Stuck on what to do over half-term? We’ve got it covered.
The half-term break is nearly here, and if you’re stuck on how to fill the kids’ time, look no further as we’ve got it covered! If you’re a parent, or will be looking after your grandchildren, nieces or nephews, we’ve got a boredom busting list of trips to take the kids on that shouldn’t break the bank.
1. If the kids are amateur plane spotters, how about Aerospace Bristol?
Anything to do with planes, and flying is always good at grabbing the attention of both young and slightly older minds. For starters, the main attraction just so happens to be the Concorde Alpha Fox which is the last Concorde ever to be built and flown. Find out how this amazing feat of aeronautical engineering was designed, and what it was like to fly as you can even sit in the cockpit! Plus, you can also have a go on a flight simulator and get an idea of what it’s like to be in the pilot’s seat.
2. Is Howletts Wild Animal Park calling to you?
Howletts Wild Animal Park in Kent, is home to over 50 species of animals, including Sumatran tigers, Western Lowland gorillas, European grey wolves, and Javan gibbons. Another impressive fact is while you’re there you can find the largest herd of African elephants in the UK, which is fantastic if your children get excited by animals and nature. This isn’t a usual animal park as it is a charity, so most of the animals you see will be released back into their natural habitats. There is also the chance to learn a lot about nature as the park is very interactive, and offers animal talks, as well as housing an educational centre. A truly enchanting day out for the family.
3. Go back in time at the Royal Armouries in Leeds
Have your kids seen the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings films, or read the books in school? If so, this will be a really entertaining day out for them. Not many people know that the museum has a unique collection of replica swords based on the weapons used in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films, so you get to see what the swords look like in real life. Impressively Leeds Royal Armouries also has the largest collection of armour and weapons outside the Tower of London with some of the swords dating back to the 13th century. At the museum you’ll be immersed in what it was like to be a Knight in medieval times, as well as learn about warfare, and the life of a modern-day soldier. And to top it off entry is free!
4. How about a day at the Beaulieu Motor Museum in the New Forest?
You’d be forgiven for thinking the New Forest only has outdoor activities on offer, but little did you know there is a hidden gem. This car museum is a unique place and is home to the Ford Anglia used in the Harry Potter films, attracting Potter fans from across the UK. So, if your children have read the books and seen the films, a day out at this museum would be right up their street. There is also a lot of nostalgia for the grown-ups; the car from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is on display here too, as well as Mr Bean’s lime green Mini. Fans of Top-Gear (again perhaps more for the grown-ups) will also be impressed as many modified and crushed cars have been retired to the museum, and are now on display. Oh, and if sitting down watching Formula One is something the family does, then you’ll be pleased to hear there are also ex Formula One cars to see too.
5. Anyone for an adrenaline rush at the SnowDome?
Taking the family to the Alps for half-term might be a bit of a stretch, but if you do want that authentic slope experience head to the SnowDome in Staffordshire. This impressive winter leisure centre has a 170-metre long ski slope with real snow, so if you want to brush up on your skiing or snowboarding skills this is the place for you. Lessons on the slope are also available to book if you don’t want to brave it on your own. There are plenty of other fun things to do as well, like ice-skating, tubing (going down the slope in an inflatable tube), and tobogganing. This is a great day out for everyone – especially if the kids are thrill-seekers in the making.
Make sure you have the right cover for your trip
If you’re planning a trip away in the UK for two nights or more this half term, it is a good idea to have the right insurance. If you’ve booked accommodation, transport or will be more than 25 miles from home – Sheilas' Wheels Travel Insurance can help protect you against cancellation and natural catastrophes.