Free Things to do for the Family during Half-Term

They say “best things in life are free.” Here are some of the top attractions near our branches in Wakefield, Sheffield, Manchester and Warrington to visit this half-term holidays and, best of all, you won’t need to reach into your pocket for them…

Sheffield

Winter Gardens (Link)

Be transported into a plant world of a temperate climate at the huge glass greenhouse in the centre of the city of Sheffield. Have a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city and admire the unusual plants.

Monk Bretton Priory (Link)

Located east of Barnsley, Monk Bretton Priory features the substantial ruins of a Cluniac monastery, with an unusually well-marked ground plan. The Priory has a vast history dating all the way back to the 1100’s.

Monster Play- Meadowhall (Link)

Let the kids burn off some energy whilst you’re out shopping in this sheltered outdoor play area. There are plenty of fun challenges like cargo nets, walking the plank and even breaking out a tune on the giant xylophone.

Wakefield

Roundhay Park (Link)

Found just 3 miles north of Leeds, Roundhay Park is one of the most popular attractions in the city for its large size with plenty of things to see and do all year round. Covering over 700 acres of rolling parkland, you can find vast lakes, woodlands, formal gardens and several cafes, two playgrounds, the popular visitor attraction Tropical World and much more. Visiting the park is free, of course, though there is a small charge for Tropical World.

National Coal Mining Museum (Link)

Just outside of Wakefield is the former coal pit now open to the public as a museum. There are plenty of events on during the half-term holidays, all of which you can find here. Of course, you can go down the pit on a guided tour. To do this, you will need to leave a £4 deposit for a traditional miner’s brass check, which you can keep as a souvenir or return for a refund afterwards.

Pontefract Castle (Link)

Once hailed as the “Key to the North,” Pontefract castle has undergone many changes over the centuries and is currently undergoing major restoration that will see parts of the castle not seen since 1649 be open up to the public. During the half-term holidays, there are a variety of Halloween-themed events going on, which you can find out more about here. You can also go on a dungeontour, for which there is a small charge of £3 for adults and £1.50 for children from 5-16 years old.

Castleford Museum (Link)

Located on the top floor of Castleford Library, the museum provides a hands-on experience for the family, with a range of exhibits showing the history of Castleford. During the half-term holidays, there are a variety of Halloween-themed events. Click here to find out more about what’s on.

Manchester

Museum of Science & Industry (Link)

Manchester’s Museum of Science & Industry is based on the site of the oldest passenger railway station and is devoted to inspiring visitors through ideas that change the world, from the Industrial Revolution to today and beyond.

There are several events happening during the half-term holidays as part of the annual Science Festival, including a robots exhibition. Charges may apply for these events, though entry into the museum itself is free.

The Donkey Sanctuary (Link)

The mission of the Donkey Sanctuary is to improve the quality of life for donkeys worldwide. Their rescue centres are open to the public with free admission (though donations are welcome) and have locations in Leeds and Manchester, amongst others down the country.

IKEA Half Term Party (Link)

Just a stone’s throw away from our Manchester branch, in Ashton-under-Lyne, IKEA are celebrating their 30th year in the UK and the Ashton branch will be holding a kids’ half-term party, for IKEA Family members, on the 1st November as part of the celebrations. Featuring a DJ, party games, competitions, face painting and crafts, the party will take place in the restaurant.

Wythenshawe Hall & Park (Link)

This beautiful park is set in 109 hectares of open parkland in South Manchester, with historic and ornamental woodlands, herbaceous borders, formal bedding, open grassland and beautiful wildflower meadows. There are plenty of things to see and do, including a community-run open farm and more. Click here to see the full list of facilities in the park.

Warrington

Marbury Country Park (Link)

At Marbury Country park you can wander along the mere with splendid views over the water to the church at Great Budworth, or explore the arboretum and community orchard. Children will enjoy the play area, close to the picnic area. A great opportunity to see the wonderful colours that autumn brings.

Walton Hall and Gardens (Link)

Located south of Warrington and recently nominated for the UK’s best park, Walton Hall features ornamental gardens including picnic areas, a children’s zoo and café. Entry is free, though there’s a £3 charge for parking and fees apply for outdoor games like miniature golf and bowls.