Wrap yourselves up warmly and head out into the autumnal Nene Valley for some fun activities this school half term. There’s lots to choose from. Here are our top picks:
Pumpkin picking on the farm is Chester House Estate’s very first event and we’re all very excited about going along!
Pumpkin picking at Chester House Estate Saturday 23 October to Sunday 31 October, 10am to 4pm
Select your pumpkin from the giant pumpkin patch then spend the day carving out a fabulous Halloween creation. The team will be on hand to help you carve your pumpkins in this family-friendly half-term event…
Price: £5 per pumpkin. It is essential to pre-book your session and a (free) car parking space online in advance.
We’ve heard that there are likely to be some very spooky things happening at Stanwick Lakes next week…
Stanwick Lakes Halloween Trail Monday 25th October to Sunday 31st October
Visit and explore the Spooktacular trail at Stanwick Lakes. Children will be able to help The Stanwick Sorceress remember the spell for her magic potion. Use her ‘Book of Spells’ to follow the spooktacular but family-friendly trail and find all the missing ingredients. There’s a prize to be won by completing the trail (One prize per leaflet).
This family fun trail includes spooky Halloween decorations, hidden nature facts and a look into Stanwick Lakes’ magical history, plus fun live demonstrations on selected days.
Price: £2.75 for a ‘Book of Spells’ activity leaflet from The Snack Shack or Visitor Centre Reception. Halloween costumes are encouraged but optional.
At the Wildlife Trust Nene Wetland Centre at Rushden Lakes staff have been busy organising a selection of fantastic activities for youngsters this half term…
Brilliant Bone Trail Daily from Saturday 23 to Sunday 31 October, 10am to 3.30pm
Match all the bones to the animals and follow the clues round the lake.
Price £3 per trail (WTBCN member £2)
Crafty Monday – Halloween special Monday 25 October, 10.30am to 2.30pm
Decorate spooky Halloween decorations
Price £2 – £5 per craft
Leaf craft Tuesday October 26, 10.30am to 2.30pm
Learn about the science of colourful leaves and create your own fabric leaf bunting.
Price: £7.50 (WTBCN member £5.25)
There’s an exciting week of autumnal-themed activities and events for all the family at Nene Park, starting on Saturday October 23. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from a scarecrow making activity and autumn colour walk to archery, climbing and broomstick-making events. In addition, there’s an autumn holiday trail, daily water sports pay and play activities at Nene Outdoors and boat trips on Overton Lake! Here’s a taster of activities for children this autumn half-term:
Holiday Trail Saturday October 23 to Sunday October 31 10am to 4pm.
Complete a trail around Ferry Meadows and claim a prize at the end! Trail sheets are available from the Visitor Centre at Ferry Meadows. Hunt for questions as you walk then return to the Visitor Centre to claim your prize.
Price: £1 per sheet.
Make a scarecrow. Sunday October 24.
Join in this craft making activity to make your very own scarecrow which will join a display in the Park for half-term week.
Price: £6 per scarecrow
Autumn Colour Walk Monday October 25.
Join Park Ranger Sophie for a walk around Ferry Meadows looking at the variety of plants that display autumn colours.
Price: £2.50 per person.
Tree hunts & broomsticks Tuesday October 26 – Friday October 29
The witch has lost her belongings in the trees. Find the trees, then find the items and she’ll reward you with your very own broomstick!
Price: £10 per group. Booking is essential. (5 years plus)
Make a bird box Wednesday October 27 10.30am to 12pm
Make a nest box or birds to roost and shelter in over the winter months, then raise their chicks come spring.
Price: £8 per box.
Climbing Wall Thursday October 28.
Book a session on the outside climbing wall and scale new heights.
Price: £8 per person (4 years plus)
Community litter pick Sunday October 31
Help keep Nene Park green and clean! Borrow a litter picker and bin bags from the Visitor Centre and see what you can collect. Halloween Fancy Dress welcome!