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Half term is looming. With the inevitable “I’m bored” approximately every 12 seconds, and multiple extra snack breaks - because term time appetite and holiday appetite are two greatly different beasts – staying indoors can have you climbing the walls.
If you’re lucky enough to have a break with the kids over the holidays, then you’ll need some things to do. We’ve found some fantastic, quirky, nature filled half term events that support wildlife charities and don’t break the bank. Some of these are free and those that have a fee are just a couple of pounds, with that money going back into wildlife preservation.
So, this half term, grab your kids, grab your wellies and grab your BlinkyWarm Buggy Cover so that you’re ready for all weathers. Make the most of Spring and do a bit of good for wildlife while having fun.
Devon
RHS Garden Rosemoor is exploring and celebrating the world of house plants. Over half term kids can take part in a nature trail through the gardens, identifying and learning about the house plants that live there, and they can do a workshop to make their own marimo pet terrarium. Not sure what that is? We weren’t either. Native to Japan, marimo moss are velvety green spheres, often given as gifts as a token of love, affection and good luck. Create your own terrarium with living marimo moss to take home and care for.
Lancashire
North West Puddle Jumping Championships
What better way to blow away the winter cobwebs and have a splashing day out together? Come rain or shine, the Puddle Jumping Championships at Martin Mere are the perfect activity for the whole family, not just the kids – grown-ups can join in the fun too! You can also make a raft in the morning and warm up in the craft room making a mini wetland. Have a picnic amongst the wetlands and watch the wild birds feeding.
Cornwall
The National Lobster Hatchery is a small but fascinating place right on the harbour in Padstow. A tour of the centre reveals how they rescue lobster eggs from commercial fishing, safely hatch and release them, working in partnership with Cornwalls fishermen to ensure that the local lobster population is protected and continues to grow. Your little folk can see the tiniest little lobsters in the nursery! Throughout half term they are running expert experiences to teach kids all about the unique work they do.
Wiltshire
The Witshire Wildlife Trust are running a programme of interesting events outdoors throughout February. These are free for kids and £1-2 per adult, so a brilliant way to get outside, learn something new and spend time as a family without spending a lot! Events include making willow bird feeders with Salisbury Watch Group and a Winter Family Survival event at Lower Moor.
Gloucester
The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust have a flock of bird themed activities to keep you flying through half term. Kids can Become an arctic adventurer, have a go at bird ringing and take part in the great migration game. The whole family can borrow binoculars and telescopes and take up position in the bird hides to see what they can spot. Hideout experts will be on hand with top tips to help you explore.
Milngavie
Calling all younger children and their grown-ups! Explore the natural world through a series of fun Ranger led activities. Use natural materials to make some arty creations at Mugdock Country Park.
Warwickshire
Not just for half term, the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust organise regular walks for mums and kids in buggies to get together for an hour of fresh air and chat. Meet some new friends in gorgeous natural surroundings and make the most of nature.
Cumbria
There’s loads to do outdoors this half term holiday thanks to the Cumbria Wildlife Trust. From their Kendal Kingfishers Wildlife Watch Group, to beaver conservation to beach food foraging workshops.
Sussex
Visit the Raystede Animal Welfare Centre this half term as they open their doors for free family learning days. The charity will put on a paw-fect match trail, crafts and a film show as well as open up their 43 acre site for family rambles.
Online
The Vincent Wildlife Trust open a window into nature with their series of virtual live events. You can meet the cheeky pine martens in their family friendly online talk.
Hear from experts at Vincent Wildlife Trust who will delve into the lives of these magnificent creatures and will uncover their past, reveal how they’re currently faring and detail how conservationists are helping them to make a welcome return to our woodlands.
Northern Ireland
The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust are offering the chance to discover new adventures in bird watching at Castle Espie. This half term, their bird hides have become hideouts. Take a peek at bird life like you’ve never seen it. Hideout experts will be on hand with top tips to help you explore. There are lots of other activities as well for the whole family to discover.
