Issuu

Cheshire In this issue: School’s out for Summer! Loads of ideas of things to do and places to see and how to avoid “brain drain”!

TWO INCREDIBLE DAYS STUFFED WITH LOADS OF TV STARS, BANDS, SHOWS, RIDES AND FAMILY FUN!

F E ST I V A L 2 0 19

Croxteth Country Park. Liverpool

Issue 60 July/August 19

More Info - bbc.co.uk/summersocial

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News Get hands on at the Festival of Archaeology

The Festival of Archaeology is a fortnight long festival which runs from 13 to 28 July 2019 providing opportunities for families to discover archaeology in their local area.

Events are being held across the UK at sites of archaeological and historical interest. You’ll be able to watch experts at work or get ‘hands-on’ by experiencing the excitement of an archaeology dig, including having a go at geophysical and topographic surveys, or taking part in actual excavations. The festival is co-ordinated by the Council for British Archaeology and aims to showcase the very best of archaeology for everyone. To find events in your area visit www.festival.archaeologyuk.org

Space Chase – 2019 Summer Reading Challenge

Children’s reading can decline during the summer holidays if they don’t have regular access to books or encouragement to read for pleasure, so the Summer Reading Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to read six library books during the

long summer holiday. This year the challenge will focus on the theme ‘Space Chase’ – an out-of-this-world adventure inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing. Children collect rewards, such as stickers, for every book read on their way to receiving their challenge certificate and medal. The Challenge launches in libraries on Saturday 13 July 2019. For competitions, book recommendations and special online badges and rewards, visit www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

Drive for more men in childcare More men are to be encouraged into careers in nurseries and early years’ settings, in a new project to provide more diverse role models for children before they start school. With men making up just 3% of early years staff in England, Next issue: September/October 2019 Circulation: 30,000 copies of Families Cheshire are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other points throughout Cheshire. If you would like free copies for your organisation, please let us know. Contact details: Families Cheshire, 3 Hall Hill, Bollington SK10 5ED Tel: 01625 801 801 www.familiesonline.co.uk Editors: Jayne Keep & Caryl Hall Editorial: editor@familiescheshire.co.uk 2 Families Cheshire

Advertising/artwork: advertising@familiescheshire.co.uk Events, diary dates, what’s on: events@familiescheshire.co.uk Cover Photography: Deposit Photos www.depositphotos.com Design: WITH Creative, Congleton. www.withcreative.co.uk Print: Warwick Printers, Caswell Road Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV31 1QD Tel: 01926 883355 www.warwickprinting.co.uk

Celebrate play on Playday UK!

Playday (Wednesday 7 August 2019) is an annual celebration of children’s play with thousands of children and families playing outside at events across the UK. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of

children’s play and the need for quality play opportunities every day of the year. From small-scale community events to thousands of children taking part in events organised in parks and open spaces, Playday is celebrated by each community in a way that suits them. As well as a celebration of children’s right to play, Playday is a campaign that highlights the importance of play in children’s lives. You can hold and register your own Playday event or find one close to you by visiting www.playday.org.uk

Looking to bring a furry friend into the family?

Adding a dog to your family is an important decision which is best not made on a whim. Generally, children and dogs form great bonds and friendships and dogs can offer the opportunity for children to learn life skills such as responsibility and compassion.

But all dogs are individuals. When deciding what dog is right for your family, the breed is perhaps the single most important factor you can take into account. To help families with this decision, pet food manufacturer Webbox has created a Dog Breeder Decider tool, which matches a dog breed with your family by analysing your family’s lifestyle and preferences against the personality traits, behaviours and requirements of all dog breeds. www.webbox.co.uk/dog-breeddecider

the project aims to break down the barriers that prevent men entering careers in children’s early education, including the myth that men are less suited to caring roles. The project will be run by the Fatherhood Institute, and will spearhead an innovative recruitment drive that highlights the positive roles

men can play in the crucial first years of a child’s education. It’ll provide practical resources like myth busters, ‘how-to’ guides and online content to support male recruitment into the profession, as well as online peer support for men already working in the sector. www.fatherhoodinstitute.org

Families Cheshire is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Cheshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families

Cheshire. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but but Families Cheshire, its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof. @FamiliesChesMag facebook.com/FamiliesCheshire

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News Talk, sing and play to build brains

Almost two thirds of parents are unaware that back and forth interaction with their child from birth can help their babies’ social, emotional and cognitive development. A survey of more than 2,000 parents and expectant parents by the NSPCC found that 62% were unaware that moments playing, singing or telling stories can be brain-building ones. NSPCC research has found some parents struggle with ideas about how to interact with their young child beyond eye contact and cuddling, especially in the early months when they do not receive obvious feedback from their babies. In response, the charity is launching a campaign, ‘Look, Say, Sing, Play,’ to encourage new parents to use everyday scenarios to have more two-way interactions with their babies. Going to the shops, having a bath, going to bed – whatever you and your baby are doing can be turned into a back-and-forth. Parents can sign up to get weekly brain building tips that are fun and age appropriate. www.nspcc.org.uk

Teachers ‘as good as tests’ at predicting success

SATs are no better than teachers at predicting pupil’s GCSE and A-Level results, a study has found. The study, published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, found teacher assessments at age 7, 11 and 14 were just as effective as using SATs results to predict pupils’ subsequent exam success. Researchers say their findings question whether the benefits of standardised exams outweigh the costs. A lead researcher Dr Kaili Rimfeld, from the King’s College London, said: “We have shown for the first time that teacher

Just 1 Click

Are you feeling lucky?! WIN a Family Ticket to the BBC Summer Social! BBC Summer Social is back at Croxteth Country Park, Liverpool on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 August, bringing the very best bits of the whole BBC across a packed family festival weekend of music, sport and live performances. Saturday brings pop acts including Busted, Pixie Lott, Rak-Su, and John Newman, broadcast on Radio 2, along with CBBC favourites including The Next Step, and Almost Never and much more! Sunday sees Mr Tumble headlining the main stage alongside Andy Day & The Odd Socks, Dr Ranj, Yolanda, Cook and Line from Swashbuckle, Hey Duggee and Bing! All weekend, there’s a BBC Sport field, a Doctor Who zone, Bedtime Stories, a Clangers Garden, plus an entire field of inflatable fun, including the world’s biggest bouncy castle and assault course! Everything on site is in the familiesonline.co.uk

assessments predict GCSE and A-level results just as well as earlier exam scores.” “The fact that exam scores correlate so highly with the teacher assessments raises questions about the value of the testing culture that characterises compulsory education in the UK.” www.kcl.ac.uk/news

Looking for a fun and flexible home-based business opportunity? How about becoming the new owner of Families Cheshire!

ticket price of £23.50 plus £1.50 (free for under 2’s). www.bbc.co.uk/summersocial We’ve got a Family Ticket (2 adults, 2 children) for this fabulous event up for grabs! To be in with a chance of winning, just send an email with the words SUMMER SOCIAL as the subject, and with your name and phone number in the body to caryl@familiescheshire.co.uk. Closing date: Sunday 28 July. Please note that the ticket covers entry for one day only (choice of Sat 3 or Sun 4 August) and once awarded, is not transferable.

Do you want to: Work flexibly from home Juggle your own hours Be your own boss Be part of an experienced and supportive network of like-minded people? Then Families is perfect for you! You’ll do everything from writing and editing to selling ad space and invoicing – all with full training, back up and support from an experienced team at Head Office and over 30 other editors country-wide.

Cheshire Cheshire

Cheshire In this issue: Make the best of Open Days Foraging with kids Is your child sport ready?

In this issue: Times tables tips & tricks Family friendly working Mother’s Day after loss

In this issue: Easter fun! Is Shared Parental Leave for you? Finding the right childcare provider

Issue 55 Sep/Oct 2018

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Issue 58 Mar/Apr 19

Issue 52 Mar/Apr

2018

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To find out more, get in touch today! Email editor@familiescheshire.co.uk or call 01625 801801.

Families Cheshire 3

Parents’ place Free childcare to attend smear tests Mothers across the UK are being offered an hour’s free childcare so they can attend a smear test. Childcare.co.uk, which claims to be the largest platform for parents and childcare providers in the UK has launched the initiative to encourage more women to attend a smear test to determine whether

they are at risk of cervical cancer, which in 99.8% of cases is preventable with early treatment. While the test usually takes just five minutes, a free hour of childcare is being offered to allow for waiting times and travel. Take up this offer by visiting: www.childcare.co.uk/ news/free-childcare-for-smear-tests

Vacancy Part-time Practice Accountant Grappenhall Warrington - c 25 hours per week We are an established, small friendly firm of Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors. The company’s mission is to become the Trusted Adviser to our Clients and show a real passion to support them. We are looking for an ACA or ACCA qualified accountant to work on a general portfolio of small to medium size clients to include Ltd company and sole trader accounts and associated tax work. Experience of using online software would be an advantage. To apply please email your cv to anita.lavelle@davidsonstant.co.uk

4 Families Cheshire

Hours of work are flexible to work around family or other commitments. We envisage the weekly hours to be in the region of 25 but are negotiable. We expect a can do attitude, a hands on approach to clients and tasks and a keen attention to detail with high technical standards. In return we offer a competitive salary and excellent working environment and company culture.

Short breaks offer independence and fun

Short Breaks at Derwen College, near Oswestry offers young adults aged 18 and over, with special educational needs and disabilities, a holiday experience away from home, where they can enjoy activities with other like-minded young people. Guests have the opportunity to take part in activities, sports, trips and develop independence skills, all with the specialist support of trained care staff. Caring – even for someone you love – can be an exhausting experience, which can leave you little time for yourself or other members of your family. Short Breaks is open for 50 weeks of the year, and offers guests a

change from their daily routine, giving parents and carers a break from the demands of their role. It can be hard to entrust the care of a loved one to others, so Derwen makes every effort to ensure the process is as simple as possible; with each stay tailored to include the best plan of activities for each individual. There’s no limit to how often, or for how long you may wish to stay. The Short Breaks House is modern and spacious, with six individual, en-suite bedrooms. Hoists are available for those who require them. There’s also a fully equipped kitchen and dining area, and meals are bespoke to guests’ preferences and needs. Laundry facilities are available if required, and there’s also full use of a communal lounge area with TV and WiFi, and a garden for guests to enjoy. Parent and guest feedback for the short breaks facility has been overwhelmingly positive. For more information, go to www.derwen.ac.uk

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Parents’ place

Consider a family break at The Belfry Summer in the Alps Named as England’s Leading Resort, The Belfry caters for all types of family stays and is close to a variety of popular family favourites which can easily be reached throughout your stay, such as Drayton Manor, Cadbury World, Twycross Zoo, as well as the National Sea Life Centre and Birmingham city centre, which is only 20 minutes away. On-site at The Belfry you’ll find the woodland walk, playground, swimming pool and mini-golf to keep the adventurous little ones entertained. Plus, there is an

on-site OFSTED registered crèche if you’re looking for some ‘me-time’. After a day of fun, you can enjoy the family Pizza Pasta restaurant before retiring back to your comfy and spacious family room. With fantastic family facilities and a stunning resort set in 550 acres of countryside – there’s something to keep everyone entertained. Kids stay and eat for free during the Summer Holidays. Visit www.TheBelfry.com or call 01675 238600 to find out more.

The Alps may be an obvious destination for the ski season, but how about a summer visit? Summer offers enough green (the mountains) and blue (the sky) to set you up for the whole year - and plenty of fresh air to fill your families’ lungs. With reasonably priced flights from London airports to Geneva then a short drive to Morzine, there’s a warm welcome waiting from Paul and Francesca Eyre at Chilly Powder. With the main chalet – Au Coin du Feu – plus two chalets next door, you can organise your own meals, or join

the party at ‘Au Coin du Feu’ for dinners that you usually only dream of. Family friendly early evening meals for the children and a daytime crèche for little ones not quite as active as you, with drinks in the bar for the grownups – or in the Jacuzzi on the terrace – Paul and Francesca will make you wish that this was home! For more about Chilly Powder chalets for summer and winter visit www.chillypowder.com and for more about summer in Morzine visit www.morzineavoriaz.com/activites-deplein-air-ete.html

FAMILY

ADVE N T U R E S KIDS STAY AND EAT FOR FREE ADULTS FROM £55 PER PERSON Swimming Pool | Mini Golf Family Dining | Spacious Family Rooms Woodland Walk | Playground

01675 238 600 | www.TheBelfry.com ENGLAND’S LEADING RESORT WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS 2018

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Families Cheshire 5

Parents’ Header place 10 brain-stimulating activities to keep learning alive this summer

The summer holidays are a great time for children to reboot and relax, but it’s also been reported they can lose 25% of what they’ve earned during the long break. Claire Winter looks at how to keep their learning alive with ten brain-stimulating activities to do this summer. Have a board game tournament Tactical board games like Chess and Backgammon give the brain a workout. Scrabble helps with vocabulary and Monopoly boosts Maths and money management skills. Games like Trivial Pursuit are great for learning general knowledge. Not only are board games fun, but they also teach valuable lessons like being strategic, following instructions, learning how to lose, and communicating with other players.

Make reading fun The annual Summer Reading Challenge, which inspires kids across the UK to read six books and collect rewards for doing so, is an excellent place to start. Sign up at your local library. To find out more check out www. summerreadingchallenge.org.uk. When your child reads they exercise their brain, they use their imagination and they gain valuable knowledge about the world they live in. Comics and newspapers designed for kids like the Week Junior or First News, might appeal to kids who are not so keen on longer books. You could also reward reading with screen time on a favourite device or make bedtime a dedicated reading time. Learn to play a musical instrument Playing a musical instrument helps engage the brain, and the summer is a perfect time to learn something new as your child can practice daily without the distraction of a busy schedule. Learning a musical instrument can also help with learning languages too. Try a new sport Learning a new sport not only strengthens the body but also the brain. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for your child to try a plethora of new sports like

rock climbing, canoeing, Karate, abseiling and street dance. Sport also teaches essential life skills like self-confidence, teamwork and strategic thinking. Keep a summer journal Encourage your child to document the summer with pictures and writing, perhaps choosing a theme. If they like computers, you could get them to create a digital journal with written entries, video diaries, and photos. Write stories and post cards Documenting the summer on Instagram with pictures and captions is one way to get a child who loves social media platforms involved. If all else fails, encourage them to engage in the old-fashioned way and write stories with an actual pen and paper! Getting younger children to write and send postcards when you are on holiday will boost their writing skills. Learn to cook Bake Off and Master Chef fans will love this challenge. Get your child to search for some fun recipes to make for the family. They could design a menu for the day, a picnic or an evening meal. Let them be in charge of buying the ingredients too, even if you need to accompany them to the supermarket or help them order online. Weighing, measuring and following instructions all keep the brain active.

The key to surviving the summer holidays is to mix it up. If you are working, book the kids into a scheduled summer camp or activities, and plan some exciting days out, plus some fun at home. This will ensure your child doesn’t suffer from the dreaded brain drain.

Open Days

The Grange School An Independent Co-ed School for Children Aged 4-18 in the Heart of Cheshire

Get gardening Research some insect and butterfly-friendly plants and flowers to plant in the garden or try and grow some fruit or veg from seed. It’s a great introduction to science, and you could also tie it in with a visit to a Botanical garden, Arboretum or National Trust property to sample the vast variety of plants and trees they have on offer. Learn to code Coding is fascinating and great for kids who love their tech. There are some brilliant, free websites which teach your kids the basics of coding, such as Scratch (www.scratch.mit.edu), and Alice (www.alice.org) where children can learn to programme, tell stories and animate! Try puzzles Number puzzles and Sudoku are great for improving the grey matter. Older children may enjoy a fun day at an escape room where they have to solve clues to get out.

Senior School

Saturday 28th September 9am - 1pm

Sixth Form

Thursday 7th November 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Junior School Saturday 16th November 10am - 1pm

Book Now

www.grange.org.uk 01606 539039

orts Sp n r lio n fo mil £6 e ope w Ne entr 019 C 2

6 Families Cheshire

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Summer Days of fun all summer long Rollercoasters, zoos, museums, forts and art galleries, out there is a day out for everyone! Claire Winter has scoured the country to find fun and free days out across the UK this summer. Here’s Families’ pick of the best attractions that your family should check out if you’re in the area.

Visit a museum In cities across the UK, there are world-renowned museums that offer free access to exhibitions all year round. The V&A Museum of Childhood in London, the National Football Museum in Manchester and the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery are great examples. It’s worth checking out the individual museum’s website as they often offer free or low cost activities for kids to do during the holidays. www.visitbritain.com is a great resource for finding museums across Britain.

Have a forest adventure in the Lake District Hunt for fairies in Hayes’s Ever-changing Forest this summer. This magical forest is open to families to experience and learn about the seasons. After a day of fun, families can relax in the sensory room and enjoy a drink and snacks in the Woodland Cafe. The cost is £12 per child including activities in the forest, snacks, drinks, and a gift bag. www.hayesgardenworld.co.uk/ event/ever-changing-forest

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Try tennis for free Game, set and match! Capitalise on Wimbledon fever and sign your child up for a free tennis lesson. The charity Tennis For Free offers free weekly coaching sessions at 86 locations in England and Scotland every week. Go to their website at www.tennisforfree.com to book a session.

Check out the Birds of Prey at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm Soar with the Eagles at ‘Wings of Wonder,’ the brand new birds of prey enclosure and display show at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Bristol, which houses over 100 animals. The new flying display treats spectators to an all-action flight show of impressive birds of prey including eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls. The Wings of Wonder birds of prey will fly twice a day in their new timetable of daily events and there will be daily keeper talks as well. Adults from £18, children) from £13.50 and family passes from £42.75. Concessions available, and children under 2 and essential carers free. www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk Locally you can find Gauntlet in Knutsford (www.gauntlet.info), Cheshire Falconry in Northwich (www.cheshirefalconry.com) and Rescue, Conservation and Education centre Wild Wings Birds of Prey in Warrington (www.wildwingbirdsofprey.co.uk).

Join in with National Play Day National Play Day takes place across the country on 7 August. Families have the chance to play at hundreds of community events across the UK, from giant picnics, fun in the woods to street parties with games. Find your nearest ones at www.playday.org.uk. Visit an Iron Age fort Go back in time and visit Maiden Castle near Dorchester in Dorset. It’s an enormous Iron Age hill fort with ditches and ramparts galore. If you take the climb to the top, you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views. More details at www.english-heritage.org.uk/ visit/places/maiden-castle/ Go stargazing Explore the planets and stars by visiting the astronomical and space displays at Mills Observatory in Dundee, Britain’s first purposebuilt public observatory! Find out more at www.leisureandculturedundee. com/culture/mills

Or closer to home, try Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre’s fun and interactive, family-friendly science shows and hands on activities. www.jodrellbank.net Check out new talent in Edinburgh From 1 to 25 August, a free version of Edinburgh’s famous Fringe festival takes place with 100s of shows and performances to enjoy. There’s also a special kid’s programme with events scheduled in over the summer holidays. You can check full details by visiting www.freefestival.co.uk Go on a Lego adventure A visit to Legoland in Windsor is must for all Lego fans. It’s expensive and busy, but the park, which has been made out of 80 million Lego bricks, is a firm favourite with the kids. New for 2019 is the Haunted House Monster Party. If you have the budget, it’s well worth signing up for Q-bot, a queue-jumping device that will get you to the front of many of the queues for rides. Tickets cost from £29 per person online. Visit www.legoland.co.uk Explore the Olympic Park The Queen Elizabeth Park covers 530 acres. It’s home to the London Stadium, the ArcelorMittal Orbit, the London Aquatics Centre and the Lee Valley VeloPark. There are lots of free trails, parklands, waterways, and playgrounds to explore and it’s open daily. Find out more at www.queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk. Share your summer fun days out with us on Facebook or Twitter!

Families Cheshire 7

Summer The must-have accessory for accident free family holidays Slipfree® shoes have been cleverly designed to keep children (and adults) safe by helping prevent slips and falls on wet or dry surfaces. Made from a light, flexible, quick-drying and breathable fabric, they’re the next best thing to bare feet but with the added protection of a firm grip

£19 per day

SUMMER

sole. They’re super comfortable, easy to swim in and can be used almost anywhere – including all year round at the swimming pool, at exercise classes, for gymnastics and at home on slippy floors, in the bathroom and garden! With over 20 fun and colourful designs sizes ranging

from an infant size 2 to a men’s size 11, Slipfree® have the whole family covered. Prices are £14.95 for children’s and £18.95 for adults, available from stockists nationwide and www.iloveslipfree.co.uk

Something for everyone at Brio

ACTIVITY CLUB

Monday 22nd July - Friday 30th August *weekdays only

22nd July - Friday 30th August NEW and exciting activities every Wednesday!

Summer holidays are fast approaching, and we know it can be a struggle to keep your little monkeys busy! Brio Leisure’s Holiday Fun

programmes are packed full of fun activities for your kids that’ll keep them active all summer long. From sports camps and taster sessions through to trampolining, snorkelling and more, there’s something to suit every child! Plus, keep all the family entertained over the summer holidays at Northwich Memorial Court with Elmer the Patchwork Elephant Show and Black Magic – The Little Mix Show this August! You’ll find their full Holiday Fun programmes online at www.brioleisure.org/fun

Set for the Summer at Superstars!

Specialised Camp Weeks: Trampolining, Tennis, Art Club and Club NEW FOR SUMMER COMPUTER CODING CLUB DRONE WORKSHOP PHOTOGRAPHY DAY Monday 22nd July to Friday 3rd September

8am - 4.30pm (option of late pick up until 6pm)

01925 555859

www.littlesuperstars.co.uk 8 Families Cheshire

Superstars Holiday Clubs run across 11 sites (in Warrington, St Helens and Northwich as well as Prestwich, Didsbury and Chorlton) over the school holidays. This summer, children can enjoy Multi Sports, Football, Dance, Lego, Tennis, Art Club, and Trampolining or (new for Summer 2019) Computer Coding Club, half day Drone Flying and Photography Club! Multi Sports sessions offer over 50 different sports for the children to develop and play. Football sessions are based around developing their skills and playing small matches. Superstars accepts childcare vouchers as well as payment by debit or credit card. Costs are £17.50 per day (8am – 4.30pm), or a 5 hr flexi day costs £12.50. Late pick up (up to 6pm) is available for £2.50 extra per day per child. Full details of what’s on offer offer can be found at www.littlesuperstars.co.uk, where you can view their full 24-page summer brochure. Or contact them on 01925 555859.

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Summer Summer holidays at Quarry Bank

Step into summer at Quarry Bank and join in with a jam-packed programme of summer activities, all inspired by the great outdoors. With acres of gardens and woodland to explore, two play areas and a complete industrial heritage site to discover, there are plenty of places to play! Try

your hand at new, exciting skills in forest school, discover more about the magical life of trees, and explore new ways to make music inspired by the unique rhythm of Quarry Bank’s machines and the River Bollin. You can also discover more about the night time residents of the Quarry Bank estate on a bat walk, and don’t miss their outdoor theatre events for a magical evening of theatre under the stars for all the family (booking advised). On those drizzly days, you can head inside the huge Industrial Revolution cotton mill to watch the machinery thunder

into action and feel the floors shake beneath your feet! Younger visitors can step into the 19th century and become a factory inspector to learn more about the dangerous jobs child apprentices did to keep the mill running. Follow the new story trail through the mill, and don’t forget to collect your stamps in your Factory Inspector’s booklet as you go! Refuel with ice cream, a freshly prepared hot meal, or a tasty slice of cake before going on to explore the homes of mill owner, mill worker and apprentice, and learn more about the very different lives they led.

The picturesque gardens are also at their best at this time of the year, and full of drama. Paths climb up from the valley bottom passing by caves, cliffs, heritage trees and summer blooms. Over in the kitchen garden and glasshouse, there are lots of fruit and vegetables coming through, with potatoes beginning to show and beans climbing up poles. Onions, garlic and runner beans are also ripening and the strawberries are on their way. The gardens are also rich in wildlife – look out for butterflies, damselflies, woodpeckers and jays who all stop by. To find out more and plan your day, visit the Quarry Bank website at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank

Join in the Bitesize Battlefield Challenge 2019! Can you and the kids take on a course packed with over 20 obstacles including a mud bath, a slime pool, an inflatable slip and slide, monkey bars, a-frames, hay bales and more? Then enter the Bitesize Battlefield Challenge at Macclesfield Rugby Club on Sat

6 & Sun 7 July, in aid of the One Woman At a Time Charity, which is dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls in parts of Kenya, India and UK who are severely disadvantaged by social or economic circumstances. Included in your entrance fee (£12.50) is a medal and a t-shirt,

and all you need to do is to try and raise a minimum of £10 for the charity. It’s bound to be fabulous muddy fun for the whole family! Sign up now at www.bitesize-bootcamp.com/ battlefield-challenge

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29/05/2019 14:34 Families Cheshire 9

Summer Cruise the river in Chester Make sure your memories last

With a sightseeing commentary and views of the beautiful River Dee and riverside homes, a boat trip is a great way to see a

different side of the city. ChesterBoats’s half-hour cruises depart from The Groves in Chester every day, and boat trips can be combined with an open top bus tour. Buy your tickets on board, or book online for a discount. 01244 325394 / www.chesterboat.co.uk

Wes Brown Football Coaching in Wilmslow

Fresh for summer 2019, Holiday Zone Ltd is working with Wes Brown Football Coaching to bring you a new and exciting football camp experience. Run by Wes Brown of Manchester United & England fame and assisted by Head of Football, fully trained teacher and FA Coach, Ben Elston of Wilmslow High School, the sessions will include visits from Star players of former and

10 Families Cheshire

current Premiership Clubs, Team Scouts, plus lots of spot prizes to reinforce positive behaviour and keep children focused and learning. Centrally located at Wilmslow Preparatory School, and Ashdene Primary School, there’s a range of facilities at both sites, from full size grass pitches, to all-weather pitches, and a fully air-conditioned sports hall. So your child will enjoy the beautiful game no matter the weather this summer! Camps are suitable for children aged 5-13 years, a Full Day (9am – 5pm) costs just £28, and the Extended Day (8am – 6pm) costs £32. Places are limited at each camp so book early! Further details can be found at www.wesbrownfc.com or email info@wesbrownfc.com

If you’re heading off in a caravan or motorhome this summer, check out Leisure Logs travel journals for a fun, bright and beautiful way to create a lasting record of the precious memories you’re making! Each A5 sized journal consists

of over 70 pages with 11 different full colour images and depicting the fun social side of caravanning or motorhoming and over 60 pages to write about your travels and adventures. It features a map of the British Isles and is printed on excellent quality card and paper with a laminated, wipeable cover to make sure it keeps looking great! Priced at just £17.45 (including P&P), it’s the perfect way to make sure those memories last forever. www.leisurelogsjournals.co.uk

Summer Holiday Club at Crewe Lyceum

Lyceum Theatre’s resident performing company brings you an exciting week of creative activity – Monday 5 – Friday 9 August. Join them for the chance to work with members of Crewe’s premier hip hop Theatre Company and create your own performance by the end of the week. Get involved in a wide range of activities including learning a

range of different dance styles, creating graffiti art and choreographing your own work No experience of dance or theatre is necessary. Open to ages 7-16, from 9am – 3.30pm daily, the week costs £100 (£30 deposit due on booking). Bursaries and sibling discounts are available. Email getinvolved@crewelyceum.co.uk for more information.

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What’s on

These listings are for guidance only – please check before you go To include your upcoming event in our listings, email events@familiescheshire.co.uk or upload your event listing to our website - www.familiesonline.co.uk

Daily in July & Aug

Dunham Massey, Altrincham PercyThe Park Keeper – The Treasure Hunt 10.30am – 4pm / All ages / Free, normal admission applies. Join Percy the Park Keeper and his animal friends on this nature inspired trail around the garden to discover nature’s treasure. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Thurs 4 July

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Outdoor Theatre – Treasure Island 7 – 9.30pm / Child £11, Adult £16 The much-loved story, adapted for stage in among one of the most beautiful open-air venues. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events Tatton Park, Knutsford Stars and Stripes American Car Show 9.30am – 4pm / All ages / Adult £9. Child £6, under 10s FREE Over 100 memorabilia, American lifestyle and general trade stalls along with the cars. Live music, Wild West Shoot Out, Wall of Death and lots more entertainment for all the family. www.tattonpark.org.uk Alderley Park, Alderley Edge Splash Out – Francis House 10am – 3.30pm. A 5K family fun run with 5 fabulous water obstacles in aid of Francis House. There’ll be lots of entertainment, music, stalls, catering and refreshments available in the ‘event village’ close to the start and finish area. www.francishouse.org.uk

Sat 6 & Sun 7 July

Thurs 11 July

Tatton Park, Knutsford Pick It! Cook It! Eat It! 10 – 11.30am / Ages 2-4 / £22 for 1 adult, 1 child and park entry. A food journey of discovery. Pick your own ingredients and prepare a seasonal recipe to take home and cook. Booking essential. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Fri 12 – Sun 14 July

Tatton Park, Knutsford Foodies Festival Fri 11am – 9pm Sat 10am – 9pm Sun 10am – 5pm / Under 12s FREE. A mouth-watering summer festival, live music, workshops, masterclasses and Top Chefs. www.foodiesfestival.com

Sat 13 July

Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse, Northwich Museum Family Sketch Crawl 2 – 4pm / Age 8+ (accompanied) / Free, booking essential. Join artist Ian Hill-Smith for a family afternoon of sketching around the museum. www.weaverhall. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Sat 13 & Sun 14 July

Tatton Park, Knutsford Rare Breeds weekend at the Farm 12 – 5pm / Adult £7 Child £5. Meet Molly the Middle White and all of her piggy friends, our Red Poll cattle, Leicester Longwool sheep and others. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sun 14 July

Tatton Park, Knutsford Pigs Galore! 10am – 12pm / Age 12+ / £15 (includes park and farm entry). Everything you need to know about your favourite farmyard friends. Booking essential. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Cheshire Police & Fire HQ, Winsford Blue Light Community Engagement Day 11.30 - 4.30 / Free but booking essential. Interactive displays and exhibitions, police dogs, face painting, a climbing wall and craft area. Refreshments available to buy. www.cheshire.police.uk

Sun 7 July

Wed 17 – Sun 21 Jul

Carnival Fields, Wilmslow Wilmslow Show 11am – 5pm. A Showground full of attractions, with something for everyone. A Dog Show and Competitions for amateur florists, gardeners, crafters and bakers. Craft and Trade Stalls, Charities and Community group stands. www.wilmslowshow.co.uk

Tatton Park, Knutsford RHS Flower Show 10am / £34 pp / Discounted tickets online. Vibrant floral displays, stunning gardens and have-a-go workshops there’s plenty of take-home inspiration for your garden. Plus fun family activities, boutique shopping and artisan food. www.rhs.org.uk

Fri 19 Jul – Wed 4 Sept

Dunham Massey, Altrincham Percy The Park Keeper – Nature’s Treasure 11am – 4pm / All ages / Free event, normal admission applies. Join in with

familiesonline.co.uk

family friendly activities to find out about the amazing animals that call Dunham Massey their home. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Sat 20 July

Macclesfield RUFC Macclesfield Festival 10am – 10pm / Under 4’s FREE. The festival is a fabulous day out for both families and music lovers www.macclesfieldfestival.co.uk

Sat 20 July – Sun 1 Sept

Museum of Science and Industry, Manchester Power Up! Get your game face on and play some of the most popular video games from the past 40 years, from Pong and Pacman to Minecraft and Mario. Hundreds of consoles on offer. www.msimanchester.org.uk

Sun 21 July

St Ann’s Hospice, Heald Green Summer Fair £1 entry, children free. Annual summer fair, fundraising for the charity. A range of stalls and refreshments as well activities, facepainting, tombola’s and raffles will be on offer. www.sah.org.uk Lion Salt Works, Northwich Butterfly Bonanza 10.30am – 4.30pm / Free. Celebrate all of the beautiful butterflies Cheshire has to offer. Hands-on and fun filled activities throughout the day. www.lionsaltworks. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Mon 22 July – Fri 2 Aug Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Summer Holidays – Find your Styal 11am – 4pm / Free event, normal admission applies. Take part in bird watching workshops, create some wild art and get folding with origami crafts in the mill. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Tues 23 Jul – Fri 23 Aug Tatton Park, Knutsford Summer Activities at the Farm 12 – 5pm / Normal Admission applies (NT members half price). Learn more about Field to fork, meet our newly hatched chicks in the hatchery and our new arrivals in our daily farmyard facts. See the mill machines running, storytelling, milking and butter making and more. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Wed 24 – Sun 28 July

Tatton Park, Knutsford Luna Kids Cinema Various times / Several Films / Normal Admission applies. Great films for big and little kids like. From Dumbo to Harry Potter, Peppa Pig to How to Train Your Dragon, there’s a film for everyone! www.lunakidscinema.com

Thurs 25 July

Grosvenor Park, Chester Festival of British Archaeology 1 – 5pm / Free. See what the archaeologists have found during the annual excavation that has been taking place in Grosvenor Park since 2007. Displays and information about local archaeology and a chance to talk to the archaeologists about their work and discoveries.

Sat 27 Jul

Tatton Park, Knutsford Pick It! Cook It! Eat It! 10am – 12pm / Age 5 - 11 / £22 for 1 adult, 1 child and park entry / Booking essential. Pick fresh ingredients from walled garden and prepare 2 seasonal recipes to take home and cook. Mansion tour included. www.tattonpark.org.uk Tegg’s Nose Country Park, Macclesfield Tegg’s Nose Butterfly Walk 11am – 1pm / Adult £3, under 16s free Family wildlife walk around the top of Tegg’s Nose Country Park to look for and learn more about some ofthe park’s resident butterfly species and, if we are lucky, seeing the scarce local speciality, namely, the Wall butterfly. www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers Tegg’s Nose Country Park, Macclesfield Tegg’s Nose Bilberry Pick 1 – 4pm / Age 5+ / Free. Bring a container and get picking. www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers

Sat 27 & Sun 28 Jul

Manchester Central Convention Complex Manchester Comic Con The UK’s BIGGEST Modern Pop-Culture events returns to Manchester. A blockbuster weekend of everything awesome and geeky. www.mcmcomiccon.com/manchester

Families Cheshire 11

What’s on Lyme Park, Disley Ranger in Training 10am – 12pm & 1 – 3pm / Age 6+ / £5 per child. Learn some of the essential skills needed to become a ranger and care for this special place and the wildlife who call Lyme home. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Mon 29 Jul – Fri 30 Aug

Jodrell Bank, Cheshire Summer Holidays 11am – 4pm / Normal admission applies Moon, Rock and Meteorites: All ages Rocket Lab: Age 7+. Mission to the Moon: Age 7+. Tiny Astronauts: Under 7s www.jodrellbank.net

Tues 30 Jul

Grosvenor Museum, Chester Lion Masks 1.30 – 3.30pm / £2 per child. Using the stone carving in the museum’s portrait of Prince Charles as inspiration, create your own mask to take home. www.grosvenormuseum. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Tues 30 & Wed 31 July

Lion Salt Works, Northwich Let’s Go and Fly a Kite 10.30am – 4pm / £2. Have fun making your own kite, ready to fly on the breeze. www.lionsaltworks. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Wed 31 Jul

Grosvenor Museum, Chester Clay Monsters 10am – 4pm/Drop in/£2 perchild. Make a pet monster in clay to take home and paint later. www.grosvenormuseum. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Wed 31 Jul – Thurs 1 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford The Secret Gnome Trail 10.30am – 12pm & 1 – 2.30pm / Age 3-5 / £12 for 1 adult, 1 child and park entry / Booking essential. Help solve a series of tricky clues left by the garden gnomes who have been coming to life at night and causing chaos! www.tattonpark.org.uk

Wed 31 Jul & Tues 27 Aug Tatton Park, Knutsford Wand Making Workshop 10am, 11.30am, 2pm & 2.30pm / £5 per child / Booking essential. You will be taught to use a shave horse and will use this to create your wand. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Every Thurs in Aug

Jodrell Bank Live Beekeeping Demonstrations 1pm / Free, drop in. Normal admission applies. The fascinating and ancient craft of beekeeping up close and in action. Beekeepers will be on hand to answer questions. Weather permitting. www.jodrellbank.net

Thurs 1 Aug

Intu Trafford Centre, Manchester Emergency Services Open Day 10am – 4pm / Free. See a wide range of vehicles, appliances and equipment from the many agencies who work closely together to make Greater Manchester and the North West a safer place. www.manchesterfire.gov.uk

Sat 3 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford Tractor Ted on Tour Free, normal admission applies. Enjoy

DIRECT FROM THE WEST END!

The Tiger Who Came to Tea a musical play adapted & directed by DAVID WOOD based on the book by JUDITH KERR

all the Farm has to offer this summer along with Tractor Ted, the famous big green Bouncy Castle. Enjoy the Digger Den and Welly Wanging too! www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sat 3 & Sun 4 Aug

Sat 3 Aug – Sun 1 Sep

East Lancs Railway, Bury A Day out with Thomas 9am – 4pm / All ages / Under 2s free Join Thomas, the number one blue engine, at the East Lancashire Railway for a train ride unlike any other. www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk The Lowry Quays Theatre We’re Going On A Bear Hunt Join our intrepid family of adventurers and their musical dog on a quest to find a bear. Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes, plenty of adventure and a few surprises along the way. www.thelowry.com

Sun 4 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford Volkswagen North West Car Show 9am – 5pm / Adult £9, under 16s free From Beetles to Golfs, Beach Buggies to Camper Vans. Hundreds of specialist trade stands, children’s rides and entertainment plus much more on the day. A great family day out! www.tattonpark.org.uk

Mon 5 – Fri 16 Aug

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Summer Holidays – If you go down to the woods 11am – 4pm / Free, normal admission applies. Exploring the life of trees. In a fun selection of workshops and activities, find out how trees communicate with each other and size up your age with the rings in their trunks. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Every Tues in Aug

Jodrell Bank Meet The Expert 1pm / Age 10+ / Free, drop in. Normal admission applies. Meet a resident science and astronomy expert. Learn all about their work, and to ask the space questions you’ve always wanted to ask! www.jodrellbank.net

Tues 6 Aug

Lion Salt Works Kitchen Chemistry 10.30am – 12.30pm & 2 – 4pm / Drop in 2019 is the international year of the Periodic Table! To celebrate, we’ve got some cool chemistry that you can also try at home. www.lionsaltworks. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Tues 6 and 13 Aug

HHHH

Tatton Park, Knutsford Cave Babies 1.30 – 3pm / Age 3 – 5/ £12 for 1 chid and adult, plus park entry. A sensory introduction to the Stone Age, ending with an interactive story and song session. www.tattonpark.org.uk

‘Roar talent’ Sunday Telegraph

SAT 3 - MON 5 AUG

Tickets: £14 | BOX OFFICE 01270 368 242 | crewelyceum.co.uk

Wed 7 Aug

Grosvenor Museum, Chester Race Day Hats 1.30 – 3.30pm / £2. Newstead Gallery Make and decorate your own stylish race day hat. www.grosvenormuseum. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Grosvenor Museum, Chester Hobby Horses 1.30 – 3.30pm / £2, drop in. Chester is well known for its racecourse and love of horses. Join us and make your own horse to race on. www.grosvenormuseum. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

ON LIVE GE! A T S

12 Families Cheshire

Mon 29 Jul – Fri 2 Aug

Thurs 8 Aug

Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse Medieval Village 10am – 4pm / £2. Become lord or lady of the manor by creating your own three-dimensional Medieval village. www.weaverhall. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk Tatton Park, Knutsford Meet The Vikings 10.30am – 12.30pm / Age 7 – 11 / £12 per child includes park entry, booking essential. Meet our brave Viking explorers at Tatton Old Hall and experience life in their settlement through a range of exciting hands on activities. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Fri 9 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford Traditional Tales- Cinderella 10.30am – 12pm / Ages 3 – 5 / £12 per child includes park entry plus one adult An engaging storytelling tour bringing the traditional tale to life. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sat 10 Aug

Biddulph Grange Garden, Biddulph Mr Magnolia – Outdoor Theatre 2 – 3.30pm / £10 child, £12 adult, booking advised. A perfect family afternoon performance of family favourite Mr Magnolia. www.folksytheatre.co.uk Crewe Lyceum Open Day 11am – 3pm. Don’t miss a jam packed day of FREE fun activity for all the family! Set sail for adventure with the Lyceum’s summer open day, celebrating the high-flying pantomime, Peter Pan. Enjoy a range of activities including face painting, story time, treasure hunts, den building, a costume competition and more. www.crewelyceum.co.uk

Sun 11 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford Fun Dog Show 12pm start / £2 entry per class / Normal farm entry applies. Ten novelty classes. Viking Sunday 12 – 5pm / Adult £7 Child £5 Family £19. Experience combat as well as domestic life, trades and skills such as coin striking and calligraphy. Have a go at archery (small charge), try on armour and enjoy storytelling. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Tues 13 Aug

Crewe Lyceum Tabby McTat 1.30 & 4pm. Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s heart-warming tale of friendship and loyalty is brought to life on stage with original songs and a sprinkling of magic. www.crewelyceum.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

What’s on

Lion Salt Works Pirate Adventure Day 10.30am – 12.30pm & 2 – 4pm / Drop in Lots of exciting pirate-themed activities and crafts all around Lion Salt Works. www.lionsaltworks. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Wed 14 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford Tatton’s Fairytale Postman 10.30am – 12pm, 1 – 2.30pm / Ages 3-5 / Booking essential. Tatton Park’s postman has got himself into a muddle! Can you help him deliver his mixed up letters to all the fairytale characters living in our Gardens? www.tattonpark.org.uk Grosvenor Museum, Chester Shiny Beetle Bags 1.30 – 3.30pm / £2, drop in. Make your own iridescent bag to take home. www.grosvenormuseum. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Thurs 15 Aug

Grosvenor Museum, Chester Cuneiform Tablets 1.30 – 3.30pm / £2, drop in. Cuneiform is one of the earliest systems of writing and dates from the fourth millennium BC in Mesopotamia (modern Iraq). Come and make your own clay tablet with your name on it in cuneiform! www.grosvenormuseum. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk Tatton Park, Knutsford The Tatton Teddy Hunt 10.30am – 12pm, 1 – 2.30pm / Ages 3-5 / Booking essential. Tatton’s mischevious teddy bears are playing hide and seek in the Gardens! Can you help us find them all so that they can join in our themed story and rhyme time? www.tattonpark.org.uk Northwich Memorial Court Elmer the Patchwork Elephant Show Full £13, Concession £11, Group and family tickets available. Based on the classic children’s book series by David McKee, that celebrates its 30th Birthday in 2019. Elmer the Patchwork Elephant Show, is a celebration of individuality and the power of laughter! brioentertainment.org

Grosvenor Museum, Chester Coats of Arms 1.30 – 3.30pm / £2, drop in. Learn about the different meanings behind colours, symbols and animals in coats of arms, and design a shield for your own family. www.grosvenormuseum. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Tues 20 & Wed 21 Aug

Lion Salt Works, Northwich Journey to Space 10.30am – 12.30pm & 2 – 4pm / Drop in Out of this world crafts to match this year’s Summer Reading Challenge! www.lionsaltworks. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse, Northwich Treasure Map 10am – 4pm / £2, drop in. Imagine you’re a pirate with buried treasure to hide. Make a map to help you find it later. Then follow the museum map to find our treasure! www.weaverhall. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Wed 21 Aug

Grosvenor Museum, Chester Family Photographs 1.30 – 3.30pm / £2, drop in. Dress your family in our colourful range of handling costumes and accessories. Take a family photo on your own camera/mobile phone, then make and decorate your own photo frame to take home. www.grosvenormuseum. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk Tatton Park, Knutsford Adventures in Wonderland 10am – 12pm & 1 – 2.30pm / Ages 7-11 / Booking is essential. Solve a perplexing mystery by completing a series of puzzles and riddles, inspired by this classic tale. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Mon 19 – Fri 23 Aug

Fri 23 Aug

Mon 19 – Fri 30 Aug

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Summer Holidays – Strike a Chord 11am – 5pm / Free, normal admission applies. From musical storytelling to the natural rhythms of the surrounding estate, there’ll be lots to discover and enjoy. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

familiesonline.co.uk

Tatton Park, Knutsford Traditional Country Weekend at the Farm 12 – 5pm / Normal Farm admission applies. A weekend of traditional English fayre and fun. A great day out! www.tattonpark.org.uk

Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse, Northwich Viking Finds 10am – 4pm / £2, drop in. Meet a Viking, find out about life in the Dark Ages, and make some Viking artefacts. www.weaverhall. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Lion Salt Works, Northwich Live and Local presents a Bank Holiday Bonanza 11am – 5pm / Free. Family festival and fun day with outdoor stage, live music, children’s activities, stalls, refreshments and hot food. www.lionsaltworks. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Grosvenor Museum, Chester Rainforest Animals 1.30 – 3.30pm / £2, drop in. Make a collage showing rainforest life, with animals, plants and birds. www.grosvenormuseum. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Sat 24 – Mon 26 Aug

Tues 27 Aug

Grosvenor Museum, Chester 1.30 – 3.30pm / £2, drop in Help to make a sustainable village out of recycled materials for display in our foyer case. www.grosvenormuseum. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Tues 27 & Wed 28 Aug

Lion Salt Works, Northwich Stained Glass Windows 10.30am – 12.30pm & 2 – 4pm / Drop in Make your own stained glass window. Using a twist on the traditional materials. www.lionsaltworks. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Wed 28 Aug

Grosvenor Museum, Chester Miniature Gardens 1.30 – 3.30pm / £2, drop in. Make your own little garden with real plants to take home and grow.

Thurs 29 Aug

Thurs 29 – Sat 31 Aug

Dunham Massey, Altrincham Summer Nights Film Festival 6.30 – 10.30pm / All ages / Adult £15.50, 5-11 £10.50, under 5s free Thurs 29 Aug: Grease Fri 30 Aug: Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again Sat 31 Aug: Bohemian Rhapsody www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Fri 30 Aug

Northwich Memorial Court Black Magic – The Little Mix Show 7pm / Full £15, Concession £12, Family of 4 £48. A highly energetic tribute show that follows in the footsteps of the award winning girl band, Little Mix. There are lots of added extras including Dance Competitions, Free Giveaways and even a Meet & Greet with the girls after the show! brioentertainment.org

Riverside Park Ranger Centre, Macclesfield Bushcraft Adventure Daywith Mount Cook 9am – 4pm / Ages 8-12 year olds / £35. Experience and develop skills such as fire lighting, campfire gadgetry, plant identification, cordage and how to build a shelter. www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers

Thurs 22 Aug

Lyme Park, Disley Mini Rangers 10am – 3pm / Under 5s / £1 per child per session. Bring your little ones to explore the sights, sounds and smells of Lyme’s woodland. Experiment in our mud kitchen and follow the trail to discover new experiences. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

www.grosvenormuseum. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Wed 21 & 28 Aug

Mon 19 – Thurs 22 Aug

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Go Batty! 7.30 – 9.30pm / Adult £6, Child £3 Head along the River Bollin with our ranger team to find out about our night time residents of the Quarry Bank estate. Includes a tasty bat shaped biscuit! www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

events, cute animals, big tractors, small tractors, it’s a packed and value filled day. www.poyntonshow.co.uk

Grosvenor Museum, Chester 3D Family Tree 1.30 – 3.30pm / £2, drop in. Pop along and make your very three-dimensional family tree to fill with beautiful pictures of your family and other special people in your life. www.grosvenormuseum. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse, Northwich Teddy Bears Picnic: Bug Hunt 12 – 4pm / All ages / Free. Bring your picnic to enjoy in the museum grounds, then go on a bug hunt, build a den, and make a bug house. Bug crafts and stories from Northwich Library and Chester Zoo. www.weaverhall. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Sat 24 Aug

Poynton Showground Poynton Show Mixing traditional agriculture, animals, machinery, horticultural displays with nerve-wracking and hilarious main events, there’s something for everyone. With plenty of marquees to explore, open air daredevil

Rosy cheeks

Sat 17 & Sun 18 Aug

Tues 20 Aug

made at Quarry Bank Visit Quarry Bank this summer for adventure trails, nature discoveries and plenty of places to play. These are the places that make us. nationaltrust.org.uk/Quarry-Bank

Families Cheshire 13

Get Bowled Over at Superbowl UK Superbowl UK has fun covered for the whole family come rain or sunshine this Summer. So why choose Superbowl UK? We’ve highlighted 10 reasons to choose them!

1 Bowling is weather-proof!

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Raining? No problem. Snowing? No problem. Heat wave? We have air conditioning... no problem.

else do you get to wear freshly sanitised, tricolored beauties? Sport them with pride. 9 Parties - Have you ever tried throwing a five-year-old’s birthday party at home? Well, you don’t need to worry - we cater for all occasions!

2 There’s no equipment required! You can just show up at the bowling alley, and we’ve got everything you need!

10 Come and relax with the family at Superbowl UK.

We’re open from 9am-Midnight every day.

3 Bowling is great for groups of all sizes and we’ve got you covered. Whether have a family reunion heading your way or just looking for something to do, bowling suits every occasion. 4 Almost anyone can do it. You can request ramps to help the youngest and oldest in your groups get the balls down the lane, and you can pop those handy bumpers up for you on your off days. Oops, we mean for the kids. That’s right, for the kids. 5 It’s perfect for a little fun, healthy competition. We can’t encourage big-time betting, but a little “the loser does the dishes for a week” competition between spouses or siblings adds a whole new level of fun!

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MACCLESFIELD Call: 01625

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Email: macclesfield@superbowluk.co.uk

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encouraged, they are required! Dad’s celebration dance may just top your best moonwalk, but there’s one thing for sure, nothing’s too over the top when you finally conquer all 10 pins.

Lyme Green Business Park, London Road, Macclesfield, SK11 0TB

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*from selection. Management reserve the right to remove or change this offer. 14 Families Cheshire

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GREAT

GAMES!

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FUN!

The Ultimate Centre Fantastic Party Packages Available Enquire now at reception or find details at

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familiesonline.co.uk

Families Cheshire 15

KETS

TIC DAY

.5 £23

king

0 Boo

£1.5 Plus

Fee

F E ST I V A L 2 0 19

SAT & SU 3RD N4 AUGU TH ST

CROXTETH COUNTRY PARK. LIVERPOOL

SAT 3rd AUGUST

BUSTED PIXIE LOTT JOHN NEWMAN - RAK-SU - NEW HOPE CLUB

MAX & HARVEY - NINA NESBITT - FREYA RIDINGS - FOUR OF DIAMONDS

DONEL - THE NEXT STEP - ALMOST NEVER - MERSEY GIRLS - AJ PRITCHARD AMELIA GETHING - LEWYS BALL - HOLLY H - ROSIE MCCLELLAND ELLIE FERGUSON - HARRISON VAUGHAN MORE ACTS TO BE ANNOUNCED

SUN 4th AUGUST

MR TUMBLE

ANDY & THE ODD SOCKS - DR RANJ & JANETTE MANRARA

HEY DUGGEE - BING - COOK AND LINE FROM SWASHBUCKLE - YOLANDA'S BAND JAM CBEEBIES BALLET: PUSS IN BOOTS MORE ACTS TO BE ANNOUNCED

ALL ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN YOUR TICKET!

Horrible Histories: The Movie - Rotten Romans, BBC Sport zone, Bedtime Stories, Doctor Who zone,

The Clangers Chillout Garden, Inflatable fun - the world's largest bouncy castle and longest assault course, Screenings, Shows and Q&As from our biggest telly shows including The Worst Witch and many more!

For more info and to buy tickets go to bbc.co.uk/summersocial