Newsroom

Families in Nottinghamshire are set to have an ‘a-May-zing’ half term thanks to a fun-packed programme of events and activities over the school holidays.

Rufford Abbey Country Park is hosting an exciting knights vs pirates trail, while Notts Outdoors, the county council’s outdoor and environmental education service is offering the ultimate in adventure holiday clubs, jam-packed with outdoor activities including archery and zip wires. Yet more thrills and spills such as canoeing and mini golf are on offer at Holme Pierrepont Country Park’s holiday club.

Meanwhile, young cinema buffs can learn more about the early days of movie-making at a session at Newark Library.

Councillor John Cottee, Cabinet Member for Communities at Nottinghamshire County Council, said:

“With the weather forecast looking so good, it’s a great time to take full advantage of our country parks and green spaces and enjoy time with friends and family this half term.

“Our county has so much to offer, so you’re guaranteed to find something that will suit children of all ages, whether it’s enjoying a special sing-a-long or the knights v pirates trail at Rufford Abbey, having an adrenaline- fuelled time at The Mill Adventure Base or a visit to Newark library to enjoy the fascinating history of early cinema and learning how images came to life.

“If you’re out exploring and enjoying the many events taking place over the next week, don’t forget to share your photos with us on social media and make sure to use the hashtag #ExploreNotts”.

Events for the May half term (Saturday 27 May – Sunday 4 June) include:

Knights vs pirates trail – Rufford Abbey

• Date: Saturday 27 May - Sunday 4 June
• Price: Trail sheets are £2.50 per child and are available on the day from the gift shop

Embark on an epic adventure to save the kingdom of Ye Olds Rufford Abbey.

For more information: Events - Rufford Abbey (parkwoodoutdoors.co.uk)

 Little Princess sing-a-long breakfast or brunch – Rufford Abbey

Date: Friday 2 June and Saturday 3 June
Price: Tickets are £15.95 per person (under 1s are FREE)

Enjoy a delicious, freshly cooked breakfast in Lord Savile's Kitchen and be joined by a real princess who will lead a sing-a-long and teach you how to be a princess! You will be sure to have an unforgettable and magical experience!

For more information: Events - Rufford Abbey (parkwoodoutdoors.co.uk)

Small World Cinema – Newark Library

• Date: Tuesday 30 May
• Price: £1 per child – for ages 4+

Explore making movie images in this creative film session then settle down to watch a series of short animations. Find out how early cinema pioneers invented different ways to make images come to life.

For more information: Small World Cinema | Inspire - Culture, Learning, Libraries (inspireculture.org.uk)

InspiREAD 2023 – all libraries in Nottinghamshire

Inspire’s primary book award is back, and our librarians have carefully selected the best books published in the last year, across three categories: picture books, shorter books, and longer novels. Now it's over to you to read and vote for your favourites!

Pick up copies of shortlisted books at your local library (subject to availability) or online at a discount with nottinghambooks.co.uk.

You can vote in one, two, or all three categories, and the final winner in each category will be announced at the Inspire Awards evening on 29 June 2023.

For more information: InspiREAD 2023 | Inspire - Culture, Learning, Libraries (inspireculture.org.uk)

The Mill Adventure Base Holiday Club - Sutton in Ashfield

Date: Saturday 27 May – Sunday 4 June
Price: £160 per week (£32 per day), with early drop-off and late pick-ups available at additional cost
Suitable for ages 3-8 years

Adventurers will enjoy at least three fun activities each day, ranging from high ropes, canoeing, zip wire and many more. There is the opportunity to develop and build on new skills as the week progresses.

For more information: Holiday clubs | Notts Outdoors (nottinghamshire.gov.uk)

 White Post Farm Wednesday – Rufford Abbey

Date: Wednesday 31 May
Price: £2.50 per child, tickets will be available on the day from the admin office

The White Post team will be bringing a selection of their fluffy friends for you to meet - including fluffy bunnies, squeaky mice, snakes, insects and lizards!

For more information: Events - Rufford Abbey (parkwoodoutdoors.co.uk)

 Adventure Holiday Club – Holme Pierrepont Country Park

Date: Tuesday 30 May – Friday 2 June
Price: £45 per child, per day - 10% off for bookings of multiple children
Packed lunch provided
Suitable for ages 8-14

Join us this half term for the ultimate outdoor Adventure Holiday Club.

Kids can enjoy whizzing around our Sky Trail, putting on our mini golf course, throwing some arrows in archery combat, racing around our assault course and more!

For more information: Holiday Club | Holme Pierrepont Country Park (nwscnotts.com)

ENDS