February Half-Term at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House

Shekina Rose, Families Editor

Book now

Family Fun – February Half-Term at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House

16-23 February 2025
Date
Time
Session Features
19 Feb 2025
11:00 am-4:00 pm
20 Feb 2025
11:00 am-4:00 pm
23 Feb 2025
11:00 am-4:00 pm
16 Feb 2025
11:00 am-4:00 pm

Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.

Family in historic costume February Half Term at Elizabeth Gaskell's House
Elizabeth Gaskell's House
Book now

This February half-term, step into a world of 19th-century literature and creativity at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House in Manchester. Families can enjoy a fun-filled adventure packed with hands-on activities, from arts and crafts to exciting games and adventure trails – all set within the historic home of Victorian author, Elizabeth Gaskell.

Little explorers can have fun dressing up in Victorian costumes, get creative and feel the love with Valentine’s inspired crafts and colouring in, and take part in fun games. Don’t miss the Cranford the Cat trail, which takes visitors on a journey through the house and garden, full of fascinating facts, fun challenges, and eco-friendly tips on supporting wildlife and reducing your carbon footprint.

Wander through the beautiful garden and then a break in the charming 19th-century tea room, where you can enjoy homemade cakes, and a hearty soup or hot chocolate for these cold wintry days.

Kids go free with every paying adult, making it a fantastic, budget-friendly day out for the whole family.

Where to go near February Half-Term at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House

Manchester
Library
Gaskell Society

These regular talks in both Manchester and Knutsford unpack the meaning and significance of Elizabeth Gaskell’s writing.

Manchester
Gallery
Chuck Gallery

Chuck Gallery is the first private art space in North West England dedicated to the promotion of contemporary African art in Manchester and beyond. Our focus is the provision of a varied collection of high quality, original and exceptional artwork

Pankhurst Centre
Manchester
Museum
The Pankhurst Centre

The Pankhurst Centre houses a small museum and heritage centre that remains as a legacy to the Pankhurst family and the Suffragette movement born in this city.

Much Ado About Nothing at Victoria Baths
Manchester
Event venue
Victoria Baths

Victoria Baths no longer functions as a ‘water palace’ and Turkish Baths, but the Grade II-listed building hosts regular events and is a stunning visit.

Manchester
Bar or Pub
Big Hands

Big Hands is the one-time haunt of legendary Manchester band Elbow; it’s shabby, loud and dark, with a jukebox and excellent roof terrace.

The Whitworth
Manchester
Gallery
The Whitworth

This much-loved gallery-in-a-park is open for business, showcasing some of the city’s finest contemporary and historic exhibitions.

Manchester Academy music venue on Oxford Road Manchester.
Manchester
Music venue
Manchester Academy

The Manchester Academy is a mid size, modern warehouse venue adjacent to the University of Manchester Students’ Union. It lacks any architectural merit and has always been a difficult place…

Cafe at the Museum
Manchester
Café or Coffee Shop
The Cafe
at the Museum

Manchester Museum’s cafe is run by the people behind award-winning cafe Teacup Kitchen. The menu features home-baked cakes, the finest loose leaf teas and breakfast, as well as a wide selection of mains and meals for kids.

What's on: Families

A large mechanical puppet controlled by multiple people. Encounter Festival in Preston
FestivalsLancashire
Encounter Festival in Preston

Expect a jam-packed day of outdoor performance, live music, family fun – plus Preston’s iconic Torchlight Procession and fireworks finale.

Free entry
FamiliesMediaCityUK
Three Little Vikings at The Lowry

Three fearless Viking girls, one oblivious Chieftain, trolls, monsters, Viking longhouses and an alarming amount of craziness… welcome to Three Little Vikings at The Lowry, an incredible adventure for small…

Culture Guides

Cinema in the North

A host of Halloween horrors, experimental shorts, plus pioneering black British cinema make our October Cinema Guide.

Theatre in Manchester and the North
Theatre in the North

Theatre this month bursts with contrasts - from bold new writing and Black History Month highlights to contemporary arts and reimagined classics.

Exhibitions in the North

Galleries around the North are gearing up for a new season of exhibitions - from iconic art prizes to smaller, artist-led gems.

Wisp Press Image
Music in the North

From corrupted shoegaze to experimental electronica, post-hardcore to Indian classical, these are the shows that should be on your radar.