Whether it’s the holidays or the weekend, the big question is how to keep the kids entertained? If you’re stuck for ideas or in need of fresh inspiration for things to do with the kids in Manchester, we’ve made things a little easier. We’ve rounded up some of the best things happening in Manchester during the February half term holidays, which are suitable for kids and families, including some indoor activities in case the weather doesn’t deliver. So, without further ado, here are the most thrilling things to do in Manchester with kids, which are bound to make the holidays pretty memorable and enjoyable for all.
The best things to do with kids in Manchester
1. Bounce and fly around at playzone Oxygen Activeplay at Salford Quays
Oxygen Activeplay at Quayside in Salford is a playzone promising to bring a whole new world of exploration, excitement, and fun. Little ones can bounce their way across 24 epic trampolines, dive into awesome inflatables, and challenge their friends in the super cool interactive strike arena. Older children can take to the sky and test their skills on the high ropes course, climbing and navigating obstacles as they conquer the heights of the Activeplay park. Plus, the indoor aerial Sky Rider is not to be missed, where you can forget about gravity and fly high above the Activeplay park giving you the ultimate birds eye view of the fun below.
2. Have a bubbly day out at this unique interactive bubble exhibition
Following successful stints in North America, Milan, and even London, the bountiful interactive installation Bubble Planet has arrived in Manchester. The installation is filled with – you guessed it – bubbles, created using a plethora of techniques. In this dedicated bubble museum, not only will you encounter regular bubbles, but the experience employs VR technology, interactive elements, and mirrored effects to create something incredibly innovative.
3. See adorable donkeys up close at The Donkey Sanctuary
In search of free things to do with the kids in Manchester? Look no further than The Donkey Sanctuary in Abbey Hey. Both a great cause and a chance to see cute donkeys up close, it’s great way for kids to enjoy the outdoors and interact with animals. Visitors will have the chance to see the different areas in which the donkeys live, learn about how we care for them, discover the dynamics of the herd and get answers to all questions that they may have about our donkeys. The Donkey Sanctuary is free and can be booked online, however donations are welcomed.
4. Get on board the East Lancashire Railway for a fun-filled train ride
See the nearby countryside in style by hopping on board on a East Lancashire Railway steam train, which runs from Bury to Rawtenstall. Over the holidays the railway will be hosting a number of fun events and experiences to keep all of the family entertained. For the little ones who are taking a break from school there are visits from famous characters to look forward to, including Thomas the Tank Engine. East Lancashire Railway will also be hosting The Dino Adventure, a day out with some wacky wizards and a traditional luncheon.
5. Enjoy eight different play zones across the city at this free family festival
This February half term, Manchester has just the thing as the city is set to launch The Super Duper Family Festival – a four-day celebration filled with imagination, creation and free family-friendly activities that will transform the city into a giant, interactive playground. Taking place from Wednesday 18th February to Saturday 21st February, families can explore unique play zones scattered across Manchester’s most iconic spaces.
6. Get crafty at these creative sessions inspired by The Wind in the Willows at RHS Garden Bridgewater
This February half term, families can enjoy a delightful programme of nature‑themed activities at RHS Garden Bridgewater, all included with garden admission. The events are inspired by E. H. Shepard’s iconic artwork for The Wind in the Willows, offering visitors a chance to step into the world of Mole, Ratty, Badger and friends. This includes a brand‑new interactive trail launching at half term and remaining in the garden throughout the year. Plus, RHS Garden Bridgewater will host a series of drop‑in creative sessions for the February half term, such as craft activities like creating character puppets or decorating bookmarks inspired by The Wind in the Willows or a planting activity.
7. Bounce around at Inflata Nation Manchester
If you and the kids want to still bounce around but the weather isn’t looking the best then head to Inflata Nation. With loads of jaw-dropping features and fun activities, including the epic double tipping slide, it’s twice the fun, but can you hang on? Inflata Nation Manchester offers kids and adults alike unrivalled bouncing fun, and can be enjoyed by just about anyone, of any age, shape and physical ability. The inflatable park also has a variety of classes, including Disability Friendly sessions and Inflata Tots sessions (just for pre-schoolers).
8. Attend an enchanting Candlelight concert
Experiencing timeless melodies in a candlelit setting is a fun plan for the whole family. If your kids are eight or older, you can bring them to a breathtaking Candlelight tribute. These performances recreate some of the best music ever written, including classical works by Vivaldi and iconic ABBA hits. Taking place at some of the city’s most charming and historic venues, your little ones can get introduced to musical legends or rediscover popular hits.
9. Reach for the stars at one of Manchester’s many rock climbing walls
If you and the kids are looking for a challenge right here in Manchester, then rock climbing or bouldering is one of the top things to do. Push yourself to new heights (quite literally) as Manchester has plenty of indoor climbing and bouldering spots, whether you’re a rock climbing rookie or a seasoned climber. From Stretford to Stockport, Bolton to Oldham, there are many venues which are suitable for kids and some even have cafes offering light refreshments or a place to watch the youngsters scale some walls from afar.
10. Boggle your mind at the brand new Museum of Illusions
Museum of Illusions should definitely be on the cards for a mind-bending day out, and you’re sure to leave rather mind-boggled. The brand new 10,700 sq ft space is filled with “fascinating holograms, mind-bending illusion rooms, and astonishing exhibits intended to trick the mind and puzzle perceptions”. In addition to the museum’s signature, most popular and photo-worthy exhibits, such as the Walk-in Kaleidoscope, Vortex Tunnel, and Infinity Room, visitors will be treated to custom-made installations that celebrate Manchester’s unique culture and heritage.
11. Swing into action at Total Ninja Manchester
Families can kick boredom to the curb this half term, with some ninja fun at Total Ninja Manchester. Thrill-seekers can take on obstacles, climbing, leaping and swinging their way through over 25 challenges. Ninjas can find their inner calm on Balance Logs, sail through the Sea of Swings and reach new highs on the challenging Warped Wall, with challenges ranging to suit all ages and abilities.
12. Test out your piloting skills as Flight Academy returns to Manchester Airport
Kids can try their hand at becoming a pilot this half term, as the popular Flight Academy returns to Manchester Airport’s Runway Visitor Park. From sitting in the cockpit to dressing the part and “taking control” of the flight deck, it’s the perfect activity for aspiring pilots. Kids can also head outside to have a look at Manchester Airport’s runways and watch the planes take off and land, as well as take a tour of the park’s retired airliners. New for this half–term, a ‘Supersonic’ short tour of the legendary Concorde is also available from just £6 per person. This 20-minute tour will allow visitors to sit in the luxurious leather seats where royalty & celebrities once sat, whilst discovering the history of this unique and innovative aircraft.
13. Blast off for an out-of-this-world experience at the Science and Industry Museum
February half term is the first chance to enter the celestial world of Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos, a thrilling exhibition that will invite visitors to explore the wonderous Solar System where mystery, intrigue and rocket-loads of silly and surprising science await. Venture through a series of cosmic zones, walk in the shoes of astronauts, explore the life-giving energy of the Sun, marvel at mysterious moons and discover far-off weird worlds. Plus, from February 14-22, the museum will be celebrating the wonders of the night sky with drop-in movement