Category: Events

Events, Everything

ANDY’S MAN CLUB: Where to find a men’s mental health group + anniversary celebration for all ages in West Yorkshire

by Mama Mei (Sophie Mei Lan)Leave a Comment on ANDY’S MAN CLUB: Where to find a men’s mental health group + anniversary celebration for all ages in West Yorkshire
ANDY’S MAN CLUB: Where to find a men’s mental health group + anniversary celebration for all ages in West Yorkshire

Andy’s Man Club group who supports men with their mental health, which started here in Yorkshire, has gone nationwide whilst still having lots of clubs across the region for men to access and to open up about their mental health.

Andy’s Man Club was formed in early 2016 by Halifax rugby league player Luke Ambler after his brother-in-law took his own life.

The groups’ aim to raise awareness of mental health issues among men and its branch in Leeds has recently celebrated its 2nd anniversary.

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Lisa Bourne who is a mental health activist in Leeds wrote this for Yorkshire Families on the recent celebration in West Yorkshire which took place for all ages…. 

Happy 2ndBirthday!

The 29thof January 2020 marked the 2ndanniversary of Andy’s Man Club Leeds, an inclusive talking group for men that aims to reduce suicide rates.

They celebrated this anniversary on the 2ndof February with a big party at the Brudenell Social Club Leeds, which saw businesses, bands and volunteers all come together to support Andy’s Man Club Leeds. From W2 barbers based in Roundhay giving free haircuts to Cards or Die providing free games, magicians and face-painting, mental health related activities and a tombola there was plenty of entertainment for all ages.

In-between sets of live music, visitors heard truly inspirational stories from group members who shared their positive experiences of how attending the group had helped them through periods of mental illness and suicidal thoughts.

The feeling in the room was one of immense pride, of a supportive family all there for each other as a listening ear.

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The day after that party, 57 men attended Andy’s Man Club Leeds, their biggest number of attendees to date, with 5 new members! The group is run by 15 facilitators who all have lived experience of mental illness and now volunteer at Andy’s Man Club Leeds after the group helped them.

The club is doing an amazing job, going from strength to strength, and encouraging men to talk openly to promote self-care and positive attitudes towards mental health, tackle stigma and ultimately reduce the high suicide rate of men in Leeds.

They welcome new members – the group meets every Monday 7pm – 9pm at Leeds College of Building on North Street and the best way to see their latest news is via Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/Andys-Man-Club-Leeds-335669746930141/

 

Where to attend an Andy’s Man Club Group near you:

 

As well as in Leeds other groups meet at 7pm on a Monday at the following locations:

Bradford: Millside Centre BD1 2HS

Bridgend: Porthcawl Rugby Club CF36 3DA

 

Colllydean Community Centre, Torphins Avenue, Glenrothes, KY7 6UL

Dewsbury: Union House WF13 1AS

 

Dundee Boomerang centre 10 Kemback Street Dundee DD4 6ET

Dunfermline: Erskine Building 4 Pilmuir Street Dunfermline KY12 7AJ

 

Exeter City FC, St James Park Stadium, EX4 6PX

 

Halifax: Shay Stadium HX1 2YS

Hartlepool: Victoria Park TS24 8BZ

 

Hebden Bridge: Town Hall HX7 7BY

Huddersfield: Huddersfield Fire Station, Community Room, Outcote Bank, Huddersfield, HD1 2JT

 

Hull: The Airco Business Lounge HU3 4DL

Leeds: Leeds College of Building North Street Leeds LS2 7QT

 

Manchester The Federation, 2 Federation Street, M4 4BF

Newton Abbot: Coffee #1 46 Courtenay Street Newton Abbot TQ12 2ED

 

North Merchiston Club Watson Crescent Edinburgh EH11 1EP

Oldham: Oasis Academy, Hollins
Road, Oldham, OL8 4JZ

 

Scarborough: Central Library, Vernon Road, Scarborough, YO11 2NN

 

Peterborough: The Focus Centre, Chestnut Ave, Dogsthorpe, Peterborough, PE1 4PE

Plymouth: on course south west Hyde Park House 74 Mutley Plain PL4 6LF

 

Rotherham: The Centre, Brinsworth Lane, Brinsworth, Rotherham, S60 5BU

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Community Rooms 197 Eyre Street Sheffield S1 3FG

 

Sby Lt.Johnstone FC, McDiarmid Park, Perth, PH1 2SJ

Stafford: Stafford Rugby Club Blackberry Lane Off Timberfield Road Stafford ST16 2TT

 

Torbay: Preston Sands Hotel, 10-12 Marine Parade, Paignton, TQ3 2NU

Wakefield: 5A Cheapside WF1 2SD

 

Contact Andy’s Man Club

info@andysmanclub.co.uk

You can also contact us on social media in the following ways:

Twitter– @AndysManClubUK

Facebook– /AndysManClub

Instagram– @AndysManClubUK

 

Written By Lisa Bourne who is a Time To Change Champion, founder of Mental Wellbeing Meetups facebook.com/mentalhealthevents, director and trustee of Leeds Survivor-Led Crisis and volunteer for Leeds Suicide Bereavement Service.

 

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Events, Everything

SLEEPING BEAUTY PANTOMIME: Huddersfield Panto is back at Lawrence Batley Theatre

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SLEEPING BEAUTY PANTOMIME: Huddersfield Panto is back at Lawrence Batley Theatre

All the fun you could wish for this Christmas, as Lawrence Batley Theatre in Huddersfield presents its magical family pantomime Sleeping Beauty.

Go on a magical adventure with their new pantomime Sleeping Beauty!

In a castle high above Huddersfield, a wicked fairy has cursed Princess Aurora to sleep for 100 years. With the Princess watched over by her nursemaid, a kind fairy sets out to find a hero who can break the spell, but who will be the one to rescue our Princess?

Spun together by director Joyce Branagh and playwright Andrew Pollard the creative team behind the hugely successful Aladdin, Jack & the Beanstalk and Cinderella, expect thigh slapping, toe tapping, rib cracking fun from this year’s family show. Bursting with spectacular costumes, hit songs, audience participation (and in true panto tradition) it’s shaping up to be Huddersfield’s biggest pantomime yet.  (Oh, yes it is!)

Henry Filloux-Bennett, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the LBT, said:  “Having seen last year’s panto I am incredibly excited about SLEEPING BEAUTY – it’s my first pantomime since joining the Lawrence Batley Theatre and I am really looking forward to seeing packed houses full of families enjoying a fabulous, festive show full of magic and fun, throughout the run.”

 “We are delighted to welcome back Joyce and Andrew, the creative force behind some of the best pantomimes across the UK and we are very excited to see what magic they have created, together with our talented cast, for Sleeping Beauty.  I’ve heard so much about our audiences’ fantastic reaction to previous productions and this production looks set to build and excel upon their previous triumphs.”

Sleeping Beauty new V8

 SLEEPING BEAUTY brings together faces old and new for this fantastic production.  Robin Simpson (Aladdin, Jack & The Beanstalk) makes a welcome return as Nanny Fanny.  Princess Aurora (Sleeping Beauty),will be played by talented local actor and LBT favourite,Alyce Liburd (Aladdinand Unsung).  She will be wooed by handsome Sebastian Prince, ably portrayed by Thomas Cotran (Aladdin, Jack & The Beanstalk).  Also making a welcome return is Nicola Jayne Ingram (Aladdin,A Tiger’s Tale) as Hester the JesterandRichard Hand (Aladdin,The Ruck, Cinderella) returns in the role of King Herbert the Hesitant.  Gamely stepping in at the last minute, LBT is thrilled to welcome Esther-Grace Buttonas the fabulous Fairy Falalala -la-la-la-la-la, (The Sand House, Beauty & The Beast, Jack & The Beanstalk, Sleeping Beautyfor CAST).  Making her LBT debut isHayley Russell (Vampires Rock(UK Theatre and Arena Tour)); and The Meat Loaf Story (UK Tour)as Belladonna Bile.  Hayley is also a professional singer and has worked all over the world on cruise ships for over 17 years, supporting artists such as Billy Ocean and Gareth Gates and even had the pleasure of performing for Oasis front man Liam Gallagher.   The professional cast are supported by a company of talented young performers, aged between 9 – 17 years old, from across Kirklees.

Director, Joyce Branagh, says: “We’re very excited about Sleeping Beauty and audiences can expect to be wowed by the cast, gorgeous sets, and amazing choreography bringing to life Andrew’s cracking, comical script.  Expect rousing songs, outrageous outfits and hilarious antics from the team. 

 “It’s a privilege to work with such a talented bunch and we’ve brought back some audience favourites as well as some new faces to the exceptional cast!  We have something special on order for families to enjoy and we can guarantee a great Christmas outing at LBT.”

Joyce Branagh has been a professional director and writer since 1995 working with theatres across the UK and Ireland including Watford Palace Theatre and Salisbury Playhouse, where she has directed panto as well as productions at the Orange Tree Theatre, Bristol Old Vic and Oldham Coliseum. Based in Yorkshire, her recent stage credits include Twelfth Night (Shakespeare Rose Theatre), Boomtown Gals (winner of Manchester Theatre Awards best performance) and The Ruck. She lives in West Yorkshire, has written four pantomimes and is the co-author of the book Creating Pantomime.

Playwright and actor Andrew Pollard specialises in writing pantomimes and for families; he regularly writes, directs and appears as the Dame in Greenwich Theatre’s pantomime, where he is performing this Christmas in Robin Hood. He played Phileas Fog in the national tour of Around The World in 80 Days and previous credits includes working with Northern Broadsides, New Vic Theatre and in 2007, regularly appearing as John Bune in Emmerdale.

sleeping beauty lawrence batley theatre huddersfield

Since producing its first pantomime four years ago, Lawrence Batley Theatre is becoming firmly established as one of the top destinations to enjoy a traditional family panto in Yorkshire.

Tickets for SLEEPING BEAUTY are now on sale and are priced from £12.50.  A family saver of four tickets for £65 is also offered (conditions apply). To buy tickets contact the Lawrence Batley Theatre’s Box Office on 01484 430528 or online at www.thelbt.org.

 

Produced by Lawrence Batley Theatre; Director: Joyce Branagh; Writer: Andrew Pollard.

Events, Everything

HALLOWEEN THEATRE FUN: Family musical in Sheffield this half term

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HALLOWEEN THEATRE FUN: Family musical in Sheffield this half term

Baroness Frankenstein has opened the doors of her castle to creatures of the night looking for a safe place to stay, away from the prying eyes and pitchforks of the townsfolk.

 

 The problem is, it’s not technically her castle anymore! The Baroness is penniless, and sold the castle to fund her experiments! Meanwhile, the new owner (the wealthy American widow, Hannah Hoople) believes she’s bought a hotel and she’s now on her way to inspect it!

 

 Aided by her assistant Igor and a gang of ghostly housemates, the Baroness must convince Mrs. Hoople that the castle is in fact a luxury hotel and not a dusty old Laboratory. 

 

To top it off, they only have one night to do it before Mrs Hoople leaves for Paris the next morning.

 

If they fail, they’ll have to pack up their coffins and find a new place to haunt!

 

 This frightfully good family musical is sure to be a hit with big and little monsters alike!

I want my mummy a family halloween musical

Full of show stopping tunes , crazy characters, spooky silliness, and a fancy dress competition with a prize for the best costume, I Want My Mummy! is the perfect treat for this Halloween half term. 

 

I Want My Mummy! Takes place at the Montgomery, Sheffield on 29th October (7pm), 30th October (1pm signed performance & 3:30pm) and 31st October (11am & 2pm). 

 

Please note disabled access is not available at the theatre.

 

For more information, go to: 

https://m.facebook.com/pg/farfarawaytheatre/posts/?ref=page_internal&mt_nav=0

 

Days Out, Events, Everything, Reviews

FAMILY FITNESS IN YORKSHIRE: How to keep active with the kids

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FAMILY FITNESS IN YORKSHIRE: How to keep active with the kids

There are so many active family days out to be had in Yorkshire, we’ve tested out a fair few of them this Summer from free activities to climbing and fitness challenges. Here are our child-friendly highlights…

Canal and River Walks 

We kicked off the Summer with a Leeds Cares Charity Canal Challenge which saw the kids and I walking along the Leeds – Liverpool Canal. 

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A lot of people will have a story to tell about their hospital and for us it’s @leedshospitals who helped save my daughter Arianna when she was a baby (as you may know) as we had to resuscitate her and then the Doctors and nurses cared for her and brought her back to life at #leedsgeneralinfirmary #lgi #intensivecareunit so when we were invited to promote the charity which supports the hospital at their canal challenge event, we jumped at the chance 💕💕💕It was a long but fun & scenic day walking along #leedsliverpoolcanal supporting the charity close to our hearts @leeds_cares in their #conquerthecanal challenge 💕❤️💕 Quite proud of myself for taking the two little ones on my own without a pushchair and completing the challenge! We had a few tantrums, some pit stops and bear crawling moments BUT we had such a lovely time together doing the #scavengerhunt, being active and making the most of the stunning outdoors @canalrivertrust @yorkshirefamilies @blogupnorth 👌👌👌

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The event was in aid of a great charity Leeds Cares which funds Leeds Teaching Hospitals work, something we as a family are grateful for as a family as they cared for my youngest Arianna when she nearly died as a baby. 

The day also gave us a chance to explore the Canal side which is simply stunning and free to walk our cycle along. We set off from Kirkstall Forge (we got the train there from Wakefield to Leeds station to Kirkstall Forge) and walked to Granary Wharf. It was a challenge taking the two kids on my own with no buggy or bike but it was well worth it and so scenic. We will definitely be exploring more walks with the Canal and River Trust as we haven’t been making the most of the canals near us. 

It was a free day out (other than the train journey) and we had a picnic along the way too. You can get straight back to the train station from Granary Wharf too. 

 

Travel To Tokyo 

 

It felt good to start the summer with an active challenge like the Canal Walk and we continued it with doing a series of free activities as part of the Travel to Tokyo Challenge to get families active in the run up to the Tokyo Olympics. 

By joining athletes on a virtual journey from London to Tokyo, participants will be in with the chance to win some fantastic prizes as young people work together to reach the December 2020 finish line. You can find out how to join here: https://yorkshirefamilies.co.uk/2019/06/28/families-and-children-wanted-to-join-olympic-and-paralympic-gold-medallists-in-travel-to-tokyo-in-the-run-up-to-tokyo-2020/

Swimming and Climbing 

My youngest daughter’s highlight of the summer was swimming at Disney-inspired sessions at Heeley Baths in Sheffield every Sunday. 

And my eldest loved going climbing at the Climbing Works – Mini Works centre where you can boulder and learn how to climb. 

Whilst in Sheffield, I also enjoyed some adult time going to Hot Yoga classes which are great for core strength and flexibility. 

 

Go Ape at Temple Newsam in Leeds 

I also really enjoyed going to Go Ape with my younger brother and step dad. It was so much fun swinging through the treetops and pretending to be Tarzan. We did the advanced course, but I will return with the kids to go back and do the mini course. 

Tough Mudder and Lidl Mudder 

I then took my step dad and my friend Katy to Tough Mudder which is an 8-10 mile course with 25 obstacles. We went to the one in North Yorkshire at Boughton Hall. My step brother cheered us along as spectators can come and watch for £10. We had so much fun and there was such a great feeling of camaraderie between everyone. 

I also saw that they now do a Lidl Mudder course for kids to take part… which I am sure would make the perfectly muddy family day out. 

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Have you taken on @tough_mudder challenge?! 🧗‍♀️💃🏃‍♀️ I’ve just completed my first #toughmudder experience and it was completely different than I expected… yes I guessed there’d be mud 😂😂😂 (and there was lots of that!) but rather than being a fierce competitive race… the camaraderie was just awesome. The obstacles were challenging but everyone was so friendly and cheered each other on. And somehow people managed to help me and my hips get over some huge walls, under some barbed wire and through a lot of muddy water 💦 I haven’t laughed so hard in ages. It was the best way to spend a Sunday… with great friends old and new @mrleefurness @katypadam … who’s up for joining my team for the next one?! @blogupnorth @yorkshirefamilies 😜😜😜Plus it all finished in Mudder Village with coffees, food, protein shakes and beers 🍺 👌🥤@jimmysicedcoffee @arladairyuk @snickers @brewdogofficial @lidlgb 💕💕💕 Now for a cup @yorkshiretea & a hot bath (the ice bath obstacle didn’t do it for me 😂) Thanks so much #toughmudder2019 – it’s been epic 💋💋💋 #GIFTED #yorkshire

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Community Health 

To finish off on a high… have you checked out what’s on in your local community? Whether it be council run activities in your local park or community open days.. We’ve been making the most of what’s on in our local area. 

We’re lucky to live in Wakefield, West Yorkshire and there are lots of family friendly walks to be had around Angler’s Country Park, Pugney’s Country Park and Sandal Castle. Also at Pugney’s and at Thornes Park there are outdoor gyms to play with too. 

I also taught dance at a community open day held by Inspiring Communities in Portobello, Wakefield – and they had weekly activities on for the whole family. 

Or maybe organise your own game of rounders, football or some indoor dancing and playing games such as twister. 

 

What are your favourite ways to keep active as a family?

 

Events, Everything

Summer Family Day Out: Charity Canal Challenge

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Summer Family Day Out: Charity Canal Challenge

Everyone’s welcome at local health charity, Leeds Cares’ Charity Canal Challenge on Sunday 14th July!.The event, in partnership with Canal & River Trust is encouraging people of all ages across Yorkshire to lead healthy and active lifestyles in support of a great cause. 

river and canal trust Leeds cares charity challenge

Who are Leeds Cares?

As charity partner of Leeds Teaching Hospitals, Leeds Cares brings caring people together to inspire change. Our vision is a healthier world where everyone can access exceptional healthcare – here in Leeds, across Yorkshire and beyond.

Our collaborative approach with the NHS focuses on prevention, treatment and recovery, encouraging people to be healthy and active throughout their lives but ensuring exceptional healthcare is always there when needed.

river and canal trust Leeds cares charity challenge

The Family Track

Leeds Cares is all about helping children get a healthy start in life and encouraging local communities to lead active and fulfilling lives. For the littlest legs, strollers and wheelchairs, the ‘Family Track’ is the most accessible route, a 4-mile fun family stroll from Kirkstall Forge to Leeds.This wheelchair and buggy friendly route is perfect for families with children of all ages, and there’s even a ‘Challenge Pack’ for under 12s with activities along the way!

river and canal trust Leeds cares charity challenge

Get your walking boots on!

Registration is now open and tickets for a family of four cost just £22. All participants will be encouraged to fundraise for Leeds Cares, helping to raise as much as possible to support the work of our hospitals right here in Yorkshire.

Northern Rail is supporting the event with 50% off rail travel via their app, allowing participants to take the train one way, either before or after the event.

Sign up now at www.leeds-cares.org/canal-challenge

 

For more information about Canal & River Trust and to download a free guide to the waterways on your doorstep visit: www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/local-to-you

 

Days Out, Events, Everything

EASTER HOLIDAYS: What to do and where to go in Leeds, West Yorkshire

by Mama Mei (Sophie Mei Lan)Leave a Comment on EASTER HOLIDAYS: What to do and where to go in Leeds, West Yorkshire
EASTER HOLIDAYS: What to do and where to go in Leeds, West Yorkshire

There’s lots to do in Leeds this Easter Holidays at Abbey House Museum, Leeds Art Gallery, Leeds City Museum, Leeds Industrial Museum, Thwaite Watermill, Lotherton, Temple Newsam and Kirkstall Abbey.

From Super Superheroes at Abbey House Museum, Warrior themed fun at Leeds City Museum, the first ever Armley Print Fest at Leeds Industrial Museum to Springtime Babies at Temple Newsam.

What’s on in Leeds during School Holidays

  • Abbey House Museum

Super Superheroes

30 Mar-28 Apr

Abbey House Museum is celebrating all things superhero! From silly science to flying fun and murder mysteries to mask making, come along and celebrate all your favourite caped crusaders.

Super Superhero Crafts –2, 5, 9 & 12 Apr, 10am-12pm & 2-4pm

Super Superhero Silly Science – 3 & 10 Apr, 10am-12pm & 2-4pm

Super Superhero Murder Mystery – 4 & 11 Apr, 10am-12pm & 2-4pm

Easter Weekend

19-22 Apr, 10am-12pm & 2-4pm

Come along on Good Friday to meet the Easter bunny, get involved with some colourful crafts and grab a sweet treat from the bunnies basket. That boisterous bunny has gone and hidden all his golden eggs around the shops and streets too! Help us to track them down and take part in more Easter shaped fun long the way (Saturday, Sunday & Easter Monday).

  • Leeds Art Gallery

Sculptural Thinking in Artspace

2-13 Apr, 11-4pm

Head down to Leeds Art Gallery for playful family fun themed around the latest Leonardo da Vinci exhibition. Creative activities take inspiration from a world of three dimensions and the sculptural thinking of Leonardo.

  • Leeds City Museum

Easter Warriors

30 Mar-22 Apr

Fancy yourself as a shield maiden or a fearless fighter on the battlefield? Well Leeds City Museum has a whole load of warrior themed fun in store for you! From object handling to sensory story time and shield making to live demonstrations, come along and lean all about incredible warriors from all over the world.

There’s also a free daily trail around the museum. Pick up a copy and explore our weird and wonderful links to weapons and armour.

Check out leedsinspired.co.uk for details of times and dates.

  • Leeds Industrial Museum

Armley Print Fest

30 Mar, 11am-4pm

Come along and celebrate a little bit of local Leeds heritage at the first ever Armley Print Fest. Check out our collection of printing presses, join talks with local industry experts, grab something unique at the print fair and get involved with a range of practical printing activities for the whole family to enjoy. There’s also a very special screening of Pressing On: The Letterpress Film in the cosy surroundings of the art deco inspired Palace Picture House.

Inked

2, 3, 4, 9, 10 & 11 Apr, 12.30 -3.30pm

During the Easter holidays there’s a range of beginner workshops on offer for anyone who fancies learning about all things print! Explore different printing techniques through the collections and get involved with a range of practical make and create workshops with our experienced and friendly members of staff.

Mystery Matinees

Daily from 30 Mar-14 Apr, 2pm (closed on Mondays)

Watch a classic film in our atmospheric 1920s cinema. Tucked away inside the museum we have the amazing Palace Picture House, one of the UK’s smallest cinemas. Join us for intimate screenings of family favourites and vintage classics. Film screenings are included within the admission charge and running every single day in school holidays. Where else can a family of five go to the cinema for £9?

  • Thwaite Watermill

Easter Holidays

30 Mar-23 Apr, 10am-5pm

Hop to it and help the Easter bunny to hunt down his eggs hidden around the island. Grab a free art pack for the journey and take a trail through the nature reserve. For some indoor family fun check out our fashion focused Creative Tuesdays (1-3pm) and show off your scientific side at Experimental Thursdays (1-3pm).

  • Lotherton

A Mad Hatter of an Easter Holiday

30 Mar-28 Apr

Fall down the rabbit hole this Easter with four whole weeks of family fun. Get lost in the Wonderland Village, follow the white rabbit’s trail and get creative with kooky crafts. The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party will be taking place each Wednesday during April along with flamingo fun in the Nestbox Education Centre. Also lookout for the Easter Bunny for hopping games and challenges.

Check out leedsinspired.co.uk for details of times and dates.

  • Temple Newsam

Springtime Babies

30 Mar-22 Apr

Pay a visit to Home Farm to meet the new lambs, calves, piglets and kids, many of which roam free throughout the cobbled streets of the farmyard. Get up close to the rare breeds and make memories to treasure forever!

The Easter fun continues in Temple Newsam house with activities themed around the latest Fantastical Beasts exhibition. Craft your very own beastly critter hidden inside an egg to take home (18-22 April, 1.30-3pm). Speaking of eggs, there’s loads hidden around the estate, hunt them down to be in with a chance of winning an eggcellent prize!

Techno Beasts

Various Dates

Come and meet MiRo on 4 April (11am-3pm), the robot companion pet. MiRo has been developed by scientists at the University of Sheffield using their research into animal behaviour. He responds to sound and touch and expresses his own mood through colour and movement. And he loves making Friends. Get to grips with coding and bring to life your very own Micro:Baest on 3 & 10 April (1.30-3pm), advance booking is required.

Pumpkin Sowing

3 Apr, 1-3pm

Meet at the Show House in the Walled Garden to sow your pumpkin seeds and come back to carve them in time for Halloween.

  • Kirkstall Abbey

Easter Holidays

30 Mar-22 Apr

It’s hopping mad at the abbey over Easter! The under 5’s sessions will be getting a makeover with lots of bunny themed activities on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Find our furry friends hidden around the abbey and earn a little sweet treat along the way.

Kirkstall Abbey Markets

30-31 Mar, 11am-3pm

With over 40 stalls in the cloisters of the abbey, the Kirkstall Abbey Market is the perfect place to find high quality Yorkshire produce, handmade crafts, collectables and freshly cooked treats for a tasty lunch. Put an extra spring in you step and take a stroll through the grounds afterwards.

  • Leeds Discovery Centre

Easter Holidays

3 & 10 April

As part of the Leeds Festival of Science, join us for some family workshops. On April 3 look at how modern gadgets have developed. On April 10 come and explore objects from around the world celebrating new life and the changing seasons. Take a store tour and get in touch with your family’s inner arty selves.

To get booked on call 0113 378 2100 or email discovery.centre@leeds.gov.uk

For opening times and admission prices, go to: leeds.gov.uk/musuemsandgalleries

Days Out, Events, Everything, Experiences, Featured

YORKSHIRE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS: What to do, where to go this half-term – the ultimate guide

by Mama Mei (Sophie Mei Lan)Leave a Comment on YORKSHIRE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS: What to do, where to go this half-term – the ultimate guide
YORKSHIRE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS: What to do, where to go this half-term – the ultimate guide

February half-term holidays is upon us and if you’re anything like me, you’re scrambling last minute for things to do and places to go, so you can have a memorable school holidays (and most importantly, prevent the kids from going stir crazy from staying indoors). Here’s some fund things to do and recommended places to go this half-term in North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, East Yorkshire and West Yorkshire.

North Yorkshire

York 

York is one of my favourite places for a day out in the centre. I recently went to review the kids menu at Star Inn the City which is located next to the Yorkshire Museum and then we spent the afternoon at York Maze which was a fun way to end the day.

We’ve also been know to do the York Park Run with the kids although it was a bit too chilly at York Racecourse when we last went before Christmas.

Kirsty Holden from The Money Saving Mum recommends York Railway Museum.

The National Railway Museum is free to enter and is open 10am-6pm.

Also in York this Half-term is Jorvik Viking Festival from  20 – 27 February 2019. It’s a family friendly festival and the largest event of its kind in Europe. There are historic encampments, talks, tours, combat displays and much more, all during half term week.

Blogger Hodge Podge who recommends the Jorvik Viking Festival said: “Thanks to my love of the TV series, The Last Kingdom, and my son learning all about Vikings at school, we’ve been reading a lot about life as a Viking.

“One way for us to learn more about Viking life is for us to visit York for the day and take in some of the JORVIK Viking Festival. The JORVIK Viking Festival happens every February, around half term and it’s a full on festival of all things Viking.”

Wensleydale, Yorkshire Dales 

Wensleydale is set in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales in North Yorkshire. If you’re a cheese fan, it is worth a visit to Wensleydale Creamery and there is a family-friendly experience too.

Blogger Raising Badgers also recommends Wensleydale. She said: “We stayed in a lovely cottage in a little village called Askrigg, in Wensleydale, not far from the slightly bigger town of Hawes. Askrigg has three pubs, a church, a village shop and café and a children’s playground and loads of fields and paths and farm animals – perfect for a bit of exploration.”

Whitby

Once you’ve had some time in the countryside, you might fancy visiting the equally stunning Yorkshire Coast. Whitby is a great place to camp and follow the history of Captain Cook at the memorial museum.

Scarborough

Or maybe you fancy a splash at Alpamare indoor and outdoor waterpark based in Scarborough near to Peasholme Park.

Ripon

There’s also plenty to do at Fountain’s Abbey and Study Royal this half-term which is located in Ripon, North Yorkshire

South Yorkshire

Sheffield

This February half-term there is a Magna Mayhem inflatable adventure on Sheffield’s Science Adventure Centre Magna. I have fond memories of a scientific school trip to Magna.

From Monday 18th to Friday 22nd February 2019, kids can bounce, boing, jump, slide, bop and boogie on the inflatable adventure zone, for a full 75 mins of high adrenaline fun. Magna’s purpose built indoor world of adventure is a safe environment for children of all ages to let off steam and be active during the school holidays.

Standard sessions at 12 and 2pm are open to all ages 0-15, but are aimed mainly at under 11s. You know better than anyone else your own child’s enjoyment levels and limitations. There is no age limit for any of the inflatable equipment, it is at the discretion of the supervising adult to deem suitability for your child/children. With the exception of the Ocean Playzone which is limited to under three year olds only.

For more details, click here.

the crucible theatre studio sheffield south yorkshire

Sheffield blogger Naomi from Trips with a Tot has shared her picks for this half-term:

Children’s School Holiday Crafts at Sheffield Manor Lodge. Starts February 18th-February 21st. Candle making, snowflake sun catcher and winter bauble crafts. Plus sandpit, labyrinth maze, ruins and outside games. Crafts 11am-3pm. £4 per crafter. Don’t forget to explore the grounds and find the slide, too.

Medieval Mayhem at Bolsover Castle, Monday 18th-Friday 22nd. Step back in time and have Medieval fun this February half-term. Listen to the stories about adventurous times past, learn some honourable fighting techniques in the sword school and make sure to take part in the other (somewhat smelly!) cheeky medieval mayhem activities.

Barnsley 

Monday 18th & Tuesday 19th: Free Crafting the Cosmos free drop in activity 11am-2pm at Cooper Gallery, Barnsley

East Yorkshire

Hull

Over to East Yorkshire and Hull-based blogger Hollie Hutchinson from money-saving blog  Thrifty Mum  recommend LEGO Brick History Exhibition at Hull History Centre…

The Hull History Centre is hosting a free exhibition which tells the story of some of the biggest moments in history…made completely out of LEGO! But its only on until 9th March 2019 so you’ll have to big quick to catch it.

If you want to catch the LEGO Brick History exhibition at the Hull History Centre, opening times are:

Monday-Friday 9:30am-5:30pm

Saturday 9am-4:30pm

Sunday (Closed)

West Yorkshire

Bradford

Attachment Mummy recommends Haworth (Bradford), the village where the Bronte sisters once lived.  This literary mecca is a top destination for grown-up tourists from around the world, but just how can you get children interested in its history?  Is Haworth and the Bronte Parsonage Museum suitable for young children?

And what of the practicalities?  Park down at the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway station (£3 all day) and walk across the wooden bridge and up the hill to the bottom of Main Street.  You will pass through pretty Central Park, which has an excellent playground and lots of space to play and picnic.  (If the railway is running, a journey to Oakworth, setting of The Railway Children, is highly recommended too.)

Overton

National Coal Mining Museum of England has a plethora of activities this half-term.

Half Term @ Pit is for everyone,  learn about the history of coalmining and get hands-on with our activities with a mining twist!

Science Shows:-

From Sunday 17th to Sunday 24th February

Performances at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm

Join NCMME for a half term full of fun with our FREE explosive Science Show. This entertaining 30 minute show introduces you to some famous inventors and explains how the safety-flame lamp was invented and why it was so important to miners. Explosions guaranteed!

No need to book just drop in and enjoy. Suitable for all the family.

Craft Activities in the Family Learning Zone:- From Monday 18th to Friday 22nd February – 12.30 to 4pm.

Come and find out how miners kept healthy and safe.  Making pit nurses and flame safety lamps.

Wakefield

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Hop on the Free City Bus from Wakefield Westgate and Wakefield Kirkgate to find you’re way to Wakefield Museum at Wakefield One (located near Wakefield Westgate train station) which is free to enter and a nice way to spend a couple of hours.

Also on the free city bus route (as well as having it’s own car park) is The Hepworth Wakefield which has a range of free craft activities on throughout the holidays as well as the normal free outdoor play area, craft packs and a new exhibition by Magdalene Odundo.

Wakefield Festival of Food and Drink aka the Rhubarb festival takes place at the end of February half-term from 22nd-24th with tons to do for the whole family.

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Ossett

Rachel Morgan on Facebook is off to Ossett in the suburbs of Wakefield. She said: “boomchikaboom are also doing a greatest showman/slime event at Ossett Town Hall on Thursday 21st.” 

Leeds 

Over in Leeds, the new home of Channel 4, there’s lots on at the city’s museums. To find out what to do at Abbey House Museum, Leeds Art Gallery, Leeds City Museum, Leeds Industrial Museum, Thwaite Watermill, Lotherton, Leeds Discovery Centre and Kirkstall Abbey – go to our dedicated blog post here.

Ice Cube looks like a fun event on at Millennium Square in Leeds – with an Ice Slide, Ice Rink and lots of activities for the whole family – a cool winter themed activity.

Also here’s a nice competition by Yorkshire-based business Ribbon of Hearts – something to do at home!

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Events, Everything

VALENTINES DAY WITH FAMILY: Best places in Yorkshire, family activities and ideas

by Mama Mei (Sophie Mei Lan)Leave a Comment on VALENTINES DAY WITH FAMILY: Best places in Yorkshire, family activities and ideas
VALENTINES DAY WITH FAMILY: Best places in Yorkshire, family activities and ideas

Whether you love Valentines Day or Galentines Day or even if your anti-valentines day and want to look for alternative ideas to do with the family… Here’s what to do in Yorkshire this Valentines Day (February 14th) and throughout the week.

      • Stay at Home: Watch Northern Ballet Live from your own home

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    • Eat Out: The likes of Turtle Bay and other restaurants are offering Valentines Day specials to share it with friends, family and loved ones.
      The carribean restaurant which has venues in Leeds and Sheffield has a special 4-course Valentines menu from 6th – 17th February to be shared with loved ones, friends or the whole family with a One Love theme.Then there’s the cocktails… A bespoke cocktail and mocktail have been specially created for Valentine’s.
      “Wray Crush” is a mix of Wray and Nephew (Jamaica’s iconic, and powerful, white rum); white cacao topped with raspberry; lemon and grapefruit… sweet but not too sweet
    • Get Crafting: Get creating with love heart themed crafts. Whether it be cutting out heart shapes and writing what you love about your life. Or you could even make this love door that my friend made for Church out of cardboard boxes and coloured paper. rpt
  • A self-care day: We often think about how to express our love for others, but what about ourselves? Try spend a Self-Care day once in a while. Here’s my self-care day at Victoria Leeds having lunch and shopping til dropping!

 

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Whatever you do, have day filled of love! Let me know what you’re doing for Valentines Day…

Events

CHINESE NEW YEAR: Where to celebrate CNY in Yorkshire? Plus activities, crafts and what to do

by Mama Mei (Sophie Mei Lan)Leave a Comment on CHINESE NEW YEAR: Where to celebrate CNY in Yorkshire? Plus activities, crafts and what to do
CHINESE NEW YEAR: Where to celebrate CNY in Yorkshire? Plus activities, crafts and what to do

Chinese New Year aka the Spring Festival is upon us (according to the Lunar Calendar) and we are now embarking on the Year of the Pig, so we’ve been searching for things to do to celebrate Chinese New Year in Yorkshire.

This Chinese New Year is the 12th year of the traditional 12 year Chinese Calendar, so it has been said that it will be a lucrative new year for Peppa Pig (as the new Chinese New Year symbol for the Year of the Pig).

As a mixed race family living here in Yorkshire, I have always loved celebrating Chinese New Year and finding things to do. So we have been searching for what to do this Chinese New Year with the family, throughout Yorkshire and at home.

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What’s On in Yorkshire this Chinese New Year:

  • Sheffield Chinese New Year Extravaganza on at Sheffield City Hall on February 6th. This is a Yorkshire family favourite of mine with dancing, singing, stalls, music and much more (it’s jam packed so can be quite a long show albeit lively).
    Traditional Chinese performing arts including dance, acrobatics and martial arts to celebrate Lunar Year of the Pig.
    The event is organised by Sheffield City Council, Sheffield Chinese Community Centre, Wanlin Dance Academy, Chinese Students and Scholars Association, Lai Yin Association, Hallam University. This annual celebration is a cultural outreach event where the local Chinese Community celebrates alongside people from across the city.Pre-Show at 4:00 – 6:45pm (free admission): will include Stalls, school children’s artwork display, China in your Eyes photographs, Stories and Videos’ display, prize-giving ceremonies, Cultural Activities, Food Sale and Stage Performance at the Ballroom.Main Show: will be held at the Main Hall (ticketed), at 7.00pm.Venue: Sheffield City Hall, Barker’s Pool, Sheffield S1 2JA. Tickets can be purchased at the Office or by calling 0114 2228332.Tickets: Standard at £8 each; Children under 12, Students and Seniors at £6 each.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eE_PpDCO5Lw&w=560&h=315

  • If you fancy a night out there’s a Chinese New Year Party on at Plug nightclub in Sheffield on 5th February from 22.30, organised by Sheffield Hallam University and University of Sheffield.
  • Chinese New Year Extravaganza is on at Royal Hall in Harrogate on 14th February 2019. Touring across the country to celebrate the biggest festive event on the Chinese calendar, ‘Chinese New Year Extravaganza’ features a team of performers showcasing amazing Chinese performing arts. From the cheerful spirit of the auspicious Lion Dance, to the awe-inspiring contortion, the show is a colourful display of Chinese cultural tradition.
  • If you’re happy to head a bit further afield North East family fun blog, share where to celebrate Chinese New Year in the North East .
  • Also, over in Manchester they are holding a full weekend of Chinese New Year festivities from 7-10th February in the city centre. And Liverpool celebrates the Spring Festival 8-10th February 2019.

What to look out for next year, Chinese New Year 2020 in Yorkshire:

  • Leeds Chinese Community School holds a special performance at Leeds Town Hall. This year’s Rhythm of the Spring show took place at the end of January.
  • Chinese New Year Gala organised by students and scholars from University of Leeds.
  • On February 1st a Chinese New Year Gala took place at Joseph Rowntree Theatre organised by the University of York Chinese Society.In the tradition of mainland China, everyone would watch the New Year Gala with their family on New Year Eve. As people are studying or working in the UK and not able to fly back home, the Chinese Society held its own New Year Gala to help people in the city feel less homesick.

Here’s how to celebrate  Chinese New Year, the ‘Spring Festival’ at home

A selection of blogging buddies have helped me to come up with these ideas.

  • Crafts

Danielle Duggins shares her Chinese Fan Craft and Puppet Craft  ideas here.

Heather McAvan recommends these crafts: Paper Plate Puppet, Chinese Dragon Lantern Craft and Paper Plate fan .

Jessica Harvey suggests making this, Chinese New Year Craft Dragon .

Jenny Kearney has this Free Chinese New Year printable colouring in picture for you to to try.

Jane Arschavir also has this free printable and this Drum Craft where you make a drum out of paper plates.

Jade Bremner  suggests making a simple Chinese dragon.

She said: “Literally just print off some dragons, colour them in and pop them on lollipop sticks. It’s fun and cheap.” 

Jade’s friend Spike Davis-Riseborough also made this cute Origami pig.

pig origami Spike Davis-Riseborough

Got some spare jam jars? this lantern craft is a great idea…

  • Food 

Blogger Katy Stevens recommends this Salt and Pepper Chicken recipe … 

Bonne Maman also shared these Chinese New Year recipes with us…

Chinese Duck a L’Orange

(Serves 2)

Ingredients:

·       2 duck breasts

·       Salt and pepper

·       100g Bonne Maman Bitter Orange, Sweet Orange or Tangy Mandarin Marmalade

·       3tbsp soy sauce

·       1tbsp sesame seeds

 

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C/425°F/Gas Mark 7. Slash the skin of the duck breasts then season generously and place – skin side down – in a hot, dry frying pan over a high heat. Cook for 2 minutes then turn and cook for 2 minutes again.

2. Meanwhile, in a small roasting tin mix the marmalade with the soy sauce and sesame seeds. Add the part cooked duck and coat well.

3. Roast in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

4. Drizzle the juices from the roasting tin over the meat and serve with potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

 

 Avocado, Prawn and Cabbage Salad 

(Serves 6)

Ingredients:

·       6 fat garlic cloves, thinly sliced

·       2 tbsp vegetable oil

·       350g (12oz) raw shelled prawns

·       25g (1oz) roasted cashew nuts, finely chopped

·       1 ripe avocado

·       125g (4oz) white cabbage or Chinese cabbage, finely shredded

·       1 small green mango, peeled, stoned and shredded

·       1 small handful of fresh mint and coriander leaves, roughly chopped

·       6 spring onions, shredded

For the dressing:

·       ½ red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped

·       1 tbsp rice wine vinegar

·       2 generous tbsp. Bonne Maman Apricot Conserve

·       Juice of 2 limes

·       1 tbsp fish sauce

·       2 tbsp vegetable oil

Method:

1.    Put all the dressing ingredients in a jar and shake together.

2.   Fry the garlic in the oil in a heavy-based saucepan over a medium heat until golden and crispy. Remove from the oil with a slotted spoon and set aside.

3.   In the same oil, stir-fry the prawns with the roasted cashew nuts for about 2-3 minutes until the prawns are just pink. Add to the garlic, spoon over 2 tablespoons of the dressing and set aside to cool.

4.   When ready to serve, peel, stone and dice the avocado and toss together with the cabbage, mango, herbs, spring onions and prawn mixture. Serve immediately, handing round the remaining dressing in a separate bowl.

 

Cooks Tips

– Make the dressing up to 1 week ahead and keep in a jar in the fridge. Cook the prawn mixture the day before needed. Keep chilled and toss everything together just before serving.

– This dressing is also delicious spooned over pan-fried chicken fillets and served with basmati rice

Whatever you’re doing this Chinese New Year, here at Yorkshire Families we want to wish you a happy and healthy New Year! Do let us know any ideas or recommendations in the comments below. Thank you!

 

Events, Everything

SHEFFIELD’S PINK TRIANGLE: SAYiT Charity commemorates Holocaust Memorial Day

by Mama Mei (Sophie Mei Lan)Leave a Comment on SHEFFIELD’S PINK TRIANGLE: SAYiT Charity commemorates Holocaust Memorial Day
SHEFFIELD’S PINK TRIANGLE: SAYiT Charity commemorates Holocaust Memorial Day

A Sheffield young people’s charity will be commemorating Holocaust Memorial Day with a giant pink triangle at “Sheffield’s Amphitheatre.”

LGBT+ charity, SAYiT, will be commemorating this year’s Holocaust Memorial Day on Sunday January 27th.

The young people’s charity will be producing a giant pink triangle installation at South Street Park (also known as Sheffield Amphitheatre) from 1-4pm.

The giant installation will be visible from Sheffield railway station and various other parts of the city.

sheffield pink triangle. sayit charity sheena amos youth trust.jpg

Call for pink donations

The charity is asking for individuals and businesses to show support for the initiative by donating pink items of clothing, sheets or soft furnishings which will be used to construct the two dimensional triangle.

The event is the idea of Sophie Williams, a youth worker at SAYiT charity, she said: “I have always been aware of the horrors of the Holocaust and the extermination of Jewish people.

“It was only recently that I became more aware that other groups including LGBT+ people were also victims of Nazi persecution. This is something we are often not taught about in our history lessons and I wanted to do something to draw attention to this. I also thought that it was important that our young LGBT+ people were aware of their history and some of the atrocities their predecessors experienced at the hands of the Nazi regime.”

Nazi’s arrested 100,000 people for being homosexual

It is estimated that the Nazi’s arrested 100,000 people for being homosexual; half were imprisoned and between 5,000 and 15,000 LGBT people captured and sent to Nazi concentration camps where they were branded with badges depicting inverted pink triangles. Unlike their fellow prisoners, who were liberated after the war, those branded with the Pink Triangle were sent to prison due to homosexuality continuing to have an illegal status. LGBT+ people were not included in the trials of the Nazis, meaning no one has ever been prosecuted for the brutality they faced. Furthermore, many LGBT+ people were too ashamed to talk about their experiences because of the continued condemnation they faced due to what was considered to be their deviant sexual orientation.

“We must not return to those dark days”

Steve Slack CEO of SAYiT said: “We are very proud of the work that Sophie is doing to raise awareness of this important and disturbing historical event which has remained in the shadows of history.

“Not only do we have lessons to learn from the past but we must always remain vigilant so that we do not return to those dark days. Worryingly recent reports suggest that LGBT+ communities in the Russian region of Chechnya continue to be persecuted by the authorities, with two people having been murdered and 40 detained in a new crackdown. Last year there were also reports of LGBT+ people being rounded up and tortured. There are many countries globally which still outlaw homosexuality and many LGBT+ people continue to be imprisoned, tortured or murdered.”

Support Holocaust Memorial Day

Sophie said: “It would be great if people could come and support this event and bring down any pink items to help form the inverted pink triangle. We are not aware of anything like this having been done in the city before.

“We are also inviting people to come to the Millennium Galleries afterwards from 5- 6pm for an opportunity to reflect on the events and remember those who were persecuted or murdered during this terrible period – and indeed who continue to experience persecution.”

If you have any unwanted pink items to donate please contact SAYiT at Scotia Works, Leadmill Road on: 0114 2412728 or email info@sayit.org.uk

Event details are also available by clicking here.