As per usual, the boffins at the Met Office are forecasting that the rest of the summer’s going to be a bit of a wash out. As the early dreams of a barbecue summer start to fizzle out in the incessant showers, we have a look at the best indoor attractions around the country.
Blighty, it seems, has rather picked up a reputation for rain these-days. Luckily, the UK boasts all sorts of educational and quirky indoor attractions that are perfect for youngsters… and some of them I’m sure you’ve never heard of.
One oft-overlooked venue in the south-east is the London Motor Museum. Perfect for young tearaways who like speed and petrol and cars, the LMM is just a short drive from LEGOLAND Windsor. Open seven days a week, the LMM has loads of classic cars on display and all manner of activities to offer families looking for a touch of adventure. Information about the LMM can be found at their rather cool website or via phone on 0800 1950777.
Attractions at the LMM include the Show and Shine days and car rides where visitors can get to cruise around in a pink Cadillac or a Pontiac 79 and really now what it feels like to ride in a classic motorcar.
Another unsung hero of the museum fraternity is Ford Green Hall in Staffordshire. A brief hop from Alton Towers, the stunning 17th century farmhouse offers visitors a fascinating insight into British history. Exploring the farmhouse, dressing up, trying craft activities, kids are never at a loss for things to do at Ford Green Hall.
If a day trip around one of England’s architectural treasures doesn’t sound like your cup of tea then perhaps the RAF museum is more your sort of thing.
A little more of a drive away, the RAF museum at Cosford is perfect for kids looking for an exciting day out. Immerse yourself in the history of air combat and relive the bravery of some of the British Armed Forces most vital battles. With free admission, a day drip to RAF Cosford could be the perfect way to add a touch of sparkle to that wet summer afternoon.
For families spending a summer break at Chessington World of Adventures, a trip into the city might be the perfect antidote for a miserable summer. The OUTSTANDING Natural History Museum, or the Tate Britain are simply unmissable if you’re taking a tube into the capital. With no admission charge, you basically can’t go wrong with public museums in London.
The Science Museum, the V & A, The National Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery, The British Museum. With years of experience, the tours and activities that these places offer for children are really quite excellent. Call ahead to check times and for any additional costs, but if you’re with the family on a wet day in the capital, there really is no substitute than a walk around one its world famous attractions.
Okay, so the National History Museum or the Science Museum are hardly ‘best kept secrets’ but if you haven’t been, they still are worth checking out once at the very least. After all, they have the reputations that they do for a reason!
Of course, you might not be able to make any of these attractions this summer but, if you are thinking about taking the family away for a short break, I wouldn’t be too deterred by the weather. Get on the internet and have a little scout around the surrounding area – there’s bound to be something to do to get your mind off the drizzle!
