Family things to do in Manchester and the North

Mr Stink at Walkden Gardens, Manchester, 13 June 2021, from £11 - Book now

Round up the family for a trip to Walkden Gardens to watch Waterside Arts and Heartbreak Productions outdoor theatre adaptation of Mr Stink in stunning Sale parkland which is perfect for a summertime picnic.

Drama Stars with Triple C, online, Until 29 March 2021, free entry - Visit now

Drama Stars with Triple C is a series of online creative theatre workshops for kids with access requirements or additional needs. Aimed at beginners, children need no previous drama experience to take part.

Doodle Den: Playful Protests at People's History Museum at People’s History Museum in Manchester, City Centre and online, Until 31 December 2021, free entry

Hunker down with blankets, cushions and whatever takes your fancy to create a Doodle Den and use the People’s History Museum’s online resources to creatively explore important topics including climate change, LGBT+ Pride and migrant rights.

Winter Scavenger Hunt, online, Until 28 March 2021, free entry - Visit now

Tatton Park’s Winter Scavenger Hunt activity guide is packed with exploratory activities to inject some purpose into your stroll or stomp across the sprawling parkland. Occupying over 1,000 acres of land in Cheshire, the Tatton estate could more properly be called a pleasure garden and winter is one of the most breathtaking seasons to explore the vast landscape. Grab your waterproofs and sensible shoes for a fun-filled family walk.

Science Learning at Home, online, Until 31 December 2021, free entry - Visit now

Science Learning at Home with Jodrell Bank is a great way to explore some of the observatory’s themes online. The current #CaptureTheMoon series includes photography-based projects – with tips for achieving clear images using a camera or phone, along with art-based activities for younger children – which include making your own moon craters and packing bags with items fit for a trip to the moon! On top of all that, you can find an introduction to the best stargazing apps for budding astronomers big or small.

My First Protest Song online, online, Until 1 April 2021, free entry - Visit now

Round up the family and join singer-songwriter Matt Hill (Quiet Loner) for this online event full of toe-tapping tunes from times of change.

Bedtime story - online, online, 18 March 2021, free entry - Find Out More

Snuggle up and get cosy to enjoy a livestreamed, multi-sensory story session via the People’s History Museum’s Facebook page. It’s the perfect way for your little ones to prepare for a long snooze.

Paper Areoplane at Waterside Arts, Manchester, 3 April 2021, from £7 - Book now

Prepare for flight with two new friends as they take to the skies, leaving the every-day behind in pursuit of faraway lands. Following the success of The Goose who Flew Lots of Odds’ latest theatre production sensitively explores themes of loss, bereavement and grief in a format that is entertaining, light and full of music, song and physicality.

Flying Scotsman at East Lancashire Railway, 2–4 April 2021, from £12.4 - Book now

Celebrate steam’s golden age with your little ones! The Flying Scotsman returns to East Lancashire Railway this Easter, and you and your family have the chance to soak up breath-taking views on this famous icon of rail history.

Peppa Pig's Best Day Ever at Liverpool Empire Theatre, City Centre, 28–29 April 2021, from £18.15 - Book now

It’s Peppa’s Best Day Ever! Join Peppa Pig and all her friends as they embark on an epic, fun-filled adventure. With all the familiar faces and plenty of chuckles and trademark snorts, your little ones will be captivated.

Zog at The Lowry, Manchester, 2–4 July 2021, from £16 - Book now

Don’t miss the children’s classic Zog live at The Lowry! This new adaptation is jam-packed with lively songs from Joe Stilgie and is sure to have your little ones up in their seats, singing along while cheering the loveable Zog on.

Manchester Museum, The University Of Manchester, Oxford Rd, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M13 9PL - Visit now

Round up the family and explore Manchester Museum’s collection from your home.  Head over to their new site for entertainment and education until they reopen.