February half term Heroics in Leciester (From Worcester News)

February half term Heroics in Leciester

11:35am Thursday 11th February 2010 in

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IN NEED of a short getaway this February half term packed with indoor and outdoor adventures that aren’t designed to break the bank? Then head to the exciting destination of Leicester and Leicestershire. With a host of world-class attractions on the doorstep, coupled with miles of picturesque countryside as part of The National Forest, there is certainly more to Leicester and Leicestershire than meets the eye and it’s just waiting for you to investigate!

Whether you’re looking to get the kids out in the fresh air or want to escape the showers by visiting the best indoor activities on offer, Leicester and Leicestershire is perfect for kids of all ages, whatever they’re into.

TOP FIVE OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS

1. Conkers: 120-acres of true British woodland, set in The National Forest, with a huge tree-top canopy walk, four discovery zones, an outdoor play area for children of all ages and several lakeside, sculpture and nature trails.

2. Twycross Zoo: one of the UK’s leading zoos, it is famous for its rare and endangered primates – from Pygmy Marmosets to Western Lowland Gorillas. The zoo is home to 1,000 animals, from over 170 species.

3. Great Central Railway: Voted 12th on the list of the 50 greatest railway journeys in the world, the Great Central Railway steam line runs between Leicester and Loughborough and is the only place in the world where full size steam engines can be seen passing each other. You can even drive a steam train, under expert supervision.

4. Foxton Locks: Set in the heart of rural South Leicestershire, visitors to Foxton Locks can watch the narrowboats ascending the 'staircase' of 10 locks. You can also find out about Foxton's fascinating history at the museum, take a boat trip on the canal and discover the wildlife in the side-ponds – ducks, herons, rare reeds and much more.

5. Moira Furnace: An early 19th century iron-making furnace, which shows the iron-making process, the industries of Moira and the story of its inhabitants. There is also a restored section of Ashby Canal near the site so you may wish to enjoy a boat trip. The furnace also adjoins a 50 acre newly planted Woodland Park.

TOP FIVE INDOOR ATTRACTIONS

1. The National Space Centre: Britain’s only attraction dedicated to space discovery. With 250 exhibits, you can do everything from ascend the awesome 42 metre-high Rocket Tower to undertake real ‘astronaut training’ in the human spaceflight 2025, featuring the UK’s most thrilling space simulator.

2. Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre: The award-winning interactive exhibition gives visitors the opportunity to journey through medieval England by witnessing the horrors of medieval surgery, test their skills as a battlefield archaeologist with metal detecting, or try their hand at shooting interactive longbows, amongst others.

3. Twinlakes Park: Whatever the weather expect a full day of play in massive indoor venture centres complete with 5 rides. Enjoy fascinating flying displays in the falconry centre, friendly animals, ferret racing and cute birds in the Red Rooster Farm centre. There are zones with interactive soft play centres, absorbing wild west city, challenging attractions and a host of activities to give maximum fun.

4. Snibston Museum: this former colliery site offers 90 indoor and outdoor exhibits including a diesel hauled locomotive, located in the National Forest. The museum also boasts interactive discovery zones.

5. Ashby de la Zouch Castle: See the impressive ruin of this late medieval Castle. Climb the 78 ft high Hastings Tower and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Or explore the kitchen tunnel and listen to an amusing account of the castle's history on audio tour – a great place to picnic.

TOP THREE HALF TERM-SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES: 1. The National Space Centre: From 13 – 21 February there is a special Space Olympics element at The National Space Centre.

2. Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre: On Tuesday, February 16 and Thursday, February 18,(10am – 4pm) children aged 8 – 12 years can sign up for ‘Knight School’ and learn the skills needed to become a valiant knight.

3. Belgrave Hall Museum and Gardens: On Monday, February 15 (5.30pm – 8.30pm), bring the family and try a mini ghost watch for some early evening spooky fun! Over 7 years of age only. Booking essential. OR on Wednesday, February 17, whether it's snowing or not, come dressed as a beautiful fairy or a scary snow monster and have a go at making your own cute fairy or frightening monster (11am to 3.30pm).

If you’re looking to incorporate an overnight stay make the most of Leicester Shire Promotions’ Stay Play Explore package, which is an absolute bargain at only £99 for a family of four! The package includes entry into three attractions and includes overnight accommodation, with breakfast, at a top family friendly hotel (Leicester Marriott Hotel, Holiday Inn Leicester, Barceló). Attractions included are The National Space Centre, Bosworth Battlefield, Snibston, Conkers and Twycross Zoo. For more information or for bookings contact 0116 258 2158 or visit www.stayplayexplore.co.uk.

After a day’s adventure and exploration around The National Forest, why not hang up your walking boots in the comfort of a family-friendly four star hotel, cosy farmhouse or an award-winning guesthouse from just £75, room only. For more information or for bookings contact 0844 888 5181 or visit www.goleicestershire.com.