It feels as if we’ve only just come back from the Easter hols but already half term is upon us, and if like me you have children to entertain but don’t want to shell out too much you’ll be looking for some suggestions of what to do…
Stepping Stones & Burdford Meadows – Dorking
This lovely walk along the River Mole, takes in the iconic Stepping Stones at the foot of Box Hill. As you cross the steps you will then follow the river along through the Burdford Meadows where the views up to Box Hill are breath-taking, here is a perfect spot for a picnic and if you’re feeling brave there’s even a rope swing.
There are two ways to reach the Stepping Stones, one easy and one that will put your quads and hamstrings to the test;
The first is to park at the Stepping Stones. The car park is located off the A24 and can only be accessed via the south bound carriage way towards Dorking.
Or if you are feeling energetic then park at the top of Box Hill and follow the path that leads down the hill beyond the Salomon’s Memorial (the viewpoint). This path will lead you through the yew woods and down 245 steep steps to the bottom of the hill. Just remember you’ve got to walk back up, there is a great circular walk if you continue to the Burford Bridge Hotel and take a right back up to Box Hill. (Both carparks are run by the National Trust so charges will apply if you are a non member)
Gatwick Aviation Museum – Charlwood
There’s no getting away from the fact we live near to one of the UKs busiest airports so why not embrace the fact and find out more…
Gatwick Aviation Museum allows you to get up close and personal to a unique collection of aircraft from the “golden age” of British aircraft manufacture; Shackletons, Venoms to name a few. The museum is run by volunteers some of whom are ex-pilots and navigators of the aircraft. The museum is also situated at the side of the Gatwick runway so there is also a viewing area to watch the plans take off. Adults £7.50 each, Children 5-14 £2.50 each, under fives no charge. Check their website for more details gatwick-aviation-museum.co.uk
Priory Farm – Nutfield
Perhaps one for the younger members of the family Priory Farm is set amidst gorgeous countryside between Redhill and Nutfield. The family attraction comprises of a nature trail with surprises around every corner, including the fish pond where if you ring the bell 100s of carp come to the waters edge ready to be fed! After the walk you can enjoy a cuppa at Wendy’s Cabin or something more substantial at the neighbouring Priory Farm Nursery cafe serving lovely home-made delicacies, there is also a great kids play area. For more information prioryfarm.co.uk
Pavillion – Horsham
If you fancy taking the children swimming to somewhere different the Pavilions in Horsham could be the place. There’s the usual indoor pools; 25m main pool, 12.5m teaching pool but there is also the Leisure Waters which has both an indoor and heated outdoor pool, moving water channels, bubble beds, waterfall geysers and jets, corkscrew flume and shallow water confidence area for young children. Find out more at the-pavilions-in-the-park