This is a relaxed session where the experience is slightly reformed to reduce the numbers of guests and minimise loud unexpected noises.
Making noises during the performance will not be discouraged and we have an available chill-out space for anyone who may become overwhelmed.
This relaxed experience is designed to benefit patrons on the autistic spectrum, make involuntary noises, or anyone looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Bring the family to celebrate Christmas at St Mary’s Guildhall and enjoy storytelling, gingerbread decorating and seasonal family fun with Father Christmas.
Join Father Christmas for a seasonal sensory story in the great hall, gingerbread decorating in the medieval kitchen, plus enjoy exploring the specular historical rooms along with a range of children’s crafts at the beautifully festively decorated venue.
*Please note this is a group experience which will be shared with other families at the event. Each child will have the opportunity for a short meeting with Father Christmas and they will receive a small chocolate selection box gift.
Bring the family to celebrate Christmas at St Mary’s Guildhall and enjoy storytelling, gingerbread decorating and seasonal family fun with Father Christmas and his helpers on Saturdays in December.
Join Father Christmas for a seasonal story in the great hall, gingerbread decorating in the medieval kitchen, plus enjoy exploring the specular historical rooms along with a range of children’s crafts at the beautifully festively decorated venue.
Please note that the 10:30am timeslot on the 2nd of December is a relaxed timeslot designed to benefit patrons on the autistic spectrum, make involuntary noises, or anyone looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Join us for a magical Christmas experience this December: Skate and See Santa at Planet Ice, starting at just £22 per child! Explore Santa’s enchanting realm*, meet Santa and his elves, receive a special gift, enjoy a corresponding public skate*!
Wander through a magical winter wonderland and snowy scenes before taking a ride on Coventry famous and enchanting vintage sleigh, pulled by two trusty reindeer. Your next stop? Lapland. Write your Christmas wish list, meet Santa in his festive grotto, tell him your Christmas wishes and collect your bespoke gift from a North pole elf.
Santa will welcome you to his sleigh lodge on level 3 of the shopping centre. He will show you a safety video and then take you through to the Virtual Reality Sleigh Ride…
Once on board, led by our very own D.A.S.H, you’ll be transported across the globe (and even into space!) as we give the sleigh a trial flight before Christmas Eve. Hold on to your hats and antlers everyone, this could be a bumpy ride…
After the ride the children will chat with Santa for a few minutes and each child will receive a small chocolate gift.
Seating up to 8 people, this virtual reality experience offers a perfect family attraction during the festive period!
Housed in Santa’s sleigh lodge on level three of the shopping centre, once aboard, you’ll be seamlessly transported into the virtual launch bay using our HD VR headsets. Your intrepid journey will soon begin, along with the incredible range of motions our sleigh has to offer; two front fans and surround sound for a fully immersive 4D experience. Tilting forwards, backwards and side to side, the sleigh’s movements have been specially designed to mirror those of the full 360 degree experience, creating a truly festive feast for the eyes!
TIMINGS
The complete Santa experience is around 15 minutes. Including the Virtual Reality sleigh ride that lasts for three minutes. Santa will be your host, to ensure the children get time to chat with him.
PRICE
£7.50 per person (minimum of two people)
Please note that all visitors must purchase a ticket to gain entry in to the Santa Experience.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Please ensure you arrive on time for the Santa experience, as late entry may not be possible due to demand.
The Santa Experience is located on level 3 of the shopping centre near the green car park doors.
You will be greeted by Santa himself and he will take you to watch the 2 minute safety video for the sleigh ride. You will then board Santa’s sleigh. The VR (virtual reality) sleigh ride requires riders to wear a VR headset. Very young riders that cannot wear the headset, can ride at the front of the sleigh and watch the content on a TV screen. This also applies to riders that suffer from motion sickness, vertigo, seizures or epilepsy. The sleigh ride lasts around 3 minutes and takes you on a journey around the world. Once that ends, Santa will spend a few minutes talking to the children and will give each child a small chocolate gift. The total planned experience time is 15 minutes for each booking.
Whilst there is not an age limit for the ride, each person must be able to support themselves as the ride moves.
Wheelchair users must transfer to the ride to gain the full ride experience. For more details please contact vr@westorchards.co.uk
Book your tickets now: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/west-orchards-shopping-centre?fbclid=IwAR02e6OAnEr5JOvNmGFMnbrWY_vh49XWwYENrjJGMnMSRYDdVwM9eNg0g2k
1st – 3rd December
We’re excited to introduce our first seasonal family weekend to celebrate all things Christmas!
Ceilidh in the Cathedral
1st December, 7pm-10pm
Dance into December with us in our bedecked Cathedral, complete with a decorated Christmas tree and fairy lights!
Book tickets: https://www.coventrycathedral.org.uk/events/christmas-ceilidh-in-the-cathedral
Christmas Market
2nd December, 10am – 2pm
Shop local this year with our independent creative stallholders.
Let’s Make
2nd December, 10am-3pm
Craft your own luminous lantern in preparation for Light in our Darkness.
Nativity!
2nd December, 4pm (SOLD OUT) & 7pm screenings
It’s time to sparkle and shine! The festive classic you know and love returns to where it was filmed, here in the heart of Coventry.
Light in our Darkness
3rd December, 6.30pm
Join us in a darkened Cathedral for this special service of music and readings for Advent. Looking towards the light and hope of Christmas.
Find out more: https://www.coventrycathedral.org.uk/worship-music/services
Join us for ROARsome fun this Christmas, as Dinosaur experiences presents Santa Claws! Experience a Raptor training show, led by joyful elves, where guests will be taught how to command a velociraptor, making it roar and dance.
Following the show, there will be an exciting meet and greet!
Saturday 9th December 2023 | Infant on lap (0-3) – Free
We’re unwrapping the ultimate gift this festive season – a massive, sparkling big wheel, right in the heart of the city. But that’s not all, we’re sprinkling a dash of enchantment with a festive market that promises to be a treasure trove of delicious eats, delightful drinks, and one-of-a-kind gifts.
Saturday 28 October – Tuesday 31 October 10am – 4.30pm
Get ready for a family friendly bone-chilling experience at St John’s Haunted House!
This hair-raising event will take place in October half term. Bring your friends and family along for screams and thrills! This Haunted House experience is suitable for children and their grown-ups, plus you can enjoy crafts and activities.
Get spooked as you explore rooms at St Johns House, see them as you’ve never seen them before. Discover the creepy story of Hansel and Gretel, go on a trail and hope the witch isn’t in the kitchen!
Make slime to take home and get messy making potions and enjoy messy play.
Adult tickets include a hot drink from Pickled & Tipsy Mobile Café, so you can sit back while your children make potions and slime. Undercover seated area available.
Bags of pick and mix sweets will be available to buy (cash only)
And dressing up is welcomed for children and adults!
Tickets are £12 children, £6 adults. Children under 2 are free. Spaces are limited so book soon at warwickshire.gov.uk/heritageboxoffice
• Some activities will take place undercover outside and in our activity centre so please dress for the weather.
• Disabled parking only available at St John’s House, please contact us in advance to reserve a space. Access to St Nicholas Park via St John’s Brook Gardens will be available for paid parking there.
• Coffee van serving drinks and snacks available
Throughout the festive period daytime visitors can discover the lavishly decorated guildhall including two real 18ft Christmas Trees visitors can also follow a fun festive trail around the Guildhall and discover clues based on the history of Christmas traditions. Suitable for children and for those young at heart!
Storytelling with Father Christmas
Dates: Saturdays in December (2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd)
Suitable for: All ages
Details: Join Father Christmas for a seasonal story in the great hall, gingerbread decorating in the medieval kitchen, plus enjoy exploring the specular historical rooms along with a range of children’s crafts at the beautifully festively decorated venue.
*Please note this is a group experience which will be shared with other families at the event.
Victorian Christmas
Dates: Wednesday 6th December
Times: 11 am and 2 pm
Suitable for: Ages 8+
Details: Experience a special Victorian themed experience at St Mary’s Guildhall. Including Carols by the Christmas Tree in the Great Hall, mulled wine and mince pies, plus a special one actor performance of highlights from Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol.
Visit our website to find out more information and book your tickets.
Christmas Lunch and Festive Afternoon Tea
To complete the experience, guests can enjoy brunch, lunch or afternoon tea in Tales of Tea – the atmospheric restaurant located in the Undercroft of St Mary’s Guildhall. Christmas culinary experience available from November 27th – 23rd December.
*Advance booking required subject to availability.
Visit our website to make a booking.
🎃👻 Get ready to boogie and glide at the ‘Boo-gie Night Halloween Disco’ at Planet Ice! 🕺❄️ Join us on Friday 27th October 8pm till 10pm, for a frightfully fun night of ice skating and amazing costumes! 🎉✨
⛸️ Take advantage of the spook-tacular 2 for 1 Ice Skating offer available exclusively online! Book now and bring a friend for a chillingly good time on the ice! 😱👯♂️
👻 Don your most BOO-tiful Halloween costumes and compete for the title of Best Costume! 🏆👑 Show off your creativity, and you might just take home a fang-tastic prize! 🎁👹
🗓️ Date: Friday 27th October – 8pm till 10pm
St Mary’s Guildhall will captivate guests with ghoulish medieval mysteries and unearth history dating back to the 14thcentury.
St Mary’s Guildhall is offering a string of Halloween events exploring real history and historic ghost stories in the heart of Coventry’s Cathedral quarter this October half term.
Gertie the Guildhall Witch is brimming with spooky tales and spellbinding fun, and is in need of curious guests to help find her missing cat.
Visitors must follow the Halloween-themed paw print trail which will include rhyming clues that will be left throughout the ghoulish medieval building in the hope to find her feline friend Tap. (The Meet Gertie experience is available from Saturday, October 28 until Tuesday, October 31.)
There will also be hands-on activities in the Guildhall’s medieval kitchen, hosted by the Guildhall’s Tudors, including making cloth pumpkins and willow wands that can be taken away and used to get into the Halloween spirit.
Young visitors can also find out about ‘grime and punishment’ from centuries gone by. Children were treated no differently to adults with some unpleasant punishments, and guests can learn about the scold’s bridle, tussy mussy, and why a bath once-a-year was a good idea.
Superstitions and top tips to ward off evil will also be shared, with ‘WhatsIt’ the barn owl, otherwise known as a ‘ghost owl’, dropping by on Saturday October 28 to Friday November 3.
Guests will tread the same ground as historical figures such as Mary Queen of Scots and Frederick Douglass and hear about the centuries of gripping history that unfolded in Coventry though an immersive digital tour.
Discounted entry rates apply, for Coventry residents with a valid GOCV card. To apply your CVGO discount online for Ghostly Guildhall please selected the ticket type you require, from the ticket drop down list.*
*Proof of validity required at time of admission.
For the fourth year running, Big Fish Little Fish returns to rave… In the nave!
This year’s theme is ‘animal fantastical’ so expect to swing, slither, and sashay your way into 2024 under the magnificent stained-glass windows of Coventry Cathedral!
On the decks will be all-around superstar DJ, Joe Hunt with a wicked, nostalgic mix of house, garage, and bassline for you to really shake a tail feather to – with the kids! The family-only dancefloor will be filled with bubbles, balloons, snow foam, confetti cannons, and a giant parachute dance finale. Plus, have a snuggle with your loved one during the ‘Midnight Moment Countdown’ <3
Your ticket includes:
2 hours of wicked adult dance music
NYE-themed craft activity
Cupcake decorating
Baby Chill Out Area with small ball pool, mats and tents
Toddler tents, tunnels and mega blocks
Playdough table
Giant colouring-in mural
Free children’s squash
The ‘animal fanastical’ theme is optional (but massively encouraged!) and a licensed bar will be available for a bevvy or two! This is a ‘light and bright’ (and very beautiful) venue and is being held on the 30th of December (the day before NYE)
Ticket Details
Big Fish Ticket (adult) : £14
Little Fish (child): £12
Mini Fish Ticket (not yet walking): FREE
A School of Fishes (2 adult + 2 kids): £48
(no hidden admin fees)
Please Note:
● Parents remain responsible for their children at all times.
● For families with younger children (8s and under) but all ages welcome.
● Pre-walking infants must be ticketed but are FREE.
● No adult-only groups allowed.
● Max of 3 children per adult. Larger party groups have one adult per two children. If there are over 4 adults per child in your group please email sophie@bigfishlittlefishevents.co.uk for pre-approval before buying tickets.
● Each member of your group must have a ticket. Will cost more on the door (if tickets are available) .
● Please be aware that events are standing with limited seating, and events hold around 500 people at each party. Each event is stewarded and risk assessed in advance
● Please be aware that as this event takes place in Coventry Cathedral with it’s magnificent etched windows, it will be light inside.
● BFLF sets and monitors the volume using World Health Organization guidelines – so that it is at a safe level for everyone, even the youngest babies, over the duration of the event. Though quieter than at adult events, it is still loud enough to feel like you are at a club. Most parents do not use ear defenders on their children but if yours are particularly sensitive to noise or if you want them to nap then you might want to consider it.
● Buggies must be left in buggy park and will not be allowed on the dance floor
● We may photograph/film parts of the event and by entering you are giving your permission for these to be used for BFLF or Coventry Cathedral promotion purposes.
● Please be aware that BFLF is designed to provide a family-friendly, authentic club experience and is not a traditional children’s party or disco. There will be no kid’s music, games, or DJ shout-outs. The effect is to give families unity on the dancefloor – dancing together
● DJs will be announced in advance via social media but may be subject to unavoidable change.
Come and experience a truly unique family experience with our Doze Under Dippy sleepovers. Stay overnight in the museum, snoozing under the feet of a 26-foot Diplodocus!
Join us for a night of exploration and fun-filled activities designed for children aged 6 – 11 and their grown-ups. This will be a night you will always remember!
Saturday 18th November 2023
During the event you will:
· Take part in torch light tours of the museum.
· Get creative with arts and crafts.
· Discover fun facts about Dippy and get hands on with our fossil collection.
· Wind down for a short film in our studio.
Lights go out at 11:30pm and then it’s time to settle down to sleep. Breakfast is served between 7am to 8am, and before departing you can join us for a wake up and shake up dino inspired routine to get you energised for the day ahead. Departure from the museum is at 9am.
* Individual tickets for adults and children must be purchased
Milkshake! Monkey is back and can’t wait to put on a spectacular new show for you all, joined by some of his favourite Milkshake! friends, plus two Milkshake Presenters creating the most dazzling show you have ever seen.Join Paddington, Daisy & Ollie, Milo, Noddy, Pip and Posy, Blue’s Clues & You! and of course Milkshake! Monkey for an unforgettable family time at Milkshake Monkey’s Musical.
Learn the amazing songs and dances with your favourite Milkshake! friends and watch as the music, the lights, the costumes and the stage brings Milkshake! to life. With great Milkshake friends, anything is possible.
This brand-new show has plenty of laughter, audience interaction and great fun to get everyone up on their feet! It’s a family show not to be missed.
Milkshake! Live Milkshake! Monkey’s Musical is produced by Mark Thompson Productions Limited in partnership with Channel 5 Broadcasting. Written by Miranda Larson, with creative direction and choreography by Derek Moran.
Get ready for a dazzling adventure with TSG’s upcoming pantomime, “Dick Whittington”!
Streets paved with gold?! Who could resist? Well, certainly not Dick Whittington! Join us on a fantastical journey through the enchanting streets of London as Dick, our courageous but cash-strapped hero, embarks on a quest to find fame and fortune.
But beware, lurking in the shadows is the infamous Queen Rat and her menacing army of rodents, hell-bent on sabotaging Dick’s plans! Fear not though, for he is guided by the magical Fairy Mary-Le-Bow, befriended by a rough and tumbling street cat, Tommy, and aided by the swashbuckling pirate, Calico Jack.
Prepare for a rollercoaster ride of laughter, extraordinary dance routines, and chart-topping music as we follow Dick on his quest!
Three Spires Guildhall breathes new life into this classic family pantomime, guaranteeing an evening of cheers, boos, infectious dancing, and wide grins that will linger like the Cheshire cat’s.
Climb aboard and set sail with us in search of fortune in this fun and frolicking family Pantomime! Don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime. Book your tickets today!
his season, Planet Ice present a fun filled version of the Wizard of Oz adapted by the Show & Skate class of amateur skaters and supported by their Professional on Tour cast.
This is an ultimate Classic for the entire family to enjoy. You will journey with Dorothy, Toto, and much-loved characters through a story of how you can transform yourself and others, for the better through generosity, kindness, and compassion.
Let us transport you into Oz with some of your favourite songs, amazing lighting production and beautiful on ice skate performances. This show has something for everyone and will leave you with that warm fun filled feeling;
“Toto, I’ve got a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.”
Guaranteed to fill the hearts of young and old with the spirit of Christmas.
This show features amateur local skaters who have learnt their craft through Planet Ice’s Learn To Skate programme, giving the skaters a real moment to remember under the spotlight.
Bring your little ones to see Santa, Ellie the Elf and the gang!
They have been so busy getting the presents ready for all of the children around the world that they have forgotten to get ready for Christmas themselves. Rudolph and Mouse are very sad that the workshop has no decorations or a Christmas tree and that there are no presents for them! They are going to need the help of all the children in the audience to make Christmas as special as it should be.
Santa’s Sparkly Surprise is the fifth show in the series written by Iain Lauchlan for the preschool audience. It will offer just as much fun, interaction and great songs to sing as all the others and the show will, of course, have a great storyline that the children can get involved in. So join us to get the festive season off to a magical start by helping Rudolph and Mouse bring Christmas to the North Pole and meeting Santa to give him your Christmas list and receiving an early Christmas gift from him.
Don’t miss it!
Louis Pearl has been thrilling audiences around the world for over 30 years with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. He is a favourite at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where he has enjoyed twelve years of sell-out success.
Louis explores the breath-taking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerised.
From square bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, fog-filled bubbles, giant bubbles, bubble volcanoes, tornados and trampolines to people inside bubbles, the Amazing Bubble Man conjures shrieks of laughter and gasps of amazement from all ages.
Nick Cope has been writing and recording his beautiful and totally unique family songs for over 10 years. He has a fanatical army of little and not-so–little fans from all over the UK, which has just grown immeasurably due to the phenomenal success of the CBeebies show Nick Cope’s Popcast.
Nick has a way of reaching into people’s hearts with songs of the everyday, igniting children’s imagination in an organic, unpatronising, educational and fun way.
The show appeals to children and adults alike. If you haven’t heard his songs or seen his shows before, come along and find out what you’ve been missing.
See the smash-hit production of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, as it returns vividly and noisily in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score.Join our intrepid family of adventurers and their musical dog on a quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud!
Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes, plenty of adventure and a few surprises along the way.
Based on the much-loved picture book by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury, this mischievous celebration of play is the perfect treat for families with children aged 3 and up.
A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood… Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
Cov’s Big Bike Ride is a FREE family event, suitable for all ages, with an official Start/Finish and activities at Broadgate, a family festival at nearby Charterhouse and sporting activities 5km away at The Millpool. The full 10km course can be broken up into smaller rides for those wanting to enjoy all the Heritage Open Day activities along the route. Family cycle hire will be available in Broadgate (ID required) as well as West Midlands Cycle Hire along the route for ages 16+.
It’s only 2km via a traffic-free route from Broadgate to the Family Festival at Charterhouse, then there are regular guided rides to the Loop Line which connects to the Binley Cycleway, where the Millpool is hosting sporting activities for all the family.
The course is open from 11am – 3pm, but activities are open from 10am to 4pm at Broadgate, Charterhouse and The Millpool.
Broadgate:
• Official start/finish
• Extreme Mountain Bike Stunt show with Danny Butler• Take a ride on the amazing Fly-cycle with Pif-Paf
• Food and drink
Charterhouse:
Family festival at Charterhouse. Explore three floors of historic storytelling, world-class Medieval and Elizabethan wall paintings and 70 acres of wildlife, with FREE entry to Charterhouse as part of Heritage Open Days.
• British Cycling Go Ride Course (bikes and helmets provided)
• Pedal power arcade
• The Bewonderment Machine, a cycle powered carousel for the under 5’s
• Free Venue tours
• Storytelling and book signing with Coventry Children’s book author Aaron Ashmore
• The Whittingham inspired orange marble run with Ludic Rooms
• The Gardens Trust lucky dip activity
• A QR code archaeology trail, revealing what is really beneath your feet
• Live music, face painting and giant bubbles
• Food and drink
The Millpool:
• CV Life bike sports and activity zone
• Try archery, cup stacking, rowing
• Enter the spin bike competition
• Food and drink
Travel to the event
Coventry is well connected.
Plan your journey to Cov’s Big Bike Ride by bike, walking, wheeling, public transport or car with the Travel Assistant. https://travel.yousmartthing.com/coventry_big_bike_ride
Event parking is signposted from Ring Road junction 3.
Cycle parking is available at the event hubs.
On September 16th the Cathedral Ruin will play host to a full day of activities including live music, children’s entertainment, interactive nature-based workshops, seed swaps, crop swaps, herbal tea making, local stalls selling local produce, plus tons more. Best of all, it’s completely free to attend!
We’re once again collaborating with the Food Union on another all day seasonally orientated festival celebrating local growers and producers in the city.
It’s going to be a great day for celebrating local producers and learning more about the great sustainable work going on in the city.
The wait is finally over and making a triumphant return to the events calendar for 2023 is the much-loved Coventry Half Marathon.
Recreating much of the previously popular route, the event will take place on the historic City Centre streets before heading to the nearby countryside and out towards Shakespeare’s county of Warwickshire.
Christmas Makers Market is coming back for 2023!
We are thrilled to be bringing our Christmas Makers Markets back this winter, after a big Christmas last year. We’re ready to bring the festive season of fiercely independent gifting back in FarGo style!
Join us this winter for your one stop shop for fiercely independent Christmas shopping, with lovingly handcrafted gifts, amazing local designers and some fabulously festive vibes!
Get the date in your diaries- Christmas is coming!
2nd of December from 11am – 5pm
3rd of December from 11am – 4pm
If you are interested in trading at this event, applications are open! For further information, to book your place or for any questions, please get in touch – markets@fargovillage.co.uk
Deadline for applications is: 10th August midnight
Christmas Makers Market is coming back for 2023!
We are thrilled to be bringing our Christmas Makers Markets back this winter, after a big Christmas last year. We’re ready to bring the festive season of fiercely independent gifting back in FarGo style!
Join us this winter for your one stop shop for fiercely independent Christmas shopping, with lovingly handcrafted gifts, amazing local designers and some fabulously festive vibes!
Get the date in your diaries- Christmas is coming!
9th of December from 11am – 5pm
10th of December from 11am – 4pm
If you are interested in trading at this event, applications are open! For further information, to book your place or for any questions, please get in touch – markets@fargovillage.co.uk
Deadline for applications is: 10th August midnight
Join Peter and Benjamin on their hair-raising adventures in this enchanting adaptation of the much loved Beatrix Potter classic – a treat for all the family.
Performance
Peter and his naughty cousin Benjamin know very well that they are not to go into Mr McGregor’s garden, but they cannot resist and soon they find themselves in all sorts of scrapes, caught In a net, trapped by a snarling cat and face to face with Mr McGregor himself!
How will they ever escape? Can Old Mr Bunny come to the rescue in time? And whatever will Mr McGregor make of all those footprints in the flower beds?
Michael Whitmore’s charming adaptation will have you spellbound so why not grab the kids, a blanket and a picnic and join Peter and Benjamin for a magical afternoon of fun for all the family.
Join us for a fun packed summer full of themed weeks at our different venues! We know all kids are different, which is why we are offering a wide range of activities – So no matter your child’s interest, there is something for everyone!
For the little athlete, we have football, tennis, and basketball camps, as well as gymnastics and trampolining classes! For the budding artist, we have arts and crafts workshops, drama classes, and even a cooking school! And for those who just want to have fun, we have a range of re-creational activities such as laser tag, dance parties, and even, pool parties! Our activities are suitable for children of all ages and abilities, and our experienced instructors will ensure that your child has a safe, and memorable experience.
Charlie loves reading. Especially books about pirates. But his sister hates it – it’s boring! Can Charlie convince her that reading is fun?Perhaps if she read a book about a pirate, who is reading a book about Goldilocks, who is reading a book about a knight…
Come and delve into a range of books with Charlie Cook, brought to life with puppetry and enchanting songs, and perhaps you will be able to help his sister discover the wonderful world inside a book…
Based on the original book Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book – written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler.
Creative Team:Adapted by Barb Jungr and Samantha LaneDirector – Samantha LaneComposer/Lyrics – Barb JungrSet/Costume Design – Ellie MillsPuppet Designer – Maia Kirkman-RichardsLighting Designer – Sherry Coenen
Text © Julia Donaldson 2005
Illustrations © Axel Scheffler 2005
Published by Macmillan Children’s Books © 2005
There’ll be fun to be had at Belgrade Plaza over the Summer when we’ll be putting on some FREE Children’s Craft Workshops. These will be running on 22 and 23 August, so why not drop by anytime between 11am – 4pm (no pre-booking required).
The British Motor Museum welcomes everyone to its 30th Anniversary celebrations and is committed to being accessible to all. Join us on Access Day on 16 August to enjoy a welcoming visitor experience for the widest possible audience!
Touch and sensory access tours allow visitors to get up close, bringing the collection to life. We will also be offering 15-minute accessible taster sessions with Young Driver for people aged 10 and over (pre-booking is required), as well as the chance to get creative with air-drying clay. Plus don’t miss our object handing sessions for the chance to get hands-on with a selection of artefacts from Britain’s motoring past.
We will be enabling those who need a quieter environment to enjoy our fantastic collection with Quiet Hours between 9am and 10am and 5pm and 6pm. A mobile changing places toilet will also be on-site all day.
The free, six-day event is back in Broadgate from Tuesday 25 July – Sunday 30 July.
Attendees can enjoy loads of free sport activities such as cheerleading, judo, rugby, table tennis and goal ball over the week.
Activities are suitable for all ages and abilities and a a quiet hour will take place each day from 10am – 11am for those who wish to attend the event without music and other noise.
Join us for some FREE family fun as we celebrate the release of this summers biggest movies!
📽
Get your craft on at our workshop, meet Barbie & Donatello & get in to character with face paints & glitter tattoos!
Friday 4th August – 11am till 3pm
Join us for an exciting adventure at the launch of our thrilling Dino Trail on Saturday 22nd July from 11am to 2pm.
Be among the first to embark on our brand-new Dino Trail, filled with prehistoric wonders and fascinating discoveries. But that’s not all! Our friendly ranger will be there with an adorable baby dinosaur, ready to create unforgettable photo moments for you and your family. And the excitement doesn’t stop there – we have FREE face painting available to add a touch of dinosaur magic to your day.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! Join us on Saturday 22nd July from 11am to 2pm, and let the adventure begin!
Join us on Wednesdays throughout the Summer Holidays for a host of exciting FREE activities to keep your little ones entertained. See below for a list of activities –
Wednesday 26th July – Dinosaur Craft Activities – 11am-2pm
Wednesday 2nd August – Face painting – 1pm-4pm
Wednesday 9th August – Dinosaur Craft Activities – 11am-2pm
Wednesday 16th August – Face Painting – 1pm-4pm
Wednesday 23rd August – Face Painting – 1pm-4pm
Wednesday 30th August – Dinosaur Craft Activities – 11am-2pm
But that’s not all! Don’t forget to take part in our Dino Trail, an exciting adventure that will challenge your little ones to hunt down hidden letters throughout our shopping centre. Pick up a passport and embark on a journey to find all the letters. By completing the Dino Trail, your children will have the chance to win an amazing prize of £100!
After all the excitement, you and your hungry little ones can head over to Salt and Vinegar. Simply present your complete passports to receive an exclusive 10% discount off your bill. It’s a great way to refuel and enjoy a delicious meal together.
Join us on Wednesdays throughout the Summer Holidays for unforgettable experiences, creativity, and fun. We can’t wait to see you!
They’re back…
The dinosaurs have escaped, and we need YOUR help to find them. Head to West Orchards Shopping Centre this summer.
Join us between Saturday 22nd July and Sunday 10th September, grab a Dino Trail Passport and hunt them down for the chance to be entered into a competition to win £100.
The Dino Trail launches on Saturday 22nd July, and we have some very special guests joining us between 11am-2pm so pop down to join in the fun.
Throughout the summer you’ll also find a host FREE activities in the shopping centre every Wednesday. These can be found below…
Wednesday 26th July – Dinosaur Craft Activities – 11-2pm
Wednesday 2nd August – Face painting – 1-4pm
Wednesday 9th August – Dinosaur Craft Activities – 11-2pm
Wednesday 16th August – Face Painting – 1-4pm
Wednesday 23rd August – Face Painting – 1-4pm
Join us in the shopping centre for some Roarsome FREE fun this summer!
Meet Dippy’s dinosaur friends in a live experience this summer! With interactive hows and encounters, this fun filled event is guaranteed to be ROARsome!
From juggling, hula hooping to plate spinning, our Jester School will include a variety of hands-on activities to teach you the skills needed to entertain a Tudor King and Queen, plus their distinguished guests! ?
Jester School workshops will be held on the following dates:
Wednesday 2nd August 2023
Wednesday 9th August 2023
Wednesday 16th August 2023
Wednesday 30th August 2023
The family fun Jester School workshops will start at the following times:
10.30 am
11.30 am
12.30 pm
Last session is at 2 pm.
Living History sessions
These will be held in the medieval kitchen every Tuesday and Thursday throughout the summer school holidays – July 26th to 3rd September 2023 (10am – 4pm).
Visit our website to book your tickets today.
From juggling, hula hooping to plate spinning, our Jester School will include a variety of hands-on activities to teach you the skills needed to entertain a Tudor King and Queen, plus their distinguished guests! ?
Jester School workshops will be held on the following dates:
Wednesday 2nd August 2023
Wednesday 9th August 2023
Wednesday 16th August 2023
Wednesday 30th August 2023
The family fun Jester School workshops will start at the following times:
10.30 am
11.30 am
12.30 pm
Last session is at 2 pm.
Living History sessions
These will be held in the medieval kitchen every Tuesday and Thursday throughout the summer school holidays – July 26th to 3rd September 2023 (10am – 4pm).
Visit our website to book your tickets today.
From juggling, hula hooping to plate spinning, our Jester School will include a variety of hands-on activities to teach you the skills needed to entertain a Tudor King and Queen, plus their distinguished guests! ?
Jester School workshops will be held on the following dates:
Wednesday 2nd August 2023
Wednesday 9th August 2023
Wednesday 16th August 2023
Wednesday 30th August 2023
The family fun Jester School workshops will start at the following times:
10.30 am
11.30 am
12.30 pm
Last session is at 2 pm.
Living History sessions
These will be held in the medieval kitchen every Tuesday and Thursday throughout the summer school holidays – July 26th to 3rd September 2023 (10am – 4pm).
Visit our website to book your tickets today.
Join us for music and merriment during the school summer holidays!
Experience family fun activities, including children’s Jester School*, specially created immersive Tudor experiences celebrating music, dancing and merriment.
Jester School
From juggling, hula hooping to plate spinning, our Jester School will include a variety of hands-on activities to teach you the skills needed to entertain a Tudor King and Queen, plus their distinguished guests! ?
*Jester School workshops will be held on the following dates:
Wednesday 2nd August 2023
Wednesday 9th August 2023
Wednesday 16th August 2023
Wednesday 30th August 2023
The family fun Jester School workshops will start at the following times:
10.30 am
11.30 am
12.30 pm
Last session is at 2 pm.
Living History sessions will be held in the medieval kitchen every Tuesday and Thursday throughout the summer school holidays – July 26th to 3rd September 2023 (10am – 4pm).
Visit our website to book your tickets.
From juggling, hula hooping to plate spinning, our Jester School will include a variety of hands-on activities to teach you the skills needed to entertain a Tudor King and Queen, plus their distinguished guests! ?
Jester School workshops will be held on the following dates:
Wednesday 2nd August 2023
Wednesday 9th August 2023
Wednesday 16th August 2023
Wednesday 30th August 2023
The family fun Jester School workshops will start at the following times:
10.30 am
11.30 am
12.30 pm
Last session is at 2 pm.
Living History sessions
These will be held in the medieval kitchen every Tuesday and Thursday throughout the summer school holidays – July 26th to 3rd September 2023 (10am – 4pm).
Visit our website to book your tickets today.
Join us for a fun packed summer full of themed weeks at our different venues! We know all kids are different, which is why we are offering a wide range of activities – So no matter your child’s interest, there is something for everyone!
For the little athlete, we have football, tennis, and basketball camps, as well as gymnastics and trampolining classes! For the budding artist, we have arts and crafts workshops, drama classes, and even a cooking school! And for those who just want to have fun, we have a range of re-creational activities such as laser tag, dance parties, and even, pool parties! Our activities are suitable for children of all ages and abilities, and our experienced instructors will ensure that your child has a safe, and memorable experience.
Join us for a fun packed summer full of themed weeks at our different venues! We know all kids are different, which is why we are offering a wide range of activities – So no matter your child’s interest, there is something for everyone!
For the little athlete, we have football, tennis, and basketball camps, as well as gymnastics and trampolining classes! For the budding artist, we have arts and crafts workshops, drama classes, and even a cooking school! And for those who just want to have fun, we have a range of re-creational activities such as laser tag, dance parties, and even, pool parties! Our activities are suitable for children of all ages and abilities, and our experienced instructors will ensure that your child has a safe, and memorable experience.
Join us for a fun packed summer full of themed weeks at our different venues! We know all kids are different, which is why we are offering a wide range of activities – So no matter your child’s interest, there is something for everyone!
For the little athlete, we have football, tennis, and basketball camps, as well as gymnastics and trampolining classes! For the budding artist, we have arts and crafts workshops, drama classes, and even a cooking school! And for those who just want to have fun, we have a range of re-creational activities such as laser tag, dance parties, and even, pool parties! Our activities are suitable for children of all ages and abilities, and our experienced instructors will ensure that your child has a safe, and memorable experience.
Join us for the Lunt’s most spectacular event of the year, when the fort truly comes to life! Marvel at displays from living history re-enactment groups, take to the field as part of our interactive Battle Drill and explore our Roman village.
Refreshments will be available from local food vendors, plus replica Roman goods will be on sale in our living history village!
We will have an early years takeover area, ready to keep our youngest visitors entertained and immersed in a world of play with open-ended resources that inspire imaginations.
You will also be able to explore this unique reconstructed monument, taking in the sights of the ramparts, the granary building and the only known Gyrus inside a Roman fort!
Each month in the gallery spaces we will be reading a 15-minute story about a different global artist. The storytelling will present a perspective on the artist’s experiences and will support children with their own interpretations of artworks.
After listening to the story, children will have the opportunity to reimagine our collections through the lens of the artist, by actively participating in discussions and drawing works on display in the style of the artist they have learned about.
UK Games Expo (UKGE) is the largest Hobby Games Convention in the UK – where all aspects of the tabletop gaming hobby are represented under one roof. The event consists of 2 trade halls with hundreds of exhibitors showing, demonstrating, and selling tabletop games of all types including board games, roleplaying games, card games, miniatures, family games and party games. There are tournaments, seminars and workshops and live entertainment shows. There is a large family area with activities for all ages, costumed groups portraying characters from TV and movies, Viking reenactors and a children’s treasure hunt. Other features include one of the world’s largest bring and buy market for second hand games, a massive open gaming area and board game library and a shop and drop. In 2023 it will be held 2nd to 4th June. It will be held in the UK’s largest convention centre- The National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham and the Hilton Metropole Hotel. In 2023 we will be using Halls 1, 2 and 3 of the NEC.
A stellar new joyful tale of star-crossed aliens, based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.