Cheap things to do with the kids in Manchester for half term
Some ideas for half term!
With October half term fast approaching and the summer holidays barely out of sight, cash-strapped parents across the UK will be wondering how they are going to keep the kids entertained during the school holidays.
To help inspire, Voucherbox has collated the top five things for a family of four to do in Manchester.
Football mad
The National Football Museum is a great place for the kids to burn off some of their energy by having a kick about and discovering fun facts about the 150-year history of this world renowned British sport. Entry is free but you are encouraged to donate £3 per person which goes towards the running of this charity-run football centre.
Average entrance cost for a family of four: Free
Release your inner bookworm
Take time to unwind with the kids at Manchester’s John Rylands Library, which was created 100-years ago as a gift to Manchester and its people. This neo-gothic venue hosts events for children, including dedicated Toddler Tale sessions in a cosy corner of the library where your little ones can pull up a cushion and listen to fun stories. They also offer playtime where kids are encouraged to create a story of their own.
Average entrance cost for a family of four: Free
A Rocky Adventure
Pay a visit to Moss Bank Park where you can let your kids roam free in the great outdoors. Encourage them to blow off some steam by riding the huge model train. Alternatively, they can play to their heart’s content in the giant sandpit. And if that isn’t enough, the children can practice their cartwheels or have a kick about in the parks extensive grounds which span 34 hectares.
Average entrance cost for a family of four: Free
Treasure hunters
If you’re on a budget, but looking to explore Manchester, then we recommend you take part in a self-guided treasure hunt through Treasure Trail. By downloading a PDF following a quick online payment, you and the family will start your trail at the Museum of Science and Industry. You and the little ones will then wander through the Roman gardens and fort to the canal area. You will then explore along canal side footpaths before finishing back at the start point.
Download cost for a family of four: £6.99
Bowling madness
Ready, set, strike! Cross the pond for bowling and American dining at Dog Bowl Manchester. There are five full sized bowling lanes so whether you’re set for a spare or need the sides up, they’ve got you covered. Once you’ve bowled up an appetite roll on over to their bar and dining area, with an American-themed menu and lots of tasty treats for kids.
Cost: For only £15 book a game of bowling and get our famous sharing platter. Platter includes 10 chicken wings, corn dogs, sweet potato fries, house fries, classic nachos, goose island onion rings, 4 mini cheese burgers. For groups of 2-21 people. Available 7 days a week.