Enjoy some incredible family attractions this Easter half-term W
HILE we hope our holidays will be all about rest and relaxation, they rarely are – especially if you’ve got kids in tow. But this Easter holiday, make sure you get a bit of peace and quiet by keeping the kids entertained, all day every day.
And with our selection of the very best activities and adventures, you’ll never struggle for choice. Check out our selection of the top ways to keep your break filled with fun... of interactive, hands-on exhibits designed to inspire children aged nought to 11 to learn about themselves and the world around them throughw play and discovery.
Eureka! gives children the opportunity to learn through play or ‘informal learning’, indulging their curiosity and stimulating their creativity. A world away from a traditional museum, where visitors aren’t usually allowed to touch or interact with exhibits, the displays throughout this amazing museum are hands-on, encouraging children to learn by testing, experimenting, exploring their natural curiosity and using their senses and imagination.
While most people have just put their clocks forward for spring, Eureka is celebrating the Easter holidays by turning its clocks back - waaaay back - for a bit of Medieval Mayhem between April 1 and 23.
Travel back in time to meet kings and queens, knights and a few damsels who are most definitely NOT in distress.
Challenge your family to see who’ll be victorious on the medieval assault course or construct your very own castle in some large-scale den building sessions.
On April 5-6 and April 19-20, you can test your chivalry, bravery and gallantry at Eureka! Knight School and watch falconry displays on Friday April 7.
Over the Easter Weekend (April 14-17), try your hand at entertaining a royal court with some very special jesters.
Older children (aged 8+) can join an adventure to explore the Land of the Goblins, while there will also be daily interactive story sessions led by historical characters.
Plus, in celebration of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, CBeebies’ brand new ballet collaboration with Northern Ballet, the BBC is bringing its Dancing Beebies extravaganza to Eureka! On Tuesday April 11 and Wednesday April 12.
The free family event will be held in the grounds of Eureka! between 10.30am-4:30pm on both days – and is open to everyone, whether they’re visiting the museum or not.
Families will have the opportunity to join in with dance workshops run by Northern Ballet, join in the fun and games at the Dancing Beebies disco, and attend an exclusive preview screening of the special adaptation before it is shown on CBeebies on April 17.
CBeebies’ Goldilocks and the Three Bears was recently recorded at the West Yorkshire Playhouse in Leeds. The programme is presented by Mr Bloom, who is joined by the Tiddlers (children from local schools), the Veggies and dancers from Northern Ballet.
Through a combination of narrative and dance, they tell the story of their adventure in CBeebies’ Goldilocks and the Three Bears as they accept an invitation to tea and get up to lots of fun along the way. Children at home are encouraged to take part in the party and join in with the dancing. To plan your visit or to simply find out more, visit www.eureka. org.uk or speak to the friendly staff on 01422 330 069. Travel along behind Hawk, Owl, Fox, Badger, or Katie, - five friendly little engines at the Kirklees Light Railway.
A trip over to Clayton West will land you in the home of Yorkshire’s great little steam trains, where you can climb aboard for a scenic journey along the 15” narrow-gauge rail through the beautiful South Pennine foothills.
The journey takes you to the Shelley terminus, where you can enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Visit the Shelley station tea room for selections of seasonal refreshments. Children can play in the outdoor play area and on a summer’s day, there is a large picnic area to enjoy.
Upon returning to Clayton West, passengers can take pleasure in the many facilities available to them. The outdoor play area is ideal for children to ‘let off some steam’ whilst the adults browse the extensive shop. The café serves hot and cold seasonal food and drink whenever the Railway is open.
Travel by steam train aboard the Easter Eggspress to Shelley to meet the Easter Bunny.
The Easter Bunny has dropped all of his food in the play ground and needs everyone to help him collect it.
He has also hidden some extra special Golden Eggs around the play ground too! The Bunny’s feeling very generous and everyone who helps collect his food in the Egg Hunt will receive a chocolate egg and there might be a bigger reward if you find a Golden Egg!
Come down and meet the Easter Bunny and enjoy some family fun at the Kirklees Light Railway. Visit www.kirkleeslightrailway. com or call 01484 865727 to find out more.