Finding new ways to keep kids entertained over the summer isn’t easy, but there’s some great, free activities you can do in and around the city, including some fun days out, free museums, beach walks and more.
1. Follow the Mermaid Trail in New Brighton
New Brighton’s Mermaid Trail is a fun, walking activity for all the family, where you can discover five identical mermaid statues sculpted by a local artist Barry Canning-Eaton and decorated by local schools groups and they can be found at the following locations:
Statue 1 – Kings Parade
Statue 2 – Atherton Street/Victoria Road
Statue 3 – Seabank Road
Statue 4– Marine Promenade
Statue 5 – Victoria Parade
2. Visit Hale Lighthouse & Oglet Shore
If you’re up for an often muddy walk along the shore of the River Mersey then Oglet Shore can be reached via Dungeon Lane and is adjacent to Liverpool John Lennon Airport. You’ll also be rewarded for your adventure by reaching Hale Lighthouse. You can also head into the historical village of Hale and visit the statue of the Childe of Hale.
3. Get Creative at Tate Liverpool’s Learning Centre
Tate Liverpool’s Clore Learning Centre is designed especially for families. It’s a place to play, dance and have fun, as well as unwind and relax. Tate regularly update the space and activities so it links to their exhibitions, so you can always expect something new on each visit. Additionally, their Dream Screen is a great way for kids to get creative with the props and materials and take memorable photos.
4. Venture Out To Hilbre Islands Nature Reserve
Walking to the now-uninhabited Hilbre Islands at low tide feels like a real adventure for the whole family. Each season brings different flora and fauna on the islands and can be a great opportunity to see rare and endangered wildlife. In fact, the summer months also provide a perfect opportunity to see Grey Seals swimming just off-shore! Be sure to plan your trip in advance, checking tidal times, which will be on display at Dee Lane slipway. You can also get an idea of the tide times here. The two mile trip takes approximately an hour, so make sure to allow yourselves enough time to get back.
5. See The Animals At Rice Lane City Farm
Rice Lane City Farm, in Walton, is home to a whole host of friendly farmyard animals that you can visit for free. They accept donations from the public so that they are able to keep the farm open for visitors.
6. Hang Out With The Newly Refurbished Iron Men at Crosby Beach
Not only is Crosby Beach a lovely seafront walk but it’s also home to Anthony Gormley’s ‘Another Place’ installation of 100 Iron Men. A feature of the beach since 2005, they have very recently undergone a clean up and refurbishment, so now’s a great time to go and check them out in all their glory.
7. Explore The Museum of Liverpool
Discover more about the history of the city at The Museum of Liverpool. Visitors can explore how the port, its people, their creative and sporting history have shaped the city. Exhibits include The Beatles collections, Land Transport, including Liverpool Overhead Railway gallery which tells the story of the first electric elevated railway in the world. Additionally there’s Ben Johnson’s Liverpool Cityscape, a life-size Liverbird, and local archaeology collection.
8. Uncover Ancient History At The World Museum
If you’re looking for your history fix outside of Liverpool then at The World Museum you can discover Ancient Egypt, Natural History, Dinosaurs, Outer Space and meet live creatures at the Aquarium and the Bug House.
To find more activities you can do with the whole family check out our What’s On section.