The best family days out in the UK for spring 2018
NEW OPENINGS
Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland
It may date back to around AD122 but that doesn’t mean this landmark is immune to a makeover. The biggest news for this year is the £1.3m restoration and reopening of Birdoswald, the military fort near Housesteads. It now has lots of hands-on exhibits for kids, including an interactive Roman quest and a signalling game, which are reached through a gatehouse. The new museum at Corbridge Roman Town opens at the end of April.
Adult £6.60, child (5-15) £3.90, family £16.90, english-heritage.org.uk
The Bear Trail, Devon
Your family can dive into adventure at this outdoor obstacle course located in close proximity to Exeter, where getting messy is part of the fun. Parents can relish the excitement alongside their youngsters, making it a wholesome day of joy and bonding. The highlight of the activities introduced this season is the Leap of Faith, an exhilarating challenge that calls for climbing a five-metre high jump-off point, making a heart-stopping jump to seize an air cushion, and swing across the open space with nail-biting speed. Apart from it, it also offers thrilling zip wires and mysterious tunnels. Operating times line up with the school holiday period and on term-time weekends.
Online tickets are priced according to height dimensions, representing a cost of £6.75 for anyone over 1 metre tall and £4.05 for individuals below that height. The total price for a family pass stands at £24.30, thebeartrail.co.uk
The Man Engine Resurrection Tour, nationwide
The esteemed Man Engine, a remarkable towering mechanical puppet, reprises this year after its initial build in 2016 as a tribute to the decennial of the Cornish mining world heritage. Its grand reemergence kicks off on the 31st of March at the famed Geevor Tin Mine located in the region's western vicinity. This giant of 11 metres in height will venture into multiple sites within the south-west before steering towards Ironbridge and South Yorkshire. Every stop will give families an unforgettable afternoon experience with a more thrilling pyrotechnic display awaiting in the evening.
For your planning, price of daytime tickets is £10 for adults and £6 for kids. You can book in advance at themanengine.co.uk
InflataSpace, Newcastle
Parents often strive to encourage their children to enjoy the benefits of being in the great outdoors. Yet, there are days when all kids want is to let loose in an indoor play area. InflataSpace, a new activity center that just opened, caters to such days. The establishment offers an assortment of inflatable attractions, from the mild bounce houses designed for the littles, to more exhilarating, gladiatorial duel formats for older children and even adults. It presents a viable choice for fun entertainment, especially during wet weather.
Entry fee: £12 (4+), £5 for toddlers, Visit inflataspace.co.uk
The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, Somerset
In an unprecedented event in the annals of the palace, children are now able to mimic royal authority while standing atop a turret of this magnificent edifice that has served as the episcopal residence of Bath and Wells for eight centuries. The recently unveiled Prison Bastion Observation Deck, which opens its doors on Good Friday, provides panoramic views of the adjacent Wells Cathedral and access to some of the slender pathways bordering the fortifications. The Dragon's Lair, an interactive hub, provides a much-needed outlet for children's energy, however, the standout highlight is the spectacle of observing the resident swans toll a bell floating in the moat when they are ready to feed, a spectacle handed down over time.
Admittance: Adults £8.05, Children (5-18) £3.55, Family passes starting at £14.40, bishopspalace.org.uk
SPRING REOPENINGS
Alnwick Castle, Northumberland
Explore the realms of history and fantasy at the renowned medieval castle, which underwent extensive restorations during the Victorian age. The castle’s primary allure, the Dragon Quest, captivates visitors with its fiery spectacle that fuels the imagination. The Outer Bailey draws crowds of Harry Potter enthusiasts who attend the Broomstick training sessions, conducted in the exact location where Harry was seen engaging in flying lessons in "Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone". These enthralling sessions are complimentary but need to be secured upon your arrival.
Operational all seven days of the week, from March 29th until October 28th, Tickets can be procured online, priced at £14.40 for adults and £7.65 for kids aged between 5 and 16 years,alnwickcastle.com
National Show Caves Dinosaur Park, Brecon Beacons, Wales
Touted as one of the globe's most notable dinosaur parks, boasting over 220 full-scale dinosaur figures, this thrilling attraction is sure to captivate anyone with a passion for paleontology. Children can experience up-close encounters with a massive brachiosaurus or feel the awe-inspiring presence of a formidable T rex. The park also features three exceptional show caves, one of them being the Bone Cave, which unearthed 42 skeletal remains dating back to the Bronze Age. Entry also gives admission to an authentic iron-age settlement, a mystical stone circle, and delightful play areas.
The park remains open every day from 26th March to 4th November; £15 for adult and £11.50 for a child (age 3-16).Visit showcaves.co.uk for more details.
Groombridge Place, East Sussex
Nestled on the boundary of East Sussex and Kent, find an adventurous playground within the forest. Little ones can wander among towering tree walkways, let their imagination run wild in constructed tepees, and channel their inner explorer as they uncover hidden treasures. The woodland's ancient tree stumps provide an enchanting environment that may have your children scanning hopefully for fairies.
After a fun-filled day of adventuring, why not retreat to a nearby hotel in East Sussex? The Harbour Hotel Brighton is an ideal base for families seeking comfortable accommodations while exploring the myriad attractions East Sussex and Kent have to offer.
Within the sprawling precincts of a 16th-century manor house, additions reflecting traditional English country homes add to the allure. Get lost in a puzzling maze, test your strategic skills on an oversized chessboard, or simply interact with relaxed peacocks rolling around.
Join us for Alice’s Circus Adventures from the 30th of March until the 14th of April. Adult tickets priced at £12.95, children (between ages 3 and 12) at £9.95, and family tickets at £39.50. For more info visit groombridgeplace.com
Chatsworth, Derbyshire
The grandeur of this historic manor has been rejuvenated, marking the most significant restoration within the last two centuries. For curious minds, a visit inside will allow you to understand the intricate work involved in preserving such an estately home and unearth tales associated with its previous occupants. For those little adventurers, the great outdoors offers an exhaustive rope park for clambering, enormous slides for swift descents, and trampolines for their bouncing pleasure. Furthermore, a functional farmyard presents opportunities for hands-on experience with young lambs and chicks. Special programs for Easter comprise of an Easter egg treasure hunt, exciting face-painting, and creatively stimulating crafts.
Remains open every day starting from mid-March till the year's end; adult ticket price £23, children's ticket £14.50, family tickets priced at £65, chatsworth.org
Barry’s Amusements, Portrush, Northern Ireland
Many travelers journeying along the Antrim coast find themselves naturally drawn to the awe-inspiring Giant's Causeway and the neighbouring Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. However, for the under 16s looking for an entertaining diversion, this quaint seaside resort presents a delightful detour. It boasts family-friendly attractions like dodgems, a charming carousel, and an exciting big dipper. This amusement park may not be the newest or the most innovative, but the nostalgia factor and the joyful laughter of children make it an undeniably enjoyable experience.
It welcomes visitors on weekends and during school holidays, starting from mid-March up to the 2nd of September. Entry is complimentary, with ride fees paid via purchased tokens. See more at barrysamusements.com
WHERE TO SEE SPRING FLOWERS
Trewidden, Cornwall
Typically heralding the arrival of spring in the UK first is Cornwall, having announced the season's onset on the 26th of February in 2018. There's no better place to start your family's floral journey this spring than Trewidden in Penzance. Regarded as one of the esteemed Great Gardens of Cornwall, Trewidden boasts a stunning array of magnolias and camellias that, in defiance of the March snowfall, are coming to life. In addition, Trewidden is not just about the flowers - kids will be kept entertained with a specifically designed trail just for them.
Entry fee is £7 for adults, youngsters under the age of 16 can enjoy for free, Learn more at trewiddengarden.co.uk.
Blickling Estate, Norfolk
While the Jacobean hall and its history are intriguing – Anne Boleyn is said to have been born here – Blickling’s springtime gardens are a seasonal must. In the Great Wood, which dates back to medieval times, you can see carpets of bluebells from late April to May. Special bluebell walks will set off from the main car park at 10am on 26-28 April.
Adult £14.35, child £7.20, family £35.95, nationaltrust.org.uk
Ullswater, Lake District
The advent of daffodils is undeniably synonymous with the spring season. It was along this very lake where poet William Wordsworth, together with his sister Dorothy, chanced upon a vast swath of these iconic springtime flowers in April 1802. This event inspired Wordsworth's celebrated poem: I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud. Until the close of April, expect the daffodils to be in full bloom, enhancing the landscape’s natural beauty. For a unique perspective of this floral spectacle, consider renting kayaks, dinghies or traditional boats from Glenridding Sailing Centre.
The price for kayaks starts at £10 per hour, whilst dinghies and traditional boats are available for £25 and £35, respectively. Arch your visit by going to glenriddingsailingcentre.co.uk
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Hever Castle, Kent
The annual Tulip Celebrations (18-27 April) in the grounds of this moated castle (the childhood home of Anne Boleyn) feature 20,000 of the colourful bulbs. Bright blooms sweep down from the Italian Garden all the way to the lake and loggia. Inside, the history of the tulip, introduced to England in the Elizabethan era, will be explored. Kids will love the adventure playground, the Tudor Garden – which features yew trees carved into giant chess pieces – and both the water and yew mazes.
Online prices, adult £16.25, child (5-15) £9.20, family £42.95, hevercastle.co.uk
Benington Lordship Gardens, Stevenage
Enclosed within a traditional Georgian manor, the seven-acre Benington Lordship Garden offers an atmosphere akin to that of the fabled Secret Garden. Its exclusivity is maintained via selective open days, notably on Easter Sunday and Monday, from midday until 4pm, and during the latter dates 28-29 May, from midday until 5pm, thereby rendering it a particularly unique experience. The garden's features are expansive: an elegant rose garden, extensive double herbaceous borders, and inviting wildflowers such as cowslips and primroses. These proliferate amongst the spring bulbs on the verdant banks of the two ponds present in the garden. A path takes lead to the historical remains of Norman motte and Bailey castle, enhancing further the captivating charm of the place.
Entry fees: Adults £5, Age group 12-16 £2, under 12s can enter free, Visit website for more details
ANIMAL ATTRACTIONS
Skokholm, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Nestled in the Irish Sea not too far from the coast of Wales, there's a tiny gem known as Skokholm, which is somewhat less famous than its neighbour, Skomer. This Isle serves as a primary stopover for several marine bird species on their migratory routes, including a mass Skokholm return every March of Manx shearwaters from South America, and a variety of puffins. The island manages to avoid mass tourism due to its restricted access, which is only possible via a bi-weekly boat service, and guest accommodations limited to a capacity of just 20 people.
The cost for a three-night stay starts from £140pp, along with a return boat fare of £27.50, provided here.
Moray Firth, Scotland
The waters of the North Sea inlet, located in the north-east of Scotland, are home to a thriving population of bottlenose dolphins. Estimates suggest that these beautiful creatures number around 130 in this specific region. If you're trying to explore while staying within your budget, choosing a grassy spot at Chanonry Point in Cromarty and setting up a leisurely picnic could offer an equally rewarding experience. With a little patience, chances are high that you'll spot dolphins as it's their favored spot when it comes to feeding. There are also harbour seals often sighted lounging on the mudbanks. If you are lucky, the more distant waters might reveal the presence of a minke or even the occasional elusive killer whale.
For more details, feel free to visit moraydolphins.co.uk. This region is home to an abundance of marine life, creating a medley of nature's most captivating scenes. Not to mention, the grassy picnic spot at Chanonry Point could well become your favourite for its tranquillity and picturesque views, further enhancing your day out experience.
Port Lympne, Kent
The wildlife sanctuary situated near the southern coastline of Kent offers an authentic safari experience that includes the opportunity to witness giraffes, zebras, and the UK's largest herd of black rhinos in their natural habitat. Teens with a passion for wildlife conservation will appreciate the exclusive opportunity of spending a full day as a zookeeper. Younger children aren't left out either, with the opportunity to accompany staff on a special behind-the-scenes tour. The New Beach Holiday Park (starting at £129 for a 3-night stay) situated close to Dymchurch beach, is an economical option for a short stay and offers a range of entertainments including an indoor pool, arcade games and an adventure playground.
The online prices for adults and children are £22.50 and £18.90 respectively, while family ticket costs £82. Special animal course starting from £156 are also available for booking on the website aspinallfoundation.org.
River Cam, Cambridgeshire
Exploring the River Cam with Bat Punt
The Wildlife Trust of Cambridgeshire will be inaugurating its annual bat safari from 11 May to 25 September, showcasing the lifecycle of the bats as they fully awaken from their hibernation. Immersive Friday tours will commence from Cambridge in time-honoured punts before twilight and glide downstream, offering an auditory journey marked by the unique calls and echoes along the river (the significance of which will be elaborated during the tour). Additional bat safaris will be scheduled on Saturday evenings between late July to September.
Adult ticket: £20, Child ticket: £15, Visit wildlifebcn.org for more details.
Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly Farm
Shifting away from the typical Shakespeare-themed attractions, one delightful alternative is a tropical haven housing 250 species of butterflies. From the 3rd to 15th of April, children have the unique opportunity to interact with these creatures, by way of handling sessions. Here, they can hold African land snails, colossal millipedes, and Madagascan cockroaches. On a beautiful day, the shaded wildflower garden serves as an idyllic spot for a family picnic.
Adult ticket price is £7.25, child's ticket (age 3-16) is £6.25 and a family ticket is available at £22.50, check out butterflyfarm.co.uk for more information.
EASTER ACTIVITIES
Peter Rabbit, Kew Gardens, London and Wakehurst, West Sussex
The Easter holidays present a unique opportunity to witness the charming character of Beatrix Potter's Peter Rabbit come to life not just on film, but also in Britain's two renowned gardens: Kew and Wakehurst. From the 30th of March until the 15th of April, a variety of child-friendly activities will be scheduled, including tale-telling sessions, bunny ear crafting, and guided trails. Furthermore, children will gain both enjoyment and learning as they get a hands-on experience in vegetable cultivation (activities are available at both gardens and the cost is included in the admission fee.)
Fee details - Kew: Adults £16, Child (4-16) £4; Wakehurst: Adults £12.50, Under 16s Free, kew.org & kew.org/wakehurst
Castle Ward, Northern Ireland
This Easter holiday (until 8 April) at the real Winterfell (this was a Games of Thrones filming location) there will be the obligatory egg hunts plus the chance to honour one of the house’s most prolific former residents, scientist Mary Ward, on a bug-detecting mission. The Easter Fair on 16-18 April will include egg rolling on the lawn, while the Secret Shore Trail provides kids with plenty of fallen trees to scramble over, muddy puddles to jump in, and a fabulous viewpoint of the 18th-century stately home.
Adult £8.60, child £4.30, family £21.55, nationaltrust.org.uk
Loch Katrine Eco Camping, Scotland
This campsite, newly opened during the winter season, offers eight quaint mini lodges as the perfect retreat for curling up under a warm blanket and enjoying an evening of stargazing. Come the end of March (31st March - 1st April), all are invited to join the Mad Hatter Easter Extravaganza, happening close by at Trossachs Pier. The celebration's festivities include an Easter egg hunt and a special cruise aboard the historic steamship Sir Walter Scott. This iconic ship once transported Victorian visitors lured by the poetic descriptions of its namesake.
The lodges alongside the Loch are available at £80 a night, accommodating two guests, while the Mad Hatter journey on the Sir Walter Scott costs £16 for adults, £12.50 for children between 5 to 16, and £5 for those under 5 years old. Find more at lochkatrine.com.
Morden Hall Park, London
While Wimbledon common just a couple of miles away may have found fame with the Wombles, this lesser-known green space is every bit as pretty, especially in the rose garden where theatre shows are performed in summer. Set along the river Wandle, there are 50 hectares to play in, with droopy willow trees to climb, streams to splash in and plenty of places to hide. From 30 March-2 April Easter egg hunts start outside the historic snuff mill.
£4 a child, nationaltrust.org.uk
Cannon Hall Farm, Barnsley, Yorkshire
Discover the wonders of Cannon Hall Farm
Nestled within the Pennines' gentle slopes, Cannon Hall Farm, an illustrious farm-based attraction provides a delightful experience all year round, with Spring setting the stage for its ultimate charm. Up until April 8, an enthralling Easter Adventure requires enthusiastic little hands to restore the Easter Bunny's magical egg-producing device, promising a gratifying reward in return. The lucky participants will also have the opportunity to get acquainted with the Easter Bunny, making it a truly memorable experience. Further activities include sheep races and ferret competitions, as well as milking demonstrations and delightful tractor trail adventures.
For £9.95 if booked in advance, tickets encompass the entry to the farm,cannonhallfarm.co.uk