Best Events to Celebrate Summer and the Olympics 2012  

The London Olympics are opening soon but you don't have to have tickets to join in the spirit of the Games and have some fun. Across the UK there are so many family events to celebrate the Olympics. There are Olympic craft days, the science of sports, taster days for sports for the children, torch making, Ancient Olympic Games, animal Olympics, old fashioned sports days and much, much more.

There is something for everyone to enjoy this summer. We have gathered together some amazing fun days out with the kids across the country for you to enjoy. Pirate days in Cornwall, make your own TV serial in Bristol, old school sports day in Hampshire, go dancing in Nottinghamshire. Masses to do for a great summer.

Plus don't forget the London 2012 Festival is now in full swing! Over 12,000 events and performances across the UK in celebration of the Games. www.festival.london2012.com/

Northern England Central England Eastern England Southern England Wales Scotland Northern Ireland

Northern England   Cumbria The World of Beatrix Potter - The Windermere Relay - until 2nd September 2012 Join the Windermere Relay to be in for a prize, the start line is at any of the six participating Lakeland Attractions where you can collect your entry card and your first ink stamp and the finish line is the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness where you drop off your card to end the race. The challenge is to collect as many ink stamps as you can from the different checkpoints in the Relay which are located at six top local Attractions: The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, Lake District Visitor Centre at Brockhole, Windermere Lake Cruises, Lakes Aquarium, Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway and Lakeland Motor Museum. Entry to the Attractions is not required to collect your commemorative stamp. Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3BX   01539 488444 <back to top Derbyshire Kedleston Hall – Family Olympics – 27th July-31st August 2012 One of the things to do with the kids over the summer is to visit Kedleston Hall and  have a go at children's crafts and trails themed around the Olympics, play games and compete with your friends with the play and sports equipment, Fridays, 11am-4pm. Kedleston Hall, Derby, Derbyshire, DE22 5JH 01332 842191 Conkers – Adventure in the Forest for the Summer Holidays – 14th July-2nd September 2012 Beat the boredom and take your pick and enjoy a great programme of entertainment and activities for every day of the holidays! The huge range of children’s activities on offer at the forest centre include Ranger led craft days, dray rides with the shires, the Flip and Dippy Clown shows, Trevor Hill with his animal road show, Nick Spellman and his amazing animals, woodland crafts, pond dipping, falconry displays, Story Time and bush craft survival skills. There is something to suit every child. See website for full programme details, dates and times. Conkers, Rawdon Road, Swadlincote, Derbyshire, DE12 6GA 01283 216633 Rosliston Forestry Centre – Forest Frenzy – 27th July & 28th August 2012 When searching for ideas for days out with the kids plan a fantastic value Forest Frenzy day at Rosliston Forestry Centre, active play with all the activities available from 12 noon until 5 pm. Buy a wristband from the Barn shop, collect a map and head off to have a taster session of archery, woodland laser combat, climbing wall, crazy golf and many more great activities! Choose either of the two dates. Rosliston Forestry centre, Burton Road, Swadlincote, Derbyshire, DE12 8JX 01283 563483 <back to top Tees Valley   St James Park – Olympic Games Football Matches - 26th July-4th August 2012 One of only nine locations to host Olympic sport outside of London, Newcastle upon Tyne is a Host City for the London 2012 Games, hosting nine Olympic Football matches at St James’ Park including Mexico, Spain and Brazil and a quarter-final in both the men's and women's competitions. Tickets are on general sale now from just £20, on the Olympic ticket website. Newcastle United Football Club, St James Park, Gallowgate, Tyne and Wear, NE1 4ST   <back to top East Yorkshire Sewerby Hall and Gardens – Rusticus Wacky Walk – 26th July-23rd August 2012 For kids days out over the school holiday take part in summer games and sporting good fun in the gardens of Sewerby Hall, as the summer Wacky Walks take you on a marathon of mayhem tracking the story of the ancient and modern Olympic games. You will meet a crack squad of crazy characters, from barmy Greeks to modern British heroes. See how the games got started, meet some of the great characters from the pantheon of ancient and modern international sporting heroes, and take part in some of the craziest athletic events ever devised, including bizarre real events from the early days of the games! Suitable for families and children of all ages, dress for the outdoors. Five dates, please check website for dates and times. Sewerby Hall and Gardens, Church Lane, Sewerby, Bridlington, East Yorkshire, YO15 1EA 01262 677874 <back to top North Yorkshire Castle Howard – Get Active Weekend – 26th-27th August 2012 Share an active family day out at the famous property in North Yorkshire when all the activities are free as part of entrance ticket.  Visit the 'Get Cycling' bike roadshow, test out a variety of different pedal powered machines from toddler bikes to tandems; there is something to suit everyone and enter the competition to win a brand new bike. Learn archery and even take part in the beginners archery competition. Even fancied climbing?? Well now's your chance! Learn from the professionals on the artificial climbing wall. Castle Howard, Malton, North Yorkshire, YO60 7DA 01653 648333 <back to top Central England Buckinghamshire The Hellfire Caves – 25th July-5th September 2012 – The Hell-Fire School of Witchcraft The friendly Wandmaster will ensure that you learn to cast spells, banish werewolves, learn how to fly a broomstick, direct you in potion making and ghost busting! You will be issued with a witch’s hat, broomstick and glow wand and descend into the caves…….. Held on Wednesdays and Fridays, 11am, 1pm and 3pm.  Suitable for 5-10 year olds. The Hellfire Caves, Church Lane, West Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP14 3AJ http:// 01494 533739 <back to top Herefordshire The Weir – Summer Games Trail – 1st-31st August 2012 Celebrate the 2012 Olympics with a themed trail and traditional games at The Weir. There are trails at each of the National Trust sites in Herefordshire and families can win an additional prize if they complete all four trails. Please see the website for more information. The Weir, Swainshill, Hereford, Herefordshire, HR4 7QF 01981 590509 Goodrich Castle – Medieval Fighting Knights – 25th-27th August 2012 Step back to medieval times at Goodrich Castle this Bank Holiday weekend, and watch knights do battle in thrilling live shows. Support your favourite as he uses his impressive skills to out-do his opponents in a brave fight to the finish! Also, soak up the atmosphere of times gone by with the medieval encampment and find out what life was like during this fascinating period. Goodrich Castle, Castle Lane, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire, HR9 6HY 01600 890538 <back to top Nottinghamshire Old Market Square – Nottingham Riviera – 20th July-28th August 2012 If you are looking for somewhere to take the kids during the summer holidays have a day out in Nottingham and visit The Old Market Square which is going to be transformed into ‘Riviera’, a seaside themed playground, complete with sand, giant paddling pool and fairground rides. This is the perfect way to keep children (and adults!) entertained during the summer holidays. Tickets not required, 10am-5pm. Old Market Square, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG1 2BY   <back to top Oxfordshire Blenheim Palace – Olympic Outdoor Cinema in the Gardens – 28th July-12th August 2012 Watch the Olympics with friends and family in the Pleasure Gardens at Blenheim Palace. During the London 2012 Olympics, Blenheim Palace will host a Big Screen showing BBC coverage of the games whilst visitors enjoy refreshments and the family attractions within the Pleasure Gardens. Please see the website for times and other details. Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 1PP 01993 810530 <back to top Shropshire Shrewsbury Steam Rally – 26th-27th August 2012 A great family day out with superb steam engines, beautifully preserved classic and historic vehicles and a range of exhibits and attractions including birds of prey, parades, craft and hobbies marquee, trade stands, fair, fairground organs, blacksmith demonstrations and tractor pulling. The Working Field is a chance for families to learn about the world of rural Victorian farming. Shrewsbury Steam Rally, Onslow Park, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY3 5EE 01743 792731 <back to top Staffordshire Lower Drayton Farm – Maize Maze – 28th July-30th September 2012 For a fun day out in the fresh air this summer, pack a picnic and take the kids to explore the maize maze at Lower Drayton Farm. Puzzle your way out of the maze and then enjoy all the other activities and attractions on offer. Please confirm opening days and times before visiting. Lower Drayton Farm, Lower Drayton Lane, Penkridge, Staffordshire, ST19 5RE 07817 691352 <back to top Warwickshire Hatton Farm Village – Summer Spectacular – 21st July-2nd September 2012 This year there's an Olympic flavour to the Summer Spectacular at Hatton Farm Village. Kids will be able to let off steam with Olympic Sports Day races and then head for the Olympic-themed A-maize-ing Maze to see how long it takes them to find their way out. There will also be competitions and shows throughout the day. Please see the website or call for more information. Hatton Farm Village at Hatton Country World, Hatton, Warwick, Warwickshire, CV35 8XA 01926 843411 Anne Hathaway’s Cottage – The Enchanted Wood – 21st June-2nd September 2012 Take the kids to Anne Hathaway's Cottage and search in the wood for the fairies from 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. Spot the little people and win a prize. Try and visit on 3rd, 10th, 17th or 24th August when there will be puppet shows and stories based on scenes from Shakespeare at 3pm. There will even be a chance to have a go at being a puppeteer (suitable for children aged 6 years and over). Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Shottery, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 9HH 01789 292100 <back to top West Midlands Sarehole Mill – Summer Olympics – 25th July & 8th August 2012 Look out for these two events to celebrate London 2012. On 25th July, learn how wheat is ground into flour and then use some flour to make a medal out of salt dough (1-3pm, £1 per child, all ages welcome). On 8th August, take your teddy along to Sarehole Mill and turn him/her into an Olympic mascot (1-3pm, £1 per child, first come first served). For more information, please ring the mill on 0121 777 6612. Sarehole Mill, Cole Bank Road, Hall Green, Birmingham, West Midlands, B13 0BD 0121 777 6612 Herbert Art Gallery and Museum – Dinosaurs Uncovered – 21st July 2012-6th January 2013 Travel back 250 million years this summer and learn about some of the most awe-inspiring creatures to walk the Earth. Find yourself face to face with the skull of a Tyrannosaurus Rex, discover the strength of the Stegosaurus' armour plating and be astonished by the Triceratops' might. With amazing life-size dinosaurs, real and replica fossils, holographic video presentations, exciting interactives and touch-screen technology, this is a great exhibition for families. Tickets can be booked online. Herbert Art Gallery and Museum, Jordan Well, Coventry, West Midlands, CV1 5QP 024 7683 2386 <back to top Worcestershire Worcestershire Wildlife Trust – Minibeast Olympics at Lower Smite Farm – 7th August 2012 Join this Wildwatcher holiday activity and discover some amazing facts about mini-beasts. Is a slug or a snail faster? Who is the champion high-jumper? Activity particularly suitable for 5-12 year olds and booking is essential. Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, Lower Smite Farm, Hindlip, Worcester, Worcestershire, WR3 8SZ 01905 754919 Clent Hills – Summer Treasure Trail – 24th July-28th August 2012 Enjoy an adventure in the Clent Hills searching for hidden treasure. Arm yourself with a picnic, collect a map from the stand in Nimmings Wood Car Park and set out. Event runs Tuesdays, 24th & 31st July, 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th August only, 10am-3pm. Please see the website for more information. Clent Hills, Romsley, Worcestershire, B62 0NL 01562 712822 <back to top   Southern England   Bath   Chew Valley Lake – 20 August 2012 - Go 'Wild About Chew' This free event will again feature lots of fun activities helping visitors to find out how the company and a wide range of other organisations taking part look after the environment. It will also give visitors the chance to meet TV wildlife presenter Michaela Strachan, who will be there all day. 10am-5pm. Chew Valley Lake, Woodford Lodge, Chew Stoke, Bath, BS40 8XH 01275 333345 <back to top Bristol   Arnolfini – OU TV – 5-26 August 2012 OU TV, is a workshop run by a group of young artists for young people. Set in a 1970s style TV studio, visitors will have the opportunity to explore some of the ways in which young people were invited to become a part of Open University TV programmes in the 1970s. Using the current exhibition as a stage, you are invited to direct and film your own episode. Resulting films will be screened as part of Saturdays' programmes in Olivia Plender's Open Forum installation. Event is free, but booking is essential. 2-4pm. Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA 0117 917 2300 <back to top Berkshire Wellington Country Park – Mini Olympics – 4th-5th August 2012 The Olympics are here, so take the family to Wellington Country Park and have a go in the ‘Mini Olympics’! Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road, Riseley, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 1SP 0118 932 6444 The REME Museum of Technology – Mini Shelters Workshop – 22nd-23rd August 2012 Build a shelter in only 15 minutes! The workshop will run three times throughout the day, at 11am, 12noon and 2pm. Booking is not required. Suitable for children aged 5-12 years old. All children must be accompanied by an adult. The REME Museum of Technology, Isaac Newton Road, Arborfield Garrison, Reading, Berkshire, RG2 9NH 0118 976 3375   <back to top Cornwall Eden Project – Summer Fun for Kids: The Lorax at Eden – 14 July-2 September 2012 Like the Lorax, who's the guardian of the forest, we love plants at Eden. We also love encouraging kids to connect with nature, so we’re putting on activities that will not only be loads of fun but will also get them thinking. It’ll make for a summer day out they’ll never forget! Please see website for further details. Eden Project, Bodelva, St Austell, Cornwall, PL24 2SG 01726 811911 St Michael's Mount – Pirate Day 2012 – 27 August 2012 A day of swash-buckling surprises, sea-faring adventures as well as tales from the deep with their very own storyteller of the West, Mark Harandon. Come along and search for the treasures of the Mount and be rewarded with bountiful treasures when you seek out Captain Keith. Fun for all the family including FREE bouncy castle, face-painting, live music, entertainment and storytelling. 11am-5pm. St Michael's Mount, Marazion, Cornwall, TR17 0EF 01736 710507 <back to top Devon Seashore Centre – Kids Learn to Snorkel – 24 August 2012 Fancy viewing the rockpools from a fish’s point of view? Why not come along and try your hand at snorkelling, you will be fully kitted out and taken into the water by qualified instructors. Discover beautiful wrasse, scuttling hermit crabs and charismatic tompot blennies. Children will be given an introductory training session on safe snorkelling and instructors will be with them throughout the session as they master the basics of using a mask and snorkel. Equipment provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult (from shore is fine). Booking: Essential 01803 520022. The Seashore Centre, Tanners Road, Paignton, Devon, TQ4 6LS 01803 528841 Occombe Farm – Go Wild! Summer Holiday Club – 13-17 August 2012 A week of fun adventurous activities to keep children entertained during the long Summer Holidays. Activities include den building, fire lighting, snorkelling, fishing and rockpooling. 10am–4pm each day, booking essential on 01803 528841, children can be left without their parents. Occombe Farm, Preston Down Road, Paignton, Devon, TQ3 1RN 01803 520022 Watersmeet – Lynmouth Summer Fete – 26 August 2012 Come along for a day of skills, games and lots of fun at this traditional summer fete on the Manor Green in Lynmouth. With a bouncy castle, plate smashing and welly wanging, and much more this is a great event for all of the family. Meet at The Manor Ground, Lynmouth, which is just across the bridge at the Lynmouth Harbour. Watersmeet, Watersmeet Road, Lynmouth, Devon, EX35 6NT 01598 763402 Sidmouth Folk Week – 3-10 August 2012 This is a week-long annual festival of folk music, singing, dancing, concerts, and cream teas, focused in the centre of Sidmouth and on the sea front with many family-friendly events. Please see website for programme details. Sidmouth Town, Sidmouth, Devon, EX10 8EW 01395 578627 <back to top Dorset Kingston Lacy – Edwardian Sports Day – 5 August 2012 Travel back in time and enjoy an Edwardian sports afternoon. Traditional races, lashings of lemonade and a shiny half-crown for winners. Croquet on the lawn. 1-5pm. Kingston Lacy, on the B3082, near Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 4EA 01202 883402 Red House Museum – Animal Olympics Workshop – 15 August 2012 Family workshops (for ages 4 to adult) with activities inspired by the amazing abilities of animals. Find out which animal can jump the highest, swim the fastest and run the furthest and award medals to the ones you think are best! A fun session with games to play, things to make and costumes to dress up in. Workshops are 10.15am-12.15pm or 1.30-3.30pm; places must be booked in advance on 01202 482860. Red House Museum, Quay Road, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1BU 0845 603 5635 Bournemouth Lower Gardens – Kids Fun Festival – 31 July-26 August 2012 This is an annual Festival, run during the school summer holidays. There is a variety of free entertainment daily that takes place in the famous Bournemouth Lower Gardens with Art workshops, magicians, jesters, puppet workshops, comedy magic, children's disco and party games and lots more. 11am-5pm, daily. Bournemouth Lower Gardens, Lower Gardens, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 2AQ 01202 451195 Corfe Castle – Medieval Village with Knights' & Damsels' School & Talks – 30 July-2 September 2012 Step back in time to the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, come and immerse yourself in the Hundred Years War. An action packed, family fun day out, with interactive activities for budding Knights and Damsels. 10am-6pm. (Event not happening on 11 August.) Corfe Castle, The Square, Corfe Castle, Dorset, BH20 5EZ 01929 480609 Nothe Fort – Nothe Fort Victorian Fayre – 18-19 August 2012 A colourful event involving re-enactors from the Nothe Fort Artillery Volunteers with Bugles, Drums and Cannons. The two-day period will be packed full of events, many interactive. Sideshows include: Hoopla: Coconut Shy and Stocks: Also Ghost Talks: Victorian School Room: Face Painting: Maypole Dancing: Fossil Painting: Victorian Crafts: Throughout the day there will be live cannon firing displays, so plenty of loud bangs and the chance to inspect the guns at close quarters. A great day out for all the family, as well as military enthusiasts. 10.30am-4.30pm. Nothe Fort, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8UF 01305 766626 <back to top Gloucestershire Slimbridge Wetland Centre – Wetland Games – 20th July-3rd September 2012 Have a family day out at Slimbridge Wetland Centre during the summer holidays and follow the Wetland Games discovery trail. Find out which of the wetland creatures are the fastest, the tallest, the heaviest, the tiniest, the most colourful and the most loveable. Who will be the gold medal winners? Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT 01453 891900 <back to top Hampshire Itchen Valley Country Park – Summer Holiday Activity Weeks – 23 July-31 August 2012 These are for children aged 6 to 11 years. The days run from 9.30am to 4pm and are full of activities and games. Go Wild in the Park (Mondays and Tuesdays – two days of craft activities, games, pond dipping, bug hunting and olympic activities); Go Wild in the Woods (Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays – three days of shelter building, campfire cookery, green woodworking, woodland crafts, games and other activities). Please see website for booking details. Itchen Valley Country Park, Allington Lane, West End, nr Southampton, Hampshire, SO30 3HQ 023 8046 6091 Manor Farm – Summer Holiday Fun on the Farm – 23 July-2 September 2012 Enjoy a great day out this summer and take part in some brilliant activities for children down on the farm. Take a lesson to remember in the Victorian schoolroom, help the farmer with his daily farmyard walk, watch the cows being milked, meet the animals, and get creative with children's arts and crafts. Plus, weekdays 2pm-4pm you can get your face painted! Daily themed activities throughout the holidays include: Mondays: Washdays; Tuesdays: Punch & Judy (August only); Wednesdays: Farmhouse making & baking; Thursdays: Household duties; Fridays & Saturdays: Storytelling; Sundays: Farmhouse making & baking. 10am-5pm. Manor Farm, Manor Farm Country Park, Pylands Lane, Bursledon, Hampshire, SO31 1BH 01489 787055 Gilbert White's House – Gilbert’s Games & Country Fair – 4-5 August 2012 This brand new event promises great fun and entertainment for every member of the family. As well as a wide selection of 18th century games and activities, visitors will be able to wander round the fair and enjoy local craftspeople demonstrating their ancient rural skills and selling their wares. To add to the fun, don’t miss the Ferret Racing on Saturday or the Hampshire Regency Dancers performing a selection of their favourite Country Dances, Cotillions and Quadrilles on Sunday. Parking is free, and admission to the Fair (£7) includes the House and Garden, award-winning Tea Parlour and the Gift Shop with its unique range of gifts. Please note, this is a ‘Special Event’ so Annual Season Tickets are not valid. Gilbert White's House & Garden and The Oates Collection, Selborne, Hampshire, GU34 3JH 01420 511275 <back to top Isle of Wight Osborne House – Family Summer Fun – 27 July-31 August 2012 Join in traditional Victorian seaside games as Osborne celebrates the opening of Queen Victoria’s private beach for the first time. Laugh out loud at an authentic reproduction of an 1850s' Punch and Judy show, challenge the family to a mini-golf tournament or have a go at the hoopla-stall. Activities run daily, but may vary throughout the week. 10am-5pm. Osborne House, near East Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO32 6JX 0870 333 1181 Robin Hill – Electric Woods: Ambient August – 2-30 August 2012 Every Tuesday and Thursday evening in August, the Robin Hill woodlands begin to radiate with a spectacular glow as the twilight falls and the beautiful ambient lighting brings the winding paths, trees and ponds to nocturnal life. Street performers juggle with fire, dancers perform, music drifts through the trees... come, relax and enjoy ambient August evenings in Robin Hill’s electric woods... Between 7.30pm & 10.15pm (woodland dusk from 8.30pm for best light experience). The events are suitable for families and adults of all ages. Events subject to cancellation in very wet or windy weather. Robin Hill, near Arreton, Downend, Isle of Wight, PO30 2NU 01983 527352 <back to top Kent The Historic Dockyard Chatham – 21ST July-2nd September 2012 – Pirate Play Days Children will be kept busy for hours in the undercover Pirates’ Play Place, with fantastic family fun, including soft play, a desert island sand pit and arts and craft activities. A pirate themed assault course and storytelling on board HMS Gannet, with Pirate Pam and her puppets, provides one of the highlights of the day. Included in admission price. The Historic Dockyard Chatham, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TZ <back to top London A weekend of free music from around the world on stages along the River Thames 21-22nd July 2012 BT River of Music welcomes the world to London with a once-in-a-lifetime weekend of free music at landmarks along the River Thames, the weekend before the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games. A massive musical celebration, BT River of Music will feature performances by musicians representing all the Olympic and Paralympic nations, from leading international musicians and major starts to home-grown talent from across the UK. Musicians from the world's major continents will be represented across six stages: Battersea Park (Asia stage); Trafalgar Square (Europe stage); Somerset House (Europe stage); Tower of London (Americas stage); Greenwich Old Royal Naval College (Oceania stage) and London Pleasure Gardens (Africa stage). <back to top > Somerset Fleet Air Arm Museum – Dalek Invasion – 18-19 August 2012 Prepare for two days of terror as the largest gathering of Daleks this side of Gallafrey will invade the Museum. Terror will give way to panic as the army of Daleks will be accompanied by their evil accomplices including Davros, Miss Hartigan, Cybermen, Ice Warriors, Pig Slave, Screaming Angel and many more. To add to the fun and terror of the day, children are encouraged to wear Sci-Fi Fancy Dress. Throughout the day there will be a variety of family activities plus a short stage play, entitled “The Master Strikes Back”, an obstacle race and an Audience with the Daleks when you can ask the more friendly Daleks the questions on everybody’s mind such as, “How do you tell the difference between boy and girl Daleks?” There will be a Doctors versus Daleks Quiz, with audience participation. The day will finish with the March of the Daleks when the army of Daleks and their evil friends will parade through the museum ending under Concorde for a giant photo opportunity. Doors open at 10am. Fleet Air Arm Museum, RNAS Yeovilton, Ilchester, Somerset, BA22 8HT 01935 840565 <back to top > Surrey Birdworld – 15th August 2012 – Birdworld Animal Athletics Hop like a rabbit, waddle like a penguin, flap like a fish. Go along and join in a fun filled day of races and competitions all around the park. Birdworld, Holt Pound, Farnham, Surrey, GU10 4LD 01420 22992 Brooklands Museum – 6th-31st August 2012 – Summer Holiday Family Activities Every weekday during the summer school holidays, (excluding bank hols) there will be entertainment for all the family at Brooklands. There will be car rides operating from 11am-1pm and from 2-4pm, guest appearances from Bertie the Brooklands Bear, as well as trails for children up to 12 years old. Not to mention all the amazing engines, motors and cycles! Brooklands Museum, Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0QN 01932 857381   <back to top Sussex Princes Park – 27th July – 12th August 2012 – Olympic Community Live Princes Park hosts a giant TV screen featuring all the action live from the Olympic Park from 10am to 10pm each day. There will also be a Super Saturday Barbeque on the 4th August, a funfair from the 9th-12th August, the fabulous Airbourne Airshow on the 12th August and the closing ceremony with a great fireworks display! Princes Park, Royal Parade, Eastbourne, Sussex, BN22 7LU 0871 663 0031 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield – 6th-31st August 2012 – 1066 Battle Tactics for Kids Learn the skills of a Norman or Saxon soldier. Paint your own shield and have a go in the Kids Battle of Hastings! These events are held from 6th-10th, 13th-17th, 20th-24th and 27th-31st of August. 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield, Battle, Sussex, TN33 0AD 01424 775705   <back to top Wiltshire Lacock Abbey and Fox Talbot Museum of Photography – Old Fashioned Sports Day – 28 July 2012 Fed up with the all the sporting hoo-ha already? Then come and enjoy a variety of traditional activities like hoopla and splat the rat, tug of war and various races that you may remember from school sports days! This event will take place on the South Lawn and in the cloisters. There is a level, gravelled drive from Visitor reception to the South Lawn. There is a ramp into the cloisters. 10.30am-4pm. Lacock Abbey and Fox Talbot Museum of Photography, Lacock, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 2LG 01249 730459 Stourhead – Forest Fridays – 3-31 August 2012 On Fridays only (3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th and 31st), join in forest fun at King Alfred's Tower: magical story-telling, craft activities and circus skills workshops with the Whispering Woodfolk, woodland play trails, bug hunts, family cycle trails and much more. 11am-3pm. Stourhead House and Garden, Stourton, near Mere, Wiltshire, BA12 6QD 01747 841152 Old Wardour Castle – The Siege of Wardour – 25-26 August 2012 Join the Wardour Garrison and step back to the Civil War and watch displays of life from over 360 years ago. Witness the siege of Old Wardour with Lady Arundel herself, complete with musket firings! Plus, there will be a living history camp to see displays of cookery, weaving and surgery, music inside the castle and traditional games for the whole family to enjoy. 11am-5pm. Old Wardour Castle, Tisbury, Wiltshire, SP3 6RR 01747 870487 Old Sarum – King Arthur: The Battle of Legend – 26-27 August 2012 Celebrate the greatest victory of one of the most legendary of British heroes, Arthur of the Britons, in this spectacular show for all the family. Enjoy exciting arena shows and Living History displays from the period. Also explore the living history encampment and meet some of the costumed characters to learn more about life during a momentous period in history. 11am-5pm. Old Sarum, Castle Road, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 3SD 01722 335398   <back to top   Eastern England   Bedfordshire Bedford International Athletic Stadium – 27th July-12th August 2012 – Olympic Big Screen As an official Olympic Live Site, the stadium will have a big screen showing all the action live, including the men's 100 metre final. There will also be opportunities to have a go on the top class facilities on offer at the stadium, especially for young people. Bedford International Athletic Stadium, Barkers Lane, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK41 9SB 01234 351115 <back to top Cambridgeshire Cambridge – Up until the 31st August 2012 - Walk Cambridge To celebrate the Olympics coming to London this year, families can enjoy a series of walks showcasing the sporting heritage of Cambridge and the links to the Olympic Games. There are six differently coloured routes, colours taken from the Olympic rings, with varying lengths from 1.2 miles to 11.7 miles. The routes can be downloaded from the website. Walk Cambridge, various venues, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire. Imperial War Museum Duxford – 23rd July-3rd September 2012 – Summer Family Activities Kids of all ages will have fun at the Spy Camp, where they will be put through their paces, to see if they've got what it takes to be a Second World War special agent! There is also the Hands-on Hangar, where they will be able to make and paint Airfix aircraft and have a go at creative craft activities. Activities may be subject to change. Imperial War Museum Duxford, Duxford, Cambridgeshire, CB2 4QR 01223 835000 <back to top Essex Easton Lodge – 19th August 2012 – Children’s Sporting Challenge In the spirit of the Olympics and all things sporting, take the kids to participate in this children's sporting challenge. They will be invited to complete a series of challenges spread throughout the grounds and once they have done them all, they can collect their medal. Take a picnic and stay all day. This event is suitable for children of all ages with a £1 entry fee towards costs. Easton Lodge, Little Easton, Great Dunmow, Essex, CM6 2BB Secret Island at Royal Gunpowder Mills – 21st July-2nd September 2012 – Summer Science During the summer holidays Professor Nitrate moves out of his Mad Lab to create more spectacular experiments!  He will be joined every weekend by more mad scientists to create spectacular outdoor science shows, while on weekdays the new Test Range allows visitors to try out everything from archery to rocket cars and air cannons. Secret Island at Royal Gunpowder Mills, Beaulieu Drive, Waltham Abbey, Essex, EN9 1JY 01992 707370 <back to top Hertfordshire Ashridge Estate – 21st July-3rd September 2012 – Summer Trail Have great outdoor fun on this family trail within the estate. The estate covers 2,000 hectares of woodlands, commons and chalk downland supporting a rich variety of wildlife and outstanding scenery. Follow the trail and answer the questions along the way. You will earn your reward! Ashridge Estate, Moneybury Hill, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, HP4 1LX 01442 851227 <back to top Norfolk Holkham Hall – 27th July-12th August 2012 – Holkham’s Own 2012 Sports Get bouncing on space hoppers, try the egg and spoon race, mini-assault course or see how many Frisbees you can balance on your head. Skipping ropes might get you in a tangle and budding footballers can score a goal in the football challenge. Dare you walk the scary plank to finish the course? Holkham Hall, Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk, NR23 1AB 01328 710227 Pensthorpe – 21st July-5th September 2012 – Summer Fun and Wildlife Games During the summer school holidays, you can test your skill, speed, knowledge and creativity in a selection of fun, self-guided activities. Bring the family and challenge them to a host of interactive nature-themed games. There is a prize for those who complete the trail and answer all the questions correctly. Included in normal admission price. Pensthorpe, Fakenham, Norfolk, NR21 0LN 01328 851465 <back to top Suffolk Landguard Peninsular – 8th August 2012– Ready, Steady, Go! With a summer of sport that comes with the Olympic Games, get into the action and join in the fun at Felixstowe Museum, with a special trail and quiz. Felixstowe Museum, Landguard Peninsular, Viewpoint Road, Felixstowe, Suffolk, IP11 3TW Framlingham Castle 11th-12th August 2012 – The Knights Tournament Marvel at the medieval knights as they take on the ultimate tournament. Watch these four brave armoured Knights and their squires, representing the North, South, East, and West, fight for glory in hand-to-hand combat, archery competitions and much more. Enjoy a display of poleaxe combat and browse the authentic Living History Encampment, where you can listen to period music and laugh out loud at the medieval jester! Framlingham Castle, Framlingham, Suffolk, IP13 9BT 0870 333 1181 <back to top Wales   Blaenau Gwent Bedwellty House and Park – Family Olympics – 21st July 2012 Enjoy some good old-fashioned games such as wheelbarrow races, sack races and tug-of-war. There are categories for individuals, friends and family groups, so everyone can participate! Free event running 11am-3pm. Bedwellty House and Park, Morgan Street, Tredegar, Blaenau Gwent, NP22 3XN 01495 353325 <back to top Cardiff Techniquest – Heart of a Champion – 14th July-9th September 2012 Take the kids to see this brand new show inspired by the 2012 Olympic Games. Discover how to transform an average athlete into a gold medal winner and find out how to stay healthy by looking at the ways exercise affects your heart rate. Learn about your circulatory system, how your heart works as it pumps blood around your body and why blood goes to your lungs to pick up oxygen. Please confirm days and times of show before visiting. Techniquest, Stuart Street, Cardiff, CF10 5BW 029 2047 5475 Cardiff Castle – Grand Medieval Mêlée – 18th-19th August 2012 Experience the sights, sounds and smells of Castle life some 700 years ago. With a medieval encampment, breathtaking combat displays, sword fighting school, have-a-go archery, falconry display, juggling classes and armour to try on, it's a great day out with the kids. Advance booking recommended; please see the website for details. Cardiff Castle, Castle Street, Cardiff, CF10 3RB 029 2087 8100 <back to top Carmarthenshire Gelli Aur Country Park – Animal Olympics – 14th August 2012 Family fun activities at Carmarthenshire's Gelli Aur Country Park. Take part in the frog long jump, the deer hurdles and the world’s first badger sprint! Event starts at 2pm at Gelli Aur Visitor Centre and lasts for about an hour and a half. Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian. Gelli Aur Country Park, Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire, SA32 8LR 01558 668885 <back to top Conwy Conwy Quay Day – 25th August 2012 A day of fun on Conwy's historic quayside during Conwy River Festival. Families will find plenty to see and do: sailing and rowing races, lifeboat drills, sideshows, a duck race, funfair, pirate fancy dress competition for children, bouncy castle, stalls, music and street entertainment. Please see the website for timetable of events and more information. Conwy Quay Day, Quayside, Conwy, LL32 8BB 01492 577566 <back to top Isle of Anglesey Beaumaris Castle – A Medieval Fantasy – 26th-27th August 2012 Take the family to Beaumaris Castle over the Bank Holiday. This exciting event includes battling knights, archers, singing, dancing, music, jesters, food, crafts and traders. Beaumaris Castle, Castle Street, Beaumaris, Isle of Anglesey, LL58 8AP 01248 810361 <back to top Powys Llandrindod Wells Victorian Festival – 18th-26th August 2012 Step back in time to the 1800s at Llandrindod Wells Victorian Festival. With street entertainers, costume parades, talks, exhibitions, concerts, a craft marquee, historic vehicle display, dog show, the Panic Family Circus and children's entertainment, there will be something for everyone. The nine-day festival ends with a stunning torchlight procession and spectacular fireworks display over the town's lake. Please see the website for schedule of events. Llandrindod Wells Victorian Festival, Llandrindod Wells, Powys, LD1 5DL 01597 822600 <back to top Rhondda Cynon Taf   Big Welsh Bite – 3rd-5th August 2012 Welsh Food and Agricultural Show with activities and attractions including food and craft stalls, arena shows, children's rides and games, cookery demonstrations, health and wellbeing tips, harnessed horse parade and farm animals. One of the most popular family events in the area. Big Welsh Bite, Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, Pontypridd, Rhondda Cynon Taf, CF37 4PE 01443 424123 <back to top Swansea Gower Heritage Centre – Pirate Week – 25th August-1st September 2012 Join in the fun at the Gower Heritage Centre during Pirate Week. With a bouncy castle, fearsome pirates to meet, panning for pirate gold, treasure hunts, pirate-themed cartoons in Wales' smallest cinema, storytelling and pirate crafts, there'll be plenty to keep the kids busy. Gower Heritage Centre, Parkmill, Gower, Swansea, SA3 2EH 01792 371206 <back to top Scotland   Fife   Deep Sea World Baby Angel Shark Exhibition until 31st August 2012 Why not come along and see the  baby angel sharks at Deep Sea World in who will be moving into their new home in July. These great little pups were born last December in what was thought to be a world first! Deep Sea World has created a new home for these beautiful creatures which will allow all visitors of all ages eye-level views of these extraordinary pups. The exhibition incorporates a lot of information about angel sharks and the very real risk that they could become extinct within our lifetimes. Hopefully, these amazing pups will act as ambassadors for the whole species and help to raise awareness about their plight. Deep Sea World North Queensferry, Fife, KY11 1JR 01383 411880   <back to top