Cheshire & The Wirral
FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2026 • ISSUE 201 2ND FEBRUARY – 15TH MARCH 2026
FEBRUARYTHISCURIOSITYFUELYOUR
43,000 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN
Welcome to our very first issue of 2026! It feels like we are only just back into the school routine and we already have February half term just around the corner!
We have lots going on in the area so take a look at our February Fun pages to help plan the week off school. There are a variety of indoor and outdoor activities so that you have some ideas up your sleeve whatever the weather!
Our annual Party Guide on pages 10 and 11 will provide inspiration for your all-important parties this year! Why not pull out those pages to keep or take a photo so that you can refer to them when it comes to planning.
Lastly, don’t forget to enter our competition on page 13 for your chance to win big with Hays Travel and easyJet holidays.
We will be back in March when the daffodils are out, bringing lots of springtime events and days out to add to your calendars.
Best Wishes,
INSIDE
LOCAL NEWS
FEBRUARY FUN
Helping you to fill your
PARTY GUIDE
CHANCE TO WIN
Win
BOX OFFICE
Local NEWS
This is our first issue of 2026 and we have plenty of news to share! Children have the chance to learn a new instrument and experience a lambing weekend, or schools can plan their next trip.
Future Yard offer Band Clubs and Instrumental Lessons
Future Yard is building on the success of their Band Clubs with the launch of an exciting new programme for 2026! Band Club sessions are tutor-led with real music professionals and provide an opportunity for young people to level up their musical skills, learn new instruments and play in a group, developing confidence in a fun, friendly and supportive atmosphere. The programme is open to a variety of ages from 3-12 and costs just £8.75 for a 40 minute session down at their venue in Birkenhead.
Band Clubs are more than just music lessons, they are a journey into the world of bands, creativity and performance. Secure your space on the programme today! W: www.futureyard.org/band-clubs
Spring comes to life at Reaseheath Lambing Weekends
28TH FEBRUARY & 1ST MARCH AND 8TH & 9TH MARCH
Spring is due to arrive in the cutest way at Reaseheath Lambing and Mini Zoo Weekends. Families are invited behind the scenes of a real working farm to meet newborn lambs and discover how farmers care for animals during this busy time of year.
It’s a brilliant chance for children to learn where food comes from and see farming in action, up close and safely. Alongside the lambing sheds, visitors can explore Reaseheath Mini Zoo and browse a Farmers’ Market full of local treats and crafts. Tickets are available online. W: www.reaseheath.ac.uk/lambing-2026
Dreaming of your next family getaway?
Hays Travel has teamed up with easyJet holidays to give Primary Times readers the chance to win an incredible £3,000 holiday voucher to spend on a holiday of your choice, plus £3,000 for your school to support learning, equipment or unforgettable experiences for pupils. Whether you’re planning sunshine in Spain, island hopping in Greece or a city break packed with culture and adventure, this prize could turn your holiday plans into reality. Even better, there is great availability for July and August this year as well as free child places with a wide choice of family-friendly destinations and flights available from your region, making it easy to travel during the school holidays.
With Hays Travel’s expert, friendly service, this means you can book with confidence and make the most of your prize. From beach resorts to action-packed escapes, the choice is yours and while your family is making memories, your school will also be celebrating a fantastic £3,000 boost.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to reward your family and your school at the same time. Enter now and start planning a holiday everyone will be talking about! W: www.haystravel.co.uk/primary-times
Escape the classroom with Zip World
Zip World sites across the UK are inspiring pupils through exciting outdoor learning experiences. Combining adventure with education, school visits help children build confidence, resilience and teamwork in a safe environment. Their educational visits are designed to support the curriculum while encouraging problem-solving, communication and personal development beyond the classroom. Suitable for a range of ages and confidence levels, these memorable experiences are popular with schools looking to engage pupils in learning outside the classroom while offering a fun and rewarding challenge. Contact a member of the schools booking team for more information. E: schools@zipworld.co.uk
BAND CLUBS +
February FUN
With a week off school coming up it’s time to think of some fun things to do with the children! We have lots of family favourites here, with a variety of indoor and outdoor activities so that you can choose your next adventure.
Don’t miss Dino Tales at Lyceum Theatre, Crewe
SUNDAY 15TH FEBRUARY
Dino Tales is an unforgettable family adventure starring some of the largest walking dinosaurs ever to roam the stage, a captivating story where you’ll meet Freya the dancing Raptor, Dylan the cheeky Dilophosaurus, Angie the Ankylosaurus, Scar the fearsome Spinosaurus and Roxy the mighty T-Rex. You and the kids will be jumping for Jurassic joy, so get ready for the ultimate Jurassic rescue adventure! W: www.dinotales.co.uk
The Wind in the Willows: A Garden Adventure
Join Mr Toad, Ratty, Mole and Badger for an unforgettable family day out at RHS Garden Bridgewater from 14th to 22nd February! Step into the world of The Wind in the Willows with a brand-new garden trail and hands-on activities, brought to life by EH Shepard’s enchanting original illustrations. The adventure begins this February – and the trail continues all year! Book online and save. W: www.rhs.org.uk/bridgewater
Fuel your curiosity this February half term at Jodrell Bank
Jodrell Bank is home of the UK’s largest radio telescope and a stellar day out for astronauts of all ages! From 14th-22nd February, children can be wowed by out-of-this-world experiments in a new Artemis-themed science show, blast off on a site-wide stamp trail, and get creative with cosmic crafts. Based in the Cheshire countryside, Jodrell also offers interactive exhibitions exploring the secrets of space, a journey through the stars in the immersive Space Dome, and delicious treats across two locally sourced cafés. Best of all, every ticket is an annual pass to return year-round! W: www.jodrellbank.net
Forestry England Delamere Forest invites families to step into a magical forest adventure with new Room on the Broom Trail
Visitors can join Witch and her friends on a spellbinding adventure through the forest. Help Witch find her hat, wand and bow along the way and collect magical ingredients to complete the spell. Each stop on the trail is packed with fun activities, fascinating forest facts and a sprinkling of woodland magic. Perfect for those with young explorers looking for a great day out! Accompanied by a £4 trail pack, available to buy at site, collect your own themed lanyard, magic spell cards and pop-out crafts to make your very own keepsake witchy wand. Plan your visit today! W: www.forestryengland.uk
Kids Adventure Days at East Lancashire Railway
It’s full steam ahead this half term at the East Lancashire Railway. Get your school holiday on track with East Lancashire Railway’s incredible lineup of events!
Visit with Alice and travel to Wonderland on Wednesday 18th February. Cast some spells with the wand wavers of the Wizard Academy on Thursday 19th February. And sink your teeth into a roar-some day out with the dinky dinos of the Dinosaur Adventure on Friday 20th February.
These interactive experiences take place on board a genuine heritage train, and you will get plenty of time to meet colourful characters and take photos! Find out more and book online now. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Shows kids will love at Floral Pavilion
Half term fun is guaranteed at the Floral Pavilion with the brand-new show The Dinosaur That Pooped: A Rock Show on Monday 16th February. The whole family will have a poopy good time enjoying new songs by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter, a lot of laughs and a whole lot of poo!
Looking ahead to Easter, Ministry of Science Live will be more explosive than ever, as they look at how science shapes the modern world we live in with a few loud bangs along the way! Then they also have Rapunzel – a hair-raising musical adventure bursting with original songs, cutting-edge digital scenery, and pure theatrical magic! Grab your tickets now. W: www.floralpavilion.com
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!
Running in Trentham, ST4 8JG from Friday 13th February until Sunday 1st March. W: www.gandeyscircus.com
Experience the wonder as Disney On Ice glides into Liverpool
THURSDAY 26TH FEBRUARY
– SUNDAY 1ST MARCH
This spectacular show at the M&S Bank Arena is the ultimate family treat, bringing beloved stories to life through world-class skating and stunning special effects. Watch in awe as Moana sets sail, Miguel journeys through the Land of the Dead, and the Frozen sisters discover the power of love. From classic princesses to modern heroes, there is a magical moment for every generation.
Don’t miss out on creating unforgettable memories this season. Grab your Mickey ears and get ready to believe in the magic! For performance times and to book your tickets, visit www.mandsbankarena.com
Free entertainment for families at Shakespeare North Playhouse
Visit Shakespeare North Playhouse this February half term, for a fantastic programme of family activities and events to entertain all the family! Enjoy a brilliant programme of creative fun and live performance, including a costume-making workshop to celebrate World Book Day, two delightful family theatre shows, Tidy Trolls and The Lost Property Library, plus a wide range of activities and workshops to mark Chinese New Year. Best of all, almost every activity is FREE!
Go along between Tuesday 17th to Friday 20th February for a week of free entertainment for all ages. W: www.shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk
Party GUIDE
Here is our annual Party Guide, bringing you inspiration for your birthday parties and events throughout the year! Don’t forget to mention that you saw it in Primary Times when booking your party.
www.catalyst.org.uk
All guests will enjoy time in the interactive gallery, filled with hands-on exhibits that encourage exploration of science and technology. Children can film in the TV studio, test the scarf shooter, create an animation, or build an exciting ball run! You also have the option to upgrade your package to include one of Catalyst’s hands-on shows or workshops for an even more memorable experience. Each party includes a grab bag of snacks for guests, and the birthday child receives an annual pass to Catalyst as part of their celebration. Visit the website to book your party today!
Top Party Tips
• When planning your child’s party consider venue, entertainment, food & drink, decorations and birthday cake
• Two hours is usually plenty of time for a children’s party
• It’s good to have the entertainment at the start, with food afterwards
• Ask about any allergies or dietary requirements on the invitation
• Put an RSVP date on the invitation so that you know numbers in advance of the party – this makes the planning and catering a bit easier
• It’s useful to have a basic first aid kit on hand or check if your venue has one you can use
• If parents are staying for the party, don’t forget the teas and coffees too, they are always welcomed!
The Ice Cream Farm
www.theicecreamfarm.co.uk
The Ice Cream Farm is the ultimate birthday destination for fun and excitement. Younger children can enjoy the Ice Explorers party, with soft play or sand and water play, party food platters, and a hands-on ice cream-making experience. Older children can take over The Loft, a private gaming arcade with party platters and plenty of space to celebrate with friends. Packed with laughter, activities, and of course, ice cream, these weekend parties create unforgettable memories for children while staying stress-free for parents. Every celebration is a scoop of fun from start to finish!
Use code PT15 for 15% OFF parties taking place before 30th April!
Jodrell Bank
www.jodrellbank.net/parties
Jodrell Bank host parties for children aged 7-9 on Saturdays, and they are truly a fun packed event! From 10am get hands-on in a one-hour Mars Rover Experience session which includes building your very own Mars Rover as a team, at 11am head to the Planetarium for an immersive Dome Show and exhibition, and from noon enjoy lunch in the Comet Lodge where each child receives a Jodrell Bank food box. Then between 1pm and 5pm guests can explore the interactive exhibits and activities. Plus, the birthday child receives a birthday card and a £10 voucher to spend in the gift shop! Digital invitations are included, and party bags can be added on.
Choose from a range of unique themed birthday parties for all ages!
Enjoy access to 85+ interactive exhibits, fun hands-on activities, and a dedicated party host
Xplore!
www.xplorescience.co.uk
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 science-packed fun for older children, Xplore! proves that unforgettable parties don’t have to break the bank.
WOW
What’s on Where in Cheshire & The Wirral
Saturday 14th –Sunday 22nd February
The Wind in the Willows: A Garden Adventure
RHS Garden Bridgwater www.rhs.org.uk
THIS SEASON
Room on the Broom Trail
Delamere Forest www.forestryengland.uk
Visitors can join Witch and her friends on a spellbinding adventure through the forest. Help Witch find her hat, wand and bow along the way and collect magical ingredients to complete the spell. Each stop on the trail is packed with fun activities, fascinating forest facts and a sprinkling of woodland magic.
Educational Fun
Zip World schools@zipworld.uk
Inspire pupils through exciting outdoor learning experiences. Combining adventure with education, school visits help children build confidence, resilience and teamwork in a safe environment. Educational visits are designed to support the curriculum while encouraging problem-solving, communication and personal development beyond the classroom. Suitable for a range of ages and confidence levels.
Discover Science
Catalyst
www.catalyst.org.uk
Catalyst is a great science-based family attraction with an excellent educational focus. At weekends and during school holidays everyone can have fun, taking part in hands-on workshop activities or see a family science show.
Family Fun
The Ice Cream Farm www.theicecreamfarm.co.uk
From soft play inside the Fun Factory to outdoor fun on sunny days, The Ice Cream Farm offers inclusive, interactive, and affordable play –come rain or shine.
Band Clubs
Future Yard
www.futureyard.org/band-clubs
Sessions are tutor-led with real music professionals and provide an opportunity for young people to level up their musical skills, learn new instruments and play in a group, developing confidence in a fun, friendly and supportive atmosphere. Ages 3-12, £8.75 for a 40-minute session in Birkenhead.
Sunday 1st February – Sunday 1st March
Snowdrop Walks
Rode Hall & Gardens
www.rodehall.co.uk
A beautiful end-of-winter walk for all the family with a wonderfully diverse landscape, over 70 varieties of snowdrops and woodland creatures to discover along the way! Courtyard kitchen serving breakfast, lunches and homemade cakes.
Open 10am-3pm from Thursday to Sunday. £8 adults, £3 children, £20 for a Family Ticket (under 5’s go free). Not to be missed – one of the finest Snowdrop Walks in the UK!
Sunday 8th February & Sunday 8th March
SEN Session
The Ice Cream Farm www.theicecreamfarm.co.uk
Visit for the opportunity to explore, socialise and have fun in a safe and relaxed environment with reduced numbers. 9.30am-12noon.
Friday 13th February – Sunday 1st March
Gandey’s K-pop
Dragon Circus
Trentham, St4 8JG
www.gandeyscircus.com
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 highenergy spectacle!
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!
Join Mr Toad, Ratty, Mole and Badger for an unforgettable family day out! Step into the world of The Wind in the Willows with a brand-new garden trail and hands-on activities, brought to life by EH Shepard’s enchanting original illustrations. The adventure begins this February – and the trail continues all year!
Launch into February Half Term
Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net
Children can be wowed by out-ofthis-world experiments in a new Artemis-themed science show, blast off on a site-wide stamp trail, and get creative with cosmic crafts. Based in the Cheshire countryside, Jodrell also offers interactive exhibitions exploring the secrets of space, a journey through the stars in the immersive Space Dome, and delicious treats across two locally sourced cafés.
Say you saw it in Primary Times
Monday 16th February
Space Dome Show
Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net
From rocket launch to life aboard a spacecraft, explore NASA’s cuttingedge Artemis programme and the search for life beyond Earth as humanity prepares for its next big journey – Mars! Don’t miss the new Space Dome Show, narrated by Richard Armitage.
Wednesday 18th February
Travel to Wonderland East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Join Alice and her delightfully mad friends for a topsy-turvy day where nothing is quite as it seems. Get ready for curious encounters, magical mayhem, giggles, jiggles and song! These interactive experiences take place on board a genuine heritage train, and you will get plenty of time to meet colourful characters and take photos.
Ted’s Space Adventure
Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net
Embark on an exciting adventure across the Solar System with Ted and Plant in the Space Dome! Packed with music and rhyme, this show is a perfect introduction to the planets for little space explorers aged 2-5.
Thursday 19th February
Wizard Academy
East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Grab your wizard robes and get ready for an epic adventure at the Wizard Academy! These interactive experiences take place on board a genuine heritage train, and you will get plenty of time to meet colourful characters and take photos.
Friday 20th February
Dino Academy East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Grab your explorer hat and get ready for a prehistoric day of dino-sized fun! Join the eccentric and knowledgeable palaeontologists as they take you on a Jurassic journey packed with thrilling discoveries.
Saturday 21st February
Stay and Play
Xplore! Science Discovery Centre www.xplorescience.co.uk
Stay and Play sessions are perfect for families looking to get out and experience the wonders of nature. Led by fully qualified forest school leaders, each session is a chance to explore the amazing woodlands, experience nature, and join in with the themed activities.
Saturday 28th February –
Sunday 1st March & Saturday 8th – Sunday 9th March
Reaseheath College
www.reaseheath.ac.uk/lambing-2026
See behind the scenes of a real working farm to meet newborn lambs and discover how farmers care for animals during this busy time of year. It’s a brilliant chance for children to learn where food comes from and see farming in action, up close and safely. Visitors can also explore Reaseheath Mini Zoo and browse a Farmers’ Market full of local treats and crafts. Booking required.
Saturday 28th February & Weekends
The Great Solar System Adventure
Jodrell Bank
www.jodrellbank.net
Journey to the stars in this special Space Dome Show, where you can learn about the wonders of the Solar System in an immersive planetarium-style adventure!
Win big with Hays Travel and easyJet holidays! One lucky family will receive £3,000 towards a holiday of their choice, plus £3,000 for their school. There’s great availability for July and August this year, with flights from your regional airport – the perfect reason to start dreaming! For full terms and conditions visit www.haystravel.co.uk/primary-times For a chance to win simply answer... What standard luggage allowance do you get with easyJet holidays?
To enter this competition please visit www.primarytimes.co.uk/competitions
Apply | Closing date is Monday 30th March 2026
Box OFFICE
Lots of lovely family shows to fill your half term time off and beyond. From dinosaurs to Disney On Ice, and even some free shows, there is something to delight all theatre fans.
Lyceum Theatre, Crewe www.dinotales.co.uk
Sunday 15th February
DINO TALES
Dino Tales is an unforgettable family adventure starring some of the largest walking dinosaurs ever to roam the stage, a captivating story where you’ll meet Freya the dancing Raptor, Dylan the cheeky Dilophosaurus, Angie the Ankylosaurus, Scar the fearsome Spinosaurus and Roxy the mighty T-Rex. Get ready for the ultimate Jurassic rescue adventure!
Floral Pavilion www.floralpavilion.com
Monday 16th February
THE DINOSAUR THAT POOPED – A ROCK SHOW!
Adapted from the best-selling books by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter, the whole family will have a poopy good time enjoying a brand-new story for the stage.
Lowry www.thelowry.com
Tuesday 17th –Sunday 22nd February
PINOCCHIO
In this adaptation of Pinocchio expect the classic elements of the story – a poor woodcarver, the tell-tale growing nose, the dream of becoming a real boy – combined with Stuff and Nonsense’s hallmark hilarity, skilled puppetry, original music, fantastic staging, outstanding performers and extraordinary physical tricks.
Wednesday 18th & Thursday 19th February
CHEVALIER: HOBBYHORSE CIRCUS
An irresistibly charming homage to the magnificent horses of circus and the silent movie era. Drawing inspiration from the history of traditional horse circuses, Kalle Lehto’s ringmaster performs acrobatics, juggling and balancing with an amazing cast of hobby horses.
Sunday 8th March
A BIG EGG
Inspired by Steven Lee’s beloved picture book, A Big Egg bursts to life on stage with a captivating blend of live action, playful puppetry, and stunning animation. This gentle, interactive musical invites audiences young and old to explore the miracle of new life and the joy of discovery.
M & S Bank Arena www.mandsbankarena.com
Thursday 26th February – Sunday 1st March
DISNEY ON ICE –INTO THE MAGIC
The ultimate family treat, bringing beloved stories to life through world-class skating and stunning special effects. Watch in awe as Moana sets sail, Miguel journeys through the Land of the Dead, and the Frozen sisters discover the power of love. From classic princesses to modern heroes, there is a magical moment for every generation.
Shakespeare North Playhouse
www.shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk
Wednesday 18th February
TIDY TROLLS
Adventure awaits as Albert the monkey, Brian the chicken and Rita the mouse prepare for The Tidy Trolls to visit in this entertaining show about friendship and keeping your bedroom tidy. A funny and free interactive show for the whole family!
Friday 20th February
THE LOST PROPERTY LIBRARY
The smoke clears on the once crowded platform, the outline of the Station Master is all that’s left as the train pulls away. He’s here to welcome you to the Lost Property Library – a place where lost stories, memories, and objects come to be archived and kept safe. Join awardwinning family theatre company for this interactive storytelling performance, where the smallest object can spark an epic adventure.
Tuesday 31st March
WREN’S WORLD
Wren and her sister Robin experience the world very differently. Robin seems to have it all figured out, but to Wren, the world is loud and busy and confusing. To make sense of it, she creates her own magical world full of adventure, where she makes the rules. But there’s about to be a big change, and for the first time, real life worries start to threaten the safety of Wren’s world. Can the sisters use their differences to help each other navigate this shift? A playful and affirming story that is brought to life with exciting visuals and stunning original music.
Say you saw it in
St Helens Theatre Royal www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com
Monday 9th February
TALES FROM ACORN WOOD
Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved Tales from Acorn Wood stories are brought to life on stage for the first time in an enchanting lift-the-flap experience.
Saturday 14th –
Sunday 22nd February
JACK AND THE BEANSTSALK PANTOMIME
Book tickets for this GIANT half term pantomime spectacular! Follow Jack on an unforgettable rags-to-riches adventure as he swaps the family cow for a handful of magical beans… much to his mum’s horror! When those beans burst into life and grow into a towering beanstalk, Jack is whisked away to a breathtaking world high above the clouds – packed with laughs, adventure, and larger-than-life fun for all ages.
Sunday 1st March
TAYLORMANIA
An award-winning extravaganza that plays tribute to one of the leading contemporary artists of our time. Katy Ellis, a self-confessed ‘Swiftie’ with an incredible live band and dancers will deliver the most authentic recreation of a Taylor experience. The show has already taken ‘Swiftie’ fans across the world by storm.
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!
THE DINOSAUR THAT POOPED – A ROCK SHOW | FLORAL PAVILION
DINO TALES | LYCEUM THEATRE, CREWE
© Pamela Raith Photography
Callum Clarke Choreography by Nazene Langfield
Dancers by Dyanmix Performing Arts College
A garden adventure
Half Term Fun, 14-22 Feb
Join Mr Toad, Ratty, Mole and Badger for an unforgettable family day out! Step into the world of The Wind in the Willows with a brand-new garden trail and hands-on activities, brought to life by EH Shepard’s enchanting original illustrations. The adventure begins this February – and the trail continues all year!
