35,550 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN SPRING 2026 • ISSUE 202 16TH MARCH – 10TH MAY 2026
The daffodils are out and the weather is getting warmer… spring is definitely here! After such a wet and rainy winter, it’s lovely to be looking ahead to the longer days and spending more time outside. The school holidays are just around the corner (sneaking up on us early this year!), and we have a multitude of days out, events and activities for you to choose from in our Hop into Spring feature. You can use this guide to help plan some family time, and there are lots of Easter treats in there too!
From page 14 we have six fantastic family-friendly shows coming to local theatres over the coming months, so why not book some tickets to look forward to.
In our What’s on Where pages you will find a handy summary of all the things to do, all in date order, making it easy to choose what to do each day. We will be back in May, bringing you more events and news, but until then, enjoy the break from school… and have a lovely Easter!
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HOP INTO SPRING
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Local NEWS
News from across the county… Heywood Civic has reopened after a major redevelopment, the NHS advise about vaccinations, and local schools have updates to share.
Big stories and shared moments at Heywood Civic
Much-loved Rochdale venue Heywood Civic is back open after a huge transformation, and ready to welcome you with a programme of comedy, theatre, music and lots of family fun! Now with more facilities including a Changing Spaces toilet, baby change and the new Bar & Kitchen, Heywood Civic is the perfect place for post-school drop-off coffees with friends, learning and relaxing with community classes, and making memories with a weekend family show. Find out more about where to find Heywood Civic and how to book at www.heywoodcivic.co.uk
HULME GRAMMAR SCHOOL WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN
DAY
Historic first for historic girls’ school – Manchester High to open pre-school
Manchester High School for Girls (MHSG), in Fallowfield, is extending its offering to welcome girls as young as three, from September 2026. The independent all girls’ school, which boasts alumnae including all three of suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst’s daughters, is opening spaces for a select number of pupils.
Head Mistress, Mrs Helen Jeys, said: “We are a proud school of firsts, and this is the first time in our history that we are extending our education to three and fouryear-old girls. With strong foundations in place, girls are equipped to grow with resilience, ambition and integrity throughout their educational journey and beyond. As an organisation that believes so passionately in girls’ education, it is an understandable and deliberate evolution for us to offer a pre-school at Manchester High.” MHSG’s pre-school is set to provide a nurturing, yet academic environment for some of Manchester’s youngest girls, with teaching on early phonics and numeracy skills and a focus on emotional and social development. There will be a maximum of 16 spaces available in the class, who will be known as the ‘Little Ivies’. W: www.manchesterhigh.co.uk
At Burnage Academy for Boys, pupils come first and thrive through our values of resilience, independence and care.
Consistently amongst the highest performing schools in the country, boys make better academic progress here than they do at the majority of schools in England.
Alongside exceptional academic outcomes, we offer a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities and an award-winning pastoral programme.
Inspiring sporting excellence together Creating outstanding cricketing opportunities through our partnership with Lancashire Cricket Foundation.
Free classical instrument & tuition for all KS3 students
Developing the next generation of musicians through fully funded instrumental tuition with MiSST.
Protect your child against measles
Measles spreads easily and quickly – just a cough or sneeze can spread the measles virus to others.
1 in 5 children with measles will need hospital treatment as they develop serious complications.
Two doses of an MMR containing vaccine protects your child from measles. This also protects against mumps and rubella. All of these can be serious illnesses.
Please check your child’s red book today. If they have not had two doses of MMR, please call your GP surgery for an appointment. They can also check your child’s vaccination record and provide any other outstanding vaccines.
Find out why boys do better at Burnage
At Burnage Academy for Boys, every boy is encouraged to be the best that they can be. Alongside academic outcomes that are consistently amongst the strongest in the country, the school offers boys an exceptional range of opportunities. Through the year-round cricket programme delivered by professional partners, free classical instrument tuition via the MiSST programme, and access to outdoor education in the Peak District, pupils build confidence, resilience and lasting friendships. Recognised as the region’s ‘Most Inspirational Secondary School’ at the 2025 Educate Awards, families are invited to explore just how boys do better at Burnage. W: www.burnage.manchester.sch.uk
Ignite their potential at Hulme Grammar
At Hulme Grammar School, staff don’t just teach; they inspire. With a rich heritage of academic excellence spanning over 400 years, the school provide a seamless educational journey for your child. Experience this vibrant community first-hand at an Open Day this April. Whether you are exploring the nurturing Prep School, ambitious Senior School, or specialist Sixth Form, you’ll discover how they empower every student to thrive. Give your child the ultimate foundation for life. To book your place or learn more, contact admissions@hulmegrammar.org Your future starts at Hulme.
“One of the happiest and most effervescent schools we have visited.”
Hop into SPRING
There are so many lovely things to do this spring. Here are lots of ideas of places to visit during the school holidays and beyond, with plenty of Easter activities to delight the family too.
Hop, skip and spring into Easter with Miffy at Tatton Park
Follow Miffy into the Gardens, where little explorers can search for springtime surprises, play games and discover the sights, sounds and smells of the season. Meet Miffy’s farmyard friends as you help her prepare for a special Easter picnic before heading inside the Mansion to see what treasures Miffy has found! Running from Saturday 28th March until Sunday 19th April. Families can enjoy additional Easter activities between 3rd to 6th April, including free craft and storytelling sessions, a pop up easter market and chocolate rewards. A joyful spring adventure for the whole family! Tickets are now on sale at www.tattonpark.org.uk/easter
Get ready for traditional family fun at Daisy
Nook Country Fair
SATURDAY 28TH MARCH – SUNDAY 12TH APRIL
When you think of Easter, what springs to mind? Chocolate eggs, the Easter bunny and gathering with your family for a lamb roast dinner? But when you ask the people of Oldham, Failsworth and Ashton under Lyne, it’s Daisy Nook Fair that can be added to the celebrations! The Silcock family have presented this fair for many generations and have kept the tradition alive for local families by bringing some of Europe’s top attractions to Daisy Nook Country Park each year. This year, the fair returns from Saturday 28th March until Sunday 12th April, open from noon until 6pm each day. Expect lots of thrilling, high-energy rides, traditional family attractions, children’s rides, games, plus food and candy floss! W: www.silcocksfunfairs.com
Bents has it all for families this Easter
Spring into Easter fun at Bents with a packed programme of familyfriendly activities and seasonal surprises! Little ones will love Tiny Tots Easter Breakfasts, with a special visit from Easter Millie herself, and there’s plenty of time to get creative with Easter crafting sessions in partnership with Warrington Youth Zone. Add to that Bents’ Outdoor Adventure Play Area, Covered Beach and a choice of delicious dining destinations and your visit is complete! To find out more about these and Bents’ regular activities visit www.bents.co.uk or call 01942 266 300 Plus, keep a look out for extra egg-citing things to come in Bents’ Hidden Garden! New for 2026.
Don’t miss Gandey’s K-Pop Dragon Circus at Trafford Centre
THURSDAY 2ND – SUNDAY 19TH APRIL
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
There’s a whole host of eggscellent Easter and sweet-treat-themed attractions on offer as the theme parks are transformed from Saturday 28th March to Sunday 19th April. Guests can snap sweet selfies throughout the park – the perfect chance for a unique, Instagram-friendly photo opportunity. The Easter Bunny will also be making eggstra special appearances throughout each day, hopping around the theme park for many meet and greet opportunities. Extend the adventure with a magical short break package, with more themed accommodation to choose from than ever before! Book early to save more at www.gulliversfun.co.uk
FRIDAY 3RD & SATURDAY 4TH APRIL
The mischievous bob-tailed bunny, Peter Rabbit™, will be visiting the Bury Transport Museum over the Easter weekend! Visitors will be able to see Peter Rabbit at intervals throughout the two days, and there will be even more family fun with three fun fair rides suitable for toddlers, face painters and craft activities. Complete your day out with a ride on one of the East Lancashire Railway’s heritage trains through the Irwell Valley. A ride on any ELR train service is included in the ticket price! General admission tickets must be purchased online, visit www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk to book.
There’s Loads to Do over the Easter holidays
Manchester City Council has teamed up with communities and activity leaders across the area to bring all school holiday activities and events together on one website: www.loadstodo.co.uk
There are plenty of fun activities to keep children and young people entertained, from sporty holiday camps to family-friendly events. Plus, there are thousands of FREE places available to children eligible for free school meals, with a FREE healthy meal included. So, whether you’re looking for activities for younger children or older young people, there’s something for everyone on Loads to Do. W: www.loadstodo.co.uk/schoolhols
Easter Detectives at RHS Garden Bridgewater
Who framed the Easter Bunny? Become an Easter Detective… find the clues, solve the crime and rescue the Easter Bunny, chocolate reward offered!
A delightful new interactive experience is set to bring mystery and excitement to families visiting RHS Garden Bridgewater from Friday 27th March to Sunday 19th April, as the Easter Detectives trail invites visitors to step into a world of clues, suspects and seasonal fun. Embark on a puzzle solving adventure designed to spark imagination and teamwork as they work to solve the mystery of the missing chocolate in time to save Easter. W: www.rhs.org.uk/bridgewater
Big Fun for Little Runners – Manchester is calling!
Manchester’s youngest runners are getting ready for an unforgettable Super Saturday at the AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great Manchester Run. Taking place at the iconic Etihad stadium, on Saturday 30th May, 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. Adding to the excitement, stars from the hit TV show Gladiators will also be on hand to ring the starter’s bell and fire up the start line. Places fill quickly each year, so don’t miss out on the fun. Secure your spot online now! W: www.greatrun.org
Admits up to 5 people for £65. Exchange this voucher at the entrance of any Gulliver’s Theme Park by 10th May 2026. Original magazine voucher only; digital versions or photocopies will not be accepted. Cannot be pre-booked online. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to availability. Please check online for full park opening times and gate prices.
Interactive fun and a new exhibition at the National Football Museum
This Easter, get active at the National Football Museum and explore how football connects with the body, inspired by their new exhibition Head, Shoulders, Knees & Goals. Families can discover football through movement, touch and play with sensory experiences, inclusive parasport workshops and chances to test your skills with Yard Ball! Follow an interactive trail to learn how players train, move and care for themselves on and off the pitch. With hands on activities, creative moments and playful challenges throughout the museum, it’s a lively, inclusive way to explore how football energises both body and mind during the Easter holidays. W: www.nationalfootballmuseum.com
Step into Adventures in Wonderland at Z-arts
A magical interactive play experience for families with children aged 1-8. Journey through Lewis Carroll’s classic world, follow the White Rabbit, play croquet with flamingos, crawl through tunnels, get lost in a card maze, and join the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Perfect for a fun family day out full of imagination and adventure! Tickets: £12 per adult/child, under 1s free, family of four £40. M15 Residents & Bright Sparks Members: 20% off. Book now – tickets sell fast! Stay and explore Z-arts, Z-café, and Children’s Library during your visit too. W: www.z-arts.org
Spring into action at Camp Graystone over the holidays
Looking for an unforgettable school holiday activity? Graystone Action Sports’ kids camps run every school holiday and are packed with adventure, progression and fun. Expert coaches help children build confidence in a safe, welcoming environment, with camps for ages 7+ and Mini Shredders camps specially designed for under-7s. Whether beginners or experienced riders, every child learns new skills, makes friends and stays active. Based in Manchester, Graystone is one of the UK’s leading indoor action sports facilities. Give your child a holiday highlight they’ll never forget – book now and let the riding begin. W: www.graystoneactionsports.co.uk
SciTech Easter Holiday Club
Three days of Amazing Children with Amazing Science running from Wednesday 8th to Friday 10th April at Baguley Hall School (M23 1LB). The club runs 10am-4pm each day or you can book extended hours from 8.30am-6pm.
SCITECH’S HOLIDAY CLUB FEATURES:
Food Science – As a food scientist you will discover Molecular Gastronomy, Blind Tasting and Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream! You don’t just learn about it – you get to eat it too!
Animation – Learn how to make your own animations! You will be able to make drawings, computer images and even toys come to life using the mysteries of Persistence of Vision.
Time – See what can happen in an instant. Build your own time measuring devices. You will slow time down and speed it up.
Check online for more information and to book your space.
W: www.scitech.co.uk
Family SHOWS
A trip to the theatre is a special treat, and a perfect way to spend time together as a family. Here we have six fantastic shows that are hitting the stage over the next couple of months – take your pick!
Easter pantomime – The Wizard of Oz on stage at Albert Halls
SATURDAY 4TH APRIL
Follow the Yellow Brick Road this Easter for a magical pantomime adventure in The Wizard of Oz at Albert Halls, Bolton! Join Dorothy Gale as she journeys through Oz, befriending the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion to defeat the Wicked Witch of the West. Starring Steven Arnold, Basil Brush and Alex Bain, this spellbinding show is packed with songs, dazzling dances and laugh-out-loud fun. Perfect for ages 2 to 102, it’s the ultimate family treat. There are shows at 2pm and 6pm. Book now for a wickedly wonderful adventure in Oz! W: www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk
There’s a Monster In Your Show – Octagon Theatre, Bolton
TUESDAY 7TH & WEDNESDAY 8TH
APRIL
Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures for big imaginations are leaping from page to stage in a brand-new musical show that’s perfect for ages 2 and up! A group of performers are preparing to start their theatre show, but quickly discover they are not alone on the stage! Little Monster wants to be part of the fun too, along with his friends, Dragon, Alien and Unicorn. Expect comedy and chaos as they help to create a magical show while learning about the joy of books and friendship along the way. Tuesday 7th April, 1pm & 4pm; Wednesday 8th April, 11am & 2pm. Book your tickets online now. W: www.octagonbolton.co.uk
Don’t miss Gabby’s Dollhouse Live! at AO Arena
SUNDAY 5TH APRIL
Gabby’s Dollhouse Live! is a brand-new, a-MEOW-zing musical show, where Gabby unboxes a special acorn that needs the magical touch of a rainbow to grow. But when CatRat causes a colour cat-astrophe and breaks the rainbow, Gabby and the Gabby Cats must find the colours again to set things right.
Gabby’s Dollhouse Live! brings to life an exciting original story featuring incredible puppets, dynamic staging, a talented live show cast of singer-actor-puppeteers and songs from the beloved series, including “Hey Gabby”, “You Can’t Spell Meow Without Me” and “Sprinkle Party”. W: www.gabbysdollhouselive.com
Factory International presents Return to the Forest at Aviva Studios
THURSDAY 7TH – SUNDAY 10TH MAY
A magical forest comes alive through dance, puppetry and play – inviting us to reflect on what we treasure and how we connect. Step inside a museum where precious treasures are on display. But remember –strictly no touching! Dusk falls, the museum is closing, something is beginning to stir. A few visitors remain as the precious objects yearn to be freed. Is this a heist happening in front of your eyes? Don’t miss this new puppetry and dance show for families, created by Theatre-Rites and award-winning South African Choreographer Gregory Maqoma. Tickets from £14. At times audiences will be standing, sitting or moving between spaces. There’s space to sit on the floor for those who are able. W: www factoryinternational.org
FRI 22 MAY ––SUN 31 MAY 2026
The Hallé Orchestra Family Concert: Film Favourites at The Bridgewater Hall
SUNDAY 17TH MAY
Lights, camera, ACTION! Join the Hallé orchestra 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 the Hallé, this will be fun for all the family. Fancy dress is very welcome – why not come as your favourite film character? Arrive at the foyer from 10am for family fun and free activities, with the concert starting at 11.30am. The concert includes: John Williams – Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone: Hedwig’s Theme, Alan Menken – Beauty and the Beast: Be Our Guest, Michael Giacchino – The Incredibles, John Powell – How to Train Your Dragon, John Williams – Star Wars: Main Title, Alan Silvestri – The Avengers: Main Theme, Elton John – The Lion King, Euan Shields –conductor, and Tom Redmond – presenter. Concessions and discounts available when booking tickets. W: www.halle.co.uk/event/family-film-faves
Bluey’s Big Play at Lowry in May
FRIDAY 22ND – SUNDAY 31ST MAY
Back by popular demand Bluey, Bingo, Bandit and Chilli return to Lowry in the Olivier award-nominated live stage show, 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. With an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, and new music by Bluey composer, Joff Bush. This is Bluey, For Real Life. W: www.thelowry.com
Details of What’s on Where across the county, all in date order to help you plan your weeks ahead. Don’t forget to mention that you saw it in Primary Times!
THIS SPRING
Adventures in Wonderland
Z-arts
www.z-arts.org
A magical interactive play experience for families with children aged 1-8. Journey through Lewis Carroll’s classic world, follow the White Rabbit, play croquet with flamingos, crawl through tunnels, get lost in a card maze, and join the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Perfect for a fun family day out full of imagination and adventure.
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. Running until December.
There’s Loads to Do www.loadstodo.co.uk/schoolhols
Manchester City Council has teamed up with communities and activity leaders across the area to bring all school holiday activities and events together on one website! There are plenty of fun activities to keep children and young people entertained, from sporty holiday camps to family-friendly events.
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!
Friday 27th March –
Sunday 19th April
Easter Trail
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Follow clues and solve the mystery of the Easter Bunny in this interactive family Easter trail. Surrounded by spring blossom and bursts of seasonal colour, it’s an inspiring day out where families can roam the beautiful garden. Book garden entry online and save; free to RHS members and children under 5. Children aged 5-16 just £5. A £3 charge applies per child for a Detective pack and a chocolate Easter bunny.
Spring into Easter Fun
Bents Garden & Home
www.bents.co.uk
A packed programme of familyfriendly activities and seasonal surprises awaits at Bents. Add to that Bents’ Outdoor Adventure Play Area, Covered Beach and a choice of delicious dining destinations and your visit is complete.
Saturday 28th March
– Sunday 5th April
Lambing Week
Tatton Park
www.tattonpark.org.uk
See the newborns and learn all about them with the expert Farm staff. Closed on Mondays.
Saturday 28th MarchSunday 12th April
Daisy Nook Fun Fair
Country Park, Failsworth, M35 9WJ www.silcocksfunfairs.com
This fun event returns to Daisy Nook Country Park! Expect lots of thrilling, high-energy rides, traditional family attractions, children’s rides, games, plus food and candy floss! Open 12noon-6pm each day.
Saturday 28th March – Sunday 19th April
Spring Spectacular Gulliver’s World, WA5 9YZ www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Bounce along with the Easter Bunny and Candy Crew for mad-cap antics and eggscellent entertainment this April at Gulliver’s!
SEE THE ADVERT IN THIS MAGAZINE FOR A GREAT SPECIAL OFFER VOUCHER!
Easter with Miffy Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
NEW
Follow Miffy into the Gardens, where little explorers can search for springtime surprises, play games and discover the sights, sounds and smells of the season. Plus, meet her farmyard friends!
Head, Shoulders, Knees & Goals
National Football Museum www.nationalfootballmuseum.com
Get active and explore how football connects with the body, inspired by their new exhibition. Families can discover football through movement, touch and play with sensory experiences, inclusive parasport workshops and chances to test your skills with Yard Ball!
Monkey Madness
Treetop Nets, Zip World Manchester www.zipworld.co.uk
A brand-new experience, where mischievous monkeys await on the bouncy nets! This family-friendly Easter quest will see you leaping, exploring and sliding along Zip World’s giant net system suspended in the trees, whilst sneaking into the monkeys’ den to nab as many bananas as possible whilst their backs are turned. Perfect for ages 5+.
Saturday 28th March – Monday 4th May
The Giant Wheel Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
The Giant Wheel Co. brings you the ultimate experience in panoramic views with their 35m state-of-theart “Vision” Ferris wheel. Take in the scenery on the largest transportable wheel in the UK!
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LOADS LOADS TO TO
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easter easter Do Do
Sing, play, make – there are loads of activities for young people of all ages this Easter.
Plus, there are thousands of FREE places available for children eligible for free school meals, with a FREE healthy meal included.
There’s loads to do at loads to do. co . uk /schoolhols
Tuesday 31st March & Wednesday 1st April
Tiny Tots Easter Party
Bents Garden & Home www.bents.co.uk
Easter Milly has set aside time just for the little ones this Easter! Designed especially for toddlers aged 1-4 years, the Tiny Tots Easter Party features Easter-themed craft activities, musical instruments and dancing, an interactive Easter performance and a food plate for every child. 9.30-10.30am.
Thursday 2nd –Sunday 19th April
Gandey’s K-Pop Dragon Circus
Trafford Centre www.gandeyscircus.com
An adventure beneath the big top! Led by charismatic Ringmaster Joel and mischievous clown La Loka, the story follows a quest to reunite a baby dragon with her majestic mother. 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.
Friday 3rd & Saturday 4th April
Peter Rabbit
Bury Transport Museum www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
See Peter Rabbit™ at intervals during the two days. There will be even more family fun with three fun fair rides suitable for toddlers, face painters and craft activities. Complete your day out with a ride aboard one of the East Lancashire Railway’s heritage steam or diesel trains through the Irwell Valley. Ticket price includes a ride on any ELR train service on the day of your visit.
Spring Plant Fair
RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
A two-day event all about plants. Organised with Plant Heritage North West, find inspiration this spring in the Middle Wood event marquee, where a selection of Northern nurseries will sell a range of beautiful and unusual spring plants. Listen to a variety of talks and demonstrations to help set you and your garden up for the season ahead. This event takes place in the marquee within the garden. Normal garden admission will apply to enter the garden.
Friday 3rd –Monday 6th April
Easter Activities
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
Families can enjoy additional Easter activities on these days, including free craft and storytelling sessions, a pop up easter market with a glitter artist, and chocolate rewards. There will also be Easter trails with Miffy, and music and interactive storytelling brings classic Miffy stories to life.
Tuesday 7th April
Pressed-Flower
Pinch Bowls
Bents Garden & Home www.bents.co.uk
A creative clay workshop designed especially for children! In this hands-on session, children will be guided through making their own clay pinch bowl using simple handbuilding techniques. Once shaped, they’ll decorate their bowl with carefully selected pressed flowers, pressing them into the clay to create delicate, nature-inspired designs that reflect the beauty of spring. 9.30am & 11am. £15.
These action-packed camps are all about having fun, learning new skills and making friends. Mini Shredder Camps are for children aged 4-6 and Camp Graystone for children aged 7-13. All levels of experience welcome, lunch is included, and extended hours are available for the older age group!
Wednesday 8th April
Venetian Mask Making Workshop
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
Step into the magic of Venice’s famous Carnival in this familyfriendly mask-making workshop, inspired by the upcoming 2026 Canaletto exhibition.
Wednesday 8th –
Friday 10th April
SciTech Easter Holiday Club
Baugley Hall School, M23 1LB www.scitech.co.uk
Three days of amazing science featuring food science, animation and learning about time! The holiday club runs 10am-4pm each day, or you can book extended hours 8.30am-6pm.
Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th April
Toy Bank Weekend
Gulliver’s World, WA5 9YZ
www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
Enjoy discounted theme park entry from £15pp when you take along a new and unused toy (one per booking) to donate when you arrive. In support of KidsOut, your generous donations will help support local children in crisis.
Saturday 2nd –Monday 4th May
Princess & Pirate Weekend
Gulliver’s World, WA5 9YZ
www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk
There will be treasure treats, fancy dress events, themed activities and so much more at Gulliver’s World’s Princess and Pirate Bank Holiday Weekend takeover!
Monday 4th May
Dog Show
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk
Have an unforgettable day of fun and excitement at the dog show, featuring ten delightful novelty classes that are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
Sunday 10th May
Summer Music Sunday RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk
Enjoy an afternoon of music. Picture yourself in a comfy chair in the surroundings of the Garden, you are welcome to get up and dance too! Take your friends, family, or enjoy some solo time as you revel in the relaxing ambiance of the garden. Whilst there are deckchairs in the garden, due to the popularity of this event you are welcome to take your own outdoor seat or blanket. Take a picnic or enjoy some food and drink from the cafés. 2-4pm.
Thursday 9th April
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.
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!
Box OFFICE
There is a wide variety of family-friendly shows taking to the stage this spring, including an Easter pantomime! Book a treat for the whole family and choose your seats today.
Albert Halls
www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk
Saturday 4th April
THE WIZARD OF OZ – PANTOMIME
Join Dorothy Gale as she befriends a brainless Scarecrow, a loveable Tin Man and the cowardly Lion on their quest to thwart the evil powers of the Wicked Witch of the West. With a little help from Glinda the Good Fairy and the almighty and powerful Wizard of Oz, good is sure to conquer evil.
Tuesday 7th April
THE MAGIC OF SCIENCE
Fusing the mystery of magic with wondrous and miraculous feats of science. Hang on to your seats and experience a non-stop action packed interactive magical science show with experiments and magic that will capture the imagination.
Thursday 16th April
K-POP PARTY
Packed with the biggest hits and fan-favourite tracks from the smash-hit film K-Pop Demon Hunters. This high-energy, family-friendly show brings the world of K-Pop to life. AO Arena
Sunday 22nd March
SUPER LEAGUE BASKETBALL
The Super League Basketball Cup Finals will be staged for the first time ever at the AO Arena, Manchester! There are two hometown teams in the Men’s and Women’s Finals. Manchester Basketball will compete for victory in both of the day’s games, but they’ll face fierce rivals. Between and during the two games, enjoy live music and entertainment that keeps the energy high from start to finish. It’s a full day of non-stop excitement for fans of all ages, making it the perfect outing for families, groups, and hard-core hoops fans alike.
Sunday 5th April
GABBY’S DOLLHOUSE LIVE!
This show brings to life an exciting original story featuring incredible puppets, dynamic staging, a talented live show cast of singer-actor-puppeteers and songs from the beloved series, including “Hey Gabby”, “ You Can’t Spell Meow Without Me” and “Sprinkle Party”.
Aviva Studios
www.avivastudios.co.uk
Thursday 7th –Sunday 10th May
RETURN TO THE FOREST
A magical forest comes to life in a new puppetry and dance show for families, created by Theatre-Rites and award-winning South African Choreographer Gregory Maqoma.
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.
Heywood Civic www.heywoodcivic.co.uk
Friday 10th &
Saturday 11th April
THE DETECTIVE DOG
Julia Donaldson and Sara Ogilvie’s well-loved story
The Detective Dog is brought to life on stage for both Deaf and hearing families.
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 12th April
ICE AGE ADVENTURE LIVE
Journey back in time to meet incredible prehistoric animals in the coolest family show this side of the arctic circle. Join fearless explorers as they trek through snow-packed valleys, outwit sabre-toothed surprises, and make friends with the coolest cavemen, even bringing back some extinct dodo friends for the ride. After the show, get up close like never before and meet your prehistoric pal, the polar bear.
Saturday 2nd May
THE ULTIMATE BUBBLE SHOW
Prepare to be amazed as Ray Bubbles, international Bubbleologist and Guiness World Record holder, creates a volcano bubble, a soap bubble carousel, a bubble ghost, and even a tornado inside a bubble.
Lowry www.thelowry.com
Saturday 28th & Sunday 29th March
THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM PRESENTS DINOSAURS LIVE!
For the first time since 1881, the home of dinosaurs, London’s Natural History Museum, is going on tour!
Tuesday 14th –Sunday 19th April ZOG
Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s classic, feel-good story is brought to roaring, soaring life in this delightful musical for children.
Sunday 26th April
TINY PLANET
With breathtaking puppetry, original live folk songs and earthy percussion, uncover the mysteries that keep this little globe turning.
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. With an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, and new music by Bluey composer, Joff Bush. This is Bluey, For Real Life.
Octagon Theatre
www.octagonbolton.co.uk
Tuesday 7th & Wednesday 8th April
THERE’S A MONSTER IN YOUR SHOW
Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures for big imaginations are leaping from page to stage in a brand-new musical show that’s perfect for ages 2 and up. A group of performers are preparing to start their theatre show, but quickly discover they are not alone on the stage! Little Monster wants to be part of the fun too, along with his friends, Dragon, Alien and Unicorn. Expect comedy and chaos as they help to create a magical show while learning about the joy of books and friendship along the way.
BLUEY’S BIG PLAY | LOWRY
Easter Detectives – Who Framed the Easter Bunny?
Fri 27 Mar – Sun 19 Apr
Become an Easter Detective… find the clues, solve the crime and rescue the Easter bunny - chocolate reward offered!*
