If you are looking for inspiration this half term – here are some great events.
IMAGINE CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL
What? The Southbank’s annual children’s festival is 12 jam-packed days of theatre, comedy, storytelling, quirky dance and interactive installations. Not to be missed this year are Peppa Pig: My First Concert (especially as mummy pig is doing the conducting) and Strictly Kids if your little Darcy Bussell wants to learn to Charleston, jive and let off some steam. There will be screenings of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt with a live orchestra and storytelling with David McKee, the creator of Elmer. We can’t wait. When? 13 – 24 Feb Price? Many events are free but it’s worth booking in advance. Ages? Three to 12 Details: www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whats-on/festivals-series/imagine-childrens-festival
KNIGHT SCHOOL AT THE TOWER OF LONDON
What? Held outside in the shadow of the White Tower, let your little warriors discover what it really takes to become a knight. A team of medieval tutors are ready to school budding Sir Lancelots (and Guineveres) in everything from manners and etiquette to martial skills including combat and fitness. Inside the iconic Norman keep, you can marvel at the armour worn by the likes of King Henry VIII, while each knight will receive a craft pack to create their very own helmet or shield, and can take part in a knightly trail around the fortress. When? Saturday 16 February to Sunday 24 February. Price? All activities are included in the Tower of London general admission ticket price. Ages? Suitable for children aged five to 11. Details: https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/explore/knight-school/#gs.3vOu5Gnz
THE NEW MAIL RAIL FAMILY TRAIL AT THE POSTAL MUSEUM
What? It’s a tight squeeze for mums and dads but children will love whizzing around on the 100-year-old underground mini mail train that used to speed the mail to post offices across London. New for this half term is family trail, beautifully designed by children’s story-book illustrator Salvatore Rubbino, who is also holding a toolbox design workshop. Other events include a performance of the life of Sir Rowland Hill, creator of the world’s first postage stamp, a storytelling session that will take you back to 18thcentury London – and the chance to make your own top hat. If you have little tots, the Sorted! play space is absolutely brilliant for under fives. They can dress up, scan and sort the mail with pulleys and chutes, drive the mail van and deliver the post around an amazing immersive mini-town. When? 13 – 24 Feb Price? Adults, £17.05, children, £10.45 Ages? There really is something for children of all ages but best for ages five to eight Details: https://www.postalmuseum.org/event/feb-half-term-2019-trail/