What's on this half term in Wakefield: Family adventures await at the National Coal Mining Museum

Families looking for a fun, affordable day out this February half term are in for a treat at the National Coal Mining Museum, with creative and hands-on excitement for visitors of all ages.

From Wednesday, February 18 to Friday, February 20, families can book a place on the Family Weaving Workshop, running from 11am to 12.30pm for £10 per family (up to four people).

Families will get creative and explore loom, circle and stick weaving inspired by the museum’s newly restored Voysey arts and craft table and chairs, designed for Whitwood Miners’ Welfare.

With bright materials and expert guidance, everyone can create joyful woven pieces for their home.

Minecraft fans can dive into a day packed with creativity, coding and crafting at Minecraft Mania.placeholder image
Minecraft fans can dive into a day packed with creativity, coding and crafting at Minecraft Mania.

On Saturday, February 21, Minecraft fans can dive into a day packed with creativity, coding and crafting at Minecraft Mania.

Running from 10am to 4pm, there are pre-bookable Minecraft Escape rooms, perfect for players of all ages, free drop-in crafts, as well as a screening of the blockbuster film at 2.30pm, £2.50 booking fee.

Creative kids, and grownups, can head to the free Makers’ Shed, open daily from 11am to 3.30pm, with free weaving activities and time to experiment with textures and colours.

Everyone is welcome to craft their own wonderfully woven masterpiece to take home and treasure.

Families can discover more about the fascinating history of coal mining at the museum’s interactive storytelling, Tales of Coal, Care and Community Life.

Step into the Time Tunnel and journey through centuries of coal mining history. This immersive experience brings to life the incredible stories of the people, innovations and challenges that shaped the mining world.

And that’s not all, there are also daily horsekeeper talks, Pithead Bath Tours, a very special light up trail, nature walks, interactive galleries and much, much more.

Lynn Dunning, CEO National Coal Mining Museum, said: "Alongside discovering the fascinating history of coal mining through our tours, galleries and collections, families can get hands-on with a range of creative activities inspired by mining heritage.

"Our mega Minecraft day promises plenty of excitement, and with so many free activities available, it’s the perfect low-cost day out for families.”

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