There’s a whole range of family activities happening on Merseyside this summer and crucially many aren’t weather dependent – a definite lifesaver in the school holidays.
From summer art schools and historical workshops to hidden fairy villages, you’re sure to find something of interest for both children and parents.
Most of the activities are also free, so it won’t break the bank keeping everyone entertained.
Big Art for Little Artists
Bring your babies and toddlers to join in for an hour of creative play, exploration, songs and stories. Walker Art Gallery, William Brown Street, L3, open daily, 10am – 5pm, free.
Little Liverpool
The ‘Little Liverpool’ gallery at the Museum of Liverpool is a hands-on fantasy world for children under six to play and learn. Inside the gallery the youngest visitors can create their own Liverpool. Pier Head, L3, open daily, 10.15am – 3.45pm, free.
Yellow Sub
One of Liverpool’s leading city-based family entertainment centres is Yellow Sub. The centre houses a host of unique attractions, including a large and small play frame, an arcade, football pitch and a sensory room. Brunswick Business Park, L3, 10pm – 6pm. Admission; £1 – £6.45.
Vale Park
Wirral’s Vale Park is home to a hidden fairy village, an enchanting spot perfect for families to spend a relaxing summer’s day. The park also has fantastic views of the River Mersey and Liverpool skyline. Magazine Promenade, New Brighton, open daily 24 hours, free.
Lady Lever Art Gallery
Join the education team at the Lady Lever Art Gallery and make your own piece of artwork, inspired by their collections. Each session has different themes from badge making to Rembrandt portraits See Make Do, Lady Lever Art Gallery, Port Sunlight, 30/31 July, 1pm – 4pm, free.
Bluecoat Creative Workshops
Explore the wonder and the fragility of nature on Earth, with this free arts workshop for children and young people. The workshop is led by Survey artist Chris Alton. Bluecoat climate change workshop, School Lane, L1, 2 August, 1 – 4pm.
Children aged 7 to 11 are invited to join in for four days of creative fun during the summer holidays. The Bluecoat Summer School is inspired by their exhibition, Rise Up! Bring packed lunches and dress to get messy! School Lane, L1, 12 – 15 August, 10pm – 4pm. Tickets: £80.
Liverpool Indoor Funfair
The Liverpool Indoor Funfair is returning this summer! Get ready for all the thrills, spills, laughter and fun of the fair. Great for rainy days during the school holidays. Kings Dock Exhibition Centre, L3, 23 August – 1 September. Admission; £10 (rider), £2 (spectator).
Pirate Party
Find out how pirates lived and navigated the oceans, the weapons they used, plus learn some rousing sea shanties. Fancy dress is strongly encouraged! Children’s Pirate Party, Palm House, Sefton Park, 6 August, 2pm – 4pm. Admission; £2 children, £5 adults.
Drama Weeks
The fun-filled ‘Drama Weeks’ at the Everyman Theatre culminate in a performance completely of your own creation. It’s a great way for children to explore their creativity and make new friends. Places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Everyman Theatre, Hope Street, L1, 7 August – 11 August, 12 – 16 August, 21 August – 25 August. Tickets: £100 per week.