WIZARDRY MAGIC SETS JUNE ALIGHT AT ALNWICK CASTLE

Step into Harry Potter’s wizardry world at Alnwick Castle this half term as the esplanade comes alive with all things fairytale. Become a knight that slays a dragon, or the Princess of the Castle.

As the last Harry Potter film, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 2, gets ready to hit the box office, children will be able to celebrate the Hogwartian way at Alnwick Castle – the original film location for Hogwarts – throughout June. Dress to impress as a witch, wizard or goblin at one of two Wizard weekends put on by the attraction. Characters Hagrid and Dumbledore will also be showcasing their magical sorcerer skills.

Medieval customs will bewitch visitors as they echo throughout the castle grounds. Become a dragon-slaying knight for the day in Knight’s Quest and learn how to joust like a professional, or simply watch Peterkin, the medieval stilt jester fire eating and balancing upside down!
A master falconer will also swoop by with a Peregrine and Lanner Falcon, giving on-lookers the chance to see these charming birds of prey up-close.

IT’S NATURAL TO FEEL ARTY AT THE ALNWICK GARDEN
As the beautiful Alnwick Garden comes alive with colours this summer, art is the theme for it events throughout June.
The Northumberland Artist Network Tour will bring together six local artists to showcase their work and talk about their skills, in the Courtyard Gallery. Join in and bring along your easel, or come along to one of our outdoor art school workshops where paints, pastels, charcoal, and pencils will be supplied.
Take advantage of the warmer weather and take a tour behind the locked gates of the Poison Garden. Flame-shaped beds contain poisonous plants such as belladonna, tobacco and mandrake. The Alnwick Garden has a Home Office license to grow some very special plants in the Poison Garden, including cannabis and coca which are found behind giant cages.

Regular coffee mornings and garden tours are also available at The Alnwick Garden, not forgetting treetop dining in The Treehouse for a tasty (and romantic) treat.
Please find full event listings information below. For more information on The Alnwick Garden and Castle, please visit: www.alnwickgarden.com www.alnwickcastle.com

Castle
Garden
JUNE
Wed 1st
Raphael Falconry 11.00 - 15.00
Peterkin, the medieval jester 11.00 - 15.00
Elderberries coffee morning 11.00 - 12.30
Garden tour 12.00 - 13.00
Potting workshop 13.00 - 16.00
Puppet Garden workshop 11.00 - 16.0
Thurs 2nd
Raphael Falconry 11.00 - 15.00
Peterkin, the medieval jester 12.00 - 15.00
Puppet Garden workshop 11.00 - 16.00
Vegetable garden tour 14.00 - 14.45
Fri 3rd
Raphael Falconry 11.00 - 15.00
Medieval crafts 11.00 - 16.00
Elderberries dance for fun 10.00 - 11.00
Puppet Garden workshop 11.00 - 16.00
Garden tour 12.00 - 13.00
Sat 4th
Medieval crafts 11.00 - 16.00
Puppet Garden workshop 11.00 - 16.00
Sun 5th Medieval crafts 11.00 - 16.00
Puppet Garden workshop 11.00 - 16.00
Mon 6th
Elderberries salsacise 11.00 - 12.00
Let’s Zumba 12.15 - 13.15
Garden tour 12.00 - 1300
Tues 7th
Vegetable garden tour 14.00 - 14.45
Wed 8th
Potting workshop 13.00 - 16.00
Garden tour 12.00 - 13.00
Thurs 9th
Vegetable garden tour 14.00 - 14.45
Fri 10th
Elderberries dance for fun 10.00 - 11.00
Garden tour 12.00 - 13.00
Sat 11th
Wand and charm-making 11.00 - 16.00
Harry Potter characters 12.00 & 14.00
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Fairy-house workshop 11.00 - 16.00
Sun 12th
Wand and charm-making 11.00 – 16.00
Harry Potter characters 12.00 & 14.00
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Outdoor art school 11.00 - 16.00
Mon 13th
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Elderberries salsacise 11.00 - 12.00
Let’s Zumba 12.15 - 13.15
Garden tour 12.00 - 13.00
Tues 14th
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Vegetable garden tour 14.00 - 14.45
Wed 15th
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Garden tour 12.00 - 13.00
Salad box workshop 14.00* 15.00
Thurs 16th
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Vegetable garden tour 14.00 - 14.45
Fri 17th
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Elderberries dance for fun 10.00 - 11.00
Baby boogie 11.15 - 12.15
Garden tour 12.00 - 13.00
Sat 18th
Wand and charm-making 11.00 - 16.00
Harry Potter characters 12.00 & 14.00
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Outdoor art school 11.00 - 16.00
Animal encounters 11.00 - 16.00
Sun 19th
Wand and charm-making 11.00 - 16.00
Harry Potter characters 12.00 & 14.00
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Mon 20th
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Elderberries salsacise 11.00 - 12.00
Let’s Zumba 12.15 - 13.15
Garden tour 12.00 - 13.00
Tues 21st
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Vegetable garden tour 14.00 - 14.45
Wed 22nd Castle & Garden closed
Thurs 23rd
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Vegetable garden tour 14.00 - 14.45
Fri 24th
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Elderberries dance for fun 10.00 - 11.00
Coffee & crayons 10.00 - 12.00
Garden tour 12.00 - 13.00
Sat 25th
Raphael Falconry 11.00 - 15.00
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Outdoor art school 11.00 - 16.00
Sun 26th
Raphael Falconry 11.00 - 15.00
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Outdoor art school 11.00 - 16.00
Mon 27th
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Elderberries salsacise 11.00 - 12.00
Let’s Zumba 12.15 - 13.15
Garden tour 12.00 - 13.00
Tues 28th
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Vegetable garden tour 14.00 - 14.45
Wed 29th
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Potting workshop 13.00 - 16.00
Garden tour 12.00
Thurs 30th
Northumberland Artists Network Tour exhibition 10.00 - 18.00
Vegetable garden tour 14.00 - 14.45
*Booking essential. Please call 01665 511350
Tours, classes and bookable workshops start at the shown time. You can drop into other workshops between the given times.
Performances are at intervals.
Programme is subject to change.

SWORDSMITHS AND STONE-CARVERS AT GLASTONBURY ABBEY OVER THE BANK HOLIDAY

THE history and mystery surrounding Glastonbury Abbey springs to life over the late May Bank Holiday weekend (28-29-30 May), with a host of activities celebrating medieval life and historic skills.

The ‘Step Into The Past’ weekend showcases more medieval crafts and demonstrations than you can shake a sword at – come and try your hand at tile-making, flint-knapping, stone carving and pottery.

See swordsmiths from the Forge of Avalon in action, and if you are feeling brave, witness Team Falchion in medieval combat and try your hand in archery. Meet the wandering minstrel playing his lute.

Liz Grassby, Visitor Experience Officer at Glastonbury Abbey, said: ‘Come and watch demonstrations, roll your sleeves up and take part in workshops, and see re-enactments that conjure up all the sights, sounds and smells of a medieval encampment’.

‘Glastonbury Abbey offers history and myths, medieval actors, wildlife, art, music, theatre and exhibitions for the whole family to enjoy - dogs on leads are welcome, too!’

• 2011 offers a unique series of visitor events at Glastonbury Abbey. A full list of the events, concerts and performances taking place at the Abbey will shortly be available on the Abbey’s website.
• The Abbey is open daily between 9am and 6pm until 27 May and between 9am and 9pm from 28 May – 31 August. Entrance to the Abbey is £6 for adults, £4 for under-16s and children under five go free. For more information, please visit the abbey’s website at www.glastonburyabbey.com
• Find out more about rediscovering the historical excavations at Glastonbury Abbey at www.glastonburyabbeysymposium.com

MEDIEVAL MONTH OF MAY: CHOOSE YOUR CHAMPION!
Bolsover Castle, Derbyshire
Sat 14 & Sun 15 May, 11am – 5pm
Meet the yellow knight from the East on his trusty charger with his squire, as they prepare for the Grand Medieval Bolsover Joust. Watch as we arm the knight for the tournament, while he practises his manoeuvres on horseback and follow your own quest to become a champion knight. Come back each week to meet the tournament contestants and choose your champion!
Prices: Adults £7.80 / Concessions £7 / Children £4.70 / Family £20.30
English Heritage Members: Free
Ticket price includes entry to event plus, entry to the Castle & Grounds.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/bolsover

MEDIEVAL MONTH OF MAY: CHOOSE YOUR CHAMPION!
Bolsover Castle, Derbyshire
Sat 21 & Sun 22 May, 11am – 5pm
Meet the green knight from the West on his trusty charger with his squire, as they prepare for the Grand Medieval Bolsover Joust. Watch as we arm the knight for the tournament, while he practises his manoeuvres on horseback and follow your own quest to become a champion knight. Come back each week to meet the tournament contestants and choose your champion!
Prices: Adults £7.80 / Concessions £7 / Children £4.70 / Family £20.30
English Heritage Members: Free
Ticket price includes entry to event plus, entry to the Castle & Grounds.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/bolsover

HIGHLIGHT EVENT CHARGE OF THE QUEEN’S CAVALRY!
Audley End House and Gardens, Essex
Sat 28 – Mon 30 May (Bank Holiday), 11am – 5pm
Behold the pageantry and excitement of Queen Victoria's army at Audley End this bank holiday, watch in amazement at our galloping lancers, red coated infantry and stirring marshall music. Children can also be put through their paces in our soldiers’ training camp or take part in a hobby horse cavalry drill. Discover what it would have been like living out on campaign in our living history area and talk to our experienced cavalry men based in the stables. All this, coupled with the spectacular house and grounds at Audley End, is sure to make this a day out to remember.
Prices: Adults £14 / Concessions £12.60 / Children £8.40 / Family £36.40
English Heritage Members: Free
Ticket price includes entry to House, Service Wing, Stables and Grounds.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/audleyend <http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/audleyend>

TUDOR TIMES!
Framlingham Castle, Suffolk
Sat 28 – Mon 30 May (Bank Holiday), 11am – 5pm
Enter the bustling world of our Tudor market at Framlingham Castle this Bank Holiday. Meet Tudor folk in their living history encampment, hear melodious music, browse our stalls selling a whole host of historic goods and children can also take part in a drill to see if they have what it takes to become part of Bloody Mary Tudors' army.
Prices: Adults £6.30 / Concessions £5.70 / Children £3.80 / Family £16.40
English Heritage Members: Free
Ticket price includes entrance to castle.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/framlingham

HIGHLIGHT EVENT THE KNIGHT’S TOURNAMENT
Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Northumberland
Sat 28 – Mon 30 May, 11am – 5pm
Marvel at our Medieval Knights as they take part in the Knight’s Tournament. Watch these four brave armoured Knights and their squires, representing the North, South, East and West as they compete in archery and the fantastic Crest Melee. In between the competitions enjoy a display of poleaxe combat, and browse the authentic Living History Encampment. Listen to period music and laugh out loud to our own medieval Jester! Plus Time Traveller activities each day.
Prices: Adults £8.50 / Concessions £7.50 / Children £5
English Heritage Members: Free
All children are welcome to join in the Time Travellers Go… events. An additional £1 will be charged on standard admission for every child, member and non member, to help us fund this entertainment activity.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay

TIME TRAVELLERS GO…WW11
Dover Castle, Kent
Sat 28 – Mon 30 May (Bank Holiday), 10am – 5pm
Air raids, rationing, evacuation - how would you have fared during WWII? Find out what life was really like during the 1940s and get top tips on how to be the ultimate soldier. Then take part in the children's drill and obstacle course and make your own gas mask box to take home.
Prices: Adults £13.90 / Concessions £11.80 / Children £7 / Family £34.80
English Heritage Members: Free
Ticket price includes entry to event plus, the site.
All children are welcome to join in the Time Travellers Go… events. An additional £1 will be charged on standard admission for every child, member and non member, to help us fund this entertainment activity.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/dover

HIGHLIGHT EVENT MEDIEVAL COURTLY COMBAT & TIME TRAVELLERS GO…MEDIEVAL
Whitby Abbey, North Yorkshire
Sat 28 – Mon 30 May (Bank Holiday), 11am – 5pm
Marvel at the medieval knights as they take on the ultimate Knight’s Tournament. Fully armoured and ready to do battle, you can watch our knights in hand to hand combat, archery competitions and much more. Who will reign supreme and be the victor? There's also chance to try your hand at the noble art of archery (small extra charge applies). Plus hands on Time Traveller medieval pastimes and fun and games for all children - young and old!
Prices: Adults £6 / Concessions £5.40 / Children £3.60 / Family £15.60
English Heritage Members: Free
All children are welcome to join in the Time Travellers Go… events. An additional £1 will be charged on standard admission for every child, member and non member, to help us fund this entertainment activity.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/whitby

HIGHLIGHT EVENT A GRAND MEDIEVAL JOUST
Bolsover Castle, Derbyshire
Sun 29 & Mon 30 May, 11am – 5pm
Experience the pageantry of a medieval joust and enjoy the thrills and spills as you cheer on your favourite knight. There's plenty of laughter with entertainment from our jester, plus medieval games to play and a knights training school for children. This full day out gives a great insight into life at the palace during the medieval period with music, dance, falconry displays and much, much more.
Prices: Adults £9 / Concessions £8.10 / Children £5.40 / Family £23.40
English Heritage Members: Free
Ticket price includes entry to event plus, entry to the Castle & Grounds.
Purchase your tickets today using our online system below or by calling our dedicated Ticket Sales Team on 0870 333 1183 (Mon – Fri, 8.30am – 5.30pm. Sat 9am – 5pm). Tickets will also be available to purchase at the event site on the day. Early bird tickets are available.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/bolsover

HIGHLIGHT EVENT THE IMPERIAL ROMAN ARMY
Birdoswald Roman Fort, Cumbria
Sun 29 & Mon 30 May (Bank Holiday), 11am – 5pm
Join the massed ranks of the world famous Ermine Street Guard as the imperial Roman army is put through their training. Witness the colourful and armed Roman soldiers as they practice their combat skills, battle tactics and artillery firepower. Youngsters can join in the drill and training with sessions throughout the day.
Prices: Adults £5.50 / Concessions £5.50 / Children £3.50
English Heritage Members: Free
www.english-heritage.org.uk/birdoswald

A HANDFUL OF HISTORY
Kenilworth Castle & Elizabethan Garden, Warwickshire
Sun 29 & Mon 30 May (Bank Holiday), 11am – 5pm
Come along to Kenilworth Castle and get hands-on with history as we explore different periods of English history in this interactive day out for all the family.
Prices: Adults £10 / Concessions £9 / Children £6 / Family 26
English Heritage Members: Adults £2 / Concessions £1.80 / Children £1.20 / Family £5.20
Purchase your tickets today using our online system below or by calling our dedicated Ticket Sales Team on 0870 333 1183 (Mon – Fri, 8:30am - 5:30pm. Sat 9am - 5pm). Please note: Booking tickets for this event is recommended as places are limited.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenilworth

HIGHLIGHT EVENT THE PATH TO PARADISE
Lindisfarne Priory, Northumberland
Sat 28 May – Sun 5 Jun (Bank Holiday), 11am – 4pm
Follow the mysterious labyrinth laid at Lindisfarne Priory. Our costumed guides will create song lines, poetry and music to help you on your way. Take as long as you like to walk the path as a meditation, as a bit of fun, as an exercise or as a social gathering. Be sure to check the tide times when planning your visit.
Prices: Adults £4.80 / Concessions £4.30 / Children £2.90
English Heritage Members: Free
www.english-heritage.org.uk/lindisfarne

DONKEY TRAIL & CARROT QUEST
Carisbrooke Castle, Isle of Wight
Sat 28 May – Sun 5 Jun (Bank Holiday), 10am – 5pm
Can you help the donkeys find all their carrots? Join us for the Donkey Quest and Carrot Trail, find them all and receive a prize.
Prices: Adults £7.30 / Concessions £6.60/ Children £4.40 / Family £19
English Heritage Members: Free
Ticket price includes entry to event plus, the site.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/carisbrooke

FAIRIES & DRAGONS WEEK
Brodsworth Hall and Gardens
Sat 28 May – Sun 5 Jun (Bank Holiday), 11am – 5pm
Discover the secrets in the garden at Brodsworth. There are Fairies and Dragons, with plenty of hands on activities and fun for children, from storytelling to garden trails and arts and crafts.
Prices: Adults £5.50 / Concessions £5 / Children £3.30
English Heritage Members: Free
Ticket price includes entry to event site only. Admission to the Hall is extra.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/brodsworth

HIGHLIGHT EVENT THE PATH TO PARADISE & PRESENCE
Rievaulx Abbey, North Yorkshire
Sat 28 May – Sun 5 Jun (Bank Holiday), 11am – 4pm
Follow the mysterious labyrinth laid at Rievaulx Abbey. Our costumed guides will create song lines, poetry and music to help you on your way. You can also find the contemplative and moving installation sculpture of Presence by Eva Milleusnic in the abbey ruins, a collection of 20 plaster cast open prayer books and kneelers. Take as long as you like to walk the path as a meditation, as a bit of fun or as a social gathering.
Prices: Adults £6 / Concessions £5.50 / Children £4
English Heritage Members: Free
www.english-heritage.org.uk/rievaulx

TIME TRAVELLERS GO…SEAFARING
Pendennis Castle, Cornwall
Mon 30 May – Sat 4 Jun, 11am – 4pm
Anchors aweigh! Set sail on a nautical adventure as you learn the ropes of seafaring, 1800s style. Prepare for naval battle, enjoy plenty of hands-on activities and find out about life on the open seas in days gone by.
Prices: Adults £6.30 / Concessions £5.70 / Children £3.80 / Family £16.40
English Heritage Members: Free
(All children are welcome to join in the Time Travellers Go… events. An additional £1 will be charged on standard admission for every child, member and non member, to help us fund this entertainment activity.)
www.english-heritage.org.uk/pendennis

TIME TRAVELLERS GO…CAVALIERS & ROUNDHEADS
Kenilworth Castle & Elizabethan Garden, Warwickshire
Tue 31 May – Thu 2 Jun, 11am – 5pm
Pikes at the ready! Join Oliver Cromwell's army and discover what it took to be a soldier of the English Civil War. Then test your agility in the children's battle and learn to use a pike in our soldiers' drill.
Prices: Adults £8 / Concessions £7.20 / Children £4.80 / Family £20.80
English Heritage Members: Free
(All children are welcome to join in the Time Travellers Go… events. An additional £1 will be charged on standard admission for every child, member and non member, to help us fund this entertainment activity.)
www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenilworth

TIME TRAVELLERS GO…MEDIEVAL
Whitby Abbey, North Yorkshire
Tue 31 May – Sun 5 Jun, 11am – 5pm
How would you have fared 500 years ago? Take a trip back to medieval times to find out, with a whole range of medieval games, toys and pastimes to discover and play. Also have a go at bringing down the castle walls with miniature siege engines!
Prices: Adults £6 / Concessions £5.40 / Children £3.60 / Family £15.60
English Heritage Members: Free
(All children are welcome to join in the Time Travellers Go… events. An additional £1 will be charged on standard admission for every child, member and non member, to help us fund this entertainment activity.)
www.english-heritage.org.uk/whitby

TIME TRAVELLERS GO…KNIGHTS & PRINCESSES
Bolsover Castle, Derbyshire
Wed 1 – Sun 5 Jun, 11am – 5pm
Give that toy sword a whirl or put on your prettiest dress and head back in time for activities on a medieval theme. Transform yourself into a noble lord in squire training, learn about etiquette and even try on armour in our academy for budding knights and princesses. Children will also be able to take part in a children's battle.
Prices: Adults £7.80 / Concessions £7 / Children £4.70 / Family £20.30
English Heritage Members: Free
Ticket price includes entry to event plus, entry to the Castle & Grounds.
(All children are welcome to join in the Time Travellers Go… events. An additional £1 will be charged on standard admission for every child, member and non member, to help us fund this entertainment activity.)
www.english-heritage.org.uk/bolsover

TIME TRAVELLERS GO…UGLY BUG SAFARI
Audley End House and Gardens
Wed 1 Jun – Sun 5 Jun, 11am – 5pm
Grab a magnifying glass and join our Victorian explorer for a hunt through the gardens at Audley End House to find a mass of fascinating minibeasts. Discover more about bugs and their habitat and create your own creepy crawly to take home. (All children are welcome to join in the Time Travellers Go… events. An additional £1 will be charged on standard admission for every child, member and non member, to help us fund this entertainment activity.)
Prices: Adults £12.50 / Concessions £11.30 / Children £7.50 / Family £32.50
English Heritage Members: Free
Ticket price includes entry to House, Service Wing, Stables and Grounds.
(All children are welcome to join in the Time Travellers Go… events. An additional £1 will be charged on standard admission for every child, member and non member, to help us fund this entertainment activity.)
www.english-heritage.org.uk/audleyend

TIME TRAVELLERS GO…KNIGHTS & PRINCESSES
Framlingham Castle, Suffolk
Wed 1 – Sun 5 Jun, 11am – 5pm
Give that toy sword a whirl or put on your prettiest dress and head back in time for activities on a medieval theme. Transform yourself into a noble lord in squire training, and even try on armour in our academy for budding knights and princesses.
Prices: Adults £6.30 / Concessions £5.70 / Children £3.80 / Family £16.40
English Heritage Members: Free
Ticket price includes entrance to castle.
(All children are welcome to join in the Time Travellers Go… events. An additional £1 will be charged on standard admission for every child, member and non member, to help us fund this entertainment activity.)
www.english-heritage.org.uk/framlingham

HIGHLIGHT EVENT THE PATH TO PARADISE & PRESENCE EVENINGS
Rievaulx Abbey, North Yorkshire
Fri 3 & Sat 4 Jun, 7pm – 9pm
Follow the mysterious labyrinth laid at Rievaulx Abbey. Our costumed guides will create song lines, poetry and music to help you on your way. You can also find the contemplative and moving installation sculpture of Presence by Eva Milleusnic in the abbey ruins, a collection of 20 plaster cast open prayer books and kneelers. Take as long as you like to walk the path as a meditation, as a bit of fun or as a social gathering.
Prices: Adults £6 / Concessions £5.50 / Children £4
English Heritage Members: Free
www.english-heritage.org.uk/rievaulx

KNIGHTS, LORDS & LADIES
Beeston Castle and Woodland Park
Sat 4 & Sun 5 Jun, 11am – 5pm
See Knights from the Middle Ages gather together at the castle and take part in one on one combat and contests, as multiple Knights fight to the last man standing. Complete with living history encampment from the serving squires to the noble Lord and Lady. Car Parking charge applies.
Prices: Adults £6 / Concessions £5.50 / Children £3.50
English Heritage Members: Free
www.english-heritage.org.uk/beeston

AZORES & BACK YACHT RACE
Pendennis Castle, Cornwall
Sat 4 Jun, starts at 1pm
Come and watch the yachts taking part in 10th Azures and Back Yacht race set off, as we fire a gun at 1pm to start the race. Have an amazing view of over 100 yachts as they start off on a round trip of almost 2,500 miles. The Azores and Back yacht race began in 1975 and is held every four years, organised by the Royal Cornwall Yacht club in Falmouth and Club Naval in Punta Delgada in the Azores. 2011 will be the 10th anniversary of the race and will see a record number of yachts taking part.
Prices: Adults £6.30 / Concessions £5.70 / Children £3.80 / Family £16.40
English Heritage Members: Free
www.english-heritage.org.uk/pendennis

NEW TRANSFORMERS EGGBODS HAVE LANDED

This year’s must-have wind-up mix ‘n’ match collectibles are joining in on the battle between the AUTOBOTS and the DECEPTICONS with the new TRANSFORMERS: DARK OF THE MOON EggBods from Bluw Toys.

You can either re-enact your favourite scene from the new Paramount Pictures live-action movie from director Michael Bay, and executive producer Steven Spielberg, TRANSFORMERS: DARK OF THE MOON or create your own exciting adventures.

Available from June, there will be three TRANSFORMERS EggBods to collect, including the fearless Eggtimus Prime, the evil Eggatron and the fan-favourite Bumble Egg.

You can have great fun with your TRANSFORMERS EggBods by mixing ‘n’ matching their heads with other EggBod bodies. You can pop Eggtimus Prime’s head on Bumble Egg’s body to create ‘Bumble Prime’, or swap them around with the Classic EggBods range, creating ‘Mega Pirate’ by mixing Eggatron with Captain Hard Boiled.

Once you’ve made your ideal EggBod, bring them to life by winding them up and watching them walk around and move their arms.

With their cool designs, extensive play possibilities and no batteries needed, the new TRANSFORMERS EggBods are set to make you go egg-static - so wind them up, swap them around and collect them all!

For more information about the inhabitants of Plant Egg visit www.eggbods.com

TRANSFORMERS EggBod – RRP £5.99 Ages: 4 years+
Classic EggBod - RRP £4.99 Ages: 4 years+

The Classic EggBod range includes:
Eggbot; Fireman Scramble; Crack Commando; Captain Hard Boiled; Fairy Tinkershell; Eggalina Ballerina; Nurse Eggwhite and Eggs Factor.

EggBods were named the ‘Best Pocket Money Toy’ at the London Toy Fair 2011

TOP NATIONAL TRUST DESTINATIONS THIS MAY HALF TERM, WHATEVER THE WEATHER

With May half term offering a week of freedom, the National Trust has plenty of excuses to get the kids out the house and making the most of longer days and warmer weather. And if stormy skies threaten to ruin a day out, the Trust has heaps of ideas up its sleeve to keep everyone entertained.

The infamous, British wet weather can be thoroughly enjoyed with the help of a pair of wellies and a raincoat, but for those who flee at the first sign of a raindrop, there are hoards of activities to do inside National Trust houses and castles. And if the sun does decide to put on a great show, there are so many activities that are best enjoyed under blue skies.

From exciting maze challenges and tricky treasure trails to dreaded dungeon tours and fun costume dress-ups, it’s time to discover perfect weather-proof days out with the National Trust.

Here are the top houses and gardens for family visits, come rain or shine, this May half term:

The Argory, Co. Armagh
An imposing house from the 1820s, The Argory is a real time capsule. Not much has changed since 1900, when the MacGeough Bond family lived there, and the interior still evokes the family’s tastes and interests. Outside, the estate is over 300 acres and has sweeping views and plenty of walks - even for little legs. On a wander down to the river, look out for kingfishers, or even a buzzard, swooping over a field. It is a real haven for wildlife, making a great day out for young naturalists.
Sun: Explore the swings, slides and other fun equipment in the playground or discover the sundial in the middle of the rose garden and learn how to tell the time without a watch.
Rain: Visit the award-winning Lady Ada’s tea room with treats for everyone.

Bateman’s, East Sussex
Home of the much-loved Rudyard Kipling, Bateman’s is kept much as Kipling left it – with his pen and inkwell awaiting new stories. Even his 1928 Rolls-Royce Phantom 1 is outside waiting to rev up and much of the oriental rugs and artefacts reflect his strong association with the East. Take a stroll around the estate and try to spot some of the inspiration for The Jungle Book, or take a virtual tour of the watermill. Enjoy the smugglers’ trail through the garden and discover hidden treasures.
Sun: Walk around the pond, designed by Kipling to be shallow so they children could fall safely (don’t try it!).
Rain: See the original illustrations of The Jungle Book and soak up the atmosphere in Kipling’s book-lined study. Hunt out the Kipling family initials, carved into the porch one rainy afternoon.

Blickling Hall, Garden and Park, Norfolk
Blickling Hall is a quirky-looking building and has a sumptuous collection of Dutch gables and turrets, striking brick chimneys and some massive yew hedges. Embark on a voyage of discovery and follow four centuries of history, from the Boleyn family to the RAF and Second World War. Learn what life was like as a servant and hear the stories of the real people who kept Blickling in ship-shape. Henry VIII’s second queen, poor old Anne Boleyn, lived in an earlier house on the estate when she was a girl. Later, she will have wished she had stayed at home instead of marrying Henry, who had her beheaded. Some say they’ve seen her headless ghost riding up to the house, in a coach pulled by headless horses. Wander outside through extensive garden and parkland, with 400 year-old yew hedges and historic trees.
Sun: Find the secret garden with the sundial or find the hidden pyramid, a tomb built for one of Blickling’s owners. Have picnic in the orchard and spot local wildlife, including woodpeckers, herons and owls. Really make a day of it and play croquet or hire a bike.
Rain: Listen to the actual voices of Blickling servants or follow the wartime history in the RAF museum. Spy some very curious beasts hiding in the plaster ceiling in the long gallery.

Brownsea Island, Dorset
Take the ferry across to this adventure island in Poole Harbour, famous for being an unspoilt, natural haven with a colourful history. Brownsea was the perfect haunt for smugglers, who used to hide their booty of silks and spices in the castle here. From towering trees and shell shores, to the smugglers’ tales and scenes right out of Enid Blyton’s Famous Five novels, everyone will feel like they are on quest of discovery. The island is one of the last places to see red squirrels as well as many different kinds of seabirds. There are lots of walks, some suitable for even the youngest would-be smuggler, and the island is car free so every inch of it can be explored.
Sun: Throughout May half term, follow the Whispering Island activity trail to find the clues and discover the secrets of the smugglers. Keep a look out for rare red squirrels in the tall pine woods and proud peacocks roaming the island, as well as the pottery remains on the seashore.
Rain: Watch the birds on the lagoon from the public hideaway or head to the visitors centre and hear how the island was used as a decoy during the Second World War to protect the nearby towns of Poole and Bournemouth from bombing. Pay a visit to the outdoor centre and see the scout stone.

Calke Abbey, Derbyshire
Head to Derbyshire and explore an extraordinary house that tells the tale of an eccentric family, their passions and way of life. Largely unchanged since the 1880s, room after room in Calke Abbey uncovers the possessions of the Harpur Crewe family, including cannonballs, shells, stones, and even an alligator skull. Calke is very friendly, especially for children, and is great for budding explorers; find mini-beasts using free, family tracker packs or, for a chilling experience, search for the ice house. Plus, there are roaming deer in the park and ‘the old man of Calke’ tree that’s over one thousand years old.
Sun: Find the weirs and ponds in the middle of the park, home to all sorts of wildlife.
Rain: Discover the fossils, taxidermy and Egyptian curiosities in the saloon and head to the squirt’s stable for family activities. Head underground to follow the twists and turns of the Brewhouse Tunnel.

Castle Drogo, Devon
Famously the last castle built in England, Castle Drogo looks like a real medieval fortress but was actually built at the beginning of the 20th-century. Situated high on a rocky outcrop above the dramatic Teign Gorge, the castle offers spectacular views over the wilds of Dartmoor. Spend some time spotting the fake castle features - like the arrow splits, turrets and portcullis - before heading inside to discover the intriguing interior, which is a mixture of modern technology and 17th-century tapestries and furniture. Outside, follow the winding paths in the terrace garden, walk in the rhododendron valley and discover the arts and crafts inspired garden.
Sun: Try to find the Bunty house - a children’s playhouse that’s set within its own cottage garden. Explore the Dartmoor orchard and wildflower meadow area or play croquet on the neatly-mown lawns.
Rain: Grab a special ‘100 years trail’ and follow a century of Drogo’s history, spotting objects from across the decades.

Chirk Castle, Wrexham
Chirk Castle, which stands on a hilltop overlooking the Ceiriog valley, is a magnificent, medieval castle full of mystery and intrigue. Completed in 1310, many original features still remain, including the grisly dungeon, the medieval tower and 17th-century long gallery. Uncover 400 years of family living, take in views across nine counties, explore the award-winning gardens with rare trees and shrubs or try on costumes and play games in the family rooms. Be on best behaviour though, as naughty children and parents will end up in the stocks.

Sun: Encounter Berkshire pigs and ancient trees on a roam around the estate and try to spot the eagles’ heads on the huge, elaborate iron gates. On 2 June, join Queen Joanna and her royal court for a fun-filled, family day out. Guests can be presented to the Queen, complete the knight's quest trail and train with the royal guards at knight school. Best frocks will be shown off at the princesses ball at 3pm.
Rain: For the brave, take a trip down to the dreaded dungeons with their tiny windows. For the bold, climb up the towers to keep a look out and count the ‘murder holes’. Look out for the suits of armour from the Civil War.

Cliveden, Buckinghamshire
A country retreat on a grand scale, Cliveden is the perfect place for fresh air, colourful gardens and simple, family fun. In the magnificent grounds, the spectacular Cliveden maze is now open. Be among the first to crack the secret route and reach the heart of Lord Astor's amazing creation. Don’t get too lost in there as there’s plenty more to explore in the gardens, including the long garden, dotted with unusual statues and topiary, and the new storybook-themed play area.
Sun: Take on the maze challenge and see who finishes first and then stretch the legs further with a riverside or woodland walk. Have a handstand competition on the grass or count how many different colours there are in the flower beds.
Rain: Take shelter in the orangery and enjoy home-cooked snacks or put on the waterproofs and take a peaceful boat trip on the River Thames.

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, Yorkshire
There’s so much atmosphere and adventure to soak up at this World Heritage Site, making it the perfect family destination. From the dramatic abbey ruins, which could tell a thousand tales, to the stunning, landscaped water gardens complete with temples, statues and follies. For children, it offers space to play hide and seek in the abbey ruins followed by having a go at grinding their own corn in the mill. Go on a hunt for the hermit’s grotto in the Georgian water garden and spot the species of bat that live in the abbey. Play detective and count the different temples in the garden and discover the trough where the monks washed their feet – they only had four baths a year.
There’s also the medieval deer park, home to 500 deer and countless other wildlife.
Sun: Throughout May half term, there will be pond life trails and activities to complete for all ages.
Rain: Seek shelter in the porter’s lodge exhibition to discover the abbey’s story or head indoors for a spot of dressing-up in monks’ robes.

Ightham Mote, Kent
Ightham Mote is a romantic medieval and Tudor manor house, built around a courtyard. It’s so hidden away that it’s reported that, during the English Civil War in the 1600’s, even Cromwell’s soldiers got lost trying to find the manor in the dark and looted a nearby house instead. Over the years, it has acquired a painted Tudor ceiling, a Jacobean fireplace, Chinese 18th-century wallpaper and a 19th-century billiards room. Ightham is perhaps the only house to have a Grade I listed dog kennel, made in 1890 for Dido - a St Bernard dog who was so big her food had to be served in a washing-up bowl.
Sun: Join a free garden tour and, on a clear day, see for miles at the top of the tower.
Rain: Travel back to Tudor times in the chapel or explore the crypt. Hear stories of Dame Dorothy Selby, who died after pricking her finger on a needle

Mount Stewart House, Garden and Temple of the Winds, Co. Down
Mount Stewart is one of the most unique and unusual gardens in the National Trust’s ownership, laid out in a series of different garden ‘rooms’. There is something new around every corner and the house tells stories of the politicians who visited the Londonderry family. Lady Londonderry made all the visiting politicians members of her elite ‘Arc Club’, and the animal pictures of them can still be seen in the tea room – Winston Churchill was ‘Winnie the Warlock’ after his visit.
Sun: Discover dinosaurs in the garden and a horse with a monkey on its back. Find ‘Mairi Mairi quite contrary’ sitting in the middle of a pond with her cockle shells. Creep down the underground tunnel by the Temple of the Winds and find crocodiles and duck-billed platypuses jostling on the dodo terrace.
Rain: Don the waterproofs and enjoy the wind-blasted views over Strangford Lough from the Temple of the Winds. Or head to the tea room and decide what animals today’s famous politicians would be – and then try it out on friends and family.

Powis Castle and Garden, Powys
With the world-famous garden just coming into its best, May half term is the perfect time to visit Powis. The medieval castle was originally built as a fortress for the Welsh Prince of Powys and today it is the ideal setting to act like the prince or princess of the castle. Over the years, the Herbert family have packed it with paintings, sculptures and treasures from India, found in the Clive museum. The sumptuous, 26 acre gardens are perfect for exploring and there will be a variety of children’s activities and trails during half term week.
Sun: Hunt for the solid gold tiger, encrusted with precious stones, and the 300 year-old giant yew hedges. Head to the igloo-shaped ice house to see how ice was stored before fridges came along.
Rain: Go behind the scenes with a castle tour and take in the grandeur of the Elizabethan long gallery.

Quarry Bank Mill and Styal Estate, Cheshire
Where did our great grandparents live? How did they live? Experience something of the noise and hardship in their lives at Quarry Bank Mill. Overflowing with the atmosphere of the Industrial Revolution, hear the clattering of machinery and hiss of steam engines as costumed guides bring the 18th-century cotton mill alive. From demonstrations of spinning and weaving to watching the most powerful water wheel in Europe as it churns through the water to power the mill, visitors will llive and breathe the workings of this truly unique place. Take a guided tour through the apprentice house and experience life as a child working in the mill, dressing up in pauper clothing and writing on slates. See the traditional vegetables, fruit and herbs still grown in the garden using organic methods.
Sun: Pick up a trail leaflet and take a walk along the river, winding up at the peaceful heron pond bridge. Enjoy a family picnic near the play area. Discover the 18th-century Mill owner’s garden, listen to the new garden audio tour or pick up a family garden activity pack.
Rain: Discover how the huge industrial machines were manned in the vast labyrinthine of the mill. Learn how water power was supplemented by steam power.

Sizergh Castle and Garden, Cumbria
This imposing house, in the gateway of the Lake District, stands proud in a rich and beautiful garden, which includes a pond, lake, national collection of hardy ferns and a limestone rock garden. Still lived in by the Strickland family, Sizergh Castle has many tales to tell and certainly feels like a home, with centuries-old portraits and fine furniture sitting alongside modern family photographs. Climb the 14th-century tower with walls two metres thick in places and discover the turret at the top where the garderobes (toilets) used to be. Squeeze up the winding staircase with its sharp turns to the right – making it difficult for an attacker to wield his sword. Don’t miss some of England’s finest inlaid panelling and wood carvings.
Sun: Explore the kitchen garden and orchard on the garden trail. See waterfalls and pools in the rock garden or follow a downloadable walk across the Sizergh estate, with its magnificent views Morecambe Bay and Lakeland hills.
Rain: Take a house quiz or join a ‘Hidden History’ tour and discover more about this fascinating house and its collections.

Sudbury Hall and the National Trust Museum of Childhood, Derbyshire
There’s something for every here, either in the 17th-century hall or the museum of childhood, which is a delight for all ages. The hall interiors are exquisite, with fine, decorative plasterwork, wood carvings and beautifully painted murals. In the unique museum, get lost in themed galleries covering everything from outdoor adventure to stories and imagination, complete with interactive displays and even bedrooms on the ceiling. Children can dress up in the story gallery, pretend to be pupils in the Victorian schoolroom, or even chimney sweeps (the adventurous can even climb up inside the chimney). Younger children will enjoy searching for the mice, who are up to all sorts in their own little, hidden worlds in each of the galleries. Outdoors, explore the wicked woodland and discover the adventure play areas.
Sun: In the woodland play area at the end of half term (4-5 June, 2pm – 4pm), there is a pirates, parrots and pieces of eight treasure hunt for young adventurers.
Rain: Explore the childhoods of time gone by in the museum with lots of hands-on activities, or take a morning tour of the hall.

Trelissick Garden, Cornwall
These famous gardens are very special, with surprises and discoveries at every turn. Work out the time in the scented garden using the sundial, discover exotic plants like the skunk cabbage in the bog garden, or walk the rustic bridge in the dell and be transported into another land with the tropical-looking Australian ferns. Come unexpectedly face-to-face with a substantial cargo ship on the approach to the boundary of the River Fal or visit the Celtic Cross summerhouse, where priests would preach to the fishermen.
Sun: Find the perfect place to picnic in the sheltered garden and turn cartwheels on the tennis lawn. Explore the magical cryptomeria tree on the main lawn or spot the tiny escape ladders for hedgehogs by the cattle grids.
Rain: Take shelter in not one but four summerhouses dotted around the garden. Play a game of ‘i-spy’ and try to spot minibeasts who love the wet weather.

Wallington, Northumberland
Don’t be fooled by the plain exterior of this 17th-century house, inside there’s oodles of fancy plasterwork, gorgeous Pre-Raphaelite paintings and many fascinating objects. The remarkable Pre-Raphaelite central hall was decorated to look like an Italian courtyard and features a series of paintings of Northumbrian history by William Bell Scott. Don’t miss the collection of dolls’ houses in the servants’ quarters and peep through two keyholes and a mouse hole to see the mouse house. Outside, there’s a fabulous garden with sculptures, water features and a wildlife hide.
Sun: Find the large, stone griffin heads on the lawn that look like something straight out of Harry Potter and clamber around on the adventure playground. Look out for rare red squirrels in the wildlife hide and go on a trail.
Rain: Marvel at Lady Wilson’s cabinet of curiosities, including a stuff porcupine fish, or visit the children’s room, filled with old-fashioned games and toys. Imagine doing lots of washing-up in the kitchen, without a dishwasher in sight.

Wimpole Hall, Cambridgeshire
There’s nothing like getting hands dirty and experiencing life down on the farm – and Wimpole’s Home Farm offers just that. From Shire horse wagon rides to collecting eggs and grooming donkeys, this real, working farm invites families to look, touch and even feed the animals. Built for the 3rd Earl of Hardwicke in 1794, who was passionately interested in farming and agriculture, the farm is home to rare breeds including sheep with strange names like Logthan, Soays and Manx. Experience the noisy, modern piggery and spot the tiny piglets escaping their sty. In May half term, the lambs will be finding their feet and of course there will be cows, goats, rabbits and chickens to say “hello” to. Hidden among the trees, the adventure playground is perfect for those who love to climb, slide, scramble and swing, while tiny tots can enjoy their own play area with the ‘kidbine harvester’ and mini pedal tractors.
Sun: Learn about food and farming with daily activities: try the 'milking buckets', watch the Jersey cow on the milking machine and join in grooming the donkeys.
Rain: Visit the great barn and find a collection of farm implements dating back 200 years. There’s also the hall to explore, where intimate rooms contrast with beautiful Georgian interiors.

MAY HALF-TERM GOES WITH A WIGWAM BAM AT THE MARITIME MUSEUM

May half-term is sure to go with a wigwam bam at the Maritime Museum with their fantastic free make and take activities.

The fun starts on Saturday May 28 with the Safety at Sea Weekend. These two days of RNLI-themed activities includes safety at sea awareness films, demonstrations of life saving equipment, fun quizzes and a signal flag trail around the museum. And of course there’s a magnificent ‘make and take’ activity too. Make your own mini rescue rocket and see if you can fire a safety line to save the shipwrecked crew.

Then from Monday May 30 until Sunday June 5 take part in a week of traditional North American crafts, inspired by the Native American and Inuit canoes and kayaks in the Museum’s collection. Discover how to make your own spirit masks, hunting hats, mini totem poles, and models of traditional canoes. Plus find the animals and mythical figures hidden around the Museum to create your own totem pole design.

And, don’t miss the two fantastic storytelling events on May 31 and June 2. On Tuesday May 31 become part of the story and follow Nicholas Dark-knees on an exciting adventure to three strangely inhabited islands. Then Thursday June 2 sees the return of Douglas Dapper, the Story Explorer. This May half-term, Douglas is ‘inuit’ up to his neck discovering the wonderful world of the Native American and Inuit peoples.

The fantastic drop-in activities at the Maritime Museum in Falmouth run every day from 28 May to 5 June and are free with your Museum entrance ticket, but adult supervision is required. And don’t forget, when you pay once to get into Cornwall’s award winning visitor attraction you can get in free for a whole year. So buy your ticket now and get free unlimited access to the Museum and all its activities for a whole year.

For more information on opening times and admission prices visit www.nmmc.co.uk or call 01326 313388.

BLUE MOUNTAIN ENGINES STEAM INTO THOMAS LAND™ THIS HALF-TERM

Drayton Manor Theme Park will unveil a new family-friendly ride this half-term (28th May – 5th June).

Opening on Saturday 28th May in its Thomas Land attraction, Blue Mountain Engines is a wonderfully themed ride featuring four carriages, each based on new characters from Skarloey Railway; Sir Handle, Skarloey, Rheneas and Peter Sam. In the wonderful world of Thomas & Friends™, Skarloey Railway runs from Crovan’s Gate to the passenger terminal at Skarloey.

A total of 32 people will be able to go on the ride each time, including 16 adults, which means mums and dads can sit happily in the carriages with their children.

The ride is located near to the entrance of Thomas Land, replacing Terrance’s Driving School, which has been moved to an area near Farmer’s McColl’s Farm.

This will be the first new ride for Thomas Land since the attraction opened in March 2008. Thomas Land currently has a range of family friendly rides based on characters such as Thomas the Tank Engine, Cranky the Crane and the Troublesome Trucks. There are also indoor and outdoor play areas, as well as a shop and café.

For thrill seeking visitors there’s the adrenaline-inducing, 54-metre high drop tower, Apocalypse, the skin-soaking Stormforce 10 and petrifying gondola swing, Pandemonium, which guarantees to turn your world upside down.

Younger visitors will love the 4D Cinema, which is this year showing Marvin the Martian in the 3rd dimension. There’s also a 15-acre zoo, which is popular with all ages.

For further information about the park or to book tickets go to www.draytonmanor.co.uk or call 0844 472 1960. The Drayton Manor Park Hotel is due to open 15th August 2011, to make room reservations or for more information go to www.draytonmanorhotel.com.

Drayton Manor Theme Park is also on Facebook www.facebook.com/draytonmanorpark and Twitter (@draytonmanor) for regular news, offers and competitions.

SEE BABY ANIMALS AT DRAYTON MANOR DURING LOVE YOUR ZOO WEEK
There’s no better time to see cute baby animals than during Love Your Zoo Week (30th May to 5th June), and Drayton Manor Zoo has had a baby boom.

The new additions to the 15-acre zoo, which is part of Drayton Manor Theme Park, near Tamworth, Staffordshire, include a capybara, twin ring-tailed lemurs and twin cotton topped tamarins.

The zoo is popular with all ages and allows families the chance to relax away from the excitement of the theme park. The zoo is home to more than 100 animal species from around the world, including big cats, monkeys and primates, as well as exotic birds of prey and various reptiles.

The baby animals aren’t the only new additions at Drayton Manor. A new ride is due to open in Thomas Land™ on Saturday 28th May. Blue Mountain Engines is a wonderfully themed ride featuring four carriages, each based on new characters from Skarloey Railway; Sir Handle, Skarloey, Rheneas and Peter Sam. In the world of Thomas & Friends™, Skarloey Railway runs from Crovan’s Gate to the passenger terminal at Skarloey.

A total of 32 people will be able to go on the ride each time, including 16 adults, which means mums and dads can sit happily in the carriages with their children.

The ride is located near to the entrance of Thomas Land, replacing Terrance’s Driving School, which has been moved to an area near Farmer’s McColl’s Farm.

Also new this year is Europe’s first Ben 10 themed roller coaster, Ben 10: Ultimate Mission, which only opened at Easter to a star-studded event, and launches riders forwards on their first tour of the track before they return travelling backwards along the same route.

The coaster is part of a Cartoon Network Street that includes a shop, showcasing an exciting range of Cartoon Network toys and a Cartoon Network diner, thematically decorated both inside and out, where visitors can sit back, feast on sandwiches, snacks and children’s meals and watch Cartoon Network cartoons playing on flat screens around the diner.

For thrill seeking visitors the park is also home to the adrenaline-inducing, 54-metre high drop tower, Apocalypse, the skin-soaking Stormforce 10 and petrifying gondola swing, Pandemonium, which guarantees to turn your world upside down.

To book tickets, or for more information about the park, visit www.draytonmanor.co.uk or call 0844 472 1960. Reduced prices are available for tickets bought in advance.

For regular updates and news about Drayton Manor Theme Park join us on Twitter www.twitter.com/Draytonmanor and Facebook www.facebook.com/Draytonmanor.

OUT OF THIS WORLD ADVENTURES AT THE LOWRY OUTLET MALL THIS MAY HALF TERM!

The Lowry Outlet Mall is the place to be when school’s out! Visit the Mall this May Half Term to enjoy an intergalactic calendar of free family fun! The amazing-alien fun launches on Saturday 21st May with the opportunity to meet Star Wars characters* and then powers into an out of this world calendar of activities! Including a visit from Dora the Explorer, invasion of Dr Who characters* and Space Hopper and Alien Races running each day from Saturday 28th May to Sunday 5th June.

The ‘Out of this World Adventures’ blast off with a meet and greet of your favourite Star Wars Characters* (21st May) including Darth Vader, Chewbacca, Darth Maul and one of the Rebel X Wing Pilots. These spectacular sci-fi characters will be appearing at regular intervals throughout the day so make sure you are around to say hello! The Mall will also welcome back the popular ‘Animals in the Mall’ on the 21st May – come and meet visiting Birds of Prey, Owls, a Pole Cat, snakes and more!

On Saturday 28th May meet popular preschool character Dora the Explorer. Dora will be meeting and greeting children throughout the day – make sure you come along and have you’re picture then put into a card to take home for FREE!

On Monday 30th May the Mall will welcome the Salford Quays Markets to the Lowry Plaza. Part of the popular Manchester Markets, the Salford Quays Market will provide a delectable selection of foodie produce including locally farmed meat, luxury cheeses, cute cupcakes, mouth-watering fudge, homemade jams, hams, and soups. There will also be a range of craft and gift stalls to browse.

Join in the fun with our two Spacemen on the Space Hopper & Alien Races Games Day (30th May, 3rd June). Games include Space Hopping, Mars Racing and Satellite Spinning. All contestants will take home a Space Academy Medal and there will be a prize for the best Space Cadet in each group!

Blast your way into our Floating Space Ship Craft Workshops (1st June & 2nd June) and decorate your very own helium filled space ship to take home!

Prepare to be amazed as Dr Who Characters invade the Mall* on Saturday 4th June. Don’t miss out on this monster invasion when popular Dr Who characters will take over - beware The Smiler, The Ood, Clockwork Droid, Scarecrow and the Sontaran! Plus, the Dalek creator himself will be appearing too – the crippled scientist Davros!

Get into the groove and finish off the half term Michael Jackson style in the Learn to Moonwalk Dance Workshop! (5th June) with a full range of moon walking, hip-hop and body popping moves!

Don’t forget to keep your eyes open throughout the Half Term period and seek out the four aliens hiding around the centre – the first 600 children to pick up a leaflet and correctly complete the names of all four aliens will receive an ‘Out of this World’ prize and be entered into a prize draw where four lucky winners will receive one of the fantastic main prizes!

And if all this isn’t enough get into character and take up your chance to morph into an Alien in our Alien Face Painting sessions (29thMay, 31st May).

The Lowry Outlet Mall, the perfect destination for children and parents alike. Located in the heart of Salford Quays, at the end of the M602, the Lowry Outlet Mall is Manchester’s only factory outlet mall, open 7 days per week and offering savings of up to 60% off RRP all year round. The Mall boasts over 80 stores and a huge selection of fashion, gifts and homeware stores. The on-site multi screen Vue Cinema, a food court seating 400, 5-plaza restaurants and on site Esporta health club all add to the leisure mix and undercover parking is free with any purchase. For more information visit www.lowryoutletmall.com or follow us on Twitter @lowryoutletmall

Disclaimers:
1. The Lowry Outlet Mall reserves the right to cancel or change the times of any events without notice.
2. Characters will appear at various intervals throughout the day.
3. Craft workshops can be popular. Please note there is a limited stock and items are allocated on a first come, first served basis.

*Star Wars and Dr Who characters are replica characters provided by Hyde Fundraisers raising money for Children in Need and other charities.

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