Keep the kids thoroughly entertained this summer holiday with a selection of fun-filled local excursions
1. Holiday Bushcraft
Until 4 September, Wandlebury Country Park
These entertaining day sessions are designed to introduce children to practical bushcraft and survival skills – from shelter building to wilderness cooking, all taught by experienced instructors. Activities are suitable for children aged between five and 12.
Book your spot at cambridgeppf.org
2. Great Fen Family Picnic Day
3 August, Ramsey Heights Nature Reserve
Explore the great outdoors with an afternoon at Ramsey Heights Nature Reserve. There are a host of planned activities in store – including sweep netting in the meadow, tree climbing, den building and a mud kitchen for the young ones. Team members will be on-site for two guided tours during the afternoon or embark on your own path following the Newton’s trail guide. Arrival is between 10am and 2pm. Bring your own blanket and picnic lunch to enjoy at your leisure!
Book your tickets through the Wildlife Trust at wildlifebcn.org/events
3. Bricklive Grand Safari
10-27 August, Grand Arcade
A partnership between Grand Arcade and the Museum of Zoology, don your khakis and grab some binoculars to head out on safari at Grand Arcade. Featuring 15 giant, brick-crafted animals, the Bricklive adventure spans four habitats: wildlands, snow and ice, ocean and jungle. Enjoy interactive photo opportunities, pose in the Selfie Zone or take the wheel of the interactive Bricklive Jeep.
Family craft workshops run by the museum take place on 15 and 20 August, from 11am to 1pm. grandarcade.co.uk/our-events
4. Big Wild Sleepout
3 August, RSPB Lakenheath Fen
There’s no better way to embrace the summer than with a night out under the stars. Now, this ever-popular event is back – complete with a campfire, wildlife walks, bug hunting, pond dipping and stargazing. Suitable for adults and families alike, set-up is from 1pm onwards, and this year’s campers will be settling in for the night on the sandy area in Brandon Fen.
This intimate event is limited to just 40 spaces, so secure your spot now at rspb.org.uk/events
5. Cambridge Country Show
10-11 August, Stow Cum Quy Park
Billed as ‘the show with something for everyone’, the Cambridge Country Show and East Anglian We Love Dogs is simply bursting with attractions. Enjoy falconry, dog and duck shows, pedigree dog shows, wrestling, chainsaw competitions, rural crafts, barrel racing and a whole lot more! Book your tickets online in advance for a slightly cheaper rate than on the gate.
6. Dinosaur World Live
19-21 August, Cambridge Arts Theatre
Embark on an exhilarating journey with this interactive spectacle for those age three and over. Follow a daring explorer through unknown lands to uncover a prehistoric realm brimming with incredibly lifelike dinosaurs.
Encounter remarkable creatures including the beloved tyrannosaurus rex, triceratops, giraffatitan, microraptor and segnosaurus! After the performance, adventurers can revel in a special meet-and-greet with these amazing dinosaurs. Don’t miss this captivating and educational Jurassic experience live on stage.
Visit cambridgeartstheatre.com for the full list of performances and to grab your tickets before they become extinct!
7. Enchanted Summer Adventure Until 1 September,
Audley End Miniature Railway
If you go down to the woods today, you’ll discover an enchanting world of adventure at the much-loved tiny train track. Through the rest of the summer months, Audley End Miniature Railway will be running its summer adventure, giving families the chance to embark on a journey of discovery and meet the magical creatures inhabiting the surrounding woodlands.
Bookings are popular, so snap up your tickets today at audley-end-railway.co.uk
8. Shetland Pony Racing
17 August, National Horseracing Museum
Don’t miss out as the museum hosts the UK’s largest team of Shetland ponies and jockeys at The Peter O’Sullevan Arena. Prepare to be dazzled as these speedy ponies and their skilled young jockeys race across the mini Steeplechase course. These riders are the future stars of jockeying, so come and cheer for your favourite duo as they compete. You’ll also have the chance to check out demonstrations and meet the charming ponies up close.
The event will take place from 10.30am to 3pm. Tickets are included in general admission to the museum, or an outdoor ticket is available for just £5 per person.
9. All the King’s Horses
24-26 August, Audley End House and Gardens
A striking spectacle of living history, don’t miss this impressive display set against the incredible backdrop of Audley End House and performed by His Majesty’s cavaliers. Watch as riders dressed in the style of the Restoration period compete as soldiers in exceptional feats of horsemanship.
Book your tickets online for discounted entry on top of the standard English Heritage entrance fee at english-heritage.org.uk
10. Big Tree Climbing
28-30 August, Wimpole Estate
View the estate from its treetops as you ascend into the canopy using ropes and harnesses. A safe and secure experience, this activity is recommended for anyone aged six and over. The whole family can take part, with each session catering for
up to eight people.
Or, you could simply observe with both your feet planted on firm ground! Booking is essential, so head to nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cambridgeshire/wimpole-estate
