July/August 2014
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Dorset www.familiesdorset.co.uk
Cover image: Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain Part II
Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain Part II live on stage at
Your guide to local summer days out Family friendly festivals
and much more The really useful magazine for parents with children 0 to 12 years in Dorset
Maths & English tuition centre For 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities t Courses mapped to the National Curriculum. t Adapts to the individual needs of your child. t Convenient for families - Open 7 days a week. t Award-winning tuition - voted Education Investor Supplementary Education Provider of the Year. “Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group after controlling for gender, age, year group and special educational needs.” Independent Efficacy Study by the Institute of Education at Reading University (2013). See www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.
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Families Dorset
To advertise call 07876 761623 or email: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
July/August 2014
Dorset magazine
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Editor: Sarah Carr 07876 761623 editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
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In this issue
www.familiesdorset.co.uk Next issue: September/October 2014 Booking deadline: 1 August 2014 Copy deadline: 7 August 2014 24,000 readers per issue Printed by Bishops
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4 Local News 7 Chores for the kids 8 Family friendly festivals 9 Interview with Neal Foster, producer of Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain Part II 10 Time to unplug and reconnect with your family 12 Local summer days out in Dorset 13 What’s On in Dorset during July and August
To include your business or event in our next issue call us today, we are taking bookings for our September/October issue now. Features include: • Education • School Open Days • Halloween and October half term activities • Clubs, groups and classes
Distributors Wanted We are looking for distributors in the Bournemouth and Poole area. If you have a few hours to spare every two months, your own car and would like to earn some extra money, please contact Sarah for more details: Tel 07876 761623 or email editor@familiesdorset.co.uk.
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Disclaimer: Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at the owners risk and whilst every care is taken, neither Families Dorset not its agents accept liability for loss or damage. We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for consequence. Families Dorset is part of a group established in 1990 headed by Families South West London. All magazines are independently owned and operated under licence.
Are you looking for a part time commission based sales role to fit around family life? Families Magazine require a confident, reliable professional to help with print and media bookings. To discuss this role, call 07876 761623 or email editor@familiesdorset.co.uk.
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Families Dorset
To advertise call 07876 761623 or email: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
July/August 2014
News
Visit our new look website www.familiesdorset.co.uk To include your business news in these pages email your information and a high resolution image to editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
Labels4Kids continue to expand their website
Bournemouth’s Beaches Win Again
Labels4Kids continue the expansion of their new and improved website to offer a smooth ordering process. Labels4Kids is expecting a very busy summer so remember to get in early at the start of summer and order to guarantee a quick turnaround in time for school. Not only can you design you vinyl order on screen now but postage is free for £20 or more, and they have a 100% money back guarantee if you have any problems with your labels. Labels4Kids offers such a large tried and tested amount of labels that there is something for everyone. www.lables4kids.com/fam
Seven miles of stunning golden sands, two historic Piers, nearly 2,000 beach huts, a Coastal Activity Park and four Blue Flag awards. Keep Britain Tidy commends Bournemouth’s award winning seafront, once again, for its beach management and cleanliness. Today, Keep Britain Tidy has announced that four Bournemouth beaches have been awarded 2014 Blue Flag status – Alum Chine, Durley Chine, Fisherman’s Walk and Southbourne Beach; all recognised for their fantastic facilities, pristine waters, being litter free and providing a safe environment. Mark Smith, Director of Tourism said, “Once again we are thrilled to have achieved Blue Flag status for four beaches. We take great pride in our beaches and our seafront team work hard to ensure visitors have the best experience when visiting our beaches. These awards have come at a great time, especially as Bournemouth’s reputation as an eventful seaside town is growing dramatically. This year we see the return of the established Air Festival, which sees Bournemouth’s beaches packed with people from the 28th – 31st August.”
New Children and Families Act A landmark Act comes into law this summer giving greater protection to vulnerable children, better support for children whose parents are separating and help for parents to balance work and family life. It will also help children with Special Educational Needs and disabilities, while ensuring vital changes to the adoption system meaning more children who need loving homes are placed faster. The Act will also make it easier for families to access more flexible childcare, while making amendments to the law to protect children in cars from the dangers of second-hand smoke, and giving parents new options to share parental leave following the birth of a baby. Possibly the most interesting change is that from this June every employee across the country will be granted the right to request flexible working hours, with a duty on employers to consider requests in a ‘reasonable’ manner. ‘Current workplace arrangements have not kept up with the times,’ said Jenny Willott, Employment Relations Minister. ‘By enabling any employee to request to work flexibly, we want to remove any cultural assumption that flexible working is only for women, or just for parents and carers. The new system is good for business as it will create a more motivated and flexible, talented workforce. Employers will be able to attract and retain women – from the boardroom to the shop floor - and prevent them from dropping out of the world of work once they start a family.’
Rowing for funds Dorset Blind Association are holding a fun “Virtual Row” charity event in Bournemouth Square on Friday 18th July 9:30am to 6pm. Enter a team of up to 6 people - the two fastest teams to 10,000m win prizes, there is a minimum sponsorship of £35 per team or half price for charities. If you want to go it alone, members of the public can attempt to beat the time of Olympic standard rower Simon Banwell to 250m for £2 a go. If you’re not sporty just come along and enjoy the fun, get your face painted, grab a free goodie bag or win prizes in our games! For more information and details of sponsorship opportunities call 01202 712864 or email: jaya@dorsetblind.org.uk
Brain Tumour Research increasing awareness to hat-tastic heights. Huge thanks to all children and families, schools and academies across the UK that helped make Wear A Hat Day a success this year. The indomitable enthusiasm and creativity displayed by our young supporters was inspiring. Schools and families play such an important role in raising awareness and funds for research. You are all Heroes and with your annual commitment we can take this campaign to ever increasing hat-tastic heights. Wear A Hat Day 2015 will take place on Friday 27th March. Join in one of the UK’s most important and fun charity events and together we can save lives. Register by emailing wearahatday@braintumourresearch.org or call 01296 733011.
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World Breastfeeding Week This year’s World Breastfeeding Week takes place 1-7 August with the theme Breastfeeding: A Winning Goal For Life! Protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding is a vital, life-saving goal of World Breastfeeding Week, with breastfeeding a key intervention for improving child survival in the world, potentially saving about 20% of children under five across the globe. They need your help, so please get involved by organising activities or pledging your time or money at www.worldbreastfeedingweek.org.
To advertise call 07876 761623 or email: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
July/August 2014
National Trust Brownsea Island swim team prepare to take to the sea
Get your little ones on the rugby pitch with Rugbytots
This July a team of Brownsea Island staff and volunteers will take part in the Round Island Swim, raising money for the National Trust. As they prepare for the gruelling full distance of 6.5K they are well aware of the huge challenge they will be under-taking. ‘It is a daunting distance for all of us as we are not regular swimmers and the training is tough. We are lucky to be able to train around the island itself but my knowledge of the tides and how they can hold you back has made me even more nervous.’ said Reuben Hawkwood, Head Ranger on Brownsea Island. The team will be taking part on Sunday 13 July with all of the other swimmers and there will be 250 competitors in this fantastic event, held by RLSS Poole Lifeguards in association with the National Trust. This event has really grown over the years and swimmers come from all over the UK and beyond, to take part. As the team finish their preparations and prepare to take on the distance, they are also reflecting on what their fundraising will enable the island to achieve. ‘This year we have had a lot of work to do, restoring the island after a very difficult winter, that caused destruction and erosion all along the shorelines and into the woodlands. It is great to know that as a team, the funds we hope to raise will enable us to carry on our great work and provide new ways for visitors to access and enjoy this beautiful island.’ added Angela Cott, General manager on Brownsea Island. For further information visit: www.rlss-poole.org.uk
Rugbytots was started in 2006 to fill a gap in the child development sector by using Rugby specific skills to aid in the development of young children between the ages of two and seven. Rugbytots now has 90 franchises across 12 different countries and runs 1,700 sessions each week. The programme has been designed to develop children’s physical, psychological and social attributes, as well as gently encouraging rugby specific skills such as running with the ball, finding space, kicking, catching, scoring a try and much more. Weekday and weekend morning sessions start in September at six different venues across Bournemouth & Christchurch with full details and booking on the website. There will also be free taster sessions on 6th & 7th September and places can be reserved via email: angus@rugbytots.co.uk. www.rugbytots.co.uk.
© National Gallery
Painting ‘swapsies’ brings London art to Dorset
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News
Art lovers in Dorset will be able to view a painting usually only seen in galleries in European capitals after the National Trust’s Kingston Lacy took receipt of a loan from the National Gallery in London for the first time. ‘Homage to Velázquez’ by acclaimed 17th century Italian artist Luca Giordano, will hang in the dining room of Kingston Lacy in Dorset until September as a reciprocal loan for the ‘Judgement of Solomon’ by Sebastiano del Piombo. Rob Gray, House and Collections Manager said “This is something of a first for us. There are some wonderful treasures here which people come back to see again and again and they are in demand for loans to exhibitions all over the world. We have often filled gaps with paintings from our reserve collection, held in storage at the house or simply left gaps on the walls. This year we have arranged a reciprocal loan with the National Gallery and as far as we are aware this is the first time Kingston lacy has borrowed a painting from an external organisation.” The borrowed painting, ‘Homage to Velázquez’, will be on view to the public at Kingston Lacy, Wimborne until 21 September 2014. The house is open every day apart from Tuesdays from 11am – 4pm. More information is available on: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/kingstonlacy
Families Dorset
Explore Learning: 25% off your first month when you join in July* Explore Learning provide extra tuition in English and Maths to children aged five to 14 years. They have a centre at Sainsbury’s Castlepoint, Bournemouth. To book a free trail call 01202 233909. (*Terms and conditions apply. See website for details. Participating centres only). www.explorelearning.co.uk/bournemouth
WIN! LEGO® Friends this summer This summer, get to know the LEGO® Friends and explore the world of Heartlake City, at the LEGO Friends Star Maker Experience that will be visiting Bournemouth Town Centre 1st to 3rd August. Come along and build at five bespoke build stations; pose on the red carpet alongside the five LEGO Friends Mia, Stephanie, Olivia, Emma and Andrea; record your own live news broadcast; and take away a souvenir snap of yourself featured on the LEGO Friends Movie poster! To celebrate LEGO Friends coming to Bournemouth, we’re giving away five LEGO Friends Summer Caravan sets worth £19.99. For further details on the LEGO Friends products visit www.Friends.LEGO.com. To be in with a chance of winning one of these sets simply email your name and address to editor@familiesdorset.co.uk with LEGO FRIENDS as the subject header. Terms and conditions apply, see our website for further details www.familiesdorset.co.uk.
WIN! a LumiPotti LumiPotti is the day to night potty with a night light which encourages children’s natural progression through every stage for total toilet training. Toilet training is more than just dry days, so unlike other potties, LumiPotti doesn’t stop at day dry. LumiPotti’s innovative, movement activated night light helps children master night dryness. LumiPotti Light illuminates to guide your child safely to the potty, helping grow their confidence as they go nappy free at night. Night dry mastered, LumiPotti Light becomes a portable night-light for that final stage, the independent night walk to the bathroom. LumiPotti’s removable night light helps children find their way for years to come. We have five LumiPotti’s to give away. To be in with a chance of winning a LumiPotti simply email your name and address to editor@familiesdorset.co.uk with LumiPotti as the subject header. Terms and conditions apply, see our website for further details www.familiesdorset.co.uk.
To advertise call 07876 761623 or email: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
July/August 2014
News Take the summer reading challenge
“On Monday I Lost My Rabbit” by Victoria Cullen
This summer Bournemouth Libraries will be a-mazing children aged 4-11 by giving them funtastic rewards for reading 6 books during the school summer holidays. Mythical Maze is the theme for the 2014 national Summer Reading Challenge provided for libraries by the Reading Agency. As well as being great fun, The Challenge encourages children to read during the school holidays - keeping their reading skills going. All libraries also put on free themed activities - this year be prepared for some exciting free events featuring dragons, unicorns, minotaurs and other mythical creatures. Visit www.bournemouth.gov.uk/libraries for details or ask at your local library.
“On Monday I Lost My Rabbit” is the story of loss and the joy of finding what was lost, in this case, four well-loved toys. The book has been created to include primary colours, four toy box toys and simple repetitive language. The illustrations encourage visual development as you try to find the lost toys. Time is used in the story in the form of the days of the week which makes a great starting point for understanding the past, present and future. The young child loses four of his toys on separate days of the week. I wonder where he eventually finds them? I won’t tell you as you might want to discover for yourself………. So here it is…..” On Monday I lost my rabbit”…….. I wonder what happened on Tuesday? For further information visit: www.victoriastory.com
Grammar school shake-up Over 50% of state grammar schools are planning serious changes to their admissions policies in order to attract pupils from more disadvantaged backgrounds, according to the Grammar School Heads Association. 30 of the country’s 164 selective schools have already agreed the move, with another 58 planning to do so shortly, following a report from education charity the Sutton Trust which said that grammar schools were being monopolised by students from wealthier homes. Michael Wilshaw, chief schools inspector, said they were ‘stuffed full’ of middle class children and so failed to improve social mobility. Under these new changes many grammar schools will reserve places specifically for pupils from poorer homes who pass the 11-plus. Barry Sindall, chief executive of the GSHA, added that the new admissions rules would not mean a reduction in the number of places for children from better off homes. These changes follow on from Schools Minister David Laws revealing that the Government is involved in talks with grammar school heads to make 11-plus tests less ‘coachable’, to avoid middle class parents gaining an advantage through being able to afford private tutoring.
Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Summer book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online and from good bookstores. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools. www.edontheweb.com
FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS Humphrey’s Tiny Tales: My Really Wheely Racing Day! by
Superhero School: The Revenge of the Green Meanie by Alan
Scam on the Cam
ED SAYS: ‘Humphrey has lots of friends in Room 26 where he is the class hamster but he is delighted to make a new pal Winky. When he sees Winky’s new hamster racing car he thinks it is unsqueakably wonderful and decides he wants a set of wheels of his own. At school a hamster race is set up and Humphrey practises hard but when his car rolls against a wooden block will he be able to zoom across the finishing line first?
ED SAYS: ‘Stan Button knows that to be a superhero like Captain Courageous he must practise his surprise attack moves. When he is offered a place at Mighty High School he is over the moon but also flabbergasted as he is not sure he has any superhero characteristics yet. The evil and dangerous Green Meanie soon starts to stalk the school corridors – time for Stan and his pals to concoct a cunning plan to overcome this supervillain!
ED SAYS: ‘Sesame Seade has reason to be suspicious about the strange goings-on by the river. She is rather half-hearted about being part of a rowing crew herself but she becomes very interested in certain events in the build-up to the Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge. When the Cambridge crew go down one by one with a mysterious bug it’s time for Sesame to get into supersleuth mode.
Betty G Birney (Faber £3.99)
‘Here is another FUN-FUNFUN story in this super series for young readers who can enjoy Humphrey’s latest adventure reading on their own or reading together.’
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FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS
Families Dorset
MacDonald (Bloomsbury £4.99)
‘This is a laugh out loud tale for boys and girls alike. If you enjoy it as much as I did, look out for other books by this super-funny author.’
by Clementine Beauvais (Hodder £6.99)
‘This is a brilliantly written hilarious story peppered with super illustrations. Sesame is a fantastic character and a very smart heroine.’
SWARM: Operation Sting by Simon Cheshire (Stripes £5.99)
ED SAYS: ‘The Secret Intelligence Agency’s new weapon SWARM is set on a mission. The robotic bugs working as undercover agents are put into action to locate a stolen device that has the power to wreak havoc on the world’s electronic communications. Will SWARM be able to recover the device before the encryption code is cracked and the villains have their evil way? ‘This is an action-packed pageturner of a book by this fantastic writer. It is the first book in this adventure series featuring robot technology.’
To advertise call 07876 761623 or email: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
July/August 2014
Chores for the kids
Have a family plan for everyday household tasks and you will teach your kids a great life lesson. Chores help kids learn responsibility, and sharing chores gives you help around the house. Not sure your kids will go for it? Turn it into a game when they are young , a way to earn stars and later credits when they are older (and since you ask, no, we don’t think children should get paid to help you around the house).
© Eléonore H - Fotolia.com
Toddler (ages 2-3)
Preschooler (ages 4-5)
Ages 6-8
Ages 9-11
• •
Same as todler plus: • load the dishwasher • take out the recycling • lay the table • clear the table • wash dishes (with supervision) • wipe out bathroom sinks • match socks. This can easily be turned into a fun game! • fold simple clothes or tea towels • water indoor plants • feed pets
Same as other ages plus: • help prepare meals, wash vegetables, simple cutting • wipe counter tops and kitchen units • hang up laundry • sweep • vacuum • fold clothes • clean microwave • rake leaves
Same as other ages plus: • make simple meals • clean the loo (they’ll love this one!) • mop floors
• • • • • •
pick up/put away toys unload the dishwasher, especially cutlery, plastic cups and Tupperware dust (little ones love a feather duster!) collect dirty clothes and put them in the hamper help move clothes from washer to dryer put clothes away make their bed wipe down cupboards, cabinets and skirting boards with soapy water. This one can get messy but it’s lots of fun!
At this age, it is more about ‘helping mum’ and having fun than chores!
Why not try rewarding younger children for doing their chores, at least when you first introduce them? For older children chores can become a normal part of their day.
Same as other ages plus: • clean the bathroom • make full meals including a meal plan As the chores get more complex • clean out the fridge and and time-consuming, mix them freezer up with simpler ones from the • mow the lawn younger age groups so it doesn’t • supervise younger children’s become too onerous. chores – a great time to get bossy themselves! Do take into account your own child’s maturity and capabilities when giving them chores. Some children may be able to tackle many more than others – and some will certainly complain more than others! Good luck!
Internet safety
By Allen Scott
Set up user accounts for each
If your child is the family tech whizzkid that's jolly useful, but just what are they getting up to online when they log onto your PC, tablet or their own smartphone? Many of us rely on built-in, traditional or free software which doesn't have social networking and parental controls. Without these additional features, parents are leaving their children open to all that is bad about the internet. MD Allen Scott, MD of security experts F-Secure said: "We understand that many people are a bit lost when it comes to online protection, which is why we've compiled advice to give some guidance."
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member of the family This will allow you to tweak the parental controls for each of your children. For example, blocking chat rooms and forums for young children, but allowing them for your teenagers. You can also use these controls to set 'homework time' for older children, which will block them from visiting any sites which are not deemed educational during your specified hours. Whitelist sites for young children Many young children enjoy using the internet, but they only want to view the same few sites over and over, such as CBeebies. Using the whitelist function, add in all the websites you are happy for them to view and block the rest. This way, they won't stumble upon something which is not appropriate for their age.
Ages 12-14
Have 'the talk' before letting your teenagers join social networking sites You need to set rules before letting your children enjoy social networking sites such as Facebook and Instagram. Every child is different, so this must come from you. Some parents want access to their child's account, so they can check up on them at any time. Be warned, this can lead to your child setting up a second account in a different name. It is a good idea to only allow them to be 'friends' with people they know in real life though. Whatever your approach, help them set up their account with privacy restrictions, so their profile is not public. Go to www.facebook.com/ FSecureSafeProfile, click 'use now', then log in to test their Facebook profile. It will show what is public and explain how to change the settings accordingly.
Don't forget their smartphones and tablets Most children have access to these devices now and the way they use them is no different from a computer, so they need to be protected too. Mobile security software is downloaded as an app or will come as part of the security software package you buy for your computer. Set up parental controls on these devices, just as you would for your computer. It is wise to set up a password for your children's devices, so that they must come to you before downloading any app or in-app purchase. This will also mean you'll avoid a nasty shock when the bill arrives. Remember, the internet is amazing! Your children just need a guiding hand to ensure they enjoy it safely. More information For more advice on family protection, visit: www.safeandsavvy.f-secure.com
To advertise call 07876 761623 or email: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
July/August 2014
Family Friendly
Festivals Looking for something different to do with your kids this summer? Then why not give them an experience they will never forget and take them to a family friendly festival? Families Dorset highlight some of the best festivals for families in your local area this year.
Camp Bestival
With a host of thrilling activities from soft play and circus skills to go-carts and glitter, there’s plenty of excitement for kids of all ages. Plus, there are kids’ shows and performances on the Castle Stage including family favourites Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain Part II, Mr Tumble, Ben and Holly Live and in the Big Top, daring antics to be had at the Freesports Park, and fairytale escapism in the Dingly Dell.
31 July - 3 August Lulworth Castle, Dorset
Camp Bestival is a multi-award winning festival that combines an all-encompassing family festival experience with an action packed camping holiday. The sister festival of the Isle of Wight’s Bestival, in its first year Camp Bestival was awarded 'Best New Festival' at the UK Festival Awards and has since won Best Family Festival three times at the awards in 2009, 2010 and 2013. Set in the majestic grounds of Lulworth Castle, on Dorset’s dramatic Jurassic coastline, Camp Bestival is jampacked with entertainment, from stellar musical morsels and cultural delights to stunning sideshow attractions and lashings of family fun. Featuring a truly enormous kids’ area your little’uns will be utterly spoilt for choice.
The Mela Festival 12 July Hoglands Park Southampton
Art Asia presents the 12th Mela Festival. A free family fun day for everyone with an assortment of musical styles, including Indian Classical, Bollywood, Asian Fusion, Flamenco and Bhangra. Plus, exciting dance acts and family activities celebrating South Asian and world culture. www.southamptonmela.com
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Mr Tumble live at Camp Bestival
Camp Bestival’s amazing music line-up is curated by BBC Radio 1 music specialist Rob da Bank. Acts this year include: James, De La Soul, Basement Jaxx, Chas and Dave, Sophie Ellis Bextor, Boy George, Johnny Marr, Charlotte Church and many more. From folk and dub to drumstep and jazz jungle, there’s guaranteed to be something to get you and the kids throwing shapes long into the summer evenings. With an arts programme that offers the best in contemporary theatre, and performance, there is a wealth of entertaining wonder
Winne r Best Fam il Festival y 2013
and intellectual nourishment for all ages to get stuck into. Add to that amazing street eats and gourmet treats, fantastic campsite facilities (we’re the first ever festival to offer reserved camping plots at a festival with Camping Plus, and the option to indulge in an array of fantastic Boutique Camping options, all sprinkled liberally with Camp Bestival’s own inimitable brand of magic and you have a unique start to the summer holidays and the ultimate family festival experience. The wonderful world of Bestival was born out of ten fun years of pioneering music events and record releases from Rob da Bank's Sunday Best empire. The BBC Radio 1 DJ had a dream to one day create his vision of how the modern day festival should be. Along with Creative Director and wife Josie da Bank and co founders John and Ziggy from Get Involved that dream was realised with Bestival and then further fulfilled with Camp Bestival. For more information and to book tickets visit: www.campbestival.net
Larmer Tree Festival
Purbeck Folk Festival
Bournemouth Air Festival
Held in a Victorian Garden in North Dorset. The site is easily accessible for wheelchair users or families using buggies (extreme weather permitting) and is a magical place to enjoy the festival.
Purbeck Folk Festival is a unique festival on the beautiful Jurassic coast. It’s based on a little sheep farm and in its sixth year, it’s “how festivals used to be” – it’s friendly, great for kids and adults alike, and small enough to be able to wander around and not lose your friends!
Incredible display teams from the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy and Royal Marines. Whether it is on the ground action, in the air displays or evening entertainment, there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy at this year’s seventh annual Bournemouth Air Festival.
16 - 20 July Nr Salisbury Wiltshire/Dorset border
www.larmertreefestival.co.uk
21 - 24 August Langton Matravers
www.purbeckfolk.co.uk
28 - 31 August Bournemouth Seafront
www.bournemouthair.co.uk
To advertise call 07876 761623 or email: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
July/August 2014
Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain Neal Foster talks to Families Magazine Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain writer, director and producer talks to Families Magazine about the success of the Horrible Histories and why he is looking forward to performing his stage show to an audience of 10,000 at this years Camp Bestival. Horrible Histories has become such a phenomenon and children and parents love to engage with the stories that are told, tell us why you think it is so successful? I think it all comes down to Terry Deary’s genius of telling history by concentrating on the silly, the gory, the disgusting and the outright strange, because there are in the history of civilizations, so much that has happened that is extraordinary and by concentrating on those elements of history you can really engage children in the story of history. You can tackle quite difficult aspects and because you can do them in a Monty Python style you can very successfully deal with complicated subjects and make them really clear and fun. When we opened Barmy Britain with an explanation of how the first world war started, a history graduate came up to us afterwards and recommended that GCSE students watch that scene because it lineated really well why the first world war started so that is why it is so effective as it is a genius approach to history.
The horrible histories books are very engaging with lots of colourful characters for children to learn about history in a humorous way, how did you transform from the books to the stage? It has not proved too difficult because Terry himself is an actor and a playwright so the style of the way the books are written lend them self to the stage very well. He looks
for a sense in the dramatic in the stories so it was not a mammoth task to bring them to the stage and it is seemed like a really good fit.
Who is your favourite historical character? I’ve got several, from those we are currently doing on the show, I really love playing Guy Fawkes but we have also had a lot of fun with the murderers Burke and Hare, who set up a hotel in Edinburgh and started killing all of their guests to make money. I wouldn’t want to meet them but you can as a lot of his skin was used to make all sorts of weird items and they are on display at the University of Edinburgh so you can actually come ‘face to face’ with him.
What characters can people expect to see in this years show and why have you chosen to bring those to Lulworth castle?
How long does it take you to put a stage show like Barmy Britain together and how much preparation goes into getting a stage show ready?
Camp Bestival is a fantastic event for parents and children, why do you think the event is such a success?
It takes about a year. I sat down with Terry and we worked out what part of history we wanted to cover and which characters would be the most engaging to bring to stage. Some of the scenes are because you read about something in the newspaper and it sparks your imagination or you read a book about a battle you didn’t know had happened but ultimately, it always starts with Terry and the books.
Who are you most looking forward to seeing at Camp Bestival this year?
Which character in the Horrible Histories series do you think represents your personality most and why? I like the Romans a lot; I am a bit of a dictator underneath. I think Augustus the First Roman Emperor and I would have bonded pretty well.
You are going to see Queen Buddaka, William Wallace, he goes on the dating show take me out with Edward I, you will experience the black death in all its gory details, we also meet evil Elizabeth I, and Dick Turpin, Queen Victoria, plus Burke and Hare.
It is well managed, organised and presented. It has a great atmosphere and there is a lot of care and attention to the details of the event.
I will be happy to see anyone at the event, the line up is fantastic and there are so many great acts to see. I'm looking forward to it. Catch Neal and The Horrible Histories crew at this year’s Camp Bestival, Lulworth Castle in Dorset 31 July - 3 August www.campbestival.net followed by a run of shows at London’s Garrick Theatre
How did the Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain show become involved with Camp Bestival? We were invited last year and we had such a good time that we agreed to come again this year. We said we would be happy to come back as there was a great atmosphere and there is something very, very special about this event. We were a bit worried because the show was created to be performed in a theatre and we were not sure how it would work in a field to an audience of 10,000 people but it worked really well and much better than expected.
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Families Dorset
To advertise call 07876 761623 or email: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
July/August 2014
Ping! Time to unplug and reconnect with your family Joanna Moorhead has some ideas on how to do it Summer is a great time to enjoy being together with your nearest and dearest. But for many families these days, even together time is dominated by mobiles phones, iPads, TV and other devices. According to a recent survey, though, even kids themselves recognise the need to unplug and welcome the chance to ‘do something different’. Here are our top 20 ideas for what that ‘s omething different’ might be. 1. Play a board game: this sounds so simple you can’t quite believe I’m recommending it! But a game like Monopoly or Cluedo, which children can play from a young age or can play in teams, is a genuinely bonding experience. Put those mobile phones and other devices way out of reach – yes, parents too – and concentrate on the game. And on one another. 2. Build a den: whether you do this indoors or in the garden, or out in the woods or on the beach, you’ll have loads of fun. Joint tasks like making a den together bring out team-working skills and help you see one another’s hidden strengths. Once the den is built, do something wacky like having tea in it. 3. Go fruit picking: not only will you have a good time picking your favourite fruits and discovering new ones, you’ll also be setting up your next family project which will be making jams and chutneys or just a massive fruit salad to see you through the next few days. 4.
Sleep under canvas: if you’re regular campers this one may be a bit too boring – but for families that haven’t camped before, even one night away can be a huge adventure. Alternatively, if you’ve a big enough garden and can borrow a tent from someone, just pitch it outside the back door on a warm evening and dig out your sleeping bags. © Lynne Carpenter - Fotolia.com
5. Cook on a campfire: this is a perfect add-on to your camping adventure. Get advice online about how to build your fire and what foods are best to cook on it (sausages, haloumi cheese, peppers, burgers are all easy peasy). 6.
Go on a long bike ride: if you’ve all got your own bikes you probably do this all the time. If not, it can be a really fabulous and different day out to hire bikes and follow a cycle trail.
7.
Go wild swimming: swimming in a pond or lake, or in the sea, is a very different experience from an indoor pool. Children love it, and there are plenty of websites packed with ideas: but do check the one you’re heading for is family friendly.
8. Reorganise your family photographs: these days, many families’ photographs remain in online galleries. They can be a great way of sharing pictures with relatives and friends – but there’s a huge amount of fun to be had from creating an old fashioned album together, when you relive past fun and remember what you enjoy most as a family. 9. Borrow a dog for a weekend: if you have your own dog, this isn’t for you. But if you’re not a dog-owning family, having one on loan for a few days can be a hugely rewarding experience. See www.borrowmydoggy.com 10. Climb a big hill: this can be a mountain or a fairly small hill,
depending on how old your children are. Enjoy helping one another to make the climb; your reward is the view from the top, and the picnic lunch you have up there!
11. Go fishing: you can do this with a net in the rock pools at the beach, or in a stream or river inland. 12. Have a snail race: find some snails, and set up the course; place bets on which snail will win, and watch the action unfold.
13. Go star-gazing: find a place where the sky is open, ideally away from too many artificial lights; do some research beforehand so you know what to look for, and when you get a clear evening, head off in search of the North Pole, Saturn and the Plough. Take a blanket with you so everyone can lie down and look up, which makes it more relaxing. 14. Hunt for treasure or bones: beaches can be great places for this, or look online to see if there are any ‘treasure troves’ near you (eg if you’re in London, mudraking on the banks of the Thames has plenty of potential).
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Families Dorset
To advertise call 07876 761623 or email: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
July/August 2014
15. Go geocaching: ok, so this is one activity you will need your mobile phone for. But the high-tech treasure hunt is fascinating, and it pulls all members of the family in. Try it! More information at www.geocaching.com 16. Switch roles in the kitchen: if you’re usually the meal-maker, and the children are usually the table-setters, do things the other way round. Let the children plan, shop for and prepare the meal (depending on their ages, they may need some help) while you put together an excitingly-laid table. It’s always good in a family to do things a different way round…everyone learns, and there’s plenty of fun to be had. 17. Have a family talent show: this is a good one when you have another family or relatives visiting. Everyone has to do a turn; no wriggling out allowed, however shy the mums and dads are. Allow time for rehearsing, and have one person double up as a compere. Reciting a poem, singing a song, doing a mime, dancing, playing an instrument…everyone has a talent to share.
18. Make a family journal or scrap book: this can be a good
project for a fixed amount of time, like a family holiday or a school holiday. Like a talent show, everyone needs to contribute something. Theme the book to the holiday you’re on or the season you’re in, and invite ideas on descriptions of where you are, reviews of local pubs or restaurants, accounts of days out or activities, book reviews or accounts of favourite ways to spend time together as a family. Writers can write, artists can draw. You’ll keep this book forever; it will be a snapshot of your family in a certain place, at a certain time.
19. Fly a kite: they’re cheap and easy to buy, or you can even make
your own. Read up on tips about how to fly them (www.thekitesociety.org); or if you’re really challenged and doubtful about your skills, seek out a master kiteflyer to help you learn (google kite flying lessons in your area). There’s nothing better than seeing your kite soar into the air, knowing you’ve pulled together as a family to make it happen.
20. Go birdwatching: you don’t need to know anything about birds to enjoy watching them, but if you go to a birdwatching sanctuary or wetlands centre you’ll learn loads. Being in a shelter makes birdwatching more fun and should in theory mean you see more interesting birds. Take your binoculars, and get the children to draw pictures of the birds they see. For more information see www.wwt.org.uk
Local summer holiday activities 21 July - 29 August
Supercamps - Multi-Activity Summer 2014 Talbot Heath School Rothesay Road, Bournemouth, UK, BH4 9NJ www.supercamps.co.uk Set amongst pine woods in the South Coast town of Bournemouth, this is holiday childcare for the most discerning of children. Enjoy acres of outdoor space and spacious indoor halls for a full range of holiday activities for children of all interests - from the sporty to the studious, from the carefree to the curious. Our Multi-Activity course will have outdoor swimming, archery and LEGO®, as well as our other fantastic activities, at no extra cost!
31 July, 7 & 14 August
Summer Music School Musical Steps www.musicalsteps.co.uk Tel. 0845 643 5025 The Littledown Centre, Chaseside, Bournemouth, BH7 1DX Award-winning Musical Steps hold themed baby and toddler classes for 3 months to 3 years. Songs, rhymes, percussion instruments, movement and lots more!
28 July – 31 July
Stagecoach - Summer Fun Haymoor Junior School Ashdown Close Poole BH17 8WG www.stagecoach.co.uk It’s going to be packed full of fab songs, dances and drama, influenced by Matilda, and is taking place at Haymoor Junior School, every day from 10.00 am -4.00pm. There is also a performance to parents on the Thursday. The workshop is suitable for both Stagecoach and non- Stagecoach students who are aged 6 to 18 years. The costs are £120, with a sibling discount of 25%. A £20 deposit secures your place. Please contact Principal Hazel on 07435 974901, if you require any more information and she will be happy to help.
28 July – 1 August
ICON SUMMER SCHOOL - Pavilion Dance South West Westover Road, Bournemouth BH1 2BU 01202 203630 www.pdsw.org.uk School is out and a summer full of fun can begin! The PDSW Summer School kicks off at the end of July for a week dedicated to film, musicals and all things performance. Ages 5-8: Music Video Ages 5-8: Show Reel Ages 9-13 years: Soundtrack Summer School: Monday - Friday, 9:30-5pm daily Performance: Friday 1 August, 6pm £75 for the week, including 2 tickets to the final performance on Friday 1 August.
4 – 7 Aug, 11- 14 Aug, 26 - 29 Aug
© Fabio Roncaglia - Fotolia.com
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Children’s Summer Camps West Hants Club, Roslin Road South, Bournemouth, BH3 7EF www.westhants.co.uk Mini’s Camp – (Ages 4-7 yrs) 9.30 am - 12.30 pm The main aims of the Mini Camp is on fun, healthy exercise, and improving co-ordination and ball skills. The sessions will focus on the FUNdamental stages of tennis training namely athleticism, body awareness and co-ordination. Multi-activity Camp (7-12 year olds) 9.30 am - 4.00 pm The multi-activity camp welcomes all standards of tennis for a fun day of sporting activity. Each day will comprise of a warm up, relays and team sports such as Football, Hockey, Cricket and Mini Netball.
To advertise call 07876 761623 or email: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
July/August 2014
Marwell Wildlife
Local summer family days out Here we share some of the best local days out in Dorset and the surrounding areas. Please check with venue for further information prior to travel. Abbotsbury Children’s Farm Open 10am - 5pm www.abbotsbury-tourism.co.uk There are lots of animals for the children to meet, greet and feed. Considered one of the best Children’s Farms in Dorset, there are fun things to do every day. Children can cuddle the guinea pigs, ride the ponies, race the tractors, play in the large undercover play area and bottle feed the baby goats. The baby goats also race around a track twice a day, after the race the children are invited to take a goat for a warm down walk on a lead. Adventure Wonderland Opposite Bournemouth Airport Open 10am - 6pm www.adventurewonderland.co.uk Adventure Wonderland is an award winning, family run theme park aimed primarily towards families with young children. We have 30 rides and attractions all included in the entry price. Beaulieu The New Forrest Open 10am - 6pm daily www.beaulieu.co.uk Beaulieu is a great family day out with lots for everyone to enjoy including the world famous National Motor Museum, Palace House, home of the Montagu family and historic Beaulieu Abbey. Farmer Palmers Open 10am - 5.30pm www.farmerpalmers.co.uk Farmer Palmer’s is an award winning, family run, tourist attraction just outside Poole, Dorset. We offer free parking, easy access and a great value family day out. We have lots of new animal arrivals throughout the year so there’s always lots to see and do! Dorset Heavy Horse Farm Park and Rescue Centre Open 10am - 5pm www.dorset-heavy-horse-centre.co.uk Enjoy interesting tours, talks and displays, Free Heavy Horse Wagon Rides, Tractor and Trailer rides and even the chance to drive a real Farm tractor!! There’s a busy timetable of hands on interaction with the friendly farm animals including over 20 rescued heavy horses, donkeys, miniature ponies, kunie kunie pigs, goats, sheep, alpacas, rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, ducks, snow dogs and many more!
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Families Dorset
Exbury Gardens The New Forest Open 10am - 5pm daily www.exbury.co.uk There are over 20 miles of pathways, three woods and parkland to explore, and surprises lying await behind every corner. Summer is a favourite time for families to picnic in the gardens and are two designated picnic areas to enjoy.
Sandworld Open from 10.30am www.sandworld.co.uk Sandworld is Weymouth’s first sand sculpture festival, and one of only a handful ever held in the UK. Our aim is to bring the best sand artists from around the world to your doorstep, so that you can see what we have seen on our travels, and share the universal joy that is sand sculpting!
Honeybrook Farm Open 9.30am - 5pm www.honeybrook.org Attractive farm and riverside park.
Snowtrax: The Alpine Activity Centre Open from 9am - 10pm (8.30am on Sat) www.snowtrax.eu Family friendly centre full of exciting activities for the kids. Try riding the Ski Bobs or spinning down the slopes in a Ringo. Your day won’t be complete without a visit to our Alpine Adventure Park, full of trampolines, swings & a huge fort, it couldn’t be more fun!
Marwell Zoo Colden Common, Winchester Open 10am - 5pm daily www.marwell.org.uk Get close to the wonders of the natural world and play a big part in helping to save them. 140 acre park, home to over 180 species of exotic and endangered species in beautiful surroundings. Plus see Rise of the Dinosaurs this summer, be enthralled by our as they come to life with animatronics. Monkey World Dorset Open 10am - 6pm daily www.monkeyworld.org Over 240 primates of 17 different species, Monkey World is the largest primate rescue centre in the world! Nothe Fort Weymouth Harbour Open 10.30am - 5.30pm www.nothefort.org.uk Constructed on three levels, which are easily accessed by means of a lift, the Fort is filled with displays, mammoth guns and cinema areas that chart the history of this large and magnificent Victorian structure. You don’t have to be a military enthusiast to enjoy Nothe Fort, it’s a great day out for all the family with lots to see and explore. Oceanarium: The Bournemouth Aquarium Open 10am - 6pm www.oceanarium.co.uk Take an underwater adventure around the waters of the world and come face to face with hundreds of awesome creatures. Home to all your favourites from flamboyant clownfish and tiny terrapins, to stunning sharks and the infamous piranha.
Swanage Railway Open: See website for details www.swanagerailway.co.uk Our award-winning standard gauge preserved steam railway is located in Dorset with easy access from neighbouring Hampshire and the South of England. Visitors can experience a unique journey through six miles of beautiful scenery passing the magnificent ruins of Corfe Castle. The Tank Museum Dorset Open 10am - 5pm daily www.tankmuseum.org Exhibitions tell the story of armoured warfare from World War One to the present day. As you explore the Museum’s six large halls you will come face to face with vehicles that have seen action in all the major wars of the 20th Century and hear first-hand accounts from those who fought in them. Weymouth Sea Life Tower Open 10am - 6pm www.weymouth-tower.com Soaring high above the Weymouth resort - the new Weymouth SEA LIFE Tower will provide up to 69 passengers at a time with stunning panoramic views of the Jurassic coastline - The UK’s only World Heritage Site, and out over Weymouth Bay, Chesil Beach and Portland. Turning through a full 360 degrees and climbing to over 170 feet above sea level this is an experience not to be missed!
To advertise call 07876 761623 or email: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
July/August 2014
We aim to be as accurate as possible but the listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please contact venues in advance to check details and prices.
Out & About
What’s On in Dorset this July & August Throughout July Rise of the Dinosaurs Marwell Zoo Winchester, SO21 1JH 10am – 5pm/6pm This summer dinosaurs will inhabit this quiet, leafy corner of Colden Common, transforming it into a Jurassic jungle. Be enthralled by our awesome dinosaurs as they come to life with animatronics, roaring or even spitting at anyone who dares to get near them. Throughout July & August Lyme Regis Fossil Walks Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays Adult £7, Child £5 www.lymeregisfossilwalks.com Let Brandon Lennon, local Lyme Regis professional fossil collector with 25 years experience take you on a guided tour along part of Lyme Bay’s famous Jurassic Coast. Have a fun, informative trip finding your own fossils! Throughout July & August Percy the Park Keeper Trail 10am - 3:30pm, £2 per trail card Moors Valley Country Park www.moors-valley.co.uk A fun family self-led trail based on the popular Percy the Park Keeper story books. Embark on a great adventure, discover some of Percy’s animal friends and find out how he looks after the park. This fun self-led family trail is based on the popular ‘Percy the Park Keeper’ children’s stories by Nick Butterworth. Throughout July & August Fitness Buggy Walks Tuesdays & Thursdays 10am – 11am Moors Valley Country Park www.moors-valley.co.uk Specially designed exercise classes for parents with babies incorporating basic exercises and stretches. This popular and sociable activity is a great way for new mums and dads to bring your little ones out with you whilst you get healthier.
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Camp Bestival - Lulworth Castle fireworks
9 July Teddy Bear’s Picnic Upton Country Park 12.30 - 2.30pm www.uptoncountrypark.com Bring your Teddy Bears, your picnics, rugs and garden games and help us attempt to break the nationwide record for the amount of people gathering for a picnic around the country! The event is aid of the children’s charity Bibic who offer practical help to families caring for children with brain conditions that affect their social, communication and learning abilities.
20 July BIG DANCE BUS Sunday 1pm - 6pm www.pdsw.org.uk The Big Dance Bus is set to get everyone dancing this summer. As it weaves across the UK, the bus will be making a stop in Bournemouth. This quirky double-decker route-master pulls up with it its own dance-floor, pumping sound system, emcee, DJ and professional touring dance company and turns into a pop up ballroom and ready made rave. The Big Dance Bus is a free outdoor party suitable for all the family.
12 – 27 July Festival of Archaeology 10am – 5pm Corfe Castle www.nationaltrust.org.uk Join us as we take part in the national Festival of Archaeology 2014. There will be a family trail every day and a variety of different living history displays and hands on activities during the festival, see website for full details.
23 July – 1 August Go wild summer activities 10am – 4pm Studland Beach www.nationaltrust.org.uk Each week there will be a different 50 things before you’re 11 3/4 theme. Bug hunting, den building, bird watching, geocaching, animal tracking and wild art.
18 July Early Explorers 10.30 – 11.15am Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum www.russell-cotes.bournemouth. gov.uk Storytelling, songs and crafts for 2-5 year olds and their grown ups. Activity costs £3.50 per child. Admission charges apply. For more information, please call 01202 451830. 20 July Shaftesbury Abbey Museum & Gardens 11am – 3pm www.shaftesburyabbey.org.uk Lots of hands-on activities for families to try during our annual Archaeology Day. Discover what life was like on a Tudor Monastery farm through rustic crafts such as weaving and spinning, making medicines and cooking. Normal admission cost only, plus donations for materials. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
24 July Bournemouth Family Festival Meyrick Park, Bournemouth www.bournemouth.gov.uk To celebrate this amazing event and the centenary of World War One this year we would like to recreate it, enlightening the town of what life was like here in Bournemouth and what the event was like for families living here. Over 170 stalls will be booked to show case what Bournemouth has to offer to local residents. Traders from voluntary, statutory, local businesses will also show case history of what they were like 100 years ago.
28 July Big Fun Run 6.30pm Undercliff Dr, Southbourne, B’mth, BH6 4BW www.bigfunrun.com Run for fitness, run for charity, run for fun...just run!! There’s no pressure, just some easy moves and lots of laughs. It’s all about getting involved, having fun and enjoying the whole experience of the day. The events aren’t timed so what’s motivating Big Fun runners is getting together with friends & family (under 5s run for FREE), doing something healthy, raising money for a worthwhile cause & enjoying the great outdoors. 28 July – 3 August Bournemouth Carnival Week www.bournemouthcarnival.info Lots of activities including sand building competitions, treasure hunts, chalk drawing competitions plus much more. 28 July – 31 August Medieval Village with Knight & Damsel Academy 10am – 5pm Corfe Castle www.nationaltrust.org.uk Step back in time to the 14th and 15th centuries, and immerse yourself in our award-winning experience. An action packed family day out with interactive activities for budding knights and damsels, including a medieval armoury, sword fighting, cookery and enlightenment. 29 July Poppet from Moshi Monsters Adventure Wonderland www.adventurewonderland.co.uk
25 July Friday Family Fiesta www.bournemouth.co.uk Based around Bournemouth seafront and Lower Gardens - an event for everyone with entertainment from fireworks to live music.
Poppet has taken a short break from her latest mission on the streets of Monstro City to visit Adventure Wonderland to appear at intervals throughout the day!
To advertise call 07876 761623 or email: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
July/August 2014
What’s On
We aim to be as accurate as possible but the listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please contact venues in advance to check details and prices.
30th July Create to the Beat Southbourne 10am-12pm including refreshments www.musicalsteps.co.uk Musical Steps and Creation Station unite to take you on a Jungle Adventure journey. Move, sing, shake, paint and make, a morning of creative fun. Suitable for families with children aged 18 months to 6 years. Limited spaces, book now! Tel. 0845 643 5025 31 July – 3 August Camp Bestival Lulworth Castle, Dorset www.campbestival.net The South Coasts best family friendly festival. See page 8 for more details. 31 July - 5 August Moscow State Circus Lodmoor Country Park Weymouth www.moscowstatecircus.com 31 July Dolphins and the deep blue sea Durlston Country Park 2.30pm – 4pm www.durlston.co.uk Join a Ranger for games and activities to discover more about the amazing lives of the Durlston Dolphins. Meet at Learning Centre. Booking essential
31 July Mini beast safari Brownsea Island 12.30pm - 1.15pm www.nationaltrust.org.uk Discover the beasts and insects that live on the island.
Rise of the Dinosaurs at Marwell Zoo
Throughout August Rise of the Dinosaurs Marwell Zoo Thompsons Lane, Colden Common, Winchester, SO21 1JH 10am – 5pm/6pm. General admission price applies www.marwell.org.uk This summer dinosaurs will inhabit this quiet, leafy corner of Colden Common, transforming it into a Jurassic jungle. Be enthralled by our awesome dinosaurs as they come to life with animatronics, roaring or even spitting at anyone who dares to get near them. Throughout August Summer Fun at Beaulieu Beaulieu 10am – 6pm daily www.beaulieu.co.uk As part of a visit to the whole Beaulieu attraction this summer, enjoy falconry displays in Beaulieu Abbey’s cloister, family games and playlets on the lawns and vintage and veteran cars motoring around the grounds.
1, 8, 15 & 22 August Friday Family Fiesta www.bournemouth.co.uk Based around Bournemouth seafront and Lower Gardens - an event for everyone with entertainment from fireworks to live music. 2 August Presidents Summer Fete at Priest’s House Museum 10am – 4pm www.priest-house.co.uk Come and enjoy the celebrations at the President’s Summer Fete; a traditional style fete with refreshments and games stalls held in the beautiful surroundings of the Priest’s House Museum’s Gardens. 2 – 3 August Poole Town & Country Show 10am - 5pm www.uptoncountrypark.com All day entertainment includes birds of prey, working dogs with the Purbeck Gun Dogs, Equestrian Acrobatics, children’s entertainment as well as arts, crafts, gifts and food marquees. 4 August WW1 Centenary Commemoration Event The Tank Museum 10am – 5pm www.tankmuseum.org To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the declaration of the First World War, The Tank Museum is holding an event on the 4th of August. Children Go Free! - Children who bring a decorative Tank Museum poppy will be given free entry on the day, See website for more information. 4 August Forensic Investigations - Bird of Prey special Avon Heath Country Park 11.30am – 12.30pm www.dorsetforyou.com Your mission is to uncover what the bird of prey has been eating. But you didn’t witness them catching and eating their prey? With the aid of tweezers, magnifying glass and a ranger at hand you can work out what creatures they have eaten from the undigested remains of their meal (a pellet). Booking essential - 01425 478470.
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5 – 9 August 2014 STOMP Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre www.bic.co.uk Combining percussion, dance, theatre and comedy, STOMP remains one of the most original shows in the world. The performers use a variety of everyday objects - from dustbin lids to water bottles - to great effect, creating some of the most infectious and unusual sounds ever to be seen on stage. 6 August Upton Country Park Fun Day 10am - 4pm www.uptoncountrypark.com Kick-start August with our family Fun Day! Lots of fun outdoor activities for children of all ages. £2.50 per child, with prizes to collect. 8 August Family Bat Walk Avon Heath Country Park 8pm, £4 adults, £3 children www.dorsetforyou.com Explore the park in search of these delightful masters of the dusk sky with Dorset Bat Group. There will be a slide show and batty activity, followed by the walk. All children should bring an adult. Booking essential01747 824215. 12th August Create to the Beat Westbourne 10am-12pm including refreshments www.musicalsteps.co.uk Musical Steps and Creation Station unite to take you on a Jungle Adventure journey. Move, sing, shake, paint and make, a morning of creative fun. Suitable for families with children aged 18 months to 6 years. Limited spaces, book now! Tel. 0845 643 5025 12 August Den Build 11:30am-12.30pm, £4.75 Avon Heath Country Park www.dorsetforyou.com From log cabins to leafy shelters - let your imagination run wild and get stuck in. Children must be 6+years.
To advertise call 07876 761623 or email: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
July/August 2014
What’s On 12 August Peppa Pig: Celebrating 10 Years of Muddy Puddles! Adventure Wonderland www.adventurewonderland.co.uk
Children’s favourite Peppa Pig will be here to delight her many fans old and new. Make sure you get here nice and early to take advantage of the opportunity to see her – and don’t forget to bring your camera! She will be appearing at various intervals throughout the day – but make sure there are no muddy puddles nearby because you know what she likes to do! 19 August Minibeast Safari Avon Heath Country Park 11.30am- 12.30pm, £3.50 www.dorsetforyou.com Become an intrepid explorer of the world of the mini-beasts. Booking essential. All children should bring an adult. Tel: 01747 824215 20 August Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Show Motcombe Turnpike Showground, SP7 9PL 8.30am – 6.30pm www.gillshaftshow.co.uk A traditional Agricultural Show with over 2000 animals plus Kennel Club Dog Show. 500 Trade & Craft stands, food hall & farmers market. A great day out for all the family. 20 August Weymouth Carnival The Esplanade, Weymouth 10am – 10pm www.weymouthcarnival.co.uk Weymouth Carnival is returning bigger and better than ever for 2014 with lots of entertainment for all the family! 21 August Ladybird Box Building Anytime between 11am and 2pm, £5.50 per box Avon Heath Country Park www.dorsetforyou.com Encourage these enchanting beetles and other valuable insects into your garden by making a hibernation/nesting box. All children should bring an adult. Booking advisable 01747 824215.
22 August Secrets of the Trees and the Creatures of the Night 1.30pm & 3.30pm, £3.00 per child, adults free Moors Valley Country Park www.moors-valley.co.uk A special story walk as part of the Sting in the Tale Festival. “Who might you meet on a dark night in the forest? It might be a fox, a badger, a bat or even a witch…?” Join professional storytellers Amabel Clarke and Glenys Newton for a special sortywalk around Moors Valley as part of the Sting in the Tale Storytelling Festival. 23 August Wimborne in Bloom Duck Race 4pm – 5pm River Allen, bottom of Mill Lane, Wimborne Minster www.visit-dorset.com Join in the fun as ‘sponsored’ yellow rubber ducks race along the River Allen in Wimborne. 23 -24 August Victorian Fayre Weekend 10.30am – 4.30pm Adults £5, Children £3, Under 5s Free Nothe Fort, Barrack Road, Weymouth www.nothefort.org.uk A fun day out for all the family. The Fort Artillery will be firing their cannons, performing musket and marching drill to the sounds of bugle and drums. Food and craft stalls, Victorian schoolroom, Maypole dancing, singing and lots more to entertain you all weekend.
24 August Wimborne St Giles Church Fete 12pm – 4.30pm www.visit-dorset.com Come along to a Traditional Summer Fête. Attractions include: Dog Agility, Jazz Band, Clown and children’s events, Bricabrac, Preserves, Plants, Bottle Stall, Raffle, Coconut Shy, Skittles and much more... 24 – 25 August Medieval Weekend at Shaftesbury Abbey & Gardens 10am – 4pm www.shaftesburyabbey.org.uk An authentic medieval encampment complete with full costumes, weaponry displays, crafts and music. Lots of activities for families including archery and games. 25 August ‘Carnival’ BBQ 12pm – 3pm Studland Beach www.nationaltrust.org.uk A BBQ at Knoll Beach Cafe with a Brazilian carnival theme.
27 August Fireman Sam Adventure Wonderland www.adventurewonderland.co.uk
Fireman Sam has some leave from the busy fire station in Pontypandy and is traveling to Adventure Wonderland to appear at intervals throughout the day on 27th August. Don’t forget to bring your cameras! 27 – 31 August Great Dorset Steam Fair Tarrant Hinton, Blandford Forum www.gdsf.co.uk If you’re looking for an excellent fun and action packed day out for all the family, you’ll love the Great Dorset Steam Fair. Traditionally this English fair is held at the village of Tarrant Hinton, near Blandford Forum in the heart of the beautiful Dorset countryside.
23 – 25 August Big Banana Bonanza Monkey World www.monkeyworld.org Each year on Saturday, Sunday and Monday of the Spring and Summer Bank Holiday weekends, every child that enters the park bringing a banana for the primates receives a FREE Monkey World badge Dont forget to say you saw these adverts in
DORSET MAGAZINE
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Families Dorset
To advertise call 07876 761623 or email: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
July/August 2014
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Over 100 Free Things for kids including: HORRIBLE HISTORIES, BARMY BRITAIN PT. II MR TUMBLE Ben & Holly - Live! Hugless Douglas CHARLIE & THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY: 50TH BIRTHDAY Project Wild Thing Circus BRIT SCHOOL & more! MUSIC WITH: BASEMENT JAXX DE LA SOUL JAMES JOHNNY MARR SINÉAD O’CONNOR LAURA MVULA & MORE
Day Tickets Available Now! (Limited availability so hurry)
FULL LINE-UP & TICKETS: CAMPBESTIVAL.NET Kids Under 5 GO FREE - Don’t miss out ! PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY
*UK Festival Awards 2013