There’s nothing quite like the resounding, "mum I’m bored" reiteration during the summer from little ones. Surprisingly maybe, this is something that makes my ears prick up and brain spark into action! And that’s only because as my older two children have matured they tend to entertain themselves, whether that be with friends or online gaming (oh yes, I absolutely support the responsible use of screens in this digital world for pre-teens and teenagers). So when my eight year old is bored it’s go time! The baby tags along of course and more often than not the older kids will join too, the FOMO risk is far too great.
I wanted to share with you some of our favourite things to do and places to go over the summer, a list that has been ongoing for many years:
· Ashby Museum and Ashby Castle
The museum, on North Street next to the library, really is a little hidden gem exploring the origins of Ashby, its significance during the 17th century civil war, and World War One and Two exhibits. There's a dress up box for little ones and an activity table for colouring etc. Then why not head over to the Castle to complete your historic adventure! Museum entry fee is around £1 and the Castle is free for English Heritage members, or £10.50 for adults, £5.50 for children (under 5's free).
· Bradgate Park, Newtown Linford
A vast and beautiful natural country park with plenty of opportunities for little explorers. Look out for the ancient trees, rock formations and famous deer community; paddling in the creek is also possible. We like to take little pond dipping nets and 'go fishing'. Parking costs £4.50 for 3 hours or £5.50 for all day. There's a little café and toilets with changing facilities in the middle of the main walk too.
· Hough Mill & Califat Spinney Children's Trail, Swannington
This really is one of my favourite little spots locally, and totally free! There's a small car park right next to the little woods wherein you'll find a beautifully maintained and magical fairy trail. There's gnomes, help-yourself forest school type activities, stepping stones, a sand pit, mushrooms, twinkly hanging things and lots of flora and fauna to immerse yourselves in. All four of my children happily find something to do here, even the 14 year old. Upon exiting the trail and a short walk up the hill you'll come to the huge historic windmill with functioning sails. Beautiful countryside surrounds it and you may be lucky enough to have a visit from the alpacas in the adjacent field. The trail is not particularly pushchair friendly so take a carrier but the walk to the mill is doable with a stroller.
· Beacon Hill Country Park, Woodhouse Eaves
For breath taking views and a great picnic spot Beacon Hill ticks all the boxes. If you're after a long day out then try the full loop from the Lower or Upper car parks, all pretty pushchair friendly. If you fancy exploring the rocks however good footwear is recommended! The natural geology at Beacon Hill is famous for is iconic face like structures and it's sure to satisfy the curious minds of little boys and girls in their rock phases. I don't think my older kids have ever got out of such phase! At the Lower Car park area there's the cool Labyrinth walk though the rhododendron maze complete with carved character woodwork. A small but well stocked café can be found at the Lower Car Park and there's playgrounds at both Upper and Lower. Parking fees: Up to 1 hour – £2, 1-2 hours – £3.50, 2-3 hours – £4.50, Over 3 hours – £5 or free for Leicestershire Country Parks pass holders.
· Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, Sutton Cheyney
A nice short loop walk through the Leicestershire countryside and part of the site of the Battle of Bosworth of 1485, this is an easy day out with great learning opportunities for all. Little ones will love stumbling upon the information boards and photo ops, the iron sculptures and interactive speaking boxes. Then head into the museum for a wander around the award-winning permanent Wars of the Roses exhibition, with plenty of bits and bobs for kids to experiment with including dress up gear, real armour and weapons to try! There’s a fantastic large café with plenty of seating and an outdoor area with all the usual facilities. Parking costs £2.00 for up to 1 hour, £3.50 for up to 2 hours, £4.50 for up to 3 hours and £5.00 for over 3 hours. Pay by cash or PayByPhone app. Museum entry is £8.95 for adults and £5.95 for children over 3, family tickets are available which works out great value as tickets are valid for 12 months!
Have you visited these spots? Let me know what you think and why you enjoy them with your family. There are never any big expectations when we head out, as long as we are together and sharing a few laughs that’s all that matters to me. Different people will get different things out of a trip, and that’s totally okay. Below are a few other suggestions of places we also love to visit. I hope you find this useful; go explore!
Sophie x
@sophieandteamt
The Local Mama Blog Editor
· Market Bosworth Country Park
· Staunton Harold, Ashby de la Zouch
· Ashby Library and Wriggly Readers (alternate Fridays)
· Sence Valley, Ibstock
· Lichfield Cathedral and Erasmus Darwin’s House
· Hick’s Lodge, Moira
· Twycross Zoo (book once and return visits are free for a year)
· Loughborough Museum and Victoria Park
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