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!
Summer activities for children in Norfolk
Updated: 1/6/2015
A sizzling summer it is sure to be with these top tips! Open up the diaries and fill the empty pages with fun activities that all the family will be able to enjoy. Of course, there’s so much to do in the area that will accommodate all tastes and interests – and we’ve included many of them here...
Go Animal Mad this summer at Africa Alive!
This summer, explore the sights and sounds of Africa Alive! and discover lions, giraffes, rhinos, cheetahs, hyenas and many more animals and birds from the African continent. See the daily feeding of animals, the seasonal Bird of Prey displays and climb aboard the safari road train for a free journey around the park! From 1 to 31 August ‘Animal Mad’ is back with a summer full of animal handling sessions and feeding talks, whilst on 10 August it is World Lion Day – so why not go along and help Africa Alive!’s World Lion Day celebrations get off to a ‘roaring’ start! For more details ring 01502 740291 or visit www.africa-alive.co.uk
Top Tip - Take up the Summer Reading Challenge!
A fantastical adventure awaits children who decide to take part in the 2014 Summer Reading Challenge. This year’s theme is ‘Mythical Maze’ which ties into the publishing trends for books that introduce children to the inventive world of legend and mythology. Young book-loving adventurers are encouraged to explore the Mythical Maze, simply by reading six books from the library. To find out more go to www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk or pop into your local library
Explore the Great British Food Hunt Maze
The Hemsby MegaMaze is sprawled over a 10 acre block and is grown from over 700,000 maize plants. A staggering 4 miles of paths have been created to make the maze and there are two bridges with superb viewing positions where visitors can see the offshore wind farm and all the other visitors who are getting lost within the maze!
Before entering the maze there are a range of other activities to discover such as a zip wire, trampolines and giant bouncy castles. There is also a Farmer Hirst Farm Tour to show visitors around the working farm and animals. After some a-maze-ing adventures visitors may wish to head to the beach to enjoy the miles of unspoilt sand in this part of Norfolk, or take a walk in the countryside away from the hustle and bustle of normal daily life. For those wanting more strenuous activities there is a football game, a go-kart track, a hay bale mountain and Crazy Croque. There is also a chance to enjoy tasty refreshments from Maizeys Maze Shack and relax in the wonderful Norfolk countryside. To find out more visit www.hemsbymegamaze.co.uk or go to 07771 605797 or 07974 658993
Top Tip - Spruce up the garden
Help nurture a lifelong passion for gardening in your child by devoting a patch of the garden, back yard or window box just for them. Children will love the chance to get muddy, remove worms, inspect tiny bugs and explore this tiny piece of wilderness. For ideas and inspiration on how to do this check out www.gardeningwithchildren.co.uk
Free crafts and daily games at Church Farm
Join in with the exciting activities that are planned for Church Farm this summer! Different animal themes will run every week, with free crafts taking place from Monday to Friday in the Education Room. A weekly quiz will have children searching round the farm to win a small prize.
Also on offer are daily games and activities as well the ever popular pig racing! Vote for your favourite pig and then watch them run – the louder you cheer, the faster they go! In addition the usual activities will be available such as Animal Encounters, giving kids the chance to hold and pet some of the animal residents at Church Farm, and learn more about them. Hourly tractor and trailer rides will also take place giving visitors a chance to explore the outskirts of the farm.
Children of all ages will love the adventure play areas which feature ground level trampolines, bridges and monkey bars and there is a very unique indoor play area called “The Treehouse” which is perfect for all ages. Intrepid little explorers will love digging for treasure in the huge, undercover sandpit, or climbing around the Straw Barn – who knew straw could be so much fun! There is also a good selection of lunches available for adults and children, or indulge in a delicious cream tea. There are always special events happening at Church Farm, check the website at www.churchfarmstowbardolph.co.uk or call 01366 382162
Top Tip - Roam the countryside
It’s National Parks Week from 28 July to 3 August and this year’s theme is warmly titled ‘Space to Grow’. During this week families will be encouraged to get out and explore the great outdoors and enjoy the freedom that nature brings. To find out more visit and follow the links to National Parks Week 2014. If a trip to a national park is not possible then plan time to allow the kids to freely roam the countryside, woodland or country park near you. Plan to make the visit as exciting and interesting as possible by organising a nature treasure hunt or by making dens. For more ideas visit www.countrysidelearning.org
Explosive action at Muckleburgh
Muckleburgh Museum, located on the site of the World War Two and post-war Weybourne Anti-Aircraft Training Camp will be open from 10am until 5pm every day throughout the summer. The museum houses over 150 artillery pieces, tanks and other vehicles, most of which are in working order and are entirely undercover so if the weather isn't good it’s a great place to be! On site there is a children's play area which is situated adjacent to the Tank Demonstration Area, a café and picnic areas.
Entry is £10 for adults, £6 for children and the under 5's go free. There is free parking and kennels are available if required so dogs are also welcome! For more details ring 01263 588210 or go to www.muckleburgh.co.uk
Top Tip - Celebrate Love Parks Week – 25 July to 3 August
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 25 July and 3 August. To find out more go to www.loveparksweek.org.uk
Dinosaur Adventure offers a unique day out for everyone
The closest you'll get to experiencing Jurassic Park is tracking through the woods at Dinosaur Adventure! Children will gasp in amazement as they come face to face with the 8 metre Spinosaurus and the mighty T-Rex, Brachiosaurus, Stegosaurus, Triceratops, and more, along the woodland dinosaur trail. To make the summer really sizzle, Dinosaur Adventure has four thrilling events lined up. At the Dino’s at Night event on 12 July visitors will be able to enjoy an evening in the unique atmosphere of the park at dusk, whilst Bioblitz is back for 2014 on 2 and 3 August which includes a number of activities all centred around the wildlife that calls Dinosaur Adventure home. Walk and Eat like a Dinosaur follows on 11 - 17 August which will feature interactive displays throughout the day with a life-size puppet dinosaur and ranger; whilst a special Bug Week featuring lots of animal handling and hands-on activities will run from 23 August - 3 September. For more information call 01603 876310 or visit www.dinosauradventure.co.uk for admission prices.
Top Tip – Last chance: Enjoy a free tennis taster!
There’s still chance to enjoy a free taster session at The Lawn Tennis Association’s final Great British Tennis Weekend on 19-20 July. During this weekend some tennis parks, clubs and venues in the area will open their courts to members of the public and offer free taster sessions. To find a participating venue close to you go to www.lta.org.uk
Remarkable Reptiles at Banham Zoo
Aside from marvelling at the magnificent wildlife collection featuring over 2,000 animals from around the world, families who visit Banham Zoo this summer will be treated to a mass of new and exciting experiences. There are daily animal feeding talks and displays, an exciting Birds of Prey display, the incredible Giraffe House and Zarafa Heights, Province of the Snow Cat, live Amazing Animal presentations, a free safari road train, indoor soft play, a Tarzan Towers adventure play area, and fun interactive activities in the Education centre.
On 29 July there is an International Tiger Day where families will be able to enjoy a day of ferocious fun, whilst from 1 to 31 August the Remarkable Reptiles event will enable children to get hands-on with reptiles, add a scale to a giant snake and have their faces painted as their favourite reptiles. For more details go to www.banhamzoo.co.uk or call 01953 887771
Top Tip – Visit the local attractions
Those six weeks can crawl idly by, so a welcome treat to a local family attraction will inject a spark of excitement for all the family. Local theme parks and adventure parks are teeming with a variety of thrilling rides and slides that will stretch the imagination of both the bold and the bashful child. Plus, by meeting up with other parents during the school break 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
Summer outdoor theatre at Holkham Hall
The open air theatre productions at Holkham Hall promise to be as popular as ever with an exciting programme of family entertainment on offer.
The season begins on August 5 with the Chapterhouse Theatre Company performing The Jungle Book with all the favourite animal characters brought to life in an enchanting and fun-filled musical show for children of all ages. Join Mowgli on his wonderful adventures with the loveable and wise Baloo the Bear, the powerful panther Bagheera, not to mention mischievous monkeys and the terrifying tiger Shere Khan.
On August 13 Blunderbus Theatre Company will be performing Hugless Douglas, a new show which brings this well-known tale to life with an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and high energy storytelling. On August 20 Alice will be taking her adventures in Wonderland to Holkham with the help of the Cambridge Touring Company. This ever-popular children’s fairy tale is presented with a lively and hilarious performance brought to life with music, dancing and a host of pranks that appeal to young and old alike.
The final production will take place on August 27 when The Lord Chamberlain’s Men will be performing one of Shakespeare’s classic plays, Romeo and Juliet. Further information on the productions including ticket prices can be found on the website www.holkham.co.uk
Top Tip – Encounter some friendly animals
A smile will drift warmly to any youngster’s face at the prospect of an animal encounter. They will squeal with delight watching mischievous meerkats playing in a den, rush at every opportunity to cuddle a cute little pink piggy and giggle wildly at the perky penguins as they go on parade. There are plenty of places to visit an assortment of animals so whether you’re planning on a visit to a zoo, an aquarium, a sea life park, a safari park, a farm park or a specialised animal centre such as a donkey sanctuary or pony centre, children will not only enjoy seeing the animals but they will learn a great deal from the experience
The Out There International Festival of Circus and Street Arts Returns
There will be plenty of free comedy, circus and family fun as the Out There International Festival of Circus and Street Arts returns to Great Yarmouth from 17 to 21 September.
Now one of the country’s leading circus and street arts event, this year’s festival is set to be the largest to date with around 40 international acts and 150 shows. Gt. Yarmouth’s St. George’s Park provides a focal point for the festival with shows spilling out across the town’s streets and venues. Spectacular aerial performances combine with comedy, clowning and plenty of hands on activities. This year SeaChange Arts is looking to recruit nearly 1000 volunteers to participate in shows and activities. To find out more, visit www.outtherefestival.com
Top Tip – Become a super soaker!
Inspired by the aquatic athletes at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games? If so there are sure to be many chances to dive in the deep (and shallower) waters of the local swimming pools, diving centres, seaside resorts and wondrous water parks. Many swimming schools run crash course programmes throughout the summer holiday which can really bring children up to speed and improve ability. Have a look at the ASA (Amateur Swimming Association) website - www.swimming.org/asa
Train with an ex-Olympic athlete at Sportspark
Ex-Olympic athlete Paul Evans will be organising a fun athletics course for 8-15 year olds in Norwich this summer. The course will give children the chance to have a go at different athletics disciplines including hurdles, long jump and shot put. Norfolk-born Paul was the winner of the Chicago marathon in 1996 and was a finalist in the Atlanta and Barcelona Olympics. He now works in sports development for Active Norfolk. Paul will be leading on the four day event which concentrates on running, jumping and throwing skills in a fun and friendly environment. They are open to girls and boys of all abilities and are led by qualified athletics coaches.
Paul says, “Startrack is a great way of getting the kids active during the school holidays. It is always a lot of fun and it is a good way for children to make new friends and will help them develop their skills on the athletics field.” All sporting equipment will be provided, but participants should bring packed lunches, sunscreen and drinks. The course will be held from 12 - 15 August from 10am – 3pm at Sportspark, UEA, Norwich and costs £60.
For more information or to book a place on the course, visit www.activenorfolk.org/startrack or call 01603 732332
Top Tip – Sign up for sport
The FIFA World Cup, Wimbledon, the Tour de France and the Commonwealth Games are sure to motivate and encourage youngsters to get active this summer. Support this enthusiasm by visiting the fitness pages of the NHS website which lists a number of really useful tips and advice on how all family members can get active. Just go to www.nhs.uk/Livewell/fitness/Pages/Activelifestyle to find the best sport for you
Family adventures at Hautbois
Visit Hautbois Activity Centre located on the River Bure in Coltishall for one of its exciting Family Activity Days which will take place every Tuesday and Thursday of the summer holiday. These days are designed for anyone who has a sense of adventure and a love of the great outdoors! There are a whole host of outdoor activities on offer; from archery to abseiling and climbing to raft-building - there really is something for everyone.
Families can also enjoy exploring the wide variety of flora and fauna on the beautiful 28-acre estate, with an opportunity to take part in pond-dipping for mini beasts. Sessions will run from 11.15am to 12.45pm, and 1.30pm to 3.00pm.
The Family Activity Days offer great value for money at just £7 per person for a single session and £12 per person for multi sessions. To take part, children must be a minimum of 7 years old and be accompanied by an adult. To find out more visit www.hautbois.org.uk or call 01603 737357 (option 2) to book a family adventure!
New play area and Young Drivers activity at Snettisham Park
The summer months of July and August are an exciting time to visit Snettisham Park, a busy working farm consisting of 392 acres. One of the highlights is the unique tractor and covered trailer deer safari which is an amazing experience not to be missed. This 45 minute round trip enables families to hand feed a spectacular herd of over 50 hinds plus the awesome stags.
Other fun activities include bottle feeding the lambs right through to September, collecting and grading freshly laid eggs, pony grooming, feeding the friendly goats, watching the young calves being fed and cuddling the endearingly cute guinea pigs! Younger visitors will be able to enjoy the New Young Drivers activity and new children's play area, and see the latest arrivals to the farm, namely Peppa the piglet and 'Little Nel' the new sheep dog puppy.
There are also three farm trails to explore where youngsters will be able to learn something about the rich and fertile countryside plus see an abundance of diverse wildlife and habitats along River Ingol. Visitors are often surprised to find out that the farm is the site of an important Roman Villa, a Saxon Settlement and the famous St Thomas Chapel. For more information visit www.snettishampark.co.uk or call 01485 542425
Top Tip – Step back in time
During the summer months plenty of museums and art galleries run a number of child friendly events at very affordable prices. Notably, this year many attractions are hosting World War 1 commemorative events providing a wonderful opportunity to teach youngsters about this important part of history
Three times the fun this summer at Pettitts Animal Adventure Park!
Pettitts Animal Adventure Park boasts three parks in one location so there is always plenty to do that will accommodate all tastes. Most notably, there are superb fun rides to enjoy such as the Flying Elephants, Teacups, a Runaway Train Roller Coaster, a half mile Miniature Train, Alice in Wonderland, Toad of Toad Hall, a Robin Hood Adventure play area plus much more. On a quieter note families will be able to see the friendly meerkats, the entertaining chicken puppet show, enjoy the Construction Playground and bounce on the Giant Bouncy Castle.
There are animals galore to visit such as the playful lemurs, the calming alpaca’s, the cute racoon, the exotic creatures in the Reptile House and there is a petting area where children are able to feed the goats and chickens. Pettitts Animal Adventure Park will be open until 2 November, from 10am to 5pm. For details call 01493 700094 or go to www.pettittsadventurepark.co.uk
Top Tip – Visit a Show, Festival or Fayre
The months of July and August are always interspersed with a variety of shows, festivals and fayres; from humble street processions to vibrant carnivals, from the rural idyll of an agricultural county show to a quirky local event that is steeped in history and tradition. Make sure you visit at least one this summer
A magical end to the school summer holiday
Just when you think summer’s all over, Davenport’s Magic Kingdom will present a Fantastic Magical Fun Day on Sunday 31 August offering non-stop free entertainment for the whole family. To round off the holidays, Davenport’s Magic Kingdom invites families to enjoy close-up magic, juggling, escapology, Punch and Judy, stilt walkers, balloon modelling, face painting and puppetry. The Magical Fun Day opens at 11.30am to 5pm with standard exhibition entry and Live Magic shows will take place at 1.30pm and 3.30pm. Throughout summer Davenport’s Magic Kingdom offers standard exhibition and show entries suitable for the whole family and Davenport’s Evenings for mums and dads which include an exciting range of comedy nights, magic and music. Further information can be found online at www.davenportsmagickingdom.co.uk
Top Tip – Become a nature detective
Re-engage with nature by taking part in fun interactive activities such as rock pooling, nature trail quizzes, bat watching and searching for wild reptiles. The Woodland Trust has a list of 150 free things for children to do in their ‘Big Summer Challenge’ which can be found at www.naturedetectives.org.uk/summer The website includes downloadable charts for children to identify trees, flowers and wildlife in woodlands, their gardens and the local park. Another section has several ideas for scavenger hunts. Alternatively, find out what is happening at your local nature reserve, forestry commission or national park or go to www.rspb.org.uk or www.wildlifetrusts.org or www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Merrivale Model Village’s Summer Illuminations
During those long summer days at the seaside in Great Yarmouth the evenings take on a very different feel when visiting Merrivale Model Village. The whole attraction takes on a very special glow when the sun light fades and dusk starts to fall as the little houses come alive with their little lights, the castle is flood lit with colour, the bushes and flowers shine in the spot lights - it is an experience like nothing else in Norfolk. Summer illuminations run from 23 July daily till 28 August and the gardens close at 10pm. Do remember that if you visit in the daytime your tickets allow a re-visit in the evening of the same day. Due to popular demand the illuminations will be switched on for the October Half Term from 26 October daily till 2 November from 4pm till 5.15pm only. Remember to look out for Merrivale Model Village’s special offer voucher on page 15 of this magazine. To find out more go to www.merrivalemodelvillage.co.uk
Children’s favourites visit Bressingham this summer
A wonderful way to explore the beautiful gardens and woodlands of Bressingham is by climbing aboard the magnificent steam engine and enjoying the five mile cruise along the narrow-gauge steam lines. Aside from the stunningly scenic train trips, there are also some very special visitors making character appearances at Bressingham this summer. Children’s favourite Mike the Knight will be making personal appearances at intervals throughout the day on Sunday 13 July, plus there will be additional children’s entertainment from the Dragons of Wye-ten and there will be a Medieval Story Teller with tales of old. Whilst on Sunday 27 July there will be an emergency services ‘999’ day featuring a very special visit from Fireman Sam! This super hero will be making personal appearances at intervals throughout the day. Another favourite children’s TV character visits Bressingham on Sunday 24 August! Tree Fu Tom will be making appearances at intervals throughout the day. For more details go to www.bressingham.co.uk or call 01379 686900
Go hunting for treasure at Market Gates!
Families are invited on a treasure hunt at the stores in Market Gates Shopping centre, Great Yarmouth throughout the month of August. There are free gifts on offer for the first 300 entries and a chance to win a £100 "back to school survival kit!" To take part just pick up a leaflet at the Centre and start hunting! To find out more visit www.marketgates-shopping.co.uk
Fantastic food and a Fun-Fort at Castle Carvery
A wonderful way to encourage the children to eat healthily is by taking them to Castle Carvery where not only will they be able to tuck into a delicious roast carvery but they can also enjoy endless hours playing on the Fun Fort! Castle Carvery at the Racecourse, Salhouse Road in Norwich, at the Clocktower Bowthorpe in Norwich and Castle Free House in Caister–on-Sea has an indoor multi-level Fun-Fort complete with multiple spinners, rollers and slides! Each restaurant also has an outside play area with plenty of surrounding tables enabling parents to relax with a meal and drink while the children play. The Fun-Fort can be booked for children’s birthday parties which will include a meal with a drink, invitations, and play time in the Fun-Fort. At the end of the party each child will receive a party bag with a balloon. During the summer holiday Castle Carvery has some fantastic offers including a two course carvery for £9.99 from Monday to Friday and for £12.99 on Sundays. There is also a special free kids’ carvery offer available from Monday to Friday from 2:30pm to 4:30pm, plus babies in highchairs also eat for free every day. To find out more visit www.castlecarvery.co.uk
Take a dip at Beccles Lido and take a trip on the Big Dog Ferry
Nothing beats swimming outdoors in the summer and a visit to the warm waters of Beccles Lido, situated on Puddingmoor, next to the River Waveney, will allow you to do just that. The 30metre x 15metre outdoor pool in Beccles, with a separate toddler pool and paddling pool, is heated to a warming 27°C which is perfect for lane swimming from 7am on weekdays and from 7:30am at weekends until 10am. Surrounded by plenty of grassy areas and sun loungers, the Lido also boasts a slide, springboard and giant-inflatable. The café, with covered eating area, serves hot and cold snacks, delicious fairtrade coffee, tea and Italian hot chocolate, cold drinks and ices. Open every day until 6:30pm and 8pm on Thursday, Beccles Lido is the perfect place for a swim or a family day out. New for 2014: there are canoes for hire and there is a chance for visitors to take a river trip on Big Dog Ferry to the historic Locks Inn, Geldeston. For more information visit www.beccleslido.com or www.bigdogferry.co.uk or call 01502 713297 or 07532 072761
Marvel at the age old craft of glassmaking at Caithness Crystal Visitor Centre
The Caithness Crystal Visitor Centre is a perfect place for all the family to visit whatever the weather! As an added bonus admission is free, the ample parking is free and from Monday to Friday there are free glassmaking demonstrations. Visitors to the Caithness Crystal Visitor Centre will be able to marvel at this age old craft, and learn about what goes into making glass. There are also opportunities to try glassmaking. Both adults and children can experience the art of blowing their very own glass tumbler or friendship ball – which can be taken home afterwards. Experiences start from only £6.95 (booking is advisable) and they make excellent and unusual presents, all done under the careful guidance of the Master Glassmaker. Visit www.caithness-crystal.co.uk for more information including special glassmaking Sundays
Bowl the children over at Namco Funscape!
Namco Funscape in Bowthorpe, Norwich deserves more than a second glance - it’s not just a bowling alley, it’s a total entertainment package that will keep the family entertained this summer. The centre is full of arcade games, ping pong and air hockey to keep the children amused for hours whilst parents can settle down with a Costa Coffee for a well-deserved rest. The café can provide cold treats including ice creams and polar krush drinks to keep the family cool during the hot summer days, as well as an impressive array of delicious and varied food. An air conditioned licensed bar offers sanctuary for parents, with Sky Sports providing coverage of all the latest sporting events. Function suites are available to hire for a variety of events, from meetings and conferences to parties and celebrations. Throw in free secure parking and easy access from the A47; it is ideally suited for any occasion. Book online at www.namcofunscape.com or call 01603 740730
BeWILDerwood just got wilder!
Set high in the treetop canopy, the new Sky Maze at BeWILDerwood, Hoveton, Norfolk, takes adventure and playtime to magnificent new heights. Putting the ‘wild’ into BeWILDerwood - the newest addition to this hugely popular family attraction is of impressive wooden design, stretching nearly 1/2 kilometre and reaching over 8 metres in height. Weaving its way through the natural landscape, Sky Maze turns this way and that way; where no way is the wrong way. A puzzling and challenging experience, Sky Maze is made up of connecting tunnels, walkways and bridges, cargo nets and spiral staircases, zigzag beams and spectacular vantage points. For further information and prices visit www.bewilderwood.co.uk
A theatre treat in Hunstanton for the kids
Treat the kids to a day at the theatre this August! The Princess Theatre in Hunstanton will be presenting a marvellous show for all the children on each Thursday in August. Marty MacDonald’s Farm will take place on 7, 14, 21 and 28 August, so why not take the kids along to get them to help Marty, Pongo the Pig, Molly-Moo the Cow and Sheena the Sheep save their corn from the crafty crows and rescue the farm. The show features Justin Fletcher as the voice of Pongo Pig. For details go to www.princesshunstanton.co.uk or call 01485 532252
The Gruffalo hits the King’s Lynn Corn Exchange this summer
Meet a wheeler-dealer Fox, an eccentric old Owl and a maraca-shaking, party mad Snake in the hit monster family show at the King’s Lynn Corn Exchange this summer! The Gruffalo, direct from the West End, is sure to captivate Norfolk audiences from Friday 1 to Sunday 3 August.
Watch the classic tale unfold as Mouse scares the hungry animals away with tall stories of the terrifying Gruffalo, but what happens when he comes face to face with the very creature he imagined...? Voted the nation’s number one bedtime story by BBC Radio 2 listeners, The Gruffalo has been performed to well over a million people worldwide and has even hit the small screens in a star-studded TV animation. The Gruffalo is the perfect family treat with plenty of songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3+ and their grown-ups.
To book seats go call the Box Office on 01553 764864 or go to www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
Hop aboard the Broadland Boat Train this summer
Enjoy a family day out aboard The Broadland Boat Train at the Bure Valley Railway this summer. Starting from the historic market town of Aylsham, experience the magic of steam through nine miles of Norfolk countryside, following the picturesque Bure Valley, before arriving at the Broads town of Wroxham. Then take to the water and discover the beautiful Norfolk Broads with a leisurely hour and a half cruise with guided commentary.
Facilities at the Bure Valley Railway include a café, a toy and gift shop and a railway workshop at Aylsham with a souvenir shop at Wroxham. The Whistlestop Café seats up to 80 people and can provide everything from a cup of tea to a full meal. There is free parking at both stations. The Broadland Boat Train operates on a daily basis from the beginning of April to the end of October. Pre-booking is advisable during the school holidays.
A discounted family ticket (2 adults + 2 children) is available at a cost of £59 and under 5’s travel free. For more details call 01263 733858 or go to www.bvrw.co.uk
Warm welcome guaranteed for families at Great Yarmouth Racecourse
Great Yarmouth Racecourse is a gem of a flat racecourse offering 25 days racing during 2014. During the school holidays there is plenty of entertainment provided for the children including bouncy castles, an adventure playground, Punch and Judy shows, and donkey rides. This creates a fantastic family atmosphere with the added bonus of all children U18 years of age being admitted for free at all of Great Yarmouth’s race meetings.
There are 3 viewing grandstands with 6 bars located throughout the site offering a selection of drinks as well as a fast food court, family tea room and premier restaurant. For more information call the racecourse on 01493 842527 or visit the website www.greatyarmouth-racecourse.co.uk
Sizzling Summer Skate Sessions near the Sea
RetroSkate is an all year round Roller Skating venue which is easily accessible in its prominent location on Great Yarmouth Seafront. The venue has 18,000sq feet to offer the family a fun filled time.
If you haven't been skating before it’s OK - you will find friendly, fully trained and DBS checked rink stewards to help you with the basics. If you don't own a pair of skates it’s not a problem as RetroSkate has 400 pairs of quad roller skates ranging from size 8 junior to 13 adult which can be hired for £1.50.
General skate sessions are available throughout the week plus fun weekly Roller Discos. With the music playing, everyone can enjoy themselves whether spectating, skating or even trying their skills out in the skating games. As well as the main rink, the venue boasts a mini learner’s rink, Under 3’s soft play area, dedicated party area, Cafe Retro and fully equipped Skate Shop. Retroskate can be found on the Marine Parade in Great Yarmouth. For more details call 01493 854349 or go to www.retroskate.net
2 Great Destinations under 1 Roof!
Treat the family to a great day out this summer with a trip to Stompers and Strikers in North Walsham. Stompers is North Norfolk’s biggest indoor play experience with 3 exciting play zones catering for babies, toddlers and kids up to 12 years old. While the kid’s let off steam, why not treat yourself to a freshly made coffee or something to eat. With a full menu of delicious homemade snacks, meals, and Meal Deals for the kids, there’s something for everyone at Stompers.
Next door to Stompers, you’ll find Strikers, North Norfolk’s only tenpin bowling venue. There are 6 lanes, shoe hire and ‘glow-in-the-dark’ bowling, so why not take the family for a bowl or challenge some friends to a game?
So whatever the weather, Stompers and Strikers are great fun for the whole family and they make great party venues too. You’ll find them both off the Aylsham Road in North Walsham and they’re open 7 days a week from 9.30am. For more information, or to book a Bowling lane call 01692 407793 or visit www.strikers.co.uk or www.stompers.co.uk