As the Easter holiday approaches, mums and dads will no doubt be thinking about how to keep the kids amused while they are out of school. Luckily the UK has a number of spots that are brilliant for family visits, many of which are free and are hosting dedicated special activities this April.
We look at 5 family-friendly Easter attractions taking place this year across the UK.
Kew Gardens in London
One of the highlights of Easter for children is no doubt the chance to munch on chocolate eggs and indulging can be even more exciting if the chocolate treats are hunted for on an Easter treasure trail. At Kew Gardens in London, Easter is set to be a fun-filled month of chocolate-themed events.
On Easter Sunday (April 24th), the free Easter Egg Hunt could be great for families with young children aged ten or below. To get their hands on a delicious Green & Black’s egg, children need to collect a special token from characters Busy Bee, Venus or Slipper and then hand it over to the Easter Bunny in exchange for the chocolate treat.
The hunt will begin at 09:30 BST and is due to finish by early afternoon, leaving plenty of time to head over to the Palm House and pick up the Chocolate Trail, which explains how chocolate is made “from bean to bar”.
Manchester Museum in Manchester
Manchester families with older children looking for an event ideal for everyone could consider heading to the Big Saturday event on April 9th, which is being held at the Manchester Museum. Here, mums, dads and children can enjoy seed sowing, pot decorating and history lessons that aim to keep kids interested with stories of some of the most fascinating young people from the past.
Mums might enjoy the Big Day recipe swap, great for picking up ideas for a new family dinner favourite.
Liverpool City Cathedral in Liverpool
For three days starting from April 11th, children in Liverpool are being invited to the city’s cathedral to take part in a self-guided Easter egg hunt. This event is perfect for younger children on half-term, who can meet the White Rabbit and the Derby Mouse, who will be on hand to meet and greet participants.
Whilst you’re in Liverpool, it would be rude not to head down Mathew Street and see the home of The Beatles; The Cavern Club, where there are tribute bands from all over the world playing the hits of the fab 4 – remember to take a marker and sign one of the bricks on the wall, to let the world know that you’ve been there. There are plenty of hotels in Liverpool city centre that offer the ideal location to see the sights without having to venture too far.
Cardiff Castle in Cardiff
On April 23rd, families in Wales can make the most of the beautiful spring weather by heading to Cardiff Castle for its Easter Fun Day. You may want to get there early to enjoy the egg decorating class at 11:00 BST, which could also leave you with time to attend the egg cup decorating held class later in the day. The time between the two sessions could be used to explore the castle, which will be charging normal admission.
The castle has pushchair access throughout and offers a children’s audio tour ideal for kids interested in the history of the property. Its cafe also serves children’s meals and offers highchairs as well as milk heating facilities – perfect if you have any babies in your party.
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Bristol
Most children are fascinated by animals and a half-term zoo visit could be a great activity for families with children spanning a number of age groups. At Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Wraxhall, Bristol, the activities are endless – older kids can get lost in the world’s longest hedge maze and youngsters will love the chance to meet newborn animals including Del Boy the donkey, a new herd of micro pigs and Sidney the baby gibbon.
Children can also bottle feed the newborn lambs at the zoo, a delightful experience that will no doubt be the highlight of their time off school.
Wherever you go, you can be sure of having family-friendly fun during the Easter holidays.
Image by romekdziem
