Share:

Summer holiday activities for children in Devon

Updated: 1/5/2015

Devon – 10 Things to do before Summer’s Up

Before you know it, September will be here and the children will be returning to school. So, in the meantime, how do you intend to spend your summer holiday? Primary Times has created a checklist of 10 Things to Do Before Summer’s Up to make sure you don’t miss out on anything!

1. Explore a country park

Children really love the freedom that nature brings, so try to schedule some time to visit the countryside or a country park. Make the visit as exciting and interesting as possible by organising a nature treasure hunt where you create a worksheet with pictures of different animals, bugs and plants for the children to discover on their explorations. For more ideas take a look at the Countryside Learning website - www.countrysidelearning.org

Alternatively, take advantage of the free activities that many local authorities host in recreation grounds during the summer months such as family fetes, live music and even big lunches! Notably, Love Parks Week takes place between 27 July and 4 August. To find out more go to www.loveparksweek.org.uk

2. Go out and get active

Many sports clubs and leisure centres offer a huge range of children's activities at affordable prices.  Complete training packages can bring youngsters up to speed on their favourite sport. Why not treat your child to a day at a summer club at the sports centre while you indulge in a much-deserved day to yourself? 
 

3. Pitch up!
Enjoy an enlightening night lying under the stars and sample the pleasures of living al fresco.   Camping out is a fantastic adventure for any child with the added bonus that it doesn’t come with a weighty price tag.  Pitch up in the back garden or local campsite, and with your children, master the skills required to put up a tent!  And why not live the outdoor experience to the full by firing up the BBQ and tucking into flame grilled chicken or burgers, before an intrepid expedition at dusk by torchlight?  On your return you could warm marshmallows by the fire before snuggling in to your sleeping bags under the stars, searching the sky for constellations and listening to all the unfamiliar night time sounds. 
 

4. Blossom in the garden

Gardens explode with vibrant colours and textures, fragrant smells and buzz with life in the summer months making it a wonderful time for children to acquire basic horticultural skills. Children will love the chance to get muddy, remove worms, inspect tiny bugs and explore this tiny piece of wilderness. You can boost interest by devoting a patch of the garden, back yard or window box just for the children. For ideas and inspiration check out the following websites: www.bbc.co.uk/gardening/gardening_with_children; www.gardeningwithchildren.co.uk and www.rhs.org.uk/children

5.  Embark on the Summer Reading Challenge

A spine-tingling adventure awaits children who decide to take part in the 2013 Summer Reading Challenge. This year’s theme is ‘Creepy House’ which ties into the publishing trends for books that thrill without being too scary. Young book-loving adventurers are encouraged to explore the Creepy House, simply by reading six books from the library. To find out more go to www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

6. Enjoy days out at local attractions

Those six weeks can crawl idly by, so a welcome treat to a local attraction, zoo, fun park, planetarium or fairytale castle will inject a spark of excitement for all the family. Meeting other parents will allow you to enjoy some adult conversation and swap holiday stories, content in the knowledge that the children are having a great time close by.

7. Wise up on local history
They’re free, educational and entertaining.  Yes, these days local museums offer visitors much more than prehistoric artefacts behind glass.  Interactive displays captivate children so they learn without realising it!  During the summer holidays, for a nominal fee, many a museum runs workshops especially for children.   Local museums are red hot favourite places to visit for culture vultures. Try visiting www.24hourmuseum.org.uk the UK's official guide to over 3000 museums and heritage attractions. 
 

8.  Make a splash

Learning to swim is an important part of a child’s development, and most parents will find structured swimming lessons at local swimming pools, private swimming schools and local clubs. Many local pools run intensive summer courses designed to fast track swimming performance. Ask at your local pool or check out the ASA website - www.theasa.org - for details.

Knowing how to swim will suddenly open up a wealth of new possibilities, allowing a child the chance to test out a variety of other water-based activities such as diving, sailing, visiting water parks, surfing, snorkelling, kayaking and canoeing. The thrill and excitement of a water attraction or activity will always score highly as a fun way to spend time.  Alternatively, if your child would prefer to spend time by the water, rather than being in it, there are many free fishing courses suitable for the under 12s.

 
9.  Make and bake at home

When the sun is not baking outside, let your children bake inside instead!  Yes, they’ll relish licking the bowl clean and getting their hands covered in gooey cake mix.  If you don't fancy sharing your pristinely clean kitchen for the day, then rummage around for the glue, glitter and gum paper and encourage your children to enjoy a messy day creating some artistic masterpiece instead.
 

10. Sample some local culture
Let your child sample some culture at a local art gallery or watch a musical together.  In the summer, many theatres run performances outdoors using the natural setting of a park or historic building as a backdrop.  Alternatively, you may wish to grab a bag of popcorn, use your children as an excuse and snuggle down into a comfy seat at the cinema. Let’s admit it – we adults love to lose ourselves in the latest blockbuster too! 
 

Enjoy a packed calendar of events at Devon’s Crealy

The summer is even more exciting at Devon’s Crealy Great Adventure Park with its packed calendar of fantastic events as well as plenty of rides and attractions to keep the whole family entertained whatever the weather!

Boasting over 100 acres of fun and attractions, the multi award winning adventure park provides the perfect day out for the whole family featuring over 60 rides and attractions including the newest additions, The Safari Express and Jungle Wars. Guests to Devon’s Crealy can enjoy thrills and spills galore on Maximus the Roller Coaster, the Flying Dutchman Swinging Galleon and many more. Cool down on the Vortex Water Coaster, the Tidal Wave Log Flume and in the Soak Zone on a hot summer’s day. With the friendliest animals in the Animal Kingdom and 75,000 sq ft of undercover play and outdoor adventure areas, there is something for everyone.

Throughout the summer holiday Crealy will welcome a different children’s TV character every Monday to meet and greet their fans including Rastamouse, Octonauts, Mike the Knight and Peppa Pig. Plus, there are mini shows with Fireman Sam and Bob the Builder. Visit www.crealy.co.uk to book your advance tickets online and receive up to 20% off. Validate your tickets on your first visit and enjoy 7 days of fun for the price of 1.

Fun filled family activities at Exeter Cathedral this August

Exeter Cathedral is an exciting place to be this summer!  During August a different aspect of the Cathedral will be explored each week with a number of crafts and activities. Delve into the secrets of the library, discover how a Cathedral was designed, find out about the Exeter wool trade with Tuckers Hall, live like Vikings and Anglo-Saxons and have fun on the Green. There will be a variety of fun and unusual activities including making medieval paint with egg yolks, designing felt works of art, recreating Viking funerals, creating personal books and much, much more! Go along to see the most stunning building in the city, let your creative side out and then enjoy a cream tea in Serlo’s, the Cathedral Café. Check the website for details of the activities at www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk.

Fun packed adventures at Haven Banks

Exeter’s Haven Banks Outdoor Education Centre has a fantastic variety of outdoor and adventurous activities for young people this summer. During the holidays, there are exciting activity options in kayaking and white-water kayaking, canoeing and canoe camps, sailing on the River Exe and Exe Estuary, windsurfing, raft-building, rock-climbing, caving, mountain biking, archery and orienteering and much more. The centre also caters for groups, individuals, birthday parties and private groups. As Haven Banks OEC is Ofsted Registered, parents can redeem their Childcare Vouchers and/or Working Tax Credits to obtain a discount on courses. Go to www.haven-banks.co.uk or call 01392 434668.

Never mind the weather - just get wetter at Splashdown Quaywest Waterpark!

The summer’s here and the Splashdown Quaywest waterpark will be open every day with its twisting tyre rides, the near vertical Devils’ Drop and all the other thrills and spills along the way.  Make a real day of it and stay around until The View at Goodrington restaurant and beach bar opens from 6pm until late; last food orders are at 9.30pm.  Families will find an all you can eat pizza, pasta and salad buffet, plus a main and kids’ menu too.  Also this summer, a brand new, fabulous event is being launched at Splashdown Quaywest for the under 18s (12+). SplashMania is a water park dance party featuring a top Devon DJ. Funky Friday evening SplashMania dance parties run every Friday from 6pm to 9pm. Tickets are available at www.splashdowntickets.com and cost £10 each or £50 for the whole season of 10 nights (and includes a regular discount to the waterpark during the season).  Group discounts are also available. For more details go to www.splashdownwaterparks.co.uk or call 01803 555550.

It’s time to get active with Adventure Okehampton

Ideally nestled on the edge of Dartmoor, Adventure Okehampton is incredibly well positioned to profit from the best of its surrounding environment and all the adventure that this wild landscape provokes.

Adventure Okehampton is all-inclusive activity centre offering families a number of appealing activity sessions that accommodate all budgets.  Day Adventure options are ideal for local children aged between 8 and 16 years and happen on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.  If your child is new to adventurous pursuits there are taster sessions in four different adventures available each day such as gorge scrambling, archery, bush craft, weaselling, water sports, rock climbing, high ropes and mountain boarding. If a day of adventure isn’t long enough there are also well priced Family Adventure Holidays on offer. Adventure Okehampton has a special offer exclusively for Primary Times readers – book the Stay for the Day option and enjoy free lunch worth £5. Just mention code PT01 when booking. Also, Tesco Club Card vouchers are accepted for 3, 4 and 7 night holiday families – this could save up to 25% off the price. For more details call the Activity Office on 01837 53916 or go to www.adventureokehampton.com

10 things to do before summer is up at RHS Rosemoor

Build a den, create a shadow puppet and then produce a show, watch a falconry display, make a flower meadow, be engrossed with a spectacular outdoor theatre production such as the ‘Adventures of Mr Toad’, have a teddy bear’s picnic, listen to traditional storytelling with slapstick humour out in the garden with Entertainingly Different Rob Pudner, try out African Drumming, go on a mini beast hunt and attend lots of Arts and Crafts family workshops are the 10 things you should do before the summer is out. You can do all this and lots more at RHS Garden Rosemoor during the summer holidays’ Great Garden Adventure. What’s more kids go free from 27 July to 1 September with a paying adult - simply download your voucher at www.rhs.org.uk/rosemoor. For more information about what’s on visit the website or call 01805 626800.

There’s an adventure around every corner at River Dart Adventures 

River Dart Adventures offers marvellous value for money and its 90 acres of award winning parkland is sure to keep the entire family entertained. There’s a pirate ship with its own lake and beach, slippery snake slides and toddlers play, a low ropes course and a wooden play fort plus - all included in the entrance price.  In addition Dare Devil activities offer courageous youngsters plenty of adrenaline fuelled fun with zip wires over the lake, water zorbs, an indoor climbing wall and a high ropes course that crosses the river.  These daring activities are instructor lead and there is an additional cost.  To punctuate a day full of adventure, the Old Sawmill café bar offers families a chance to recharge with an excellent menu and a renowned Sunday Carvery.  Families can even stay at the onsite campsite and enjoy River Dart Adventures for the duration of their stay which is included in the pitch price, offering once again excellent value for money.  More info at www.riverdart.co.uk  

Powderham Castle opens all week through the summer!

This summer Powderham has a fantastic line up of themes to entertain the kids; starting with Pirates and Mermaids and ending with madness in Wonderland and a little bit of Sci-Fi and aliens along the way. Jonty Depp and Pocketwatch Theatre will be bringing Capt Jack Sparrow and the Mad Hatter amongst many others to the Castle. The extra entertainment is included in each child's admission - simply pick up your session ticket on arrival. 

Powderham is now open on Saturdays too throughout the holiday and will be offering visitors a close encounter with Dartmoor Reptiles - one for the brave-hearted! As it's the summer season there will be daily bird of prey displays each afternoon too.

The nature trails and treasure trail are very rewarding and the Walled Garden Play Area and Pets Corner is a must! Castle tours are very entertaining, but if you just fancy a peek inside now's your chance as each afternoon from 3.45 to 5.30 you can wander freely. For details go to www.powderham.co.uk

The Waie Inn continues to amaze families

In the heart of the Devonshire countryside you will be amazed what you find at the Waie Inn at Zeal Monachorum, Crediton.  Run by a family for your family for 33 years, the Inn is completely child friendly. Facilities include an indoor heated swimming pool, an indoor soft play area (Waie2Play) that also features a coffee shop selling delicious homemade cakes and biscuits, plus there is an outdoor play area which includes an all weather 5 a-side football pitch, zip wire, roundabout and lots more.  Leisure facilities also include 2 squash courts, pool tables, skittle alleys, a snooker table and fishing lake. After an exhausting day of fun activities families can relax and choose a tasty treat from the extensive home cooked bar menu. The Waie Inn is open daily from 8am to midnight (excluding Christmas and Boxing Days).   Check out the website at www.waieinn.co.uk

Expect wild adventures at Escot this summer

If it’s wild and wacky adventure and cultural treats you’re looking for then head straight to Escot this summer. From 27 July to 3 August the Living History Week will offer visitors the chance to experience the day-to-day life of their ancestors, whilst on 28 July it’s time to get muddy at the special Messing About on the River day that is filled with river dipping, face painting, bug box making, floating races, gold panning, beaver dam building, otter holt building, a barefoot swamp walk and a barbecue!

After those adventures, life quietens a little as outdoor theatre descends with the presentation of the quirky story Babe the Sheep Pig on 30 July.  The following day, Wednesday 31 July and every Wednesday throughout the summer holidays there will be a Swamp Walk featuring a stomp through a 100-metre mire. Spaces are limited and booking is essential for this event.

From Friday 2 August and every Friday until 30 August there will be pistols at sundown at Water Wars in the maze.  After a good soaking, once again things calm down on 12 August for the Treasure Island theatre performance and a children’s drama workshop.  Finally, on 24 and 25 August get a bird’s eye view of the park at the Big Tree Top Adventure.  Learn how to climb big trees using ropes and then ride a zip wire back down! Age limits apply to some activities. For details see www.escot-devon.co.uk or call 01404 822188.                       

Pots of fun at Devon Ceramics

Children who step into Devon Ceramics home accessories store in Totnes will be able to experience the excitement of entering an Aladdin's cave.  Afterwards they can visit the Ceramic Studio to make all their creative dreams come true. The Ceramic Studio is the largest of its kind in the South West and offers a fantastic range of pottery such as a magical fairy castle or a galloping horse, a fierce robot or a Devon duck.  Adventurous children may wish to try their hand at throwing a masterpiece on one of the state-of-the-art pottery wheels. Help is at hand from the friendly staff filled with ideas and inspiration. For more details go to www.china-blue.co.uk

White wolves come to North Devon

Two rarely seen endangered white Hudson Bay wolves have arrived at Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park! The two young females were ousted from their pack in Europe and needed to be re-homed. See them as well as the other animals at the sea lion shows, meerkat encounters and birds of prey displays in this picturesque park. But watch out for the dinosaurs! The park is home to the UK's only full sized animatronic T-Rex, a pair of vicious megalosaurs and dilophosaurus, the 'spitting' dinosaur. Watch out you may get wet! A new attraction for 2013 is Bug World, a kingdom of insects and other invertebrates which is an ideal exhibit for youngsters who love creepy crawlies. For more details go to www.wildlifedinosaurpark.co.uk or call 01271 882486.

Get active on Dartmoor

Visit the Active Summer exhibition at the National Park Visitor Centre in Princetown until 25 September and be inspired to try a variety of activities that the whole family can enjoy, or learn how to do them through an outdoor activity provider. Special activity days, including a climbing wall, will also be held on Saturday 3 August and Sunday 1 September between 11am – 3pm. You may also get the chance to meet Dartmoor’s own Olympian and Team GB Pistol Shooter, Georgina (Gorgs) Geikie – and hold her Olympic torch. Make a note in your diary for Friday 20 September 2013 as the Tour of Britain will be streaming across Dartmoor – go and cheer on the cyclists and watch the exciting hill climb finish at Haytor.  For more details go to www.dartmoor-npa.gov.uk

Good old-fashioned family fun at one of Devon’s best-kept secrets

Set in 20 acres of beautiful Dartmoor parkland, the Miniature Pony Centre is home to famous miniature ponies and donkeys that foal throughout the spring and early summer, as well as plenty of other friendly animals. There are many fun, free and hands-on activities available, including family entertainers during the school holidays – do check the website for details – whilst all budding horse riders, aged 3 to 10, should head to the riding arena for a pony ride.  In addition there are many exciting play areas for children of all ages, free spotter guides and a wealth of wildlife to discover. The Miniature Pony Centre is easy to find on the main B3212 road, just 2 miles west of Moretonhampstead (TQ13 8RG).  Call for 01647 432400 or go to www.miniatureponycentre.com for details.

Free admission to House of Marbles

House of Marbles in Bovey Tracey is a delightful, local company set in an historic pottery which prides itself with both a traditional and modern range of sought after gifts.  With a wonderful restaurant, café and gift shop, together with the museums and glassworks it is a great place for all ages to visit.  In the summer holidays, you will find something to do come rain or shine.  Don't forget to visit the new games garden which has a wonderful play structure, ideal for ages 3 - 12 years. House of Marbles is open seven days a week with free admission and free parking. To find out more look at www.houseofmarbles.com or call 01626 835285.

Try climbing this summer at the Quay Climbing Centre

Is your child aged between 7 and 14 and looking for something fun and challenging that will lift them off the ground this summer?  Then why not take them climbing at the Quay Climbing Centre in Exeter.  At the Holiday Club children learn to climb and improve climbing skills under the supervision of the friendly and experienced instructors.  Club sessions run from 10.30am to 12.30pm every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout the holidays and cost just £15 per session – you can sign up to as many sessions as you like.

Family Taster Sessions are a great way for all members of the family to climb together.  These sessions teach the basics of the sport and will have you scaling the wall in no time!  They are suitable for anyone aged 7+, run daily during the holidays and cost just £12.50 per person for an hour’s instruction.  With walls ranging from 7 to 14 metres, over 200 climbing routes, two boulder caves and a fabulous café there is something for all the family.  It is also home to the enormously fun Clip n Climb – an action packed climbing adventure suitable for anyone aged 4+.  For more details go to www.quayclimbingcentre.co.uk

See the friendly, but sometimes naughty, animals at Totnes Rare Breeds Farm

A visit to Totnes Rare Breeds Farm will not cost the earth and as there is so much to see and do, it will excite and interest all members of the family. There is a wide variety of friendly, yet sometimes a little bit naughty, animals to feed, fuss and learn about. Interactive activities include naming animal tracks, bird spotting and using the quirky question and answer boards. There are steam trains to watch, beautiful countryside to admire and a well loved Garden Café to relax in. Both the café and farm are totally wheelchair and buggy friendly. For further details contact 01803 840387 or visit www.totnesrarebreeds.co.uk  

Slope off for thrills and spills at Torquay Ski Club

Ok, there may be a serious lack of snow during the summer but Torquay Ski Club will still be open providing a brilliant venue for any child’s birthday party.  Children will be able to enjoy the thrill of whizzing down the slopes on the Ringos and there’s a chance to ski and snowboard too.  Ringo parties last from ½ hour to 1 hour.  Ski-ing sessions last for 1½ hour and are suitable for children aged 6 years+. Parties include tuition and equipment hire. Snowboarding parties are also available for children aged 10+. Guests are able to bring their own party food and there is a room for hire at Torquay Ski Club if needed.  You can find Torquay Alpine Ski Club at Barton Hall, Kingskerswell Road, Torquay, TQ2 8JY.  For more details go to www.skitorquay.com or call 01803 313350

Re-connect to nature with Wildwise

In his book the ‘Last Child in the Woods’, Richard Louv pooled all the latest research into how the separation from nature affects individuals and presented the urgent case to get children connected to the natural world.  His research proved how much children flourish in nature and how their self-esteem and self confidence grew. Well the good news is that WildWise can facilitate the connection with nature in some of Devon’s wild and beautiful locations. As outdoor specialists for nearly 15 years, WildWise has designed a wide variety of events to persuade families to spend some quality time in nature this summer, and have some serious fun, whilst learning some great skills. Bush craft, wildlife, creative play, night paddles, canoe trips, camping, wood craft and wild foods are just some of the things on offer, for all the family, as part of a diverse programme of events for 2013. For more details call 01803 868269 or go to www.wildwise.co.uk

A sizzling summer of sport at the University of Exeter

The University of Exeter’s amazing summer sports camps are back and have something for everyone aged 4-16. Join the fun at the tennis, cricket and swimming and football camps which are jam-packed full of games, activities and expert coaching. A qualified team of coaches are experienced in helping children of all abilities become sporting masters, while the incredible facilities provide a safe and welcoming environment so those visiting for the first time will want to go back again and again.   The University of Exeter is passionate about sport and encouraging young people to learn and develop, which is why hundreds of families trust them to deliver excellence in sport. Activities are being held on various dates and times from 29 July – 30 August.  Full details are available at www.exeter.ac.uk/sport or call 01392 724452 or email exetersport@exeter.ac.uk

Get 20% off nonstop fun at Woodlands

How can you entertain various members of your family when they all want to do something different? Well the varied play zones at Woodlands can provide the answer as each zone has attractions, rides and indoor play for every age group. There is an extensive Zoo-Farm, new Fantasi Forest, TV Character Days, white knuckle rides like the high flying Swing Ship and pulse pounding Avalanche, watercoasters that electrify and then there are gentle rides for little ones too. The fantastic Dinosaur Farm Ride allows children to drive man-sized tractors past the massive T Rex and cute baby dinosaurs, plus this summer the one and only Peppa Pig will be returning to Woodlands on 23 August and will be appearing at various intervals throughout the day.

Rainy days are no obstacle at Woodlands as there are unbelievable indoor Fun Factories to explore. Discover 5 floors packed with climbing, swinging and sliding action, then take off on four great rides including the chilling drop of the 40ft Trauma Tower. The two indoor soft play centres are packed with interactive and challenging activities and the Master Blaster enables young guests to blast balls at buddies in the two Alien Planet Arenas.

The massive Zoo-Farm features cuddly coatis, comical meerkats, amazing birds, and exotic animals such as reptiles, spiders and insects. After a tour of the Zoo-Farm head over to the fascinating Falconry Centre to watch the owls gliding and hawks diving in the brilliant Flying Displays. Remember: Simply buy online to receive a fantastic 20% off a day of nonstop fun which includes all the attractions, fun factories and awesome rides. For more details go to www.woodlandspark.com or call 01803 712598.

Enjoy a unique ‘glamping’ holiday at Crealy Meadows

Stay at Crealy Meadows Caravan and Camping Park in the heart of the Devon countryside and enjoy the ultimate 5 star ‘glamping’ experience with all the family! Choose between a luxury themed Safari Tent or Medieval Pavilion and have a magical break inspired by the great outdoors.

During your stay at Crealy Meadows Caravan and Camping Park you can also enjoy entry into the multi award winning Devon’s Crealy Great Adventure Park, which is, situated right next door! With over 60 rides and attractions, Devon’s Crealy is the perfect adventure for the whole family. With the latest theme park rides, the friendliest animals in the Animal Kingdom, 75,000 sq ft of undercover play and outdoor Adventure areas and the chance to meet your favourite children’s characters throughout the summer holidays, there is something for everyone, whatever the weather. For more details go to www.crealymeadows.co.uk

Get active this summer at South West Lakes

If you enjoy getting outdoors and active on the water then look no further than South West Lakes Trust this summer. Their 5 Outdoor and Active Centres, located across Cornwall, Devon and West Somerset, offer hire and launch facilities providing the perfect opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to explore the lakes by sailing boat, rowing boat, windsurf or kayak.

Whether you want to hire a craft for an hour, half a day or even for a whole day South West Lakes Trust can cater to your needs from only £10. Pedalos are also available to hire at Tamar Lakes near Bude. If that wasn’t enough already, kids can also celebrate their birthdays in style at these activity centres.

Camping is also available so why not extend your stay at the lakes? The unique benefit of the sites is the location next to the lakes where there are activities for all the family. For more information call 01566 771930 or email info@swlakestrust.org.uk

Brave explorers wanted at Torquay’s Dinosaur World

Don’t forget to visit Torquay’s Dinosaur World this summer to see the terrifying T Rex, the titanic triceratops and the scary Jurassic Park scene.  Brave explorers can dig for incredible fossils in the excavation sites, get creative in the craft room, take part in the new Explorer Quiz to win a Dinosaur Expert Certificate, and even sit on the deadly deinonychus!  This summer there is more to do, more to see and more to touch at Torquay’s’ Dinosaur World - so don’t miss out.  Visitors who purchase a Paleo Pass will be able to visit again and again all summer for only £1 per person each time.  Visit www.torquaysdinosaurworld.co.uk or call 01803 298779.

An ultimate adventure where children and adults can drive real diggers!

Diggerland prides itself on having something for all ages and with 18 rides and drives there really is something for everyone. Experience the thrills of spinning round at rapid speeds on the Spindizzy ride, operating a Giant Digger, driving a real car, racing around in Go-Karts, seeing picturesque views 50ft in the air on Sky Shuttle and much more. On top of all this, Diggerland Devon also has an indoor play area and a gift shop stacked with digger-tastic toys and souvenirs. Diggerland in Devon is located at Verbeer Manor in Cullompton and is open every weekend, bank holiday and 7 days a week in July and August. Join the Diggerland mascots Duggy and Dotty and the Diggerland team for a digger-filled summer adventure you won’t forget.  For more details go to www.diggerland.com

Three great attractions equal one amazing day

For a brilliant day out that’s perfect for kids the ‘3 Great Attractions, 1 Amazing Day at Buckfastleigh and Totnes’ is hugely appealing to families who are looking for a fun-filled day at a great price. 3 Great Attractions, 1 Amazing Day draws three fabulous attractions into one. The attractions include Dartmoor Otters and Buckfast Butterflies, Totnes Rare Breeds Farm and the steam trains of the South Devon Railway. Visitors will be able to see otters from around the world, stunning tropical butterflies, enjoy a great trip behind a steam engine and stroke the owls, feed the red squirrels and meet the hedgehogs. To find out more call 0843 357 1420 or go to www.threeandone.co.uk

‘Plundering Pirates’ descend on Torquay Museum

Come face-to-face with bloodthirsty pirates and their arch-enemies, the Royal Navy Marines of the late 18th century, at Torquay Museum’s blockbuster summer exhibition, Plundering Pirates – Film, Fact and Fiction. Visitors can learn about life as a pirate, and the gruesome punishments meted out to them if they were caught. They can see Captain Jack Sparrow’s costume from The Pirates of the Caribbean film, and puppets from Aardman Animations’ brilliant movie, The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists! They can then come face-to-face with the cannons, cutlasses, muskets and treasure that were central to the world of the pirates, handle pirate weapons and wear pirate costumes. This enthralling family-friendly exhibition runs until 7th September 2013. For more details go to www.torquaymuseum.org or call 01803 293975.

Sizzling summer fun at Pennywell Farm

Six sizzling weeks of summer holidays are ahead and there’s no better way to spend one of them than on a visit to Pennywell Farm. With a full day of hands-on animal action, a different activity, show or display every half hour, hundreds of friendly animals and four free rides, you won’t waste a single minute.

Bottle feed the hungry lambs and goat kids, race the ferrets, pamper the ponies, meet the hedgehogs, explore the ponds and enjoy fantastic entertainers every day during the Devon school holidays. You can even cuddle one of the world famous Pennywell miniature piglets and meet the new family of friendly reindeer. The Pennywell Pig Racing is always a giggle, with miniature pigs showing that what they lack in size they make up for in speed and determination. Join the ‘Ham Stakes’ every day at 2.30pm. There are acres of indoor space to play in but if summer doesn’t quite sizzle and it rains during your visit, Pennywell will give you a ticket for a free return visit.  For further information contact 01364 642023 or visit www.pennywellfarm.co.uk

Take a dip at Kingsteignton swimming pool

Kingsteignton swimming pool opened in 1979 after much fundraising and support by the local community and is still run by volunteers. New longer and fun sessions have been introduced including Aquafit and block intensive swimming lessons. Swim and BBQ parties are proving very popular as are the inflatables used during fun sessions. The pool opens at 6.45am for adult swimming and is truly an invaluable asset to Kingsteignton.  Fundraising for the pool is ongoing and new ideas and donations are gratefully received.  Volunteers are always being sought to help run the kiosk. For more information check www.kingsteigntonswimmingpool.org

Explore the Tamar Trails this summer

Youngsters will love exploring the woods this summer at the Tamar Trails Centre which will feature a number of children’s activities such as den building, scavenger hunts, nature exploration and bug hunting. The activities will run every Wednesday throughout the school holiday and are ideal for children aged 3 to 10 years old.

There are 25kms of beautiful woodland trails stretching around the Tamar Valley open to everyone all year round. The Trails Centre is the activities hub where visitors will find plenty of parking plus a great café that is open every day for hot lunches, homemade cakes and lots of snacks. For more details go to www.tamartrails.co.uk or www.treesurfers.co.uk

Alleviate summer boredom at Haldon’s Woodland Adventure Club

Kids bored this summer holiday? Looking for a holiday club with a twist? Try the Woodland Adventure Club which is packed with fun and excitement in the woods. Children aged 6-13 years will be able to get up to all sorts - learning woodland skills, getting muddy and making new friends. The Woodland Adventure Club is based at a camp deep in the woods at Haldon Forest Park, 15 minutes from central Exeter. Run by qualified and experienced staff in a safe and supported environment, the children will be able to play and explore the woods, build dens, light campfires, discover wildlife and lots more.  The club runs from 9am-3.30pm and an extended day option is available. For more details go to www.atouchofthewild.co.uk or call 07929 613284.

It’s fun, fun, fun for all the family at Bygones

Bygones is an ideal place to visit during the summer holiday. Families will be able to explore the Victorian street and compare how ancestors shopped in 1897 to how people shop today .There’s a chance to take a photo with Queen Victoria - see if you can see her breathe! Use all senses to see, smell and hear the buzz and atmosphere of Victorian life. Look out for the children’s nanny washing the baby in the bath tub and smell the chicken cooking in the kitchen. Don't miss the model railway layout and magical fantasyland with loads of buttons for your children to press.  For more details call 01803 326108 or go to www.bygones.co.uk

World of Country Life Exmouth - Acres of fun whatever the weather

You will often see the slogan ‘Can you do it all in a day?’ in the World of Country Life’s advertising and on their website and it really is a challenge to do just at this coastal attraction - so get your Summer Passport which will give you unlimited entry throughout the school holidays this summer. You can ride on the famous Deer Train where you have the opportunity to hand feed deer and llama, watch the daily ferret show, the falconry display, walk a goat, plus there’s a vast amount of animals to meet, two inside play areas, trampolines, swings, slides and much more.  You can be sure the kids will have plenty of fun and will return home full of happy memories that will last a lifetime.  For more details go to www.worldofcountrylife.co.uk

Safe, quality water sports instruction at Decoy Lake

The Devon Windsurf and Canoe Centre, based at Decoy Lake in the beautiful Decoy country park in Newton Abbot, has been providing safe, quality water sports instruction for the last 17 years. Children as young as 3 (wearing life jackets) can go out onto the water accompanied by mum or dad on 2 and 3 seater canoes. Older children and adults can venture onto the lake on single or double kayaks, stand up paddleboards and windsurfers. Tuition or hire is available every day until the end of September. Throughout the summer holiday The Devon Windsurf and Canoe Centre will be running a junior water sports club for children aged 7 - 12 which will have a BBQ every club night and will offer the chance to win a new wetsuit at the end of the season. Popular water sports parties are also available. For more information visit www.devonwindsurf.co.uk or phone Simon on 07971 051509.

Be enthralled by Pecorama this summer

A visit to Pecorama in Beer this summer will not disappoint!  A ride on the Beer Heights Light Railway is a must, where miniature steam locomotives pull passenger trains on a mile-long route through flower-filled gardens with stunning views, steep-sided cuttings and a long dark tunnel! Daily entertainment featuring undercover shows from wizards, jesters, clowns and jugglers, from 20 July to 4 September, will enthral the crowds and safety-surfaced activity areas offer an abundance of play equipment ranging from toddlers swings to the PECO Pirate Ship.  Don’t forget to take the Primary Times Pecorama advert with you to gain one child free entry per two adults buying bargain tickets. See www.pecorama.info for prices and information about shows and special events.

Museum fun whatever the weather at RAMM

With its stunning exhibits, interactive displays and busy programme of exhibitions and events, a visit to Exeter’s Royal Albert Memorial Museum is an ideal way to spend an hour or a day, whatever the weather. Entry is free but for a small charge there is also a host of special family activities this summer. For curious 8+ year olds with busy parents there are also special unaccompanied children’s activity days such as drama in a Tudor setting at St Nicholas Priory and animation at RAMM. RAMM is right in the city centre on Queen Street, Exeter EX4 3RX and is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm. For details visit www.exeter.gov.uk/RAMM or call 01392 265858 during opening hours to book an activity.

Living Coasts to celebrate its tenth birthday

Living Coasts, Torquay’s coastal zoo and aquarium marks its first decade in July, and plans include diving displays, a special cake and a VIP party for children born on the same day. The zoo, a registered charity, opened to the public on 14th July 2003, with an official ceremony performed by the Princess Royal following in September.

Celebrations during the weekend of Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 July will include freedivers in the seal tank at 11.30am and 2.30pm on the Saturday, whilst an historic hard-hat diver will demonstrate his skills on Sunday. There will be an open invitation to a special party for any child who is ten years old on the same day as the zoo – 14^th July. Children will need to show their birth certificates or a passport in order to join the fun. For more information go to www.livingcoasts.org.uk or ring 0844 474 3366.

Croca-diddly at Paignton Zoo!

Three baby crocodiles have made their public debut at Paignton Zoo Environmental Park. But visitors need to be sharp-eyed, as the youngsters are less than one foot long.  The African dwarf crocodiles are around 6 months old, are about 11 inches or 28 centimetres long and weigh no more than 170 grams each. Mike Bungard, Curator of Lower Vertebrates and Invertebrates at Paignton Zoo, said: “They may be small but they still come with a nasty bite. They have a mouthful of pointy, pin-sharp teeth, as young crocs tend to eat a lot of insects”. The baby crocs, which came from Bristol Zoo, are in the Zoo’s Reptile Tropics exhibit. For more information go to www.paigntonzoo.org.uk or ring 0844 474 2222.

Cygnet showcase success from unique training

Every year Cygnet Theatre welcomes students from all over the country, sometimes abroad, to join in a specialised actor training, in an ensemble company with a performance ethic.  The ensemble emphasis of Cygnet's work ensures that each member of the company will work on a variety of roles.  With a busy performance schedule both at Cygnet Theatre and on Tour, the Cygnet experience is a great kind of training for those who wish to make acting their vocation.  Plans for a repertoire of plays, to run at the Cygnet Theatre and on tour for 4-6 weeks during the 2014 Summer Season are already being made.  For details of audition dates between now and September 2013, see www.cygnettheatre.co.uk

Brave readers pursue the Creepy House Summer Reading Challenge

The 2013 Summer Reading Challenge running in all Devon Libraries is called Creepy House. It is a great, free activity to keep the kids busy through the long summer holidays. All children have to do is read six books from their library, collecting stickers and small prizes along the way. Head to your local library at the beginning of the summer holidays and the staff there will enrol your children - it's completely free of charge.

Creepy House is designed for children of all ages and reading abilities. They can read any books they like - fact books, stories, joke books, picture books - it's up to them. All children who read six books or more will receive a certificate and a medal and will be entered into a draw for some extra prizes too! To find out what other activities are happening in your local library go to www.devon.gov.uk/thezone or pop in and say hello.

Kit the family out for the beach at Circle One

Whether you are looking to kit the family out for the beach or are a surfer looking for that new board, you are sure to find what you need in Circle One’s extensive product range and to suit your budget.  Circle One is a surfing company founded in 1969 by legendary surfboard shaper Jeff Townsley and specialises in the manufacture of wetsuits , surfboards, bodyboards, stand up paddle boards, skimboards and a full range of footwear and accessories. Circle One has a showroom and shop in their mid-Devon Crediton HQ which is open to the public on weekdays from 9am until 5pm.  If you are unable to visit the showroom give the friendly staff a call – they are always happy to offer advice and discuss your requirements.  For more details go to www.circle-one.co.uk or call 01363 773005.

Junior Activity Weeks at Seasports South West

Children aged 8 to 15 years will have the time of their lives as they windsurf, sail, kayak, canoe and stand up paddleboard at Seasports South West. Beach picnics, crabbing competitions, beach games and table tennis will complete a thoroughly agreeable time at this activity centre in Teignmouth.  Youngsters will learn new skills and achieve RYA certification, make new friends and go home happy, tired and feeling a real sense of achievement. To find out what other children thought of the junior activity weeks check out the testimonial page on the website.

Seasports South West also offer RYA Windsurfing and Sailing for beginners to advanced, plus there are junior sailing and windsurfing clubs. Kayak parties are available for the over 8s; and Pirate parties for younger children. For more details call 01626 772555 or go to www.seasports-sw.com

Date for the diary: 11 August – The Donkey Sanctuary’s summer fair

The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth is hosting a series of events to keep children amused and families entertained over the summer holiday.  On 11 August it will be holding its annual summer fair from 10am-4pm. This is the sanctuary’s biggest event of the year and promises to be fun for all the family.  Highlights include a craft tent, trailer rides, Punch and Judy, a barbeque, a bouncy castle, face painting, dog agility, a beer tent, and various fun inflatables will be available. As well as providing great entertainment for the school summer holidays, money raised from these events will help to fund the worldwide work of The Donkey Sanctuary. The Sanctuary is open 365 days a year with free admission and parking, and visitors are always welcome to go along to meet the resident donkeys and find out more about the charity. For further event details, call 01395 578222 or visit www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk

Pottery painting and American dining under one roof!

If your children are searching for something different to do indoors then head to the Honiton Pottery Shop and Milkshake Bar for a spot of pottery painting or pottery making.  They have over 50 different designs to paint, including money boxes, dinner plates, mugs and birthday present ideas – and there is no need to book – just turn up! Children can also use the potter’s wheel – just phone to make an appointment.   Whilst painting, your children can enjoy one of the tasty 70+ different milkshakes flavours or even stay and have breakfast or lunch in the American Diner.  To find out more call Lisa and Jane on 01404 42106.

Explore Exeter’s Underground Passages

Located in the heart of the city centre, Exeter’s Underground Passages are well worth a visit. Built in the 14th and 15th centuries to bring a supply of fresh drinking water into the city, visitors pass through an exciting interpretation centre packed full of interactive displays, including a talking figure of a medieval man, a high-speed video fly-through the Passages and a full size model of a section of the Passages.

Before taking a guided tour beneath the city’s streets, visitors can also enjoy a film presentation about how and why the Passages were built.

Exeter is the only city in the UK to have underground passages of this type and guided tours have taken place there since the 1930s. Today the passages are lit throughout, but still hold a fascination to all who enter.

Special events take place throughout the year including Easter egg hunts, Beneath the Blitz tours, Halloween spooky tours and gory stories and medieval Christmas craft workshops. For conditions of access, opening times, special event information and prices, call 01392 665887, email underground.passages@exeter.gov.uk or visit www.exeter.gov.uk/passages

A track load of holiday fun at the Devon Railway Centre

Explore fascinating trains in action and enjoy the huge range of activities at the Devon Railway Centre, Bickleigh this summer. An excellent feature of the Centre is that you can ride as many times as you like on two delightful separate railways at no extra charge. The vintage narrow gauge railway encourages children to clip their tickets and wave the flag to start the train! The miniature train ride is great fun and the highlight of this trip is a journey through Magic Wood.

The interactive Edwardian model village is brought to life with the touch of a button. Control the action, hear the sounds and explore the movement of a town in miniature. All the family can join in with the I Spy Challenge to find the finer details cleverly incorporated into the scenes.

Children will love the indoor play coaches where they can while away time playing with the wooden railways, digging for treasure in the sand pit and having fun in the ball pool. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the steam gala on 17 and 18 August. For more details take a look at the website www.devonrailwaycentre.co.uk