Primary Times Cheshire & Greater Manchester - May Half Term 2026
Welcome to our May Half Term magazine. We’ve not long had the Easter break, but we are looking forward to the bank holiday weekend and half term coming up soon!
In our Family Events feature you will find a huge array of family-favourites, many of which take place annually and they are something we all look forward to! From race days to a festival and country shows, there is plenty for everyone to enjoy.
We have a selection of activities and days out to choose from in our Half Term Fun guide. Whether you need childcare options or time together you can plan ahead and book in now.
Our next issue will be our bumper one, covering the entire summer holidays and more. Bring on the sunshine!
04 LOCAL NEWS
06
HALF TERM FUN
FAMILY EVENTS
WOW BOX OFFICE
Local NEWS
A round-up of news from the area, with updates from local schools, a tuition offer from Kumon, and the newly refurbished Brio Northgate in Chester is now open for families to enjoy.
Say Hello to the New Brio Northgate!
Exciting news – the newly refurbished Brio Northgate in Chester is back open and ready for family fun! With refreshed pools, a state-of-the-art gym, squash courts, and larger studio spaces, it’s the perfect place to spend quality time together, try something new, and create lasting family memories.
Little swimmers and water lovers alike will love the refreshed pool areas, complete with new play equipment, a water slide, and plenty of space to build confidence in the water – and yes, their muchloved whale has had a glow up too! And the upgrades don’t stop there – every part of the centre has been reimagined to feel modern and accessible, including brand-new changing facilities, easy access points, improved lighting, and refreshed gallery viewing spaces. Fancy something different? The squash courts are back open and ready for action, with the sports hall reopening in Summer 2026 as the final phase of the refurbishment. Book your visit today on the Brio Leisure website or app, and don’t forget to grab an Active Card for £1* off each booking. *T&Cs apply. W: www.brioleisure.org
Getting your child ready for primary school
Every child is unique, but a few simple things can help them feel happy and confident to start Reception. Encourage everyday skills like getting dressed, using the toilet and washing their hands, and regular bedtimes. Let them play, share toys and chat about their feelings. Sing, play, and enjoy books together – it all boosts communication. There’s free support across Manchester to help you get your child ‘school-ready’, from activities at Family
Get started with Kumon and save with this Free
Registration offer
Kumon is proud to be recognised as an education provider that delivers proven academic results. They’re offering Free Registration on the Kumon Maths and English Programmes from 1st June to 30th June! This is a great chance to save money while giving your child the skills to stand out from their peers. Students can also study digitally with KUMON CONNECT, making Kumon’s tried and tested worksheets even more accessible and convenient to study using a tablet and stylus. Join the over 3.5 million Kumon students worldwide by contacting your local Instructor, and book a Free Assessment and Kumon Registration to save with the Free Registration offer via www.kumon.co.uk
King’s young explorers enjoy the dawn chorus
It was an early start for King’s pupils in Year 2 as they arrived at school bright and early for the school’s annual Dawn Chorus event. Pupils arrived just before sunrise to pause and listen to the bird song, as well as take in the full beauty of nature and enjoy a morning of craft activities. Wrapped up in warm clothing, the Year 2 pupils enjoyed exploring the school’s 80-acre campus with only the wildlife around! A yummy breakfast was waiting for pupils at the end, before a fun-filled day of King’s learning activities. What an experience! W: www.kingsmac.co.uk
Birthday
Parties at Xplore!
get the thumbs up from children and parents
From slime to rocket launches and dinosaur digs, Xplore! Wrexham has become a firm favourite for children across the region – and it’s easy to see why. Their birthday parties blend education, creativity and pure fun, all wrapped up in excellent value for parents. With access to over 85 interactive exhibits, hands-on themed workshops and a dedicated party host, every celebration feels special. Extras like annual membership for the birthday child, party bags and bilingual invitations add even more appeal and value. Whether it’s messy play for toddlers or sciencepacked fun for older children, Xplore! proves that unforgettable parties don’t have to break the bank. W: www.xplorescience.co.uk
The Grange School – shortlisted for national award
The Grange School, Hartford has been shortlisted for the 2026 Education Investor Awards in the Independent School Operator of the Year category. The national recognition highlights exceptional academic results, with GCSE and A level performance well above national averages, alongside top ALPS awards for value-added. Beyond the classroom, pupils benefit from strong arts, music and sporting opportunities, as well as outdoor education and Duke of Edinburgh programmes. As a charity, the school also supports communities through bursaries, outreach programmes and international partnerships, reflecting a broad and ambitious education for young learners. Winners will be announced later this year at the awards ceremony in London. W: www.grange.org.uk
Stage-ed West End Holiday Club at Floral Pavilion – book your child’s summer space
The award-winning Stage-ed returns to the Floral Pavilion this summer with its sell out West End Holiday Club – now offering four completely different weeks! Children aged 5-18 work in Junior and Senior groups, exploring material from hit shows like Hamilton, Six, Matilda, Grease, The Greatest Showman, School of Rock, and more. Each week ends with a fantastic showcase performance for family and friends. No experience is needed – their professional team creates a fun, confidence boosting week for every child. Days run 9am-4pm. For dates, videos, and booking info, visit stage-edholidayschools.com or email admin@stage-ed.com
Help them get school-ready by practising everyday skills, such as using the toilet independently, washing their hands, feeding themself, and drawing. For simple tips and local support in Manchester, visit www.manchester.gov.uk/ readytolearn
Half Term FUN
We have some great ideas of places to visit and things to do over the upcoming half term. From family games to days out, activities or even a show, there are lots to choose from to keep everyone entertained.
May Half Term: The Great Garden Game-a-thon
Let the games begin! The Great Garden Game-a-thon is back at RHS Bridgewater from Saturday 23rd to Sunday 31st May. Will you rise to the challenge? Enjoy a fun-packed week of outdoor adventures. Challenge your family at giant garden games‚ explore the meadow maze and see who can master circus tricks first! W: www.rhs.org.uk
Two exciting shows at Brio Entertainment this May
This half term enjoy a daytime film screening of ‘Monsters Inc.’ at Brio Northwich on Tuesday 26th May. The hilarious computer-animated feature opens the door to a world of monsters and mayhem and scares up lots of laughs in the process. You can also enjoy 10% OFF food and drink in the café from 10am-1pm on the day of the film. Just show your ticket at the café till!
Plus, don’t miss ‘The Sooty Show’ which is running twice at Brio Northwich on Wednesday 27th May. Sooty heads into town in a magical new show to delight the whole family! Join Sooty and friends for a spectacular mix of magic, music and mess which guarantees giggles from Sooty fans old and new. There’s even a chance to meet Sooty after the show! Book your half term show tickets online now. W: www.brioentertainment.org
Make this half term a winner!
Join the National Football Museum this May for football-fuelled fun, celebrating the trophies, tournaments and iconic moments that have shaped the beautiful game. Explore their new exhibition, Head, Shoulders, Knees & Goals, and discover how we think, play and celebrate football, then test your skills with Yard Ball, a fun and nostalgic take on street football for all ages. Show off your football knowledge with Baller Bingo and let the Trophy Comic Corner spark your imagination. Tickets purchased directly are valid for 12 months – so pay once and enjoy unlimited visits for a year! Book online now. W: www.nationalfootballmuseum.com
It’s an action-packed half term at the Floral Pavilion
Get off to a rocking start with Justin Live – Justin Time To Rock on Saturday 23rd May! Justin Fletcher’s brand-new, high-energy feel-good family show is bursting with music, dancing and plenty of giggles. The thrills continue with Superslam Wrestling on Sunday 24th May, with an action packed championship lineup of international wrestlers. And finally, join the ultimate wild rescue mission in Dino Tales – Jurassic Rescue on Tuesday 26th May. State-of-the-art walking dinosaurs will capture the imaginations of kids and parents alike, with flapping frills and dino thrills. All these shows and many more can be booked online now. W: www.floralpavilion.com
Bring your child’s imagination to life at Apple Tree Town
Discover the magic of May Half Term at Apple Tree Town at Bridgemere Garden Centre, where children can learn, play, and explore in a unique role play town. From running the Village Store to caring for animals at the Vets, every visit sparks imagination and confidence. Enjoy exciting role play adventures, hands-on interactive fun, and plenty of opportunities for little ones to create, discover, and make new memories. Perfect for little adventurers and families looking for memorable days out. Safe, engaging, and packed with fun, Apple Tree Town turns school holidays into extraordinary experiences. Book now to secure your place and make this half term unforgettable for your child, creating lasting happy memories. W: www.appletreetown.co.uk
Step aboard and explore the Cheshire countryside by boat
Looking for something different to do over half term? How about a day out on a narrowboat, exploring the beautiful Shropshire Union canal? Cheshire Cat’s “Holly Day” is waiting to welcome you aboard. This little narrowboat is fully equipped for your day out, with covered seating for up to 10 people. The boat is easy to steer, and no previous experience is required as friendly staff will show you the ropes! The route from their base near Audlem takes you through open countryside to the pretty market town of Nantwich and includes two easy locks.
This family-run firm is based at Overwater Marina, Audlem, on the Shropshire Union Canal. The award-winning marina is set in a stunning location, just below the Audlem Lock flight. Find out more about their day hire or holidays online. W: www.cheshirecatnarrowboats.co.uk
The Singing Mermaid at HOME Manchester
Make a splash this half term with The Singing Mermaid, a magical family show packed with music, puppetry and seaside adventure. Based on the beloved book by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks, this joyful production follows a mermaid lured into a circus, dreaming of home and freedom. With catchy songs, colourful characters and plenty of laughs, it’s perfect for children aged 3-8 and their grownups. Running at just 55 minutes, it’s ideal for little audiences.
Dive into this heartwarming tale of friendship, courage and finding your voice. Book now for a memorable, feel-good theatrical treat this May half term. Taking to the stage on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th May with two shows each day. W: www.homemcr.org
Family EVENTS
We absolutely love this time of year and all the annual family-friendly events that take place across the county. The variety is huge, meaning there really is something for everyone to enjoy, whether you like horse racing, country shows or even the circus!
Knutsford Races
SUNDAY 17TH MAY
Knutsford Races takes place on Sunday 17th May at Tabley House, Knutsford, with fun for all the family! Gates open at 11am and in addition to the racing there are plenty of other activities including fair rides for young children, and a bouncy castle. There will be stalls selling a wide range of artisan goods, food concessions offering a varied range of meals and drinks, and a licensed bar.
The races then begin at 1pm, with pony races for young riders up to 16 years old, followed by six steeplechase races. It’s set to be a fantastic day out! You can take your own picnic and dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times. This event is proud to support The North West Air Ambulance. More information and tickets are available online. W: www.knutsfordraces.co.uk
Roman Day at Chester Racecourse
SATURDAY 30TH MAY
It wouldn’t be a season at Chester Racecourse without the famous Roman Day! Canter on down to the racecourse on Saturday 30th May to experience an action-packed historic family fun day. For young racegoers, a day filled with thrilling themed activities awaits. And the best part is? Kids go FREE – and all activities are included! Don’t worry adults, they haven’t forgotten about you! Get ready for thrilling racing, toe-tapping music from the DJ and plenty of good times. You’ve had your marching orders! Book tickets now at www.chester-races.com
British GT Championship at Oulton Park
SATURDAY 23RD & MONDAY 25TH MAY
KIDS UNDER 13 GO FREE
Cheshire’s world-famous Oulton Park race circuit hosts a special bank holiday billing of the British GT Championship on Saturday 23rd and Monday 25th May. Thrilling supercars bring high-performance action to the track, with two headline one-hour races on Monday. Expect to see priceless racing machines from Lamborghini, McLaren, Aston Martin and more balancing pit stops and driver changes in the hunt for glory!
Single-seater action, courtesy of the GB4 Championship, will see the next generation of F1 hopefuls compete for silverware among a packed schedule of support races too. Under-13s go FREE, with reductions for 13-15-year-olds and discounts on all advance adult tickets. Check online for more information and to book tickets. W: www.oultonpark.co.uk
Don’t miss Gandey’s K-Pop Dragon Circus this season
WEDNESDAY 3RD – SUNDAY 7TH JUNE AT BODAFON FIELD, LLANDUDNO
THURSDAY 11TH – SUNDAY 14TH JUNE AT THE DIPS, NEW BRIGHTON
Step into the spectacular world of Gandey’s K-Pop Dragon Circus, a dazzling East-meets-West adventure beneath the big top! Led by charismatic Ringmaster Joel and mischievous clown La Loka, the story follows a heartwarming quest to reunite a baby dragon with her majestic mother.
Audiences are swept up in a global circus celebration featuring gravity-defying, awe inspiring acts from across the world. Set to explosive K-pop and Western pop anthems, it’s a high-energy spectacle where legends come alive and every beat tells a story. It’s going to be Golden! W: www.gandeyscircus.com
Reaseheath College
We Invented the Weekend –the festival of free time
SATURDAY 6TH & SUNDAY 7TH JUNE
We Invented the Weekend is the UK’s most welcoming, creative and fun-filled festival of free time! And on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th June Salford Quays and MediaCity will be buzzing with hundreds of FREE activities for you, your family and your friends to enjoy – play and get active, try something completely new, make and create, eat and drink, watch amazing performances or sing and dance the weekend away! The festival runs Saturday and Sunday from 10am, everything is FREE, no tickets required, just go along and enjoy the ultimate celebration of free time. W: www.weinventedtheweekend.com
Royal Cheshire County Show
TUESDAY 16TH & WEDNESDAY 17TH JUNE
Visit this June for the 2026 Royal Cheshire County Show, a fantastic family day out in the heart of the countryside. Celebrating 10 years of their Royal title, this year’s show promises something for everyone. With over 5,000 animals, from cavies to Shire horses, exciting competitions, hands-on activities, a fun fair, shopping, and delicious food, there’s plenty to explore. Enjoy live music across the showground, including “Late at the Show” on Tuesday evening, featuring a children’s show from 4.30pm with Bluey, more special guests, and plenty of kids’ entertainment, as well as performances at the Music Bowl! It’s the perfect day out for families – don’t miss it! Book your tickets now and be part of the fun. Early bird tickets are available! W: www.royalcheshireshow.org
Shrek The Musical at Gladstone Theatre
WEDNESDAY 17TH –
SATURDAY 20TH JUNE
Get ready to step into a world where fairy-tale magic meets laugh-outloud comedy! West Kirby Musical Theatre Company is thrilled to bring Shrek the Musical to the Gladstone Theatre in Portsunlight – a heart-warming, high-energy stage adaptation of the beloved DreamWorks film. Packed with spectacular songs, hilarious characters, and stunning musical numbers, Shrek the Musical is a joyful adventure for audiences of all ages. Join WKMTC for an unforgettable journey that proves beauty is more than skin-deep – and that “happily ever after” is for everyone. Visit the Gladstone’s website or call the box office to book! T: 0151 643 8757 W: www.gladstonetheatre.org.uk
Arley Garden Festival
SATURDAY 27TH & SUNDAY 28TH JUNE
A celebration of all things for your garden! Specialist plant nurseries and garden accessories, creative corner and show garden design, along with a schools gardening challenge will be the highlights of the show. Face painting, hands on animal teach experience, fun dog show, food fair, countryside activities and creative crafts marquee will also be part of your day! There really is something for all the family to enjoy.
Tickets include hall and garden entry too, plus free parking, garden tours and question time marquee. Book tickets online now – you can use your ticket on either day so you can watch the weather! W: www.arleyhallandgardens.com
The Nantwich Show
WEDNESDAY 29TH JULY
Make it a summer day to remember at the Nantwich Show on Wednesday 29th July at Reaseheath College! Packed with family-friendly fun, there’s something for all ages to enjoy – from exciting main ring entertainment and countryside displays to hands-on activities, animals, and interactive demos. Children will love meeting farm animals, exploring the new Garden Pavilion, and taking part in fun competitions including the Best Great British Cheese Sandwich challenge! With over 300 stands, delicious food, and plenty of space to relax and play, it’s the perfect school holiday day out for the whole family. W: www.nantwichshow.org
WOW
What’s on Where in Cheshire & The Wirral & Greater Manchester
Details of What’s on Where across the counties, all in date order to help you plan your weeks ahead. Don’t forget to mention that you saw it in Primary Times!
ONGOING
New Brio
Northgate is Open Brio Northgate, Chester www.brioleisure.org
The newly refurbished Brio Northgate in Chester is back open and ready for family fun! With refreshed pools, a state-of-the-art gym, squash courts, and larger studio spaces, it’s the perfect place to spend quality time together. Book your visit today on the Brio Leisure website or app, and don’t forget to grab an Active Card for £1* off each booking. *T&Cs apply.
If you are looking for something different over half term, try a day out on a narrowboat exploring the beautiful Shropshire Union canal where the Cheshire Cat’s “Holly Day” is waiting to welcome you aboard. The family-run firm is based at Overwater Marina, Sudlem.
Apple Tree Town – Indoor Play
Bridgemere Garden Centre www.appletreetown.co.uk
Children can learn, play, and explore in a unique role play town. From running the Village Store to caring for animals at the Vets, every visit sparks imagination and confidence. Enjoy exciting role play adventures, hands-on interactive fun, and plenty of opportunities for little ones to create, discover, and make memories.
The Wind in the Willows: A Garden Adventure
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Join Mr Toad, Ratty, Mole and Badger for an interactive garden experience celebrating nature and friendship.
Sunday 17th May
Knutsford Races
Tabley House, Knutsford www.knutsfordraces.co.uk
Gates open at 11am and in addition to the racing there are plenty of other activities including fair rides for young children, a bouncy castle, stalls selling a wide range of artisan goods, food concessions, and a licensed bar. The races begin at 1pm, with pony races for young riders, followed by six steeplechase races. You can take your own picnic and dogs on leads are welcome.
Packed with animal encounters, equine displays, hands-on activities, sports demonstrations and plenty of outdoor space to explore, it’s a fun-filled day designed with families in mind.
Step aboard our purpose-built day hire boat for a magical day out on the water
Explore the beautiful rural Shropshire Union Canal between Audlem and Nantwich
Ideal for all the family – pets welcome too – and don’t forget the duck food!
From just £130, includes fuel, free car parking, buoyancy aids for children. This is an easy self-drive boat, absolutely no previous experience required. www.cheshirecatnarrowboats.co.uk
Saturday 23rd –Monday 25th May
Hall Open
Arley Hall & Gardens www.arleyhallandgardens.com
Entry to the Hall will be from 10am-4.30pm (last entry 4pm).
Saturday 23rd & Monday 25th May
British GT Championship
Oulton Park www.oultonpark.co.uk
Thrilling supercars bring highperformance action to the track, with two headline one-hour races on Monday. Expect to see priceless racing machines from Lamborghini, McLaren and Aston Martin. There will also be a range of support races. Book online in advance for discounted tickets.
Saturday 23rd –Sunday 31st May
Football-fuelled fun
National Football Museum www.nationalfootballmuseum.com
Explore their new exhibition, Head, Shoulders, Knees & Goals, then test your skills with Yard Ball, a fun and nostalgic take on street football for all ages. Show off your football knowledge with Baller Bingo and let the Trophy Comic Corner spark your imagination. Tickets purchased directly are valid for 12 months – so pay once and enjoy unlimited visits for a year!
Use code PRIMARY20 for 20% OFF advance bookings! Valid 23rd-31st May.
Giant Games
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Prepare for some giant fun with a range of giant garden games. Grab your friends and family‚ take your competitive spirit and embark on a giant gaming adventure.
Meadow Maze
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Perfect for explorers big and small, wind your way through the meadow maze. Will you find your way out?
Monday 25th –Wednesday 27th May
Circus Skills
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Roll up, roll up! Join Circus House and try your hand at plate spinning, diablo, hula hooping and juggling. Running on Monday 11am-1.30pm, Tuesday 1-3.30pm and Wednesday 11am-3.30pm.
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise!
Thursday 28th & Friday 29th May
Family Board Games
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Join Ann from Cards or Die who will be on hand to teach and recommend games from a huge selection. Find retro favourites and modern classics, with something for every age and ability.
Saturday 30th May
Roman Day
Chester Racecourse www.chester-races.com
Experience an action-packed historic family fun day. Kids go FREE, and all activities are included! Don’t worry adults, they haven’t forgotten about you! Get ready for thrilling racing, toe-tapping music from the DJ and plenty of good times.
AJ Bell Junior & Mini
Great Manchester Run Etihad Stadium www.greatrun.org
Manchester’s youngest runners are getting ready for an unforgettable Super Saturday! This exciting event gives Minis (3-8) and Juniors (9-15) their own race day adventure, complete with cheering crowds, music and that unforgettable finish line moment. Stars from the hit TV show Gladiators will also be on hand to ring the starter’s bell and fire up the start line. Secure your spot online.
Sunday 31st May
Discover Tree Climbing
Arley Hall & Gardens www.arleyhallandgardens.com
Children and adults can experience a unique activity within the canopy of some fantastic trees. Tree climbing allows children to develop physical and mental skills, gain in confidence and develop their team building skills, all at the same time as having fun. For ages 6 years and upwards.
Monday 1st –Tuesday 30th June
Free Registration Offer
Kumon
www.kumon.co.uk
The Kumon Study Centres are offering Free Registration throughout June. This is a great chance to save money while giving your child the skills to stand out from their peers. For more information and to book your child’s Kumon free assessment, contact your local Instructor via the website.
Wednesday 3rd –Sunday 7th June
Gandey’s K-Pop
Dragon Circus
Bodafon Field, Llandudno www.gandeyscircus.com
A dazzling East-meets-West adventure beneath the big top! Audiences are swept up in a global circus celebration featuring gravitydefying, awe inspiring acts from across the world. Set to explosive K-pop and Western pop anthems, it’s a high-energy spectacle.
Use code PT20 to get 20% OFF tickets! T&Cs apply.
Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th June
We Invented the Weekend
Salford Quays and MediaCity www.weinventedtheweekend.com
The festival of free time… with hundreds of FREE activities for you to enjoy – play and get active, try something completely new, make and create, eat and drink, watch amazing performances or sing and dance the weekend away! The festival runs from 10am both days and everything is FREE, no tickets required.
Thursday 11th –Sunday 14th June
Gandey’s K-Pop Dragon Circus
The Dips, New Brighton www.gandeyscircus.com
A dazzling East-meets-West adventure beneath the big top! Audiences are swept up in a global circus celebration featuring gravity-defying, awe inspiring acts from across the world.
Use code PT20 to get 20% OFF tickets! T&Cs apply.
Tuesday 16th & Wednesday 17th June
Royal Cheshire County Show
Clay House Farm, Knutsford www.royalcheshireshow.org
With over 5,000 animals, exciting competitions, hands-on activities, a fun fair, shopping, and delicious food, there’s plenty to explore. Enjoy live music across the showground, including “Late at the Show” on Tuesday evening, featuring a children’s show from 4.30pm with Bluey, more special guests, and plenty of kids’ entertainment.
Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st June
DogFest
Tatton Park www.dogfest.co.uk
A dog-first day out designed around space, exploration and a change of pace from the everyday hustle and bustle of city life. From have-a-go activities to open walking routes and sensory trails, there’s lots to discover. Whether your dog loves following new scents, splashing in water, tackling a course together or stretching their legs in scenic surroundings, there’s no shortage of ways to join in.
20% OFF with code PRIMARY20
Enjoy a day of countryside fun with award-winning livestock, equestrian displays,
Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th June
Arley Garden Festival
Arley Hall & Gardens
www.arleyhallandgardens.com
Specialist plant nurseries and garden accessories, creative corner and show garden design, along with a schools gardening challenge will be the highlights of the show. Plus, face painting, hands on animal teach experience, fun dog show, food fair, countryside activities and creative crafts marquee. Tickets include hall and garden entry, free parking, garden tours and question time marquee. Book tickets online now –you can use your ticket on either day.
Four separate weeks running! Children aged 5-18 explore material from hit shows like Hamilton, Six, Matilda, Grease, The Greatest Showman, School of Rock, and more. Each week ends with a fantastic showcase performance for family and friends. No experience is needed –their professional team creates a fun, confidence boosting week for every child. Days run 9am-4pm.
Wednesday 29th July
The Nantwich Show
Reaseheath College www.nantwichshow.org
Exciting main ring entertainment, countryside displays, hands-on activities, animals, and interactive demos. Meet farm animals, explore the new Garden Pavilion, and take part in fun competitions like the Best Great British Cheese Sandwich challenge! With over 300 stands, delicious food, and plenty of space to relax and play, it’s the perfect day out.
by Daren Proctor’s Grown Up Disco featuring Angie Brown, with amazing performances from Jamsaxx, Jess B & more. Free entry for day ticket holders. Evening tickets available at: www.royalcheshireshow.org With
Tuesday 16th June
Box OFFICE
Local theatres have a variety of stage shows and film screenings scheduled to entertain families over half term, with tickets available to book online now.
Bridgewater Hall
www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk
Sunday 17th May
THE HALLÉ FAMILY CONCERT: FILM FAVOURITES
Join the Hallé and entertaining presenter Tom Redmond for the magic of the movies, with a hand-picked selection of music from all your favourite family films. Performed live by your orchestra, this will be fun for all the family.
Floral Pavilion
www.floralpavilion.com
Tuesday 19th May
K-POP ALL STARS TRIBUTE
Feel the power of stadiumsized anthems, razor-sharp choreography, and a cast that delivers every beat with precision and passion. The show lights up the stage with breathtaking visuals, original choreography, and nonstop energy from start to finish.
Saturday 23rd May
JUSTIN LIVE
Get ready to sing, dance and laugh along with BAFTA Award-winning Justin, star of Something Special, Justin’s House, Gigglebiz and Gigglequiz as he and his friends are back in a brand-new live theatre show bursting with music, dancing and plenty of giggles.
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip… or promise!
Sunday 24th May
SUPERSLAM WRESTLING
Don’t miss another action-packed championship line up! Featuring top British titleholders who will face a host of international wrestlers, including stars from the USA, who promise to bring some American razzmatazz to New Brighton wrestling fans in this star-studded bonanza.
Tuesday 26th May
DINO TALES
There’s a baby Ankylosaurus lost in the forest who needs your help and you must find her before the Evil Zookeeper Scientist does… You’ll encounter Freya the dancing Raptor, Dylan the Dilophosaurus, Angie the Ankylosaurus, Scar the Spinosaurus and Bruce the mighty T-Rex. With a captivating story and an immersive finale that will bring the house down, Dino Tales is an unforgettable family adventure starring Europe’s largest walking dinosaurs to ever roam the stage.
West Kirby Musical Theatre Company is thrilled to deliver this heart-warming, high-energy stage adaptation of the beloved DreamWorks film. Packed with spectacular songs, hilarious characters, and stunning musical numbers, Shrek the Musical is a joyful adventure for audiences of all ages.
HOME Manchester www.homemcr.org
Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th May
THE SINGING MERMAID
A magical family show packed with music, puppetry and seaside adventure. Based on the beloved book by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks, this joyful production follows a mermaid lured into a circus, dreaming of home and freedom. With catchy songs, colourful characters and plenty of laughs, it’s perfect for children aged 3-8 and their grownups. Running at just 55 minutes, it’s ideal for little audiences.
Tuesday 2nd –Saturday 13th June
MALORY TOWERS
From the novels by Enid Blyton. It’s back by popular demand! Emma Rice Company’s Malory Towers is touring the UK again. Get ready for high jinks, high drama and high spirits, all set to sensational live music.
Saturday 20th June
PIRATE PRINCESS
Pirate Princess is a heartwarming story of hope against adversity told with physical theatre, clowning and circus. This brand-new solo show by circus performer and professional idiot Gemma Bond tells the tale of poor shipwrecked Princess Poppy. Can she overcome a big dress, extreme weather and the ultimate test of strength to see her way to safety?
Lowry www.thelowry.com
Friday 22nd –
Sunday 31st May
BLUEY’S BIG PLAY
Featuring brilliantly created puppets, this theatrical adaptation of the Emmy® award-winning children’s television series is packed with music, laughter, and fun for the whole family. When Dad feels like a little bit of afternoon time out, Bluey and Bingo have other plans! Join them as they pull out all of the games and cleverness at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag.
Northwich Memorial Court www.brioentertainment.org
Tuesday 26th May
MONSTERS INC
Daytime film screening at 11am. This hilarious computer-animated feature opens the door to a world of monsters and mayhem and scares up lots of laughs in the process. You can also enjoy 10% OFF food and drink in the café from 10am-1pm on the day of the film. Just show your ticket at the café till.
Wednesday 27th May
THE SOOTY SHOW
Sooty heads into town in a magical new show to delight the whole family! Join Sooty and friends for a spectacular mix of magic, music and mess which guarantees giggles from Sooty fans old and new. There’s even a chance to meet Sooty after the show! 11am and 2.30pm.
