Let’s address the great, big elephant in Elephant Valley the room. When you think Staffordshire, there is one family attraction that comes to mind. Alton Towers, anyone? If you live in Staffordshire, chances are you frequent the UK’s favourite theme park often. But whether you live in this area of the West Midlands or you’re on the search for the ideal spot for a British family break, there’s plenty more to do, once you’ve paid the top attraction a visit.
Sandwiched between Cheshire and Derbyshire, Staffordshire is surrounded by the stunning English countryside. Peak District moors aplenty, if you want to go back to basics, it’s perfectly possible to spend days hiking and picnicking in the midland hills. Of course, when half-terms hits, it’s always handy to have some contemporary family friendly entertainment up your sleeve. Here are just five places to visit in Staffordshire, that are sure to break up any boredom in the school holidays.
Five places to visit in Staffordshire this October half term
Trentham Monkey Forest
Set in striking Staffordshire woodland, Trentham Monkey Forest is the only place in the UK where you can walk amongst 140 endangered Barbary macaques, as they live and roam freely. As you meander through the mile-long visitor pathway, your children will be delighted by the monkey’s animal antics. As well as hourly must-see feeding talks, there are also guides scattered throughout the attraction, offering snippets of insightful info on various species. When you’ve done monkeying-around, there are two play areas which make for perfect picnic spots, as well as Jungle Shop and video room.
Alton Towers
This UK theme park needs no introductions, as the UK’s favourite adventure resort, complete with themed hotels, crazy splash parts, and an adults-only spa. Perfect for families with children of all ages, thrill seeker adults, tweens, and teens will thing the adrenaline-inducing speeds of Smiler, Rita, Nemesis and the newly opened Wicker Man. If you have smaller children in tow, they haven’t been forgotten. CBeebies Land is overflowing with TV favourite characters – such as Iggle Piggle and Postman Pat – as well as gentle rides that tots will love. If you are visiting in autumn half-term, look online for some super-exciting Scarefest seasonal events.
Check out this guide if you are looking for advise on where to stay at Alton Towers Resort.
Drayton Manor Theme Park
Rivalling the awesome Alton Towers, Tamworth’s Drayton Manor is a theme park come zoo, at the heart of the west midlands. There’s enough to do at this award-winning park to fill a fantastic family weekend away. The 15-acre conservation zoo alone will keep children entertained for the day, with over 100 animals and creatures to meet. Older children can also join the Zoo Club, and get hands-on feeding monkeys, and caring for other curious creatures. Of course, no visit to Drayton Manor is complete without testing out all the thrills and spills of the of the white-knuckle rides, including G-Force and Apocalypse. While older children get their adrenaline kicks, younger children will be whisked away into the timeless tales of Thomas the Tank Engine at Thomas Land. Ride Toby’s Tram Express, Flynn’s Fire Rescue, and 25 other toddler-friendly rides.
West Midland Safari Park
Located in Bewdley, the West Midland Safari Park is an animaltastic day out for families, combining theme park fun with awe-inspiring wildlife adventuring. Beyond its small fairground-esque theme park, West Midland Safari Park is home to over 165 species of exotic animals. Showcasing some of the world’s most beautiful and endangered exotic creatures. The Safari Drive-through will introduce your youngsters to the tallest, fastest, and most beautiful animals from around the globe. Watch out for the herd of southern white rhino, the park’s resident cheetah, and the intelligent African elephants of Elephant Valley. As always, check the attraction website for seasonal Halloween fun for this half-term.
SnowDome Tamworth
The very first real snow indoor skiing arena in Britain, SnowDome Tamworth is the ultimate snow and ice experience for kids. Get your Christmas groove on and some frosty fun for the children. At the UK’s only dedicated snow play area, ice skating rink and Ice Track. If you do live nearby in Staffordshire, qualified SnowDome instructors also provide professional tuition for kids and adults of all abilities. Opening on 16th November, Santa’s Winter Wonderland is a real festive treat. Book now to avoid disappointment.
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