Steph Smith, who manages the Hale, Altrincham and Sale area for Mums in the Know, chooses five great things to do with the kids over the next week.
1. Dine at Hale’s organic, Earth-friendly cafe
A recent and very welcome addition to Hale village, The Garden offers a variety of delicious and super-healthy organic dishes and drinks. Why not pop in with your family and enjoy a yummy guilt-free meal? Perfect for breakfast or lunch, the fresh seasonal produce is sourced from local, organic farmers. With a chilled and friendly vibe, The Garden is a fab place to eat out with the kids and show them how tasty healthy food can be!
The Garden, 145 Ashley Rd, Hale, WA15 9SA
2. Ride the Miniature Railway at Walton Park
Just a few minutes walk from Brooklands Metro Station, this friendly spot includes an enclosed playground for under-5s as well as a fun play area for under-14s. Worth a visit, especially on Sundays when the miniature railway operates across a quarter of a mile mile track and rides are just 30p for kids and adults. The park backs onto the Bridgewater Canal and kids will love a wander along, spotting narrow boats gliding by.
Walton Park, Raglan Road, Sale, M33 4AW
3. Xplorer orienteering at Lyme Park (Saturday March 7th)
On Saturday, Lyme Park is holding a fun family event where you can explore the stunning park with your kids whilst participating in an orienteering challenge. It’s a great way to teach your children how to use a map and enjoy some active outdoor fun. The aim is to find the markers on the trail and complete the challenge.
A great introduction to orienteering, plus a lovely opportunity to get closer to nature and learn new skills too! For more information, contact 01663 762023 or email lymepark@nationaltrust.org.uk. You don’t need to book and normal admission charges apply.
Times: 10am to 12pm. Lyme Park, Disley, Stockport, Cheshire SK12 2NR
4. Singalonga Frozen at The Lowry (Sunday March 8th)
Singalonga Frozen is a must-see for fans of Anna and Elsa and I defy even the biggest cynics not to raise a smile and join in with the soundtrack!
If the words aren’t yet imprinted on your memory, fear not, the lyrics will be on the screen. The film will be introduced by a live host who will show you how to use your free prop bag, warm up your singing voices and teach you some hand actions and heckles before you sit back and “Let it Go”.
It’s almost obligatory for your kids to dress up as their favourite character – expect an array of turquoise as Elsa, the Snow Queen seems to trump her younger sister, Anna, in the popularity stakes every time with little girls!
It’s recommended for children aged 5 and over, although my daughter is not yet 2 and she was in her element and joined in the entire movie! To find our more and book your tickets, please see here.
The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays M50 3AZ
5. Where Caterpillars Go at Waterside Arts Centre (Sunday March 8th)
Another lovely family show this weekend at Sale’s Waterside Arts Centre. Children will follow an inquisitive caterpillar into a beautiful and tactile garden to explore life, growth, wonder and loss through live music and playful movement in this fun and visually striking show. Where Caterpillars Go is a thoughtful look at the cycle of life, explored within a garden where almost everything is made from paper. This production is aimed at children under 5.
Various times. Waterside Arts Centre, Sale, M33 7ZF
