Summer Spectacular

From rolling hills and quaint villages to vibrant cities and coastal wonders, Lancashire and Yorkshire boast a diverse range of attractions that guarantee a summer day out filled with excitement and adventure. So, let’s dive in and uncover the treasures that await in these magnificent counties, where endless family fun is just around the corner.

1. Head to Skipton this Summer for a Family Day Out

Start your day by joining in the festivities of Yorkshire Day on Tuesday, August 1st, from 10 am to 4 pm. Celebrate all things Yorkshire in the heart of ‘God’s own county.’ This family-friendly event offers a wide range of activities to entertain the whole family. From games and crafts to live performances, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to try the delicious local food and drinks that will be available.

Experience the Skipton International Puppet Festival 2023 with TEACH REX: Dragons, a delightful part of the Skipton Now festival. Join Teach Rex on an exciting adventure with friendly lizards! They will bring a magical book to life, and the best part is that you can be a part of the enchanting storytelling! After the performance, there’s an opportunity to get up close with the dragon, capture memorable photos, and groove along to a dragon-themed dance party. Join us at 10.15 am, 12.45 pm, and 3.15 pm at The Concert Hall, Skipton Town Hall, High St., BD23 1AH. Visit skiptontownhall.co.uk/events-calendar to grab your tickets for these amazing events.

Take the time to explore Skipton’s charming streets, visit local shops, and admire the historic buildings, including the magnificent castle.

Kids will enjoy the fascinating history and the chance to explore a real castle. The town’s canal adds to the picturesque charm, and you can make it even more memorable by taking a relaxing boat ride. It’s a unique way to experience Skipton and create lasting family memories. Don’t forget to visit Craven Museum. Connect with local characters and landscapes from the past in the family-friendly, accessible museum. Inside you’ll find a treasure trove of around 60,000 objects representing millions of years of Craven history, and best of all – it’s free!

When it’s time to refuel, Skipton offers a variety of cosy cafes, traditional pubs, and restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to try Yorkshire specialities like Yorkshire pudding, Wensleydale cheese, or a comforting cup of Yorkshire tea. There are options to suit every taste and satisfy everyone’s cravings.

Enjoy your family day out in Skipton, immersing yourselves in the local culture, celebrating Yorkshire, and indulging in delicious food while keeping the kids entertained! For more information, go to welcometoskipton.com

2. Visit Lancaster and Morecambe

There are lots of exciting events lined up as we move into the summer holidays in Lancaster and Morecambe Bay!

Williamson Park becomes a backdrop of various exotic destinations with The Dukes’ annual Play in the Park: Around the World in 80 Days (21 July – 27 August) –

 

and it’ll also welcome some Krazy Races on 17 September with thrills, spills and krazy soapbox-karts competing in a knockout-style competition!

Morecambe Pride will paint the prom with rainbows once more on the 29 July as a colourful parade takes to the streets. In August, Leighton Hall hosts its Family Month, with a teddy bear hunt plus a woodland walk, a caterpillar maze and a Tree Face Trail to discover.  Happy Mount Park’s Splash Park will be open throughout the summer for splashing fun in the sun –

and if the rain makes an appearance, Lancaster’s City and Maritime Museums are ready to welcome you for a day of exploration and discovery.

Plus – don’t forget to pop Vintage by the Sea (2-3 September) into your diaries for a weekend of fashion, music, food and family activities!

For more information about these and other things to see and do: www.visitlancaster.org.uk / www.exploremorecambebay.org.uk

3. History Comes Alive at the Royal Armouries, Leeds

Get ready for a free action-packed day out this summer by heading to the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds.

Start your day off by watching a thrilling horse show in the outdoor arena. Expert riders will showcase their Tudor riding skills and historical cavalry drills. You can catch the free shows at 11am and 2pm, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly.

Inside the museum, prepare to be amazed by live-action combat demonstrations. You’ll witness characters from various historical periods engaging in combat using authentic weaponry. Immerse yourself in the spectacle and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of battle.

Aside from the adrenaline-pumping shows, visitors can explore the museum’s five galleries. Discover a world-class collection of arms and armour, including extraordinary highlights like a life-size elephant dressed in armour, Henry VIII’s tournament armour, and weapons from the World Wars. Film and TV enthusiasts will also be thrilled to find famous props on display.

Admission to the museum is free, but it’s recommended to pre-book your tickets to secure your spot and avoid any disappointment.

Make sure to mark your calendars for the upcoming Jousting Tournament between England and Australia on Saturday 26th, Sunday 27th, and Monday 28th August.

“The museum’s impressive jousting arena in Leeds will resound to the cheers of crowds and the clash of lances on armour as knights battle it out in a full-on jousting tournament.”

With shows at 11am and 2pm, this event promises an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Tickets for the tournament can be pre-booked and are priced between £5 and £20.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity for a day filled with excitement, history, and entertainment. Head to the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds this summer for a memorable and action-packed adventure.

4. Affinity Lancashire, Fleetwood

This summer, there’s a huge range of FREE family events at Affinity Lancashire in Fleetwood, helping you to have plenty of fun when school’s out!

Come and watch the seaside shows on the 25th, 26th and 27th July, and the 22nd, 23rd and 24th August, then have a go on the free mini golf course on 1st, 2nd and 3rd August and again on the 15th, 16th and 17th August.

Or why not join the inflatable fun with a bouncy castle and slide at the centre on the 8th, 9th, 10th, 29th, 30th and 31st August.

If you like a bit of adventure, then don’t miss the AMAZING climbing wall and inflatables that will be at the centre on Saturday 5th and Saturday 19th August – or you can join Louby Lou the entertainer who will be performing alongside the FABULOUS Ebublio Bubble Magic on Saturday 12th August.

If all this isn’t enough, there’s our FREE Gaming Day Little Cod Club on Saturday, 29th July with appearances from Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach and the chance to create an Italian-themed sweet treat.

Then prepare for our HUGE Monster Takeover from Friday, 25th until Monday, 28th August, with the chance to meet the monsters at the Little Cod Club on Saturday, 26th August.

With the return of Artisan Street on Monday, 28th August, plus a fun Monster Mash silent disco – you can end the holidays with a visit to meet the Hawks and Owls on Saturday, 2nd and Sunday, 3rd September.

And whilst you’re at the centre, why not join Affinity Lancashire’s Summer Trail, where you’ll have the chance to win some great prizes?

As Lancashire’s only outlet shopping centre, Affinity Lancashire boasts over 40 high street brands at outlet prices, including Next, Sports Direct, Pavers, and Regatta, to name a few, all with savings up to 60% off RRP – and don’t forget the newly opened Fleetwood Garden World too! If you’re hungry, you’ll find a warm welcome and an excellent choice of independently operated cafés plus, there’s a free indoor soft play centre for the under 5’s. You can also park for free every day, and the centre is dog friendly! It’s easy to find Affinity Lancashire in Fleetwood at the end of the A585, just 15 minutes from Blackpool.

Find out more by visiting www.affinitylancashire.com

5. Discover The Folly: The Museum of North Craven Life

Free for everyone, the Museum of North Craven Life at The Folly in Settle is a perfect destination for families this summer. Find out how Settle grew from a small village into the thriving town we know today and uncover some of the stories of its past. The Folly is a Grade I listed 17th-century gentleman’s residence in the heart of Settle in the Yorkshire Dales. It’s free to visit, but they are an independent charity with no regular government funding, so do make a donation if you can

Each week in the summer holidays, there’s a craft or activity, from ice cream making to paper collage landscapes. Go green with microgreen planting on 25th July (plenty of time to enjoy your greens in picnic salads and sandwiches later in the summer) and get excited about returning to school on 29th August with dressing up ad dip-pen writing for Victorian School.

Why not come along on Tuesday, 1^st August and blow giant bubbles, then chase them around our lovely summer garden?  This FREE event takes place between 11.30 am  – 3.30pm and children can come along any time between those hours.

Throughout the holiday, The Folly hosts a light-heated poem competition inspired by their latest exhibition, Jean Harrison: A Life in Letters. Inspired by Jean’s poem about cheese sandwiches, they ask visitors to write a poem or draw a picture of their favourite real or imaginary snack.

With a gorgeous Coffee House which recently won Museum Café of the Year, why not stay for lunch? There’s plenty to choose from, including a wide range or gluten-free and vegan options, and all main meals can be ordered in child portions. There’s even a plain kids’ menu for fussy eaters!

 Discover more here https://thefolly.org.uk/

6. Bury Art Museum

Welcoming, warm, and friendly Bury Art Museum is the perfect place to enjoy art and learn more about Bury’s rich history and the surrounding area. Showcasing the best of international and local art and with the addition of Bury Art Shop and Tina’s Tearoom, Bury Art Museum can truly offer something for all interests. The collections and exhibitions are supported by a range of activities and events which allow visitors to explore and enjoy the Gallery and Museum further. FREE to enter.

Activities at Bury Art Museum

Gallery Explorer Trail
Come to the museum and participate in the explorer trail throughout the holidays. Pick up the sheet at the front desk.  Drop in during opening hours; there is no need to book this FREE activity. Bury Art Museum & Sculpture Centre is in the Culture Quarter of Bury, just across Kay Gardens from the Mill Gate shopping Centre and 45 metres from the bus and tram interchange.

Summer Holiday Workshops

Sat 22nd July 2-3:30 pm, Wed 26th July 10:30 am-12 pm, Sat 29th July – 2-3:30 pm, Wed 2nd Aug 10:30-12 pm, Sat 5th Aug 2-3:30 pm, Wed 9th Aug 10:30 am -12 pm, Sat 12th Aug 2-3:30 pm, Wed 16th Aug 10:30 am -12 pm, Sat 19th Aug 2-3:30pm, Wed 23rd Aug 10:30 am -12 pm, Sat 26th  Aug 2-3:30 pm, Wed 30th Aug 10:30-12 pm.

This summer holiday has themed workshops for families, suitable for children aged 4-11 years. Drop-in, no need to book. £3 per child. Please see the website for more details and for information about other activities, got to BuryArtMuseum.co.uk

7.Yorkshire Air Museum

Attention all half-term adventurers! Get ready to soar through the skies of excitement at the Yorkshire Air Museum in Elvington, where a world-class aircraft collection awaits you. From the pioneers of flight to the lightning-fast supersonic jets, this museum has it all!

This summer prepare for an extraordinary experience with the thrilling HIDDEN HARRIERS TRAIL. Running throughout the entire summer, embark on a mission to find the elusive Hidden Harriers scattered throughout the museum grounds. Keep your eyes peeled for ‘H’ the Harrier jump jet, cleverly camouflaged in ten secret locations. Can you discover all of H’s hiding places and uncover the letters that form the top-secret word? This captivating trail is absolutely free and perfect for kids of all ages!

Landing this summer is our brand-new play experience, exclusive to children aged 12 and below.  Our special aviation-themed playground will have you sliding, climbing, and generally burning off that summer energy. The new purpose-built area is wheelchair accessible and is open throughout your visit.

Want to dive deeper into history? Discover the gripping exhibition, Minutes to Midnight – hot jets in the cold war. Explore the pivotal role of aircraft during the tense Cold War period, where Western nations and the Soviet Union locked horns in a nuclear stalemate. Unveiled on April 21st, this captivating exhibition spans the entire museum, from the grand main hangar to the immersive cinema. Delve into personal reflections, experiencing first-hand the Cold War’s impact on British culture.

The site is wheelchair accessible, except for the first floor of the Control Tower, and dog- friendly and has a free car park. Yorkshire Air Museum is open seven days per week throughout the summer, 10am – 5pm. yorkshireairmuseum.org

8. Visit the East Lancashire Railway in Bury for a Day Out with Thomas

You’ll meet the Little Blue Engine himself, along with Sir Topham Hatt, on this spectacular, family-friendly day out!

Your day begins in bustling Bury. Here you will meet Sir Topham, who will be watching over everything to ensure that all the engines are on their best behaviour and that there is no confusion and delay. You will also get the chance to say hello to Thomas, who will be at the station waiting to take you on a steam train trip to Ramsbottom through the beautiful Irwell Valley.

You will enjoy a quick break at Ramsbottom before one of the dynamic diesels pulls you back to Bury; from here it’s just a short stroll over the road to the Bury Transport Museum for even more fun. Here you’ll find loads more Thomas-themed activities, including stories, colouring and drawing, fun fair rides, face painting and balloon modelling. Those cheeky station sweepers Rusty and Dusty will also sing, dance and entertain throughout the day.

Don’t worry about getting hungry during your adventure. Our own Trackside Pub offers a menu filled with family-friendly options, from traditional treats like Fish and Chips to savoury Salt and Pepper Squid and sweets like Toffee Sundaes.

All Aboard dates: 5th – 6th August, 30th September, 1st October 2023

Find out more and book now:www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk/events-activities/day-out-with-thomas/

9. Holmes Mill, Clitheroe

Located in the heart of Clitheroe, Holmes Mill, a former textile mill, has been reinvented as an amazing shopping, dining and leisure destination creating the perfect place for a family day out.

Start your day with a hearty brunch in the Bowland Food Hall before browsing their extensive range of produce from the finest local suppliers.

Make it a day for the whole family with a trip to the Duckpin Bowling Alley or the Everyman Cinema. There is fun for all ages, whether they are big kids or little ones. Don’t forget to visit the famous Gelateria and enjoy a scoop or two of the Holmes-Made ice cream. With delicious new flavours each week, there is plenty to choose from!

Stop off at Bowland Beer Hall to enjoy a drink at the incredible 105ft bar, one of the longest bars in the UK! Why not try a pint of their delicious Bowland Brewery ale? Brewed right on site.

If you are looking for something a little more glamorous to end your day, enjoy a cocktail in The Bar & Grill’s stunning surroundings while browsing the sophisticated grill menu.

After a busy day of shopping, dining and exploring, enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep at the Spinning Block Hotel. With 39 individually designed and decorated bedrooms, there really is no better place to enjoy a restful night’s sleep.

Enjoy a summer filled with fun for all the family with a fantastic selection of events at Holmes Mill! From live music sessions and themed dinners to brewery tours and a celebration of the finest local foods at Clitheroe Food Festival, Holmes Mill really is the perfect place to indulge, unwind and explore.

10. Ride On at The Steven Burke Sports Hub

Open to everyone and free of charge, the Hub is a great place for the experienced rider to train, but it also provides a safe place for beginners or those lacking confidence. Faster riders use the outside of the track with slower riders on the inside so everyone, whatever their ability, can enjoy the circuit. The BMX pump track is also free to use and is very exciting with its professionally designed berms and curves winding in and out of the trees.

The Steven Burke Sports Hub sits in beautiful surroundings with access to wonderful places within the vicinity. So whether you visit the cycle and BMX tracks or make a full day of it in Pendle, the hub is a fabulous place to start for a free day out on a bike.

It is a great place to practice and venture out on a longer ride on the towpath. The hub has no facilities, but Asda café, Booths café and Pendle Heritage Centre are all nearby. If you want to venture further and make a day of it, you can peddle up to Foulridge and have a brew at the ‘Wharf at Foulridge’ right next to the canal or even further up to Greenberfield Locks where there is another chance to stop off at the ‘Lock Stop’ for a brew and a slice of cake.

The Steven Burke Sports Hub can be found at Swinden Playing Fields, Nelson.  The hub is easily accessed off the M65 motorway, junction 13. Take the Pendle Heritage Centre/Barrowford exit off the roundabout. Look for the right turn into Wilton St to the car park. Follow the path under the motorway bridge to the BMX track and cycle circuit.

Go Velo will run activities at the hub free of charge throughout the summer; head to govelo.co.uk for more info.

Discover more fantastic days out in the north by following going to www.northernlifemagazine.co.uk/whatson

11. Fusilier Museum

Explore and discover more at The Fusilier Museum, Bury, which tells the fascinating stories of The Lancashire Fusiliers and Royal Regiment of Fusiliers.

Come face-to-face with heroes of the past in two hands-on galleries, a WW1 replica trench, medal room and Quartermasters Store, which includes uniforms, artefacts, personal items, and previously unseen materials relating to both regiments.

Our most recent addition is a new, interactive shooting simulator replicating the ACMT (Annual Combat Marksmanship Test). The simulator is a fun, highly immersive experience which brings out anyone’s competitive instincts whilst highlighting the responsibility and safety that goes with military training at all levels.

The museum also hosts a rolling programme of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. Our current exhibition – 150 years of the Regiment in Bury, takes a nostalgic look back at when the regiment first moved to Bury in March 1873, right through to when Wellington Barracks closed in 1968 and beyond. We’ve also recently opened a new exhibit called ‘The Dragons Lair’, including a replica sangar. This display recognises the bravery of 16 Fusiliers and their actions on ANP Hill, Now Zad, Afghanistan, in 2006, where they were stationed for 107 days.

Every Wednesday throughout August, we will host our family, friendly craft activities from 10.30am – 12.30pm.

Keep checking the website and social media platforms for the latest session information. www.fusiliermuseum.com

12. Pendle’s Summer Holiday Activities and Food Programme

Prepare for an amazing summer in Pendle with the Fun Vibes, Active Lives Summer Holiday Activities and Food Programme! It’s all about free fun and excitement for eligible school-age kids and young people. Plus, guess what? Free healthy meals are on the menu too!

Discover a range of fun-filled activities. Get outdoors and explore with our outdoor education sessions. Unleash your creative side with music, arts and crafts, and dive into the world of drama with our awesome workshops. If you’re a sports fanatic, we’ve got you covered with our multi-sports fun sessions. And don’t forget to level up your digital skills with our digital workshops too!

There’s seriously something for everyone. Join Community Arts by ZK for ‘Arts in the Park’ and let your creativity run wild in the great outdoors. And if you’re looking for an action-packed experience, make sure to check out the Bodies in Motion Holiday Club.

To get all the details and book your favourite activities, head to pendleleisuretrust.co.uk/fun-vibes-active-lives. Activities run throughout the six-week holidays and can be booked online. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to have a summer full of fun and adventure in Pendle!

And there’s something for teens too. Come on down to one of Pendle’s Xchange Here! youth clubs. Either join the activities or chill in a safe space with your friends. You don’t have to book – just turn up. Free activities include gym, swimming and food, and you get some tasty, free food too!

Visit www.pendleleisuretrust.co.uk/xchangehere/ for more information.