English winter weather is, most of the time, reliably chilly and wet, so with this in mind we’ve collated a list of eight indoor days out that are ideal for entertaining the kids on rainy weekends
Keeping the family entertained when the sun is shining is a breeze. Even on the coldest days of the year, a crisp walk in the low winter sun can make the shortest of days feel like spring is just around the corner. In wetter weather however, finding ways to occupy the kids is more of a challenge, but certainly not an insurmountable one.
In fact, there are more indoor activities (ideally suited for rainy and muddy days) up and down the UK than you might think. From trampoline parks and go-karting to aquariums and museums, there’s something to suit every child (and grown up) this winter. And while many family-friendly days out come with a less-than-friendly price tag, with the Kids Pass discount scheme, there are huge savings to be found on a broad range of indoor (and outdoor) activities. Read on for our picks of the very best rainy days-out.
For the family with loads of energy
Trampoline Parks – various UK locations
Having really taken off in recent years, the trampoline park is now a mainstay of the rainy-day activity roster and it’s easy to see why. Offering a broad range of indoor delights suitable for children of any age (and young-at-heart adults too) it’s the perfect way to burn off all that energy you’ve built up while stuck inside. Comprising activities including foam pits, caving, indoor climbing, bouncy basketball and, of course, hundreds of trampolines, these parks are a great way to make the most of a rainy weekend. And with trampoline parks included in the Kids Pass scheme located in Blackpool, Stourbridge, Aberdeen and Widnes you can enjoy a bouncy afternoon somewhere near you without breaking the bank.
For the aspiring marine biologists
Aquariums – various UK locations
There’s something quite enchanting about the wonders of the deep-sea world and there’s no better place to experience them, than at one of the UK’s finest aquariums. With various locations around the UK (including Brighton, Chester and Hastings) all participating in the Kids Pass scheme there’s great savings to be had on an exciting and educational day out for you and your little ones. Whether your visit is for fascinating fish, to get hands-on with starfish and crabs or to learn about the importance of protecting our oceans, there’s something for everyone at these indoor aquariums. Plus, for places filled with so much water, you can rest assured that you will be leaving completely dry, even on the drizzliest of days!
For young witches and wizards
Harry Potter Studio Tour – London
Capturing the magic and breadth of the Harry Potter films is no mean feat, but visitors to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London will tell you that it’s an attraction that achieves this in spades. A spellbinding walking tour that takes you behind the scenes of all eight Harry Potter films, including actual sets and props from the movies as well as interactive experiences, this day trip is one that won’t soon be forgotten. From the Great Hall to Gringotts and even a trip on the Hogwarts Express, a day trip here will leave the miserable weather a distant memory as you and your family are transported to the wizarding world for a day.
For the sport-loving family
Liverpool FC Stadium Tour – Liverpool
If your family are fans of football, or more specifically the Reds themselves, this tour of Anfield Stadium is an excellent way to spend an afternoon (when the footy isn’t on to keep you occupied). Free for children as part of the Kids Pass scheme, this tour includes fantastic views of the pitch and the city from the top of the main stand, a behind-the-scenes look at the state-of-the-art dressing rooms and a glimpse inside the press room. Additionally, you’ll get to experience the goosebump-inducing walk down the Player’s Tunnel as well as enjoy a photo opportunity in Klopp’s seat in the Dugout beside the pitch. A great day out for Liverpool fans and lovers of the beautiful game itself, this tour of the iconic stadium is sure inspire and educate both kids and grown-ups.
For the petrol heads
Lakeside Karting – Purfleet
One for those seeking a thrill on an otherwise grey day, Lakeside Karting is one of the fastest go-karting circuits in the country. At 900 metres long the main circuit includes ten exciting corners and three full-throttle straights. Racing in twin-engined pro-karts reaching speeds of 60 to 70 miles-per-hour – adrenaline junkies will be well served here. But it’s not just for the big kids, with a specially designed junior circuit featuring smoother corners and less powerful karts in addition to Ferrari F1 Funkarts which are electric and suitable for ages 3 and up, there really is something for all ages here. And with Kids Pass you can enjoy two for one on tickets to this exciting day out.
For the future pilots
Virtual Aerospace – various UK locations
If you have an aviation enthusiast in your family, Virtual Aerospace is Shangri-la of rainy days out for them to enjoy. This fully immersive flight simulator allows you to try your hand at piloting a realistic Boeing 737, 747, 757 or 767 for the day. Suitable for ages 10 and up, this day out will include a tutorial by a professional instructor followed by an exciting flight experience. And with locations in Northamptonshire, West Sussex, Gatwick, Burgess Hill and Manchester there are opportunities to give your future pilot a day in the cockpit all over the UK.
For the would-be popstars
British Music Experience – Liverpool
Suitable for all ages, this musical experience at the heart of Liverpool’s UNESCO World Heritage dockyard is fascinating and fun in equal measure. Featuring over 600 outfits worn by pop stars, rock stars and groups from every generation, there’s something here for every taste (young or old). From Little Mix and the Spice Girls to Noel Gallager and Freddie Mercury the British Music Experience covers a massive variety of musical bases. Plus, you and the kids can get hands-on with musical instruments including drum kits, keyboards and guitars available to try in the Gibson Interactive Studio, as well as a vocal booth and dance studio perfect for living out your very own pop/rock star fantasy.
For the thrill-seekers
The Dungeons – various UK locations
Located in York, Blackpool and Edinburgh respectively The Dungeons are a fun, interactive and (sometimes) frightening way to learn about the gruesome history of these famous cities. Comprising a 70-minute tour, each of these days out uses live actors, special effects and expert storytelling to bring to life infamous characters from history including the likes of Dick Turpin and Guy Fawkes. Visitors can expect live shows, gory special effects, spooky stories and funny moments all wrapped up in a polished experience that’s not for the faint of heart (or stomach).
Do more with Boundless
Once you’ve used your new Kids Pass discounts do let us know what you think. We’re always interested in your feedback so don’t hesitate to get in touch. In the meantime, you can find out more about all of your membership benefits, and how to take advantage of them, at boundless.co.uk/savemore.