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!
Family activities for summer 2024 Devon
With things returning to normality this summer after long last, there are lots of fantastic things for families to do in Devon for the 2024 summer holidays.
See below for a selection of fantastic ways for kids and their adults to spend their time this summer, some of which are free.
Message from Luke Ayrton School of Pianists
“Hi! I’m Luke, a professional pianist near Exeter, don’t worry if you're further afield I offer online lessons too. Learning to play the piano is a very fulfilling life-long journey, it’s great to start when you’re young. I know school can be stressful, which is why I offer lessons that are fun and engaging. I do this by tailoring each lesson to the individual using resources I have created. It’s also a great way to challenge memory, build confidence, self esteem, coordination and creativity. If you have any questions please do call or visit my website. TRIAL LESSON IS FREE!”
Find out more at www.lukeayrtonschoolofpianists.co.uk
Summer of Play at National Trust Devon
From rock pooling on beautiful beaches to exploring historic houses, there are plenty of places to enjoy a great family day out around Devon.
Sponsored by Starling Bank, the National Trust’s Summer of Play programme invites families to have fun and experience Trust places in new and unexpected ways. Designed for families, our summer activities will be dotted around large fields, woodlands and garden areas, so there’ll be plenty of space to enjoy the games and activities as well as picnicking spots, shady rest areas and of course, toilets, cafes and pop-ups offering food and drink
Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/devon
The Lion Inside at Princess Theatre, Torquay – 13th August
A heart-warming tale about confidence, self-esteem, and a shy little mouse who sets out on a journey to find his roar.
In a dry dusty place where the sand sparkled gold, stood a mighty flat rock, all craggy and old. And under that rock in a tinyful house, lived the littlest, quietest, meekest brown mouse.
Fed up of being ignored and forgotten by the other animals, Mouse wishes he could roar like Lion. But, as he discovers, even the biggest, bossiest people are scared sometimes ... and even the smallest creatures can have the heart of a lion!
Based on the best-selling story by Rachel Bright & Jim Field, this brand new stage adaptation is directed by Sarah Punshon (The Jungle Book), with music and lyrics by Eamonn O’Dwyer (Brief Encounter).
Age guidance: Most suitable for ages 3+ but all ages welcome.
Find out more at www.atgtickets.com/torquay
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Embark on a special donkey quest to uncover the golden treasure hidden away in the heart of the sanctuary. This summer, get out with the family to explore the sanctuary and combine exercise and brainpower, just £5 per trail, including a treat on completion. Plus, with a new bat beacon, daily talks, scenic walks, engaging exhibits, hedge maze and lots of friendly donkeys, there’s so much to explore! Open daily from 9am, general admission and parking are free. Dogs welcome on a lead.
Find out more at www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/sidmouth
Aztec Games - Guaranteed indoor fun for all the family this smmer
Whatever the weather may throw at us this summer, Aztec Games has you covered! 2000 square feet of indoor fun including 10 pin bowling, table tennis, snooker, pool, arcade games and lots more, as well as Aztec Soft Play for your little ones. Food and drink is available, our large TV shows all the major sporting events and, best of all, entry is FREE!
For a great value day out, rain or shine, head to the Aztec Games indoor play arena in the heart of Torquay. Find them on Chestnut Avenue, opposite the RIC. Open daily from 9.30am -11.00pm.
Find out more at www.tlh.co.uk or 01803 400170
Summer holiday fun at The Beehive Honiton, East Devon
On Saturday 10th August, watch The Dinosaur Timewarp Family Panto! Join in as they go on an exciting adventure through the jungle to meet Babsy the Mad Scientist and use her new time machine.
On Friday 23rd August, join Mr Toad, Badger, Ratty and Mole in an interactive adventure. How will Toad and the gang save Toad Hall when it comes under threat from a local Weasel? The price includes a drink, snack and an activity.
Find out more at Beehivehoniton.co.uk, call the box office at 01404 384050-
The Beehive, Dowell Street, Honiton, EX14 1LZ.
So much to do and enjoy at The Waie Inn
The Waie Inn at Zeal Monachorum, near Crediton has an abundance of activities for all the family to get involved in all year round. Waie2Play, their purpose-built indoor soft play area is open for advance bookings and is suitable for ages 1 and over with slides, cannons, a ball pit, rope bridge and more with a dedicated under 5’s area also available. Their swimming pool is available for hourly bookable sessions for exclusive use and their Multi Sports Hall is open to hire for indoor sports with skittle alleys, squash courts and snooker tables.
Also, don’t forget about their restaurant serving brunch between 9am and 12pm and a full menu for 12pm to 9pm. It is recommended that indoor table reservations should be made in advance wherever possible.
Find out more at www.waieinn.co.uk
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Calling all animal adventurers! This summer, get ready for double the fun at Paignton Zoo with their amazing offer - buy one ticket, get one FREE! That's right, from 1 July until 8 September, your family can enjoy double the fun at no extra cost.
And guess who's back?! Their favourite tiger, Sayang, will be roaring into action for meet and greets daily. Don't miss your chance to say hi and snap a picture with this cheeky character!
Plus, get ready to be amazed by the all-new Sayang Show, debuting at Matobo Camp in the afternoons! Prepare for thrills, chills, and roarsome fun as Sayang shows off his amazing tiger talents.
There are also Ranger talks and lots of other fun activities for the whole family all included with your regular zoo entry price, so you get double bang for your buck.
Don't miss out on this wild offer – the best prices are now available to pre-book on their website.
Find out more at www.paigntonzoo.org.uk
The Outdoors Group
Are you looking for something a little bit different for the kids to do this summer? Do you have wild things that thrive when outdoors and running free? Then you need to go and join in at Exmouth, Escot, Okehampton or Totnes Forest School! From Holiday Clubs to Summer Family Sessions, from Birthday Parties to our brand new Wilderness Survival Clubs – there’s something for all ages and all occasions at The Outdoors Group. So for maximum free range fun for the kids this summer - visit www.outdoorsgroup.co.uk to find out more and they’ll see you in the woods soon!
Get ready for an unforgettable Family adventure: The Open Air Theatre Festival 2024!
The Plough Arts Centre has partnered with some of North Devon’s most beautiful spots to bring a diverse line-up including Sherlock and Watson, The Wind in The Willows, The Secret Garden, The Secret Diary of Henry VIII and A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Kids can join pre-show drama workshops to explore the story and have fun while adults enjoy the beautiful gardens.
Bring a picnic and savour an evening of outstanding theatre under the open sky. Refreshments are available at all venues.
Book now via theploughartscentre.org.uk or 01805 624624.
Summer at Greendale Farm Shop
This summer, we're busier than ever at Greendale Farm Shop, with loads of exciting events and family-friendly fun! In July they’ll be holding their popular Summer Fête and Dog Show, as well as hosting a special Princesses Afternoon Tea, while in August they’ll be at Exeter Castle for the first ever Greendale Food Festival. They’ll also be co-hosting a Fairytale Festival and Baby Bees Sensory Sessions here at the Farm Shop with the Lydia Baily’s team, plus a special children’s pottery workshop and Crafts with Chloe, a regular Thursday afternoon session of supervised activities.
Some events require pre-booking; visit Greendale.com/events to learn more.
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From Barnstaple to Exeter. From Torbay to Plymouth. Stagecoach’s network of buses is your key to unlock a host of incredible days out across Devon. From lazy lunches, to shopping sprees. From beach days to family fun. Whatever you’re in the mood for, get there by bus.
If you’re planning to travel more than twice in one day then Stagecoach’s great value day and group tickets let you hop on and hop off all day. Plus if you’re travelling with family or friends buy a group ticket and pay for only two people!*
* Stagecoach South West Group tickets allow unlimited travel for up to five people across the day in the chosen zone. On average the price of the group ticket is equivalent to the price of two adult day tickets, pricing in some zones vary, information correct at time of writing, subject to change.
Find out more at www.stagecoachbus.com
The Country Show returns to Newton Abbot Racecourse on Saturday 10 August 2024!
Join in from 10am for a fun-filled family day out with entertainment for the whole family to enjoy!
Entertainment and activities at the show this year include:
- - The Sheep Show
- - Pow Wow Alpacas
- - Humaryn Shetland Pony rides
- - Displays from the wonderful Dartmoor Hill Pony Display Team
- - Ferret racing
- - Performances from the Newton Bushel Morris Dancers
- - Axe throwing & archery
- - Children’s play area
- - Bouncy Castle
- -Hook a Duck
- -Face Painting
There will be lots of local producers with 30 + outdoor market stalls, plus, 50 inside you’ll find an abundance of wonderful craft and gift stalls. There’ll also be food for all tastes and a garden to enjoy a cool drink before continuing your visit!
If you’d like to book a stall and exhibit at the show, please email jenny@newtonabbotracing.com
They are delighted to have St Austell Brewery and Pennywell Farm sponsoring the Country Show this year.
Don't miss out on this unforgettable celebration of country living – mark your calendars and join in for an unforgettable day at the Newton Abbot Country Show!
Tickets cost just £6 in advance and £8 on the gate – kids go FREE. Tickets can be purchased via our website: newtonabbotracing.com.
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The Great Garden Adventure with Shaun the Sheep
Join Shaun on an epic gardening adventure this summer as he learns from the friendly experts at RHS Rosemoor how to grow the best fruit and veg to keep him baa-rilliantly healthy!
Go and have fun learning top growing tips with Shaun with fun farm games and shows, play ‘hide and sheep’ and create your own model of Shaun. ‘Find the Flock’ by hunting down the three decorated sculptures of Shaun in the garden and meet him ‘in the fleece’ to get a cheeky selfie.
Little nature lovers can enjoy Woodland Wednesdays or join a Summer Stomp through the garden.
They can’t wait to see ewe!
Find out more at www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor/whats-on/summer-holidays
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Go & play! Their all-weather family destination offers unique play spaces where kids can enjoy indoor and outdoor play. Meet their animals, up close or along the animal paddocks trail. Take a break at Occombe Farm Cafe and shop for local treats in their farm shop. Join exclusive bookable experiences like learning forest skills or being a farmer for a day. Visiting Occombe supports the invaluable work of their parent conservation charity, Torbay Coast & Countryside Trust. Caring for Torbay’s most cherished green spaces.
See their website for more: www.occombe.co.uk #occombefarm
Devon Square Orthodontics
Specialist Orthodontist, Dr Ansa Akram and her highly qualified team are dedicated to providing exceptional orthodontic treatment for all their patients.
They can begin orthodontic treatment on children from the age of 7, using Invisalign® clear aligners. There are great benefits to starting Orthodontic treatment on children who are still growing and developing. Invisalign® aligners are nearly invisible and completely removable, so there's no need for your child to skip their favourite foods and they can continue to pursue the hobbies they love while straightening their teeth, such as playing sports or a musical instrument.
When I started with my Invisalign my teeth were completely out of order then my dentist said I should get Invisalign. It saved the day, now my teeth are so straight. First, it was a little disturbing to wear them, then it got so much better and I loved it”. A.S. 9 years old
Find out more at www.devonsquareorthodontics.com
The Honiton Agricultural Show – Thursday 1st August
The Honiton Agricultural Show is planning for a great celebration of rural life. They have anarray of fantastic entertainment and are delighted to welcome the Shetland Pony Performance Display Team providing mini Gold Cup display races raising funds for charities. Paul Hannam Stunt Show is a quad bike stuntman who will excite visitors by jumping anything he can get his hands on ranging from Cars to Tractors! Viperaerobatics will have everyone looking to the skies whilst they perform phenomenal flying displays in a beautiful iconic Pitts S2B Biplane.
Children’s entertainment includes animated characters Sheridan the Sheepdog, Punch and Judy, craft workshops offering the chance to make jewellery, masks and flags, the Magical Musical bike and the Sheep Show – a unique show for all ages
Discounted Early bird Tickets are available now at just £18.00 in advance (show day prices £20.00 held from 2023) for a whole day of enjoyment and accompanied children (Under 16) are admitted free! Visit www.honitonshow.co.uk
Summer of Play at Killerton
Get ready for an action-packed summer of fun at Killerton. There’s mid-week drop-in sessions: circus skills, sports, and nature-based activities. Burn off some steam with frisbee golf and loose parts play. Get creative with arts and crafts. What a performance - there’s even a mini theatre with dressing up. Head over to the nature zone to identify bugs and look for fairy houses. Time to relax in the quiet zone with sensory light bubbles and even an outdoor library. There’s plenty of covered areas so play can continue no matter what the weather.
Play activities included. Normal admission fees apply.
Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/devon/killerton
So, you think you know the Vikings?
This Summer challenge what you think you know about the Vikings with a new myth-busting exhibition at Torre Abbey, in collaboration with York Archaeology, the people behind JORVIK Viking Centre in York.
‘Vikings: Fact or Fiction’ is an exciting exhibition designed to uncover some of the misconceptions we may have about the Vikings. Explore who they really were, from the clothes they wore to the activities they did for fun. Discover 1,000-year-old artefacts and see how the Vikings impacted the world, not just through raiding and conquering but through craft-making and trading.
Find out more at www.torre-abbey.org.uk
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The Flock That Rock - Tiverton Swan Trail
From Easter 2024, Tiverton invites families, art enthusiasts, and locals alike to embark on a journey through the heart of the charming town with the unveiling of ‘The Flock That Rock – Tiverton Swan Sculpture Trail’.
Tiverton Swan Trail promises to be a wonderful blend of art, nature, and community. Can you find all 12 elegant trail swans, each with a unique design by a local artist, placed at key locations around the town? There’s also a 13th swan who has escaped the flock and your help is needed to find him. Pick up your free trail map at Tiverton Information Centre, the Visitor Centre at the Grand Western Canal Basin, or Library.
Website - https://www.visitmiddevon.co.uk/the-flock-that-rock-tiverton-swan-trail-2024/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheFlockThatRock/
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Shaldon Golf
Challenge your friends and family on our 18 hole golf course which is considered to be one of the best in the South West. With breathtaking views of the sea, Teignmouth, and the River Teign, it offers an 18 hole course with hole distances of 60 – 120 yards (7 holes over 100 yards).
No experience needed, suitable for all ages and abilities. No dress code required, they even provide the equipment for you. They are open 7 days a week with no pre booking required, so just turn up and play!
Find out more at www.teignbridge.gov.uk/shaldongolf
Sign up to the Summer Reading Challenge at your local library from 6th July!
Make sure you pop to your local library this summer to get creative with Marvellous Makers, the theme for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge! When you sign up you will be given a special collector’s pack and you will also collect stickers and other rewards along the way. Everyone who completes the Challenge will automatically be entered into a prize draw to win goodies such as book tokens, Lego, keyboard and pottery kit. Libraries will also be putting on lots of free creative events over the summer, so prepare to get messy!
Find out more at www.devonlibraries.org.uk or www.torbaylibraries.org.uk
Opening this Summer - Jurassic Discovery
Discover the prehistoric wonders at Jurassic Discovery, nestled in the heart of Seaton, East Devon, your gateway to the Jurassic Coast. This family-friendly attraction brings history to life with its immersive exhibition, featuring stunning, lifelike animatronic dinosaurs. Dive into the era of giants and experience ‘The Last Day of the Dinosaurs’. Kids can also have fun in the Jurassic soft play area, while adults relax and recharge in the café.
Jurassic Discovery promises an engaging, educational, and entertaining experience, making it a must-visit destination for dinosaur enthusiasts and families seeking a fun-filled journey back in time
Find out more at www.jurassicdiscovery.co.uk
Summer at Exeter Phoenix
There's so much going on at Exeter Phoenix this Summer! NEW for 2024 is their 2-day video content creator workshop, where you’ll learn all about video production kit (including cameras, microphones and lights), how to use it to record a video and then learn how to edit your video together like a pro with effects, sounds and music using professional editing software!
If you would prefer to be outside, Theatre in the Park is back with three exciting new shows perfect for picnics. We also have loads of great films coming up from new releases like Inside Out 2, to classics your adults might remember. Don't forget to ask for your special menu in the cafe!
Find out more at https://exeterphoenix.org.uk/genre/family/
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Visit Totnes Show on 28 July for a varied, fun event featuring cattle, sheep, horses, alpaca’s, shearing competitions, pets & farmyard corner as well as a friendly family dog show, vintage cars & tractors. This combines with attractions such as a lively Music Stage, Food & drink Village with demonstration kitchen, horticulture, craft marquee, trade stands and Lifestyle pavilion.
All day main ring entertainments include Scurry trials driving, terrier racing (open to all breeds) Parade of Livestock and more.
Don’t miss the tractor pulling & cycle shows!
Discounted tickets in advance via www.totnesshow.com check here for up-to-date details. Free park & ride.
Message from Kernow Health
“The Devon School Age Immunisation Team enjoyed a hugely successful three days on their stand at this year’s Devon County Show talking to children and parents about vaccinations and how they can protect against some preventable diseases.
The team put all their creativity into preparing games and information to help inform and educate visitors about school age vaccinations.
We had really good feedback from a consultant surgeon from Derriford who said it was great to see us at the show raising awareness, and from a teacher and another GP who were really impressed to see us promoting the vaccines in school and educating the families about our service and what we do.
Visitors were keen to speak to the team and it was a great opportunity to check vaccine statuses of lots of children and to take consents from parents and carers.
Maria Harvey, Director and Lead for the Cornwall and Devon School Age Immunisation Service added “From the start, the enthusiasm of the team has been brilliant, and it really was a team effort. I’m extremely proud of everyone who made it such a memorable occasion. The whole team came together to make it happen with smiles on their faces and a willingness to spend the day enthusiastically promoting our service which they are evidently passionate about.”
If you have any questions for the team, or want to check the vaccine status of your child, or give consent for vaccination, contact us on 01392 342678, or email kernowhealthcic.schoolimmsdevon@nhs.net or visit www.kernowhealthcic.org.uk/school-age-immunisation”
Summer at Crealy Theme Park and Resort
Enjoy a show-stopping Summer at Crealy Theme Park & Resort with the return of the epic 80ft High Dive show on daily from 20th July - 1st September (excluding Sundays) - "an amazing sight that's worth checking out" - The Dorset Echo. With over 60 rides, attractions, animals, live shows and 2 days out for the price of 1 this Summer, there's no better time to visit Devon's Best Value Theme Park! Book your tickets or a last-minute short break today at crealy.co.uk.
This summer at Bear Town
Summer Holidays - Choose from one of the three, two-hour play sessions. Numbers are strictly limited, so pre-booking is essential.
Toddler Time – Every Thursday, Term Time 9:30am – 11:30am - Join in with your toddler (exclusively 1-4 years) for a two-hour play session at Bear Town
Children Eat Free - Children can eat for free during a term time afternoon session, 3pm – 5pm for just £7.95 per child. Upon arrival, all paid children will choose from the delicious dinner menu, which will be served with unlimited water or squash.
Baby Bears -Join in for a sensory storytime adventure featuring singing, music, and most importantly fun! Classes are designed for babies from birth to 10 months old.
SEND Session – the next SEND session is on Tuesday 20th August, 3pm – 5pm. This session is exclusively designed for SEND explorers to ensure a more comfortable play experience, with a reduced capacity making the environment calmer and less crowded.
Find out more and book at www.beartown.co.uk
Summer holidays and beyond at The Bear Trail
Summer Holidays
The Bear Trail is open daily during the summer holidays from Thursday 25th July – Tuesday 3rd September. With 30 obstacles and unlimited mud, this is a great value family and group day out!
Colour Bomb – Summer Edition on Saturday 14th and 15th September
With even more paint, 30 unique obstacles, and unlimited mud, this will be an award-winning rainbow explosion you will not want to miss. As visitors make their way around the course, they will be covered from head to toe in an array of coloured powder!
Visit the website for details and to book at www.thebeartrail.co.uk
Kents Cavern
Kents Cavern is a world-renowned prehistoric cave attraction located in Torquay and is considered to be one of the most important Stone Age sites in Europe, with the caves offering visitors the chance to explore ancient chambers and witness archaeological discoveries firsthand.
With guided tours, educational programs and thrilling events, Kents Cavern is an engaging day out for visitors of all ages.
What makes Kents Cavern important?
- The UK’s Oldest Modern Human Fossil: was found at Kents Cavern and has been dated to 42,000 years old.
- Three Human Species: the only place in the world that you can visit with evidence of three different human species.
- Pioneers of Archaeology: Victorian archaeologists invented excavation techniques at Kents Cavern that are still used around the world today!
Find out more about this award-winning attraction at www.kents-cavern.co.uk
Splashdown Quaywest
Open all summer long Splashdown Quaywest makes an even bigger splash on Goodrington Sands in 2024. A huge children’s aqua-playground has been added to the site, designed especially for children under 12 and their families – Shipwreck Island. A mini waterpark within the waterpark, it has seven slides, a massive tipping bucket and a myriad of sprays and splashes.
It’s tonnes of fun in and out of the water and so close to the delights of the English Riviera, South Devon’s beautiful bay, and its exciting flumes are right on the beach; a day out for the family that’s hard to beat. Dare you take the plunge from the tower of the Devils’ Drop or spiral and spin through splash tubs before a fast, bumpy finish on the Raging Rapids a 145m long tyre ride? And another recent addition the head-first racer slide, 3Fall, will you be the winner?
Don’t forget it’s an awesome place to hold your birthday party celebrations whether you’re a full grown pirate or a little buccaneer!
For trips you won’t forget and will have you laughing out loud for weeks, possibly years! Why not make a trip to Splashdown Quaywest holiday plans this summer. Open everyday through July and August.
See www.splashdownwaterparks.co.uk/quaywest
SUMMER WHATEVER THE WEATHER
Join in at LED this Summer for a whole variety of great value family fun including swimming, tennis, climbing, crazy golf, bowling, soft play & more!
They have three indoor swimming pools located in Exmouth, Honiton and Sidmouth. A child swim starts at just £3.75 and under 3’s are FREE!
Their leisure centres are located in Axminster, Buckler’s Mead, Broadclyst, Colyton Exmouth, Honiton, Ottery St Mary, Seaton & Sidmouth.
Each provides a range of fun, great value activities and are all open to non-members.
Call 0345 565 2087 to book or visit the website to find out more: www.ledleisure.co.uk
Pool Parties At The Queens Hotel
Go to The Queens Hotel to make a splash and celebrate a birthday with them! The Queen’s pool is available for use for birthday parties to make your little one’s day extra special and facilitate the most fun they will have all year!
Available 7 days a week, between 10.00am and 5.00pm for only £10.00 per child, with the birthday boy or girl enjoying access free of charge!
Price includes 1 hour of swimming fun and your choice of delicious food offerings!
Call 01803 551048 or visit www.queenspaignton.com
“Young Vets Club is for children who believe that every animal matters. Created by vets and teachers, it inspires children to champion animal welfare, get outside, and explore careers in science. Members make a difference for animals around the world by supporting Worldwide Veterinary Service in rescuing, treating, and rehabilitating those in need of veterinary care.
Ozzy the stray puppy was brought to WVS vets in Thailand with a severe eye infection. Enucleation (eye removal) was the best course of treatment, and he was nursed back to health. Being quite nervous, he struggled to find a new home until two incredible WVS volunteers met him and gave him a second chance. Now he’s living the happy, healthy life he deserves!
Members adopt a dog, cat, donkey, or monkey. They receive a welcome pack with a cuddly toy of their adopted animal and everything they need to become animal champions. Regular magazines and newsletters, adoption updates, insights into WVS’s work and fun games and challenges keep them learning outside of school.
Our members love knowing what a difference they make. ‘I’m a Young Vet Adventurer because I have always wanted to save as many animals as possible. I like how caring it is,’ Rosa, Young Vets Club Champion.”
Find out more at www.youngvetsclub.com
Devon’s largest adventure play village - Hobbledown Bay – is now open at Watermouth Theme Park and Castle!
The Hobblers have landed in Devon… and brought with them a whole world of fun!
Watermouth Theme Park and Castle are thrilled to announce their brand-new adventure play village, Hobbledown Bay, the largest outdoor play village in Devon is now open.
Nestled within the Castle grounds, Hobbledown Bay marks the beginning of a thrilling new chapter for the family theme park.
The playground features role play towers, castles, huts, bridges, slides nets and an unique water pillow. Kids can immerse themselves in endless hours of exploration in the Pixie Roleplay Village and the interactive Mining Village.
Find out more at www.watermouthcastle.com
It’s going to be a summer of fun for families at The Box!
Plymouth’s fantastic museum, art gallery and archive recently won a regional Muddy Stilettos award for ‘Best Family Attraction’ and there are lots of things for you to enjoy over the next couple of months.
Choose from family trails that help you explore, craft activities at the ‘Explore More’ tables next to the shop, sensory sessions for preschoolers on Tuesday mornings during term time or free storytelling on Friday mornings.
From 23 July-29 August you can also get creative with portraits in the ‘Fantastic Faces and Figures’ drop-in workshops (Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays).
Find out more at theboxplymouth.com.
CIRQUE: The Greatest Show - Where Musical Theatre Meets Circus
Welcome to a world where the very best of musical theatre showstoppers meets jaw-dropping circus spectacular.
A world that explodes into kaleidoscopic colour as everyone’s favourite West End and
Broadway hits combine with breath-taking circus artistes performing thrilling feats of agility and flair.
The biggest hits from your favourite theatre shows are brought to the stage in
unique, spellbinding style in an enchanting production that is charming
and astonishing in equal measure.
Show content varies dependent upon venue facilities and regulations. Promoter reserves the right to alter the programme
Find out more at www.plymouthpavilions.com
FREE Summer Holiday Family Workshops with On Course South West
Are you thinking of ways to entertain the children this summer? Have you got a plan for those wet, boring afternoons?
This July and August On Course South West are offering a huge range of FREE fun activities for families to enjoy together including arts, crafts, games & science. Aimed at children 6+. They ask that parents/carers accompany up to 2 children per adult.
Call 01752 660713 or email info@oncoursesouthwest.co.uk
West End Carnival - 24th August
Roll-up, roll-up! Join in at the West End Carnival in the streets around Plymouth Market for an amazing free fun-packed day of circus performers, carnival rides, live music, a silent disco, street entertainment and family friendly activities. The theme for this year is Dragons & Mythical Beasts. Don’t miss giant smoke breathing dragon, Ash, in the Carnival Parade. Meet him, and some of his adorable Baby Dragons for the ultimate mythical selfie! There will also be a new Dragon trail to follow in the city centre and lots of stalls to enjoy throughout the day.
See visitplymouth.co.uk for more information.
A Summer of Play with the National Trust around Plymouth
This summer, National Trust places in and around Plymouth will be packed full of ways to play.
Get the family together for a day out full of active games, ways to be creative outside and a whole host of fun. Each National Trust place has something different to do, so why not try out a few during the summer holidays? These are some of our favourites:
Visit Saltram for creative, active and nature play featuring drop-in craft and game sessions for children of all ages.
Get ready for the 'Battle of Buckland' at Buckland Abbey where you can have a go at sports and activities from medieval times. Join an archery demonstration, get messy in the nature kitchen or relax in the book nook in the Abbey, with weekly storytelling sessions.
You can play every day at Cotehele with creative games and a chance to become a Nature Detective.
Visit Anthony House for a sporty day out with shot put, wheelbarrow racing, tug of war, cricket, tennis and relay races.
Summer of Play activities are free but normal admission applies (free for members). Visit the website to find a place to play near you: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cornwall/family-friendly
Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank.
Are you ready for your Woodland Adventure?
Enjoy 18 holes of Woodland Adventure Golf filled with fun at China Fleet Country Club with an exciting course full of woodland creatures and surprises at every corner! No need to book, just turn up, pay and play for the ultimate family fun.
Bundle it up
Combine two great experiences on the same day and save money with their Woodland Adventure Golf and Toptracer bundle, including free club hire. Attempt to capture each of the sea creatures in a virtual aquarium by hitting shots to various targets on the driving range with Toptracer.
Find out more at www.china-fleet.co.uk
Summer at Crealy Theme Park and Resort
Enjoy a show-stopping Summer at Crealy Theme Park & Resort with the return of the epic 80ft High Dive show on daily from 20th July - 1st September (excluding Sundays) - "an amazing sight that's worth checking out" - The Dorset Echo. With over 60 rides, attractions, animals, live shows and 2 days out for the price of 1 this Summer, there's no better time to visit Devon's Best Value Theme Park! Book your tickets or a last-minute short break today at crealy.co.uk.
SIZZLING SUMMER AT ROYAL WILLIAM YARD
Head to Plymouth’s waterfront this summer, with free family activities every Saturday and Sunday throughout August at Royal William Yard.
Something for everyone, you can get creative with craft sessions, puppet making, and open-air children's theatre. Get active with mini-golf, mini-tennis, zorbing and soft play on the Green.
Children can also join the stand-up paddleboarding Summer Club, sewing school, and a shark-themed community print. This historic corner of Plymouth promises to help make it a summer to remember.
Find out more and book tickets at www.royalwilliamyard.com/summer
Cornwall Airport Newquay
This summer, traveling from Cornwall Airport Newquay to Europe is a breeze, thanks to its expanded destinations and terminal upgrades. The airport boasts great value parking, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious passengers. As a small, friendly airport, Cornwall Airport Newquay offers a more personal experience compared to larger hubs. The dedicated team ensures smooth operations and a warm welcome. Whether you're heading to the sunny beaches of Spain and Portugal or the urban adventures of Copenhagen, Dusseldorf or Zurich, Cornwall Airport Newquay is the perfect starting point for your European adventures.
Find out more at www.cornwallairportnewquay.com
“Young Vets Club is for children who believe that every animal matters. Created by vets and teachers, it inspires children to champion animal welfare, get outside, and explore careers in science. Members make a difference for animals around the world by supporting Worldwide Veterinary Service in rescuing, treating, and rehabilitating those in need of veterinary care.
Ozzy the stray puppy was brought to WVS vets in Thailand with a severe eye infection. Enucleation (eye removal) was the best course of treatment, and he was nursed back to health. Being quite nervous, he struggled to find a new home until two incredible WVS volunteers met him and gave him a second chance. Now he’s living the happy, healthy life he deserves!
Members adopt a dog, cat, donkey, or monkey. They receive a welcome pack with a cuddly toy of their adopted animal and everything they need to become animal champions. Regular magazines and newsletters, adoption updates, insights into WVS’s work and fun games and challenges keep them learning outside of school.
Our members love knowing what a difference they make. ‘I’m a Young Vet Adventurer because I have always wanted to save as many animals as possible. I like how caring it is,’ Rosa, Young Vets Club Champion.”
Find out more at www.youngvetsclub.com