10 days out in Staffordshire – February Half Term

10 days out in Staffordshire – February Half Term

I don’t know about your little ones but George is definitely looking forward to the half term break. We always find this term one of the toughest. With a busy schedule at School and after School clubs as well as dark mornings and nights he’s really looking forward to lazy mornings and pyjama days at Nanny and Grandads. I don’t usually break for February half term however I’ve decided to book a couple of days around a weekend which will be lovely to spend together. And as Mr H is away for a friends big birthday celebration it will be just us, which is always a treat. I’m really looking forward to it.

So, it’s nearly time to pack away the school uniforms and think about entertaining George for a few days. To make your life that little bit easier we have created a list of our favourite days out for you to enjoy during half term. We really do have a wonderful county and the half term holidays offer a great opportunity to explore. Whether its country parks, themed events at Trentham Gardens, free activities or painting a pot we have it covered. And so, here are our 10 days out in Staffordshire – February Half Term.

 

1. Mow Cop Castle – free fun

I love looking out over Staffordshire from this viewpoint. Mow Cop really is a hidden gem. It can be difficult to park so keep this in mind if you are driving. I would always recommend visiting on a good weather day as it can get very slippy and of course you can see for miles. The views are incredible. We haven’t been up for a few years and I was reminded just how much I love the open space.

 

 

 

2. Trentham Gardens

For long standing readers of The KA Edit you’ll know that we are huge fans of Trentham Gardens. We work with them on a regular basis however we’ve been visiting for many years before that. It will always be our first choice when it comes to looking for fun things to do with George and his friends. Trentham always have fun activities planned during the holidays, some at an additional cost and others not. Be sure to check What’s On before you visit as often the additional extras are on specific days. Aside from the additional activities you really are spoiled for choice – there’s the fairy trail, Burke’s woodland walk, walking around the lake, admiring the Italian Gardens, the adventure playgrounds and seeking out the sheep. You can quite literally pack a picnic and spend the whole day enjoying some outdoor fun.

 

 

 

3. Emma Bridgewater Decorating Studio

Each half term we always visit the decorating studio. It’s our favourite mummy and son activity to do and something I look forward to each time we break. This time we are painting a bowl and our friends will be joining us as well. And I have to say visiting the café afterwards whilst the children complete the activity trail is always a favourite for the adults. Be sure to book up fast as the slots for the studio go very quickly.

 

 

 

4. Cannock Chase Forest Trail

Getting out for some free range fun is always high on our list. And we love to visit Cannock Chase. If you’re lucky you’ll find the Gruffalo trail as well as the tallest of trees to run around. And then there’s the Go Ape Treetop adventure and a wonderful adventure playground. There are plenty of spots to sit and enjoy a picnic and best of all other than paying £4 to park the trails and forest walk are free and great for all ages.

 

 

5. World of Wedgwood

We have never visited World of Wedgwood but have friends that do regularly and always speak highly of the events. We must try to fit a visit in this year. I love the look of the half term fun planned as well as the Staffordshire Wildlife #GetWild days. Have you been? My mother-in-law tells me that the cafe is a real treat.

6. Westport Lake – free fun

Visiting Westport Lake and it’s visitor centre has always been a favourite since George was old enough to feed the ducks. As there is quite a large lake it’s a great spot to ride your bikes in a safe space as well as enjoying a walk around the surrounding grounds. I always find that there are plenty of family friendly activities on during the holidays. And if you forget to pack a picnic the visitor centre is super with a great view over the lake. With ample parking you’ll be sure to have a free fun day out.

 

7. The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery – free fun

Who doesn’t love a museum? Nanny & Grandad love to take George here. We really enjoy the Spitfire as well as seeing all the animals in the Natural Science area. Admission is free but it is lovely if you can make a small donation. They are hosting lots of events over the half term break, some are on a pay per child basis so do take a look at the What’s On section of the website for information. George would love the superheroes holiday craft activity. Be sure to venture down to the cafe as they have some great offers on for lunch. The museum doesn’t have an on-site parking so be sure to plan for this when you visit.

8. Middleport Pottery

If only for the building, cobbled alleyways and cool wall art. Only kidding. There is so much more to visiting Middleport Pottery than that. The iconic buildings and canal running alongside were featured in Peaky Blinders. Cool right? Free to enter unless you are planning on taking the factory tour or heritage trail. During half term they have some activities to entertain the children with and their famous play with clay. There may be an additional charge for this. We haven’t tried this event before so this February half term we are going to give it a go and play with clay.

 

 

9. Peak Wildlife Park

It looks like a great day out. Our friends recently visited and raved about it so we’re definitely adding this day trip to our bucket list for 2020. I remember visiting Peak Wildlife Park many years ago, maybe when George was two. I believe it closed briefly and possibly under new management so we really should go back. I love that you can book special animal experiences as well as there being educational talks and so much more. Looks like so much fun and so many animals.

 

10. Stoke Ski Centre – Tubing

Stoke Ski Centre – always a favourite with George and at only £6 per child it’s a great way to spend an hour during the holidays – certainly better than a soft play centre. We haven’t been since George’s 5th birthday party so I think we’re due a visit. You do need to pre-book as it can get quite busy however the sessions run on the hour so with a spot of planning you should be fine. We always enjoy going for the first couple of slots as we find them less busy. I would recommend children wearing sleeves and full bottoms rather than shorts. Such a lot of fun.

 

 

 

And that’s our 10 days out in Staffordshire – February Half Term.

Do let me know if you visit any during the holidays. I would love see your photos or hear about your experiences.