Issuu

The essential magazine for parents of children aged 0–teens

Issue 20: Jul - Aug 2014

Yes it ’s

free! LONDON–KENT BORDERS

Competitions Education Summer clubs & classes Health & beauty Punk Me Up Buttercup throw a party

the sizzling

summer issue

Plus... News, ‘Out & About’ & much more inside!

For families the Bromley & Bexley boroughs, Dartford the surrounding areas of Kent Followliving us oninFacebook at Families London–Kent Borders & Magazine and on Twitter @familieslkb | 1

2 | July-August 2014 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

in this sizzling issue Issue 20: July - August 2014

Competitions

5 Education 6-7 Clubs & Classes 8

Health & beauty

9 Punk Me Up Buttercup 10-15 Out & about Follow us on Facebook at Families London–Kent Borders Magazine and on Twitter @familieslkb Editor: Mima Walia | 020 8466 6977 or 07792 006546 | editor@familieslondonkent.co.uk What’s On Editor: Melanie Carpigo Design: Toni Leo

Welcome back to our big summer issue and I do hope you are looking forward to the summer holidays which are coming up very soon, do not panic as we have it all covered for you. Letting you know how to spend some quality time with your family with our extra packed Out & About pages and in our Classes you won’t have a problem keeping everyone busy.

We still have some fab competitions to for you to enter and how to keep yourself looking good in our Health & Beauty pages. If you are planning a party make sure to check out some great party ideas from Punk Me Up Buttercup. I am sure you will all enjoy the holidays and I look forward to the next issue which is out in September. I hope you all make it through to the other end?

Don’t forget don’t to pop down and meet us at the Donkey Derby on 31st August details inside in Out & About. Mima Walia, Editor | 020 8466 6977 editor@familieslondonkent.co.uk

Front cover: Andrea Whelan www.andreawhelan.com Printed by: Williams Press Ltd © Families London–Kent Borders. We take every 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 any consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families London–Kent Borders nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families London–Kent Borders is part of the Families® group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license.

competitions! win a family ticket to

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, children of all ages, Families LKB has teamed up with Camp Bestival to offer a family ticket to their festi-holiday jamboree this summer. With a veritable wealth of incredible treats for your delectation this coming July 31st to August 3rd Camp Bestival guarantees you a family festival experience like no other at a castle camp site by the sea. Crowned Best Family Festival at the UK Festival Awards, a host of acts are running away to join this year’s circus themed festival, including headliners dynamic dance duo Basement Jaxx and indie giants James. Other acts already announced include Johnny Marr, Sinéad O’Connor, and Laura Mvula. With DJ sets from Boy George and Marc Vedo, Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs and David Rodigan MBE, presents Ram Jam. And that’s just the music! There are children’s delights galore including Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain: Part II, Mr Tumble, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory 50th Birthday Takeover, Ben and Holly Live, BRIT School, Freesports Park, and so more.

For more information and to book tickets go to www.campbestival.net or call 0844 888 4410 All you need to do to be in with a chance of winning a Camp Bestival Family Ticket* is just answer the following question:

Which Castle is Camp Bestival being held this year? Enter online www.familieslondonkent.co.uk Closing date 21st July 2014.

*Family ticket is 2 x adult tickets plus up to 4 children

win a free photo session with Emma Louise Photography including 10 edited photos...

Emma is a wedding, event and portrait photographer specialising in stunning maternity and newborn portraiture. Based in Edenbridge she provides relaxed, contemporary lifestyle photography coverage in the studio near Tunbridge Wells or on location throughout Kent and the South East. For your chance in winning please answer the following question and enter online at www.familieslondonkent.co.uk Closing date: 31st August 2014,

Where is Emma Louise Photography based? 07884 404300 | hello@emmalouisephoto.com | www.emmalouisephoto.com

win a family ticket for ‘What the Ladybird Heard’

If you love Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ awardwinning picture book What the Ladybird Heard as much as we do, you will know they have glittery ladybird on the pages of the book. The story will be coming to life onstage at the Cadogan Hall theatre in London from 24 July - 10 August 2014, see our What’s On pages for details. One really lucky reader can win a family ticket to see ‘What The Ladybird Heard’ as a summer treat just go online www.familieslondonkent.co.uk and answer the following question:

What sort of Ladybirds are displayed on the pages of the book? Closing date 17th July 2014.

Laser Pegs competition We have 4 sets to give away to our readers each set containing a Laser Pegs Dragon, £69.99 rrp and a Laser Pegs Helicopter, £24.99 rrp. A must-have for any construction fan, the new Laser Pegs are amazing light-up construction toys that light up in all the colours of the rainbow. Laser Pegs was the first unique toy construction set in the world in which each piece feeds the next piece with low voltage current to light up. Laser Pegs is also compatible with virtually all other constructions sets, so kids can combine their existing construction collections with new light-up Laser Pegs. For your chance in winning a set of one of these Laser Pegs please answer the following question and enter online at www.familieslondonkent.co.uk Closing date 31st August 2014.

camping. What| 07792 colours006546 are used to light up the laser pegs? 4 in| general July-August 2014 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977

education... 11+ Mock Tests Kent 11+ Mock Tests

Orpington 11+ Mock Tests

BOYS & GIRLS Maths paper English paper Reasoning paper Writing paper All multiple choice papers

BOYS Maths - standard paper English – multiple choice paper

GIRLS Verbal Reasoning – multiple choice NonVerbal Reasoning – multiple choice

BOOK NOW www.11plusmocktests.com Wednesday 27th August 2014 9.30am – 1pm from £20 per paper at Crofton Halls, Orpington BR6 8PR FEEDBACK includes ✔ Detailed report on your child’s ✔ Strengths & weaknesses ✔ Access to mock test questions & answers ✔ Your child’s answer papers returned

Changes to Kent 11+ test The Kent website has been updated with the latest 11+ information. The Kent test subjects are now referred to as Maths and English multiple choice, a move from the words Numeracy and Literacy. Three papers will be taken: Maths and English multiple choice, Reasoning multiple choice (VR & NVR) and a Writing paper in the event of a tie.

For a mock test, visit www.11plusmocktests.com

If you would like to advertise in the next issue please call Mima on 020 8466 6977 or 07792 006546.

EN P O OW

clubs & classes

www.aquakids.co.uk Aquakids is 20 years old this year and prides itself on delivering a high quality bespoke swimming experience. We offer small classes, delivered by a team of experienced and enthusiastic teachers in the water. Swimming is an essential life skill - so make sure you get it right!

If you would like to feature or advertise in the next issue please call Mima on 020 8466 6977

or 07792 006546.

Swimming Lessons that last a lifetime Visit our website www.aquakids.co.uk for blogs, testimonials and more information

6 | July-August 2014 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

clubs & classes taught by professionals in the industry. Come for the week or pick the days you want! Performance at the end of the week to friends & family! Non PQA Members welcome. Get in touch heather@pqacademy.com

Aquakids

Aquakids is 20 years old this year and prides itself on delivering a high quality bespoke swimming experience. We pride ourselves on small classes, teachers in the water and a team of experienced and enthusiastic teachers. Swimming is an essential life skill - so make sure you get it right! Contact aquakids@me.com

Perform

Fly away to NEVERLAND with Peter Pan, Wendy, the Lost Boys, Tinkerbell and local 4 – 8 year olds in the North! Our five-day courses will take them on a magical trip to Neverland with Peter Pan, Wendy, John and Michael as they help rescue Tinkerbell from the dastardly Captain Hook. Book by 1st August and receive 10% off when you quote FAMI220814. Classes Monday 4th – Friday 8th August. Tunbridge Wells: Christ Church Centre, High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1UT 10am – 12pm Sevenoaks: The Parish Church of St Luke, Eardley Road, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 1XT 2.30 – 4.30

Explore Learning

Explore Learning Centres provide awardwinning maths and English tuition to five to 14 year olds. As Explore members, children work through a learning programme tailored to meet their needs and linked to the National Curriculum, under the guidance of enthusiastic tutors. Reader Offer July offer: 25% off your first month when you join in July. Terms and conditions apply. See www.explorelearning.co.uk for details. Participating centres only. Explore Learning has centres in Orpington: 01689 867302 Sidcup: 02037 141229 Crayford: 01322 352760 West Wickham: 02037 002611

Pauline Quirke Academy

PQA Chislehurst and Sidcup are running a fun packed Summer School ‘Make A Musical Week’ for 2 age groups at The Chislehurst and Sidcup Grammar School Hurst Road Sidcup DA15 9AG. 3-5 year olds can experience learning songs and dance routines from the Disney smash hit ‘Frozen’ and the 6-18 year old group will be acting through song to perform ‘Seusical the Musical’ all

London Transport Museum This summer holiday London Transport Museum is going undercover with the help of junior codemakers and breakers during the special Going Undercover family fun activities.

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes are holding one/five day music workshops that are brilliant ‘taster sessions’ for 4-8 year olds who are keen to start an instrument. They learn to read, play and write notes C-A alongside learning keyboard technique and music-based activities including composition, artwork and performance skills, and a last day concert! Mon 11th, Fri 15th August, 10am12.30pm, Sevenoaks, TN13 3AE Tuesday 26th August, 10am-2pm, Sevenoaks, TN13 3AE www.funkymonkey.info 0800 107 7949

Stagecoach

Stagecoach offers young people an exciting mix of singing, dancing and acting classes designed to help them gain in confidence and self-esteem. Stagecoach is not only for those hoping to follow a career in performing arts; it nurtures potential and develops important skills which will last a lifetime, such as teamwork and communication. Classes are limited in size and led by experienced, qualified professionals. Two week trial available. Bromley: 020 8941 6073 Dartford: 01732 750783 Orpington: 01732 750783 Sidcup: 01732 354007

Monkey Music

At Monkey Music, we know that music is fundamental to a pre-school aged child’s development. Our progressive and educational four stage curricula are designed to nurture a lifetime of music: from rock ‘n’ roll to ding-dong, classes are a ‘good fit’ for each separate age group. By the time our little monkeys ‘graduate’, they have a sound base from which to build a musical future. Tel: 01322 862021 or email bexley.dartford@monkeymusic.co.uk

There will be special interactive family storytelling and creative make-and-take craft workshops, as well as Be Safe Week. The events are free to children and adult tickets last a whole year for unlimited daytime admission to all the Museum galleries and special exhibition. There are three sessions over a five week period from 28 July to 29 August 2014: Weeks 1 and 4: The adventures of Constance the Clippie, 28 July to 1 August and 18 to 22 August • Listen to Constance the ‘conductorette’ as she teaches you her clever tricks for catching thieves and cheats who try to short-change her and dodge paying their fares under the cover of darkness. Suitable for families with children aged 3 to 7 years. 11.00 and 14.00 (lasts approx 20 minutes) • Make a stash of clay coins before stitching yourself a secret pouch in which to hide them. Suitable for families with children aged 4 to 12. Drop in between 11.30 to 12.30 and 14.30 to 15.45 Week 3: Be Safe Week. 11 to 15 August This week involves a Going Undercover circuit where young visitors can dash between different transport safety scenarios, solving clues and learning from the professionals. Get your fingerprints taken and learn how the police gather evidence, become a bike safety Detective and identify different particles of objects. Each young person that completes the circuit will go into a prize draw. Weeks 2 and 5: Pigeon Post. 4 to 8 August and 25 to 29 August • Percy and Penny Pigeons are in love, but Percy is in Belgium and Penny is in France, kept apart by their code-carrying wartime missions – can you help them reunite? Suitable for families with children aged ages 3 to 7. Drop in between 11.00 and 14.00 (lasts approximately 20 minutes) • Make your own secret messages and take them home with your specially made carrier pigeon. Suitable for families with children aged 6 to 12. Drop in between 11.30 to 12.30 and 14.30 to 15.45.

health & beauty Pilates for mind & body with Ismini Pilates & Body Movement Studio

“Exercise is Medicine” we are told and recently there have been several articles on the subject. I have to confess that that from the feedback I am receiving from my clients after attending my Pilates, Booty Barre or HIT Pilates sessions, it certainly seems to be the case.

Aquability

Teacher Training Centre Fancy Becoming a Swimming Teacher? The next Level 1 Teaching Aquatics Course takes place in October and the Level 2 Course available in November – visit the website www.aquabilityttc.co.uk for more information.

Swimmers needed for subsidised lessons in July.

I have been running a successful Pilates business for some years now, offering over 20 classes a week, with a highly skilled team of Pilates teachers. Classes take place in the High Street at the Chislehurst Studio (above Prezzo), as well as Eltham and Eysnford. There are classes for everyone from Beginner Pilates to Intermediate/Advance Pilates, HIT Pilates, Express lunch time Pilates, Booty Barre, Pregnancy, Mother & Baby Pilates and now also offering Baby Massage courses to name but a few. A Pilates workshop will take place at the Studio, High Street, Chislehurst on Monday 14th July at 10.45am to 11.45am this will be suitable for those with some Pilates experience, as well, as complete beginners. For more information contact Ismini at: Ismini@isminiphillips.com | Tel: 07711 906750 www.isminiphillips.com

Fancy becoming a swimming teacher? We offer intensive courses over 4 weeks, weekends and day courses, allowing flexible learning for all. The next Level 1 Teaching Aquatics Course takes place in October, Level 2 Course takes place in November, visit the website www.aquabilityttc.co.uk for more information. Swimmers needed for subsidised lessons in July. Eric Liddell Sports Centre, Eltham College, Grove Park Rd, Mottingham London SE9 4QF

Check the website for more info: www.aquabilityttc.co.uk e: admin@aquabilityttc.co.uk t: 07802 660516

8 | July-August 2014 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

feature

Get the party going with Punk Me Up Buttercup! Planning a party soon? Want it to be stress-free but memorable? Then you need an experienced party organizer that will listen closely to your requirements and the likes and dislikes of your child and, preferably, plan a party around your child’s favourite theme. I recently had a birthday party to organize for my 4 year old son, Aydin, and agonized over the choice of organizer because there were some special requirements. After much research, I chose Punk Me Up Buttercup to organize the party for me. Toni and her team delivered the most amazing party for Aydin. She really took the time to get to know him and asked

me lots of questions about his tastes and preferences so she was able to organize a party for him that was amazing from start to finish. Punk Me Up Buttercup provided some delicious food for the children – and the parents too! The highlight was the birthday cake. I have never been successful in finding a baker that can produce a yummy cake without egg, wheat and nuts, but Toni knew of one and got me his first ever Spiderman birthday cake from Tracy Landers (07794 721847). On arrival, the kids all found themselves a mask, then zipped off to PUNK UP their finds with paint, glue and glitter! Soon after, they got to print their superhero bags with stamps, with a personalized one for Aydin. All the party kids were transformed into Superheroes, with airbrushed faces and dressing up costumes and were enjoying a giant colouring mini-photo booth and Di-di cars. Traditional party games, like ‘pass

the parcel’ were interspersed with unique, themed games, including an EMERGENCY! The grown ups were kidnapped. The Rescue Plan was for all superheroes to shoot the kidnappers with pom poms! Then, FOOD! This was served in cute Japanese Bento boxes, there were many different food options available, including cucumber and carrot sticks, stylish sandwiches, fruit cups with berries, chocolate spoons and home made lemonade served in mini glass milk bottles with candy stripe straws. All children got to leave with their Superhero mask, personalized superhero t-shirt, luxury cotton party bag, punky keepsake photo, sweetie treats and badge. Get in touch www.punkmeupbuttercup. com or call Toni on 07956 785 661. Photography Emma Louise Photography www.emmalouisephoto.com By Mima Walia | Editor

out & about... lots more online www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

Art activities Easy Sunday: Build & Play Make large scale structures inspired by Spencer Finch, then play inside the structure you’ve built! 1pm - 4pm drop-in. £3.50 per child free for adults, under 3s and families living in CT9. Turner Contemporary, Rendezvous, Margate, Kent, CT9 1HG | 01843 233 000 www.turnercontemporary.org

Ruxley Rascals ‘Secret Keepsake Box’ This faux-book made from paper mache is a great place to store away your secret things! Decorate with paint, pens, stickers... just make sure you put it somewhere afterwards! Box is 15cm x 10.5cm. 10am - 4pm. Tickets £2.99. From 11 August to 15 August. Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Maidstone Road, Sidcup, DA14 6BQ 020 8300 0084 | www.ruxley-manor.co.uk

Ruxley Rascals ‘Paint a Pebble Pet’ Unleash your creativity with this simple yet best-selling activity! Decorate a humble garden pebble with wiggle-eyes, plenty of paint and put to practical use afterwards as a paper weight or doorstop! 10am - 4pm. Cost £2.99. From 25 August to 29 August. Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Maidstone Road, Sidcup, DA14 6BQ | 020 8300 0084 www.ruxley-manor.co.uk/dates_for_your_ diary.cfm

Riverhill Gardens activities Messy Hand Art Create a masterpiece using just your hands and paint. 11am to 3pm. From 20 August to 25 August.

Lavender Designs The scent of summer create lavender bags or wicked lavender wands. 11am to 3pm. From 13 August to 17 August. Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Riverhill, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0RR 01732 459777 www.riverhillgardens.co.uk

Ruxley Rascals ‘Decopatch Owl Clock’ What a hoot! Paper and glue is all you will need to give Ollie the Owl his own personality Measuring 17cm tall, and including a removable clock face (with battery), all Ollie needs is a new home to nest in! 10am - 4pm. Tickets £3.99. From 28 July to 1 August. Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Maidstone Road, Sidcup, DA14 6BQ | 020 8300 0084 www.ruxley-manor.co.uk/dates_for_your_ diary

Events & attractions Cinema under the stars: The Great Gatsby Bring a picnic or enjoy the fabulous food and drink from the cafe whilst experiencing open air cinema against the stunning backdrop of Scotney Castle. Leonardo DiCaprio stars in Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby with all its lavish Art Deco glamour. Booking essential. 9.15pm - 11pm. Tickets £13.50 per adult, £9 per child. Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 8JN 01892 893820 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/scotney-castle

Summer Jousting Tournaments The Knights of Royal England return to battle it out at the annual Jousting Tournament. Spectators will be treated to a thrilling display of action, stunts, falls and fights in an authentic arena complete with Royal Box. Every Sat, Sun from 19 July. Hever Castle & Gardens, Hever, Hever, Nr Edenbridge, Kent, TN8 7NG 01732 865224 | www.hevercastle.co.uk

Kent Showground, Detling, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 3JF | 01622 630975 www.kentshowground.co.uk

Nearly New Sale Goods for sale: Lots of stalls (mums & dads) selling excellent quality nearly new baby & children’s items from birth to 6 yrs. Great brands at bargain prices! Admission: £1 entry, Kids Free. Orpington Village Hall, 311 High Street, Orpington, BR6 0NN | 01689 891828 or 07809 238210 www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk

Kent & East Sussex Railway: All aboard for a day out with Thomas Meet Thomas the Tank EngineTM and his friends, who are waiting to meet you at Kent & East Sussex Railway. Experience a ride on a real steam engine, Shake hands with The Fat Controller, take part in Thomas themed activities in the Imagination Station. Make their day a Day Out With Thomas and book your tickets below now! The entrance price includes all the above and much more. A scheduled timetable is used for this railway, to guarantee your seat on the train, so you will need to choose a specific departure time. Please note: Dogs, with the exception of assistance dogs are not permitted at this event. For more information and booking details please go to: www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk/kesr From 26 July to 28 July.

Kent County Show The Kent County Show is the region’s showcase event for farming, countryside and rural life. The three day show brings together the very best of Kent with animals, food, fun and excitement giving a true feel of what ‘The Garden of England’ has to offer. Experience the Flower Show, Food Tent, Creative Crafts Show, Canine area, show jumping, vintage vehicles and hundreds of cattle, sheep and goats. With camel racing in the ring, live music and the Kent Spitfire flying overhead there really is something for everyone. From 11 July to 13 July.

Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterden Town Station, Station Road, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6HE | 01580 765155

Wallace & Gromit Enjoy a Day at the Kent & East Sussex Railway with Wallace and Gromit. Families can enjoy a steam train journey with the chance to see the popular TV characters Wallace & Gromit at the Kent & East Sussex

10 | July-August 2014 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

out & about Railway in Tenterden. 8am, tickets £16 per adult, £11 per child and £45 per family ticket. From 12 July to 13 July. Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterden Town Station, Station Road, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6HE | 01580 765155 www.kesr.org.uk

Keep it Local Food & Produce Market Organised by the Keep it Local team who created the popular craft fairs at Coolings, there will be all your regular favourite stalls as well as some additional producers selling fresh, locally sourced or made foods. Tip top fresh meat, fish, bread and cakes, fruit and vegetables grown for flavour rather than volume, juicy jams and chutneys and varieties of locally brewed beers are just some of the delights you will find here. The market runs every fourth Saturday of the month. 10am - 4pm. Coolings Green & Pleasant, Main Road, Knockholdt, TN14 7LJ | 01959 534386 www.coolings.co.uk/events

Medieval Weekend with Jousting Come along and try on a suit of armour or dress up as a knight or princess. Then witness the spectacular Jousting Tournament where our brave knights will entertain you. From 26 July to 27 July. Hever Castle & Gardens, Hever, Hever, Nr Edenbridge, Kent, TN8 7NG 01732 865224 | www.hevercastle.co.uk

Open Air Cinema: ‘Dirty Dancing’ Bring a picnic and enjoy ‘Dirty Dancing’ under the stars in front of the magnificent 900 year old castle. Brought to you by Luna Cinema and this year supported by Benefit Cosmetics - who will be offering complimentary makeovers on the evening. Tickets £15 per adult, £12 per child. Not included in the price of admission ticket. Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL 01622 765400. www.leeds-castle.com

Kids Inc Day Nursery Drop In Sessions - Mother and Toddler Group Come along and see what we are doing, this will give your child the opportunity to play and interact with other children. 1pm - 3pm. Bluewater, Greenhithe, Greenhithe, Kent, DA9 9ST | 01322 475475 www.bluewater.co.uk/Whats-On/KidsInc-Nursery

The Exhibition Centre: Henry VIII Greenwich Armouries Collection View the armour and tools from the Henry VIII Greenwich Armouries Collection loaned from the Royal Armouries, displayed in our newly opened Exhibition Centre. From 23 July to 2 November. Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1PL | 01622 765400 www.leeds-castle.com

Animal Magic Meet jumping gekos, cute bunnies, mischievous meerkats, hungry ducklings, a digging porcupine and much more. Get close up and personal with all the amazing animals from Animal Magic. A wonderful family experience. 10am, 11.30am & 2pm. (1 hour sessions) £6 children, £3 adults. From 4 August to 5 August. Hall Place and Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley, DA5 1PQ | 01322 621238 www.hallplace.org.uk

Fairy School Calling all trainee fairies! An enchanting school where pupils enjoy storytelling, fairy cake decorating, dancing, crafts and other magical skills. Can you graduate this year? Fairies include both girls and boys. Perfect for 3-9 year olds. 10am & 2pm (2 hours per session). £8 per child, adults free. From 13 August to 14 August. Hall Place and Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley, DA5 1PQ | 01322 621238 www.hallplace.org.uk

Extreme Torque Show From monster trucks and motorbikes, to BMX and the freestyle sport of parkour, the Extreme Torque Show will have it all. Over two days in August, Hop Farm Family Park will come alive with the sights, smells and sounds of revving engines, screeching tyres and car-crushing trucks, with the park converted into a huge arena for the world’s finest bikers, BMXers and truckers. 10am to 5pm. Tickets £15 and £7 concessions bought in advance or £18 and £8 on the door. From 16 August to 17 August. The Hop Farm Family Park, Paddock Wood, Tonbridge, Kent, TN12 6PY | 01622 872068 www.extremeeventseurope.com

Every Friday Fun and Games! Discover what games children played and make your own Roman board game. No booking needed. Children must be accompanied. Entry £4 per child, carers free. Every Fri from 1 August to 29 August. Crofton Roman Villa, Crofton Road, Orpington, Kent, BR6 8AF | 01689 860939

Looking for something different? The Close Up Show is a collection of 3 superb magicians performing at close quarters before a limited audience. No camera tricks or editing, this is the real thing, live and up close. Witness phenomenal skill and baffling magic. Parties can book a table of up to 20 for themselves. Now in its second year and appearing monthly at Churchill Theatre Bromley, Stag Arts Centre Sevenoaks, Epsom Playhouse and Brooklands Theatre Romford. Recommended for 10 years and upwards. Details of performers and show times at :

www.thecloseupshow.com

Discoveries and Inventions Are you a budding Darwin or an up-andcoming Einstein? Get your thinking caps on and your brains buzzing at Down House! Take a trip through history’s most exciting inventions from the totally practical to the downright wacky. Can you design something to add to the record books? 10am - 5pm. Family ticket £26.80. From 28 July to 2 August. Down House, Luxted Rd, Downe, Kent, BR6 7JT | 01689 859119 www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout

out & about Young Leaders Festival A life-changing 5 day leadership festival for 13-17 year olds: world-class speakers, team activities and inspirational entertainment. From 4 August to 8 August. The Hop Farm Family Park, Paddock Wood, Tonbridge, Kent, TN12 6PY 01622 872068 www.thehopfarm.co.uk/events/244/ young-leaders-festival

Victorian Games Galore From skittles to quoits, croquet to chess, play like a Victorian as you step back in time this summer. Discover games that time forgot and master the skills needed to outmanoeuvre your opponents and astound your family. 10am - 5pm. Family ticket £26.80. From 5 August to 9 August. Down House, Luxted Rd, Downe, Kent, BR6 7JT | 01689 859119 www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout

The Orchard Theatre, Dartford, The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1ED | 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

What the Ladybird Heard Two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird, and a whole farmyard of fun! Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have a cunning plan to steal the farmer’s fine prize cow. But they reckon without the tiniest, quietest creature of all: the Ladybird has a plan of her own! Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ award-winning picture book bursts onto stage with plenty of colour and verve. Ages 2+, tickets from £14.50.

Disney summer activities

A journey with Sofia

Cast members will lead you and your little Princesses and Princes on a journey with Sofia the First themed activities. There will also be an opportunity to watch tales and learn some actions on how Sofia gets herself out of tricky situations, with episodes taken from the hit animated show. From 6 July to 26 July. Bluewater, Greenhithe, Greenhithe, Kent, DA9 9ST | 01322 475475 www.bluewater.co.uk/Whats-On/DisneySummer-Activities

Theatre shows & music Theatre in the Garden: Robin Hood On the day of his marriage to Marian Fitzwater, Robert Fitzooth, Earl of Huntingdon, is betrayed by his closest friend the Sheriff of Nottingham and arrested for disrupting the peace. He evades capture and hides in Sherwood Forest with a band of outlaws under the assumed name of Robin Hood. 6:30pm - 8.30pm. Tickets £14.99 for Adults, £5 for Children. Coolings Green & Pleasant, Main Road, Knockholdt, TN14 7LJ | 01959 534386 www.coolings.co.uk

Open Air Children’s Theatre: Alice in Wonderland ‘Alice Brings Wonderland to your Doorstep! The Cambridge Touring Theatre will perform their family fun musical adaptation of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’ on the Pavilion Lawn with a delightful summer evening of song and dance to captivate the imagination of children. Tickets £12 per adult, £10 per child. Not included in the price of admission ticket. Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1PL 01622 765400 www.leeds-castle.com

Aliens love underpants This zany and hilarious tale based on the best-selling children’s book is wonderfully brought to life on stage for the very first time. With stunning effects, madcap action, original music (and lots of aliens of course!), this fantastically fresh and funny production will delight the whole family. 10.30am and 1.30pm. Tickets £13.50. From 11 July to 12 July.

24 July - 10 August, CADOGAN HALL, 5 Sloane Terrace SW1X 9DQ 020 7730 4500 | www.cadoganhall.com

Thumbelina Liz Burville Performing Arts presents the awesome adventures of Thumbelina. This is the musical journey of the little girl Thumbelina and her adventures after she is kidnapped by the frog queen! On her quest to return home she meets an array of lively characters from the evil black widow, the slapstick performing fleas Spick and Spam, to the homely old mole and the helpful swift! Tickets £18.00 Concessions £15.00. The Orchard Theatre, Dartford, The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1ED | 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

Open Air Theatre: Shakespeare’s ‘The Tempest’ The critically acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company put their own unique and hilarious twist on Shakespeare’s romantic tale of shipwrecks, sorcerers and silly servants. Expect music, magic and mayhem in one of the Bard’s best-loved plays - performed in the open-air where it belongs. Tickets £17 per adult, £12 per child. Not included in the price of admission ticket. From 17 July to 18 July. Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1PL 01622 765400 www.leeds-castle.com

Peppa Pig’s Big Splash Come and join Peppa and her friends for another all-singing, all-dancing adventure full of songs, games and muddy puddles! Peppa Pig returns live on stage with super cute puppets and brilliant sing-a-long songs in this brand new show that will brighten your day. So grab your wellies and brollies and get splashing! ‘A rollicking, all singing, dancing interactive adventure.’ Daily Telegraph

The WizSummer Youth Project 2014 Dorothy, a farm girl from Kansas is transported by a tornado to the magical land of Oz. After celebrating the end of the Wicked Witch of the East with the

12 | July-August 2014 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

out & about Munchkins, Dorothy sets off down the yellow brick road. Along the way Dorothy meets a Scarecrow, Tin Man and a Lion who join her on her journey to see The Wiz in the Emerald City. From 21 August to 23 August. The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1ED 01322 220000 | orchardtheatre.co.uk

Outdoor theatre: Peter Pan

The great outdoors Butterfly Week Learn about butterflies with our nature expert and create butterfly feeders for your own garden. 12pm - 4pm | From 23 July to 27 July. Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Riverhill, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0RR 01732 459777 | www.riverhillgardens co.uk

Pick your team and help Peter in his quest to bring the dastardly villain Captain Hook and his pirate crew to justice. Whether you’re five or 95, this energetic and enthralling adaptation guarantees an enchanting experience full of magic, laughter and excitement. Booking essential. 6pm - 8.30pm. Tickets £13.50 per adult, £8 per child, £40 per family. 28 August. Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 8JN 01892 893820 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/scotneycastle

Summer Garden Trail

Outdoor theatre: George's Marvellous Medicine

Ugly Bug Safari

Join us for Illyria’s open-air theatre production of this Roald Dahl classic tale about the medicine George makes for his grandma who comes to stay for the holidays...with hilarious results. Booking essential 5.30pm - 7pm. Tickets £15 per adult, £9 per child. 30 August. Ightham Mote, Mote Road, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0NT | 01732 810378 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ightham-mote

The tiger came to tea Join the tea-guzzling Tiger, who pounces back into the West End. Adapted and directed by DAVID WOOD OBE, Judith Kerr’s ferociously popular tale THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA is a great musical play and if you’ve never had a tiger arrive for tea, then this loveable production is the ideal way to show the whole family how to behave the next time one rings the doorbell. THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA is the perfect slice of teatime mayhem with sing-a-long songs, oodles of magic and interactive fun for children ages 3 plus and their families. WEDNESDAY 2 JULY SUNDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2014 Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7ES

Angelica Sprocket has THE most amazing pockets. Unfortunately she’s lost some in the gardens at Hall Place. Can you find her missing pockets and discover what’s hidden inside? Pick up your trail sheet from the house reception. 10am - 4.30pm. Tickets £2 per trail. From 2 August to 31 August. Hall Place and Garden, Bourne Road, Bexley, DA5 1PQ | 01322 621238 www.bexleyheritagetrust.org.uk/ hallplace/whats-on/

Small game hunters wanted. Grab a magnifying glass and join our big hunt for some mini beasts. We’ll peer into the kitchen garden, unearth insects near the sandwalk and encounter gruesome bugs near the wormstone. Discover the secret life of our creepy friends and create your own to take home. 10am - 5pm. Family £26.80. From 19 August to 23 August. Down House, Luxted Rd, Downe, Kent, BR6 7JT | 01689 859119 www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/ events/ugly-bug-safari-Hom-12-08-2014

Donkey Derby Donkey races, rides, funfair, Farmers & Artisan market, beer tent, ice creams, Landtrain, face-painting, tote, hot & cold food & drink, charity exhibitions and activities. First race started by Mayor of Bexley at 2pm. Entry £1 adult, 50p child, car parking available at North of Danson Park by. Danson House. Disabled parking available on site. All profits go to charity. Bexley Donkey Derby & Summer Fayre is one of the traditional family and community charity days out held in the London Borough of Bexley every year. This event has been staged for over 25 years and the organisers, Welling Round Table organise and manage the entire day for no fee. Amongst the attractions on the day are 7 races, each consisting if 7 donkeys which are bravely jockied by a local riding school - there’s lots of falls and tumbles, but the only tears are through lost pride. You can make a small flutter on the result at the tote and if your little

get your summer on at Bluewater! Throughout the summer, Bluewater’s Disney Store will be hosting a range of fun activities including ‘Doc McStuffins’ Stretch and Flex classes where little ones can collect a free, fun sticker book to fill up as well as learning how Doc takes care of herself and her friends! There will also be ‘Sofia the First’ themed activities from the 6th – 26th July where your little Princes and Princesses can watch tales and learn the ins and outs of Disney royal life! If your youngsters aren’t quite so little anymore, why not treat them to a Young Drivers lesson at Bluewater. Suitable for those aged over 11; it’s a fun and exciting introduction to the world of driving! They’ll put them behind the wheel of a brand new dual control Skoda where one of their fully qualified ADI driving instructors will teach you how to start, drive, brake, corner, change gear, stop and even reverse - all on their first lesson!

With acres of beautiful parkland and lakes surrounding Bluewater, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a day in the great outdoors with the whole family. Pack up a picnic and let the kids enjoy Bluewater’s playgrounds or take to the water in a pedalo before a round of mini golf at Pirate Cove, and if the sun comes out, you may just feel like you’re abroad! On the off chance it rains, Bluewater’s got it covered with great films showing throughout the summer on their six digital 3D screens and the brand new IMAX Experience at Showcase Cinemas. www.bluewater.co.uk

ones like the look of the racing, they can enjoy a more sedate, accompanied stroll around the paddock on their very own donkey. There is also a funfair, lots of food and drink, including a beer tent plus a small farmers and artisan market, Landtrain, face-painting, games, exhibitions and local youth and charity groups which will give you a jam lacked day at the races. Make sure you head down to Howard’s of Kent - The Vodka Lady stall for some refreshing drinks and make sure you pop in to Families London-Kent Borders stall to enter some fab competitions and pick up a magazine!

Bexley Donkey Derby & Summer Fayre. Sun 31st Aug 2pm - 5pm Danson Park Polo Fields, Danson Lane, Welling DA16 2BL www.bexleydonkeyderby.co.uk

out & about 1974 · K&ESR

Railway

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Kent & East Sussex TENTERDEN TOWN STATION

Let your kids drive in London. Now they can drive a Tube train, climb in a bus cab and lose themselves in our exploration zone. Better still, kids go free at London Transport Museum, Covent Garden.

JULY

26 to 28th th

www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk/kesr Day Out With Thomas ™ Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends ™ Based on The Railway Series by The Reverend W. Awdry. © 2014 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends, Thomas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited. © 2014 HIT Entertainment Limited.

Telephone 01580 765155 • kesr.org.uk

Hang on to your hats at Thorpe Park! Thorpe Park’s big new attraction for 2014 will premiere The World’s first ANGRY BIRDS 4D Experience. Where you can sit back and enjoy high tech movie theatre surrounding whilst being catapulted into the ANGRY BIRDS action. Timed air gusts, water jets, leg ticklers, flashing lights, bubbles and smoke blasts will be sure to get pulses racing from start to finish! The new land also features the much loved Angry Birds characters coming home to roost on Detonator: Bombs Away – the Resort’s 100ft rapid drop tower ride - while ‘Red Bird’ and the ‘Bad Piggies’ go bump to bump on King Pig’s Wild Hog Dodgems – a brand new dodgems attraction.

For more information visit THORPEPARK.com

14 | July-August 2014 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

out & about

16 | July-August 2014 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546