Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
Halloween at Colchester Castle with 50% off entry* for children 26th – 31st October
Spooky things are happening at Colchester Castle...
Ever had goose bumps, or felt a chill on the back of your neck, whilst visiting Colchester Castle? It’s not surprising when there is more than 2000 years of history to explore. Join them and ghosts from the past, this October half-term, to take part in our spooky interactive trail. Are you brave enough?
Throughout the week Colchester Museums have plenty to keep the whole family occupied across all three museums; Colchester Castle, Hollytrees Museum and the Natural History Museum.
From the ultimate sleepover at the Castle for those that dare, to spooky storytelling and dark tours. For the younger members of the family who don’t want a fright, there is a crystal skull craft session as well as creepy crawlies at the Natural History Museum to keep them amused! Things that go bump in the night aren’t always that scary. Meet some of nature’s sometimes misunderstood creature at our ever-popular Go-Live sessions!
For those that are not familiar with Colchester Castle, it is Europe’s largest Norman keep, built on the historic foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius. An incredibly popular family attraction it welcomes thousands of visitors every year from across the world.
Inside you will find over 2,500 years of history packed in this historic building, with many nationally important objects on display, including Roman finds from the time that Colchester was Britain’s First Roman Capital.
As well as plenty of history, there is plenty of fun to be had too! Step back in time and race a Roman chariot, dress up like a Roman soldier, fashion a Roman mosaic or simply watch history come to life before your very eyes with the Castle’s augmented reality tablet hire. If you want to find out more about the history of the Castle, try exploring behind the scenes with a guided tour and walk the roof whilst pretending you are a soldier on guard duty!
NEW! – The Castle’s brand-new jewellery exhibition Adorn is now open and included in Castle admission. Get the children to pick up an explorer backpack and journey through 3,000 years of history by exploring the hidden stories of jewellery and personal adornment with fun trails and tasks! With plenty to look at including Roman jewellery from Pompeii and some of the oldest gold objects from Britain.
Find the full programme of children’s events taking place throughout October half term by visiting colchester.cimuseums.org.uk/events
Keep up to date with news and information by following @ColMuseums on social media.
* 26 October – 31 October T&C’s apply