FAMILIES looking for a low-cost day out this summer should check out what’s on in Leicester’s children’s centres, libraries and museums.
As schools prepare to close for the long break, the city council is getting ready to open its venues for a summer of affordable fun, with the chance to explore a heritage building, ride on a steam train or meet some mini beasts amongst the ideas on offer.
Events coming up at Leicester’s museums include a Roman activity day at Newarke Houses Museum (Weds 16 July), Toy Time Fun at the Guildhall (Thurs 17 July) and an opportunity to Meet the Police at a community fun day, also at the Guildhall, on Tuesday 22 July.
Leicester Museum & Art Gallery is offering a series of free activities inspired by Elmer & Friends: The Colourful World of David McKee, its free summer exhibition, including an opportunity to make a story book on Friday 18 July.
Abbey Pumping Station will be running its popular Railway Days every Tuesday throughout the summer holidays, with rides on the narrow gauge railway costing just 50p from Tuesday 15 July.
Some events at the city’s museums must be booked in advance and charges may apply, so please check the website for details. Tickets bought online are always offered at a discounted rate.
Leicester’s libraries also have a full programme of events this summer, with the opportunity to be an eco-explorer, make beads from coloured paper or design a plant pot amongst the many free activities on offer.
There will also be story-telling, with author Catherine Ward reading from her book, By The Beaver Pool, at St Barnabas Library on Monday 28 July, and a free four-week course at the Central Library for youngsters who’d like to learn the art of storytelling (booking required for both activities).
Details of all the free and low-cost activities taking place at city council venues and other city centre locations are available at families.leicester.gov.uk/summer-fun
Listings are provided for each week of the school holidays, making it easy for families to find a free or low-cost activity in Leicester this summer.