Things to Do in Half-Term in Manchester
The school holidays are the perfect time to enjoy some quality time with the family. If you’re looking for fun things to do in half-term, Manchester is a great place; with many great attractions, you can find plenty to keep you and your family entertained.
From educational trips to indoor snow fun, here are some of the best family days out in Manchester to keep you occupied this half-term.
1. Revel in the Wonders of Science at MOSI
The Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) promises a fun and educational city centre day out filled with interactive exhibits and fascinating displays. Kids can get hands-on with the experiments upstairs, like testing their reaction times, solving tangrams, and even lifting an entire car with one hand!
Even if you’ve been before, it’s worth checking out their website, as they often have visiting exhibits or limited-time events.
2. While Away the Hours at the Trafford Centre
The Trafford Centre isn’t just for shopping; it’s full of fun things to do in half-term. Manchester’s famous shopping and leisure destination boasts over 200 stores and plenty of attractions to keep the whole family entertained.
Show the kids how it’s done in Laser Quest, go bowling, spend some change in the arcade, or enjoy cuisines from around the world in the stunning Trafford Centre food court. The day will fly by before you know it!
3. Have a Day Out at The Printworks
Located in the heart of Manchester city centre, The Printworks is a hive of activity perfect for family entertainment this half-term.
Catch a movie at the Vue, test your skills at Treetop Adventure Golf, or solve codes and puzzles at Escape Reality. Afterwards, head to one of The Printworks’ great restaurants like Chiquito, Wagamama, or Frankie and Benny’s for a tasty family meal.
4. Bask in Nature at Heaton Park
Set across 600 acres, Manchester’s Heaton Park is the biggest municipal park in Europe – perfect for an outdoor adventure this half-term. Stroll around the many miles of pathways, visit historic Heaton Hall, brave the heights at Treetop Trek, or hire a pedalo and enjoy the views across the boating lake. Kids will love exploring the Animal Centre and two fantastic play areas!
There’s always plenty to see and do, including special yearly events like Lightopia and the Come To The Beach funfair. Just be sure to check each attraction’s opening hours, as some are seasonal.
5. Discover Underwater Marvels at Sea Life Manchester
Discover an amazing underwater world at Sea Life Manchester. Home to jellyfish, clownfish, turtles, rays, and more, Sea Life offers a fun and fascinating day out for all.
Watch the sharks swim overhead in the Ocean Tunnel, explore fossils and artefacts in the Sea Ranger zone, or get up close and personal with the rock pool creatures. Check their website before you go, as they sometimes have special half-term ticket deals.
6. Book a Snowy Adventure at Chill Factore
If you’re looking for something thrilling to do this half-term, kick off your holiday with a visit to Chill Factore: Manchester’s real snow centre and home of the UK’s longest indoor ski slope!
With so many fun-packed activities for the whole family, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable day out. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Indoor Snow Park
Our huge indoor snow park promises fantastic fun for adults and kids aged 4+. Race your family to the bottom in Sledge ‘n’ Slide or soar down the slopes in an inflatable rubber ring with Downhill Donuts. If you’re feeling brave enough, tackle the twists and turns of the incredible Ice Slide (minimum age six years). Snow park passes are available in 1-hour blocks, and helmets and slow slide equipment are included. You can also find great family days out deals perfect for getting the most out of your time on the snow.
Ski and Snowboard Lessons
Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to polish your skills, Chill Factore’s expert instructors are on hand to guide you with an incredible array of skiing lessons and snowboard lessons. It’s a fantastic opportunity for kids and adults to learn a new skill or improve their technique in a safe and fun environment.
Or, if you know what you’re doing already, head straight for the slopes with a recreational lift pass!
Shop and Eat
After all that snowy excitement, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Head to the Lodge Bar & Kitchen, Chill Factore’s dedicated restaurant, to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the slopes and a great selection of Alpine-inspired cuisine. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, there’s also a Nandos, a J.D. Wetherspoon, and a Costa Coffee. Don’t forget to check out the Subvert Boardstore and Snow + Rock ski and snowboard shops!
Chill Factore is conveniently located near the Trafford Centre, so you can easily combine your snow adventure with nearby attractions for a jam-packed half-term day out. Check out our latest Chill Factore Manchester offers before you book – you might be able to grab a great deal!
Discover All That Manchester Has to Offer
Whether you’re hitting the slopes or hitting the town, Manchester is a city that has plenty on offer. Discover incredible food and entertaining experiences that are sure to create memories to last a lifetime. If you’re looking to get started skiing or snowboarding but don’t know where to start, then don’t worry; our instructors are there to help every step of the way.
If you have any questions about our Manchester ski centre and all it has to offer, be sure to contact us, and a member of our team will be happy to help.
