February 2019 Half Term Activities in Manchester and the Surrounding Areas
It’s so important to plan fun activities over the half term break. With the weather being ‘unpredictable’ it’s all to easy to end up lolling around on the sofa most days, with the unfortunate result that we end up feeling we haven’t really had a break. February 2019 half term seems to have come around quickly. If you’re in Trafford, that’s probably because our borough is ahead of everyone else this year. Most Trafford schools are taking a break next week (9th – 17th February), whilst in Manchester and elsewhere, half term is running the following week (16th – 24th February). Very inconvenient for families with children who attend schools in different boroughs – but great if you prefer uncrowded spaces!
Nonetheless, there is plenty to do and see this February half term. I have put together a brief guide to what’s on offer, with an eye on the price (most activities are free) and the dates. Do please share on social media and please comment below if you are aware of any events you would like me to add to this post.
Chinese New Year
There are plenty of Chinese New Year activities this February.
Chinese New Year is huge in Manchester: the dragon parade (Sunday 10th February, from 12.30pm at Albert Square), lion dance (Saturday 9th February, Market Street, various times) and street food market (7th – 10th Feb, St Ann’s Square) are all unmissable. At 6pm on 10th February, Chinatown will be lit up by a spectacular fireworks display. It’s all FREE (other than the street food market, of course).
Greater Manchester Police Museum
57a Newton Street, M1 1ET
Comprised of a 1879 police station, and 1895 courtroom, this Victorian gem is open on Tuesdays all year round, as well as on Thursday, 21st February 2019. Admission is FREE and the museum is suitable for all ages.
Science and Industry Museum
Liverpool Road, Manchester, M3 4FP
Admire the historic Stephenson’s Rocket at the oldest surviving passenger railway (until 8th September). Get switched on by the Electricity exhibition (until 28th April). Enjoy all the fun of the Victorian fairground (16th – 24th February). All activities are FREE, barring the fairground.
Get switched on at the Museum of Science and Industry’s Electricity exhibition.
A World Inside a Book at Z-Arts
335 Stretford Road, Hulme, M15 5ZA
Suitable for ages 0 – 8, A World Inside a Book is an immersive exhibition which leads your little one through enchanted forests, mini towns watery worlds. If you have a fan of gruffalos, dragons and other magical creatures, book this wonderful experience without delay. Running from 12th – 20th February, A World Inside a Book costs £3 – £7.35.
Dunham Massey Winter Woollies Family Trail
The finch family are trapped in the UK during winter!
Oh no! The Finch Family have missed their flight south and are stuck in England during the winter frost and snow. Can you help them find their winter woollies to try and help keep them warm? Keep an eye out for the birds tiny hats, scarves, jumpers and mittens which are lost amongst the trees and bushes as you explore the gardens. Spot some ‘Feathery Facts’ along the way to learn more about birds and their habitats. Pick up a trail from the garden kiosk. Complete the trail and collect a prize at the end!
This activity is FREE – and suitable for all ages. Do make sure you wrap up warm. 10.30 – 15.30 every day until 26th February.
Beyond Half Term
A break from school is a good time to take stock of your child’s progress at school. Is s/he meeting expected levels? Does s/he need to be pushed more? Are there any important tests or exams coming up during this school year (you can check this here)? Are you preparing for entrance exams in September (dates here)? You may be thinking about booking some tuition. Who better to choose than our team of qualified teachers at Better Tuition? Since April 2008 we have helped many hundreds of children achieve and succeed in school. Call Paul Syrett or Christine McLaughlin now on 0161 748 3912 to book your FREE assessment or FREE trial lesson. Try us: you will be amazed at the impact we make with just a few lessons.
