancing, costume and traditional crafts.<\/p>\n

Free family fun is planned in Wigan town centre on Saturday, February 14, with traditional crafts and activities in Wigan Library, a daring martial arts display in the Grand Arcade, Chinese lion dancers and a special finale at the museum.<\/p>\n

Library activities are free between 10am and 1.30pm, just drop in. The martial arts demonstration is at 11am, with a dragon dance in Market Place at noon (inside Grand Arcade if weather<\/a> is bad), and the lion dance at 1pm in Wigan Library.<\/p>\n

Events are led by Confucius Classroom in partnership with Wigan Museum. Follow Visit Wigan<\/a> for more.<\/p>\n

\"Chinese<\/p>\n

Chinese New Year celebrations are coming to Wigan(Image: Manchester Family \/ MEN)<\/p>\n

Salford Museum and Art Gallery<\/p>\n

There are lots of activities and workshops running at the museum and art gallery over half term. From patterns and printing to discovering the toys of yesteryear, there’s all sorts to get involved with.<\/p>\n

Craft sessions (Feb 17, 18 and 20) cost \u00a33 each with tickets available on the website<\/a>, and on Thursday, February 19 there’s a free Toys through Time event at 11am, 1pm and 2pm. Suitable for all ages, these sessions are drop-in with no booking required.<\/p>\n

You can also try some of the activity sheets in Lark Hill Place, a Victorian street where it’s always tea time on a winter\u2019s evening and the street gas lights have just been lit.<\/p>\n

\"Lark<\/p>\n

Lark Hill Place(Image: Nick Harrison \/ Salford Museum and Art Gallery)<\/p>\n

Ordsall Hall<\/p>\n

There are all kinds of Tudor themed activities and workshops running at Ordsall Hall over the school break.<\/p>\n

Sessions cost from \u00a31.50 each and include candle making, Tudor writing and plant pot decorating. On Wednesday, February 18, there are free storytelling sessions in the hall at 11am, 1pm and 2pm. Tickets must be booked online on the website here.<\/p>\n

Billed as ‘a great place for families to have fun together’, you can be an explorer and gets hands-on in the Frederick Shields Gallery, recline in a replica Tudor bed in the Great Chamber and try your hand at the interactive jigsaw in the Coat of Arms room.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"If you’re looking for things to keep the kids happy over the school holidays, look no furtherThis article…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":748360,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","_share_on_mastodon":"0"},"categories":[8813],"tags":[748,12232,393,4884,25784,2465,485,10968,16,15],"class_list":["post-748359","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-manchester","tag-britain","tag-days-out","tag-england","tag-great-britain","tag-half-term","tag-manchester","tag-manchester-family","tag-things-to-do-manchester","tag-uk","tag-united-kingdom"],"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@uk\/116029160759872668","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/748359","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=748359"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/748359\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/748360"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=748359"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=748359"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=748359"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}