The Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre in Barton, Lancashire, offers a vibrant and diverse range of activities perfect for a family day out. Located approximately 30 minutes from Horse Park Hideaway in Pilling, this venue combines fun, food, and unique experiences under one grass-covered roof.(visitpreston.com, theflowerbowl.uk)

🎳 Activities for Children

1. Crazy Golf – The Secret Garden
An enchanting 18-hole indoor course set amidst Japanese gardens, tree-lined paths, and flower-filled borders. The course features interactive elements like a windmill that adds a fun twist to the game, making it enjoyable for all ages. (visitpreston.com, lancashiretelegraph.co.uk)

2. Ten-Pin Bowling – Copper Bowl
Experience bowling with a touch of luxury. The Copper Bowl offers eight vibrant lanes with social seating and a sleek bar area. Automatic bumpers cater to younger players, ensuring fun for the whole family. (visitpreston.com)

3. Curling – Olympic-Sized Rink
Try your hand at curling on the North of England’s only dedicated curling rink. The venue offers family-friendly sessions, including mini curling and shuffleboard on ice during school holidays. All equipment is provided, and the rink is wheelchair accessible. (wheretogowithkids.co.uk, lancashiretelegraph.co.uk, visitpreston.com)

4. Crazy Pool
A unique blend of pool and crazy golf, Crazy Pool offers a quick-fire, tabletop game that keeps all ages amused. It's a fun and engaging activity that adds a twist to traditional games. (lep.co.uk)

5. Virtual Reality Jungle Ride
Embark on a 4D virtual reality boat ride adventure to find magical crystals. This immersive experience is particularly popular among younger children. (lep.co.uk)

6. Cinema Experience
Enjoy a movie in one of the three boutique cinema screens, each featuring cozy sofa-style seating and unique themes. The cinema offers a mix of new releases, old classics, and live events, with special screenings for parents and babies, as well as autism-friendly showings. (visitpreston.com)

🍽️ Dining Options

Blooms Restaurant
A vibrant and visually stunning restaurant serving traditional dishes, small plates, flatbreads, and signature salads. The Little Bloomers Menu offers child-friendly options like mozzarella flatbreads and chicken goujons. (visitpreston.com, lep.co.uk)

The Ocean Fish & Chip Restaurant
Enjoy traditional chip shop favorites in an ocean-themed setting, perfect for a casual family meal. (visitpreston.com)

Knickerbockers Ice Cream Parlour
Indulge in a variety of ice cream flavors and sweet treats, a hit among children and adults alike. 

The Oasis Coffee Shop
A relaxed spot offering refreshing drinks, coffee, and a selection of sweet treats and snacks. (visitpreston.com)

Bar Bossa Lounge and Bar
Ideal for pre-cinema drinks or post-bowling refreshments, offering a range of craft beers, wines, spirits, cocktails, and soft drinks. (visitpreston.com)

🎄 Seasonal Events

Children’s Christmas Parties
During the festive season, The Flower Bowl hosts immersive Christmas parties for children, including meals, entertainment by Santa's helpers, and a meet-and-greet with Father Christmas. These events are popular and tend to sell out quickly. (bartongrange.co.uk, bartongrange.co.uk)

Magical VR Sleigh Ride
Experience a thrilling journey through the winter skies aboard Santa’s sleigh in this exciting virtual reality ride, transporting you into the heart of Lapland. (bartongrange.co.uk)

♿ Accessibility & Facilities

The Flower Bowl is designed to be accessible to all visitors:(theflowerbowl.uk)

• The venue is all on one level, with wheelchair-friendly access throughout.

• The curling rink and bowling alleys are equipped with accessible equipment, including wheelchair putters and bowling ramps.

• The cinema offers wheelchair-friendly seating options.

• Facilities include disabled toilets with changing beds and hoists, baby changing facilities, and a disabled shower room. (theflowerbowl.uk)

📍 Location & Contact

Address: Garstang Road, Barton, Preston, PR3 0BT(visitpreston.com)

Phone: 01995 676210(theflowerbowl.uk)

Website: theflowerbowl.uk(theflowerbowl.uk)

Payment: Please note that the venue operates on a card payment-only basis. (theflowerbowl.uk)

The Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre offers a unique and enjoyable experience for families, combining a variety of activities, dining options, and seasonal events. It's an ideal destination for a memorable day out with children.

Billy Bob’s Parlour in Myerscough is a vibrant 1950s American-themed diner and play venue, perfect for a family day out. Located near Barton, just a short drive from Horse Park Hideaway in Pilling, it offers a delightful mix of nostalgic dining and engaging play areas for children.(blogpreston.co.uk)

🧒 Play Areas

Outdoor Play
Designed for children aged 9 and under, the outdoor area features charming wooden play structures, including a monster truck, airplane, ark, fire truck, tractor, and train. These imaginative setups encourage active play and adventure. Please note that the outdoor play area is not lit, so access may be limited during darker months. (wheretogowithkids.co.uk, billybobsparlour.com)

Indoor Play Barns
The indoor barns cater to a broader age range, from toddlers to teens. They are equipped with rope swings, racing slides, zip lines, and a leap-of-faith foam pit, providing a safe yet thrilling environment for children to expend energy. (billybobsparlour.com, visitpreston.com)

Play Access

• Play sessions are booked by the hour and require the purchase of a coloured wristband, priced at £3 per child. 

• During weekends and school holidays, it's advisable to book play slots in advance, especially if you're not dining in the diner. 

• Diners with reservations are given priority access to play areas and do not need to book play separately. (billybobsparlour.com)

🍔 Dining Experience

American-Style Diner
The diner offers a nostalgic 1950s ambiance, complete with themed seating options like a Coca-Cola truck and an American school bus. The menu features classic American dishes, including handmade burgers, hot dogs, and a variety of sundaes and milkshakes. (billybobsparlour.com)

Ice Cream Parlour
With nearly 30 flavours of homemade ice cream, the parlour is a treat for all ages. Options range from traditional favourites like vanilla and mint chocolate to unique offerings like key lime pie and cotton candy. Hand-spun shakes and floats are also available, providing a delightful dessert experience. (billybobsparlour.com)

🎉 Parties and Events

Billy Bob’s is an excellent venue for children's birthday parties. They offer dedicated party rooms, complete with decorations and a host to ensure the celebration runs smoothly. Party packages include a tasty meal and exclusive use of the play areas, making it a memorable experience for the birthday child and guests. (billybobsparlour.com, billybobsparlour.com)

📍 Location & Contact

• Address: North Planks Farm, Garstang Road, Barton, Myerscough, Preston, PR3 5AD

• Phone: 01756 711826

• Website: billybobsparlour.com(visitpreston.com, billybobsparlour.com)

Billy Bob’s Parlour in Myerscough combines delightful dining with engaging play areas, making it an ideal destination for families seeking a fun-filled day out. Whether you're indulging in classic American cuisine or watching your children explore the imaginative play structures, it's a place that promises enjoyment for all ages.

Blackpool Zoo is a fantastic destination for a family day out, offering a diverse range of animal exhibits, interactive experiences, and child-friendly facilities. Here's what you can expect:

🐾 Animal Exhibits

Home to over 1,000 animals across 37 acres of parkland, the zoo features:(blackpool.com)

• Project Elephant: The UK's largest indoor elephant house, providing a spacious environment for its residents. (en.wikipedia.org)

• Gorilla Mountain: A habitat for western lowland gorillas, including a silverback male and his family group. (en.wikipedia.org)

• Orangutan Outlook: A state-of-the-art enclosure housing Bornean orangutans. (en.wikipedia.org)

• Lemur Wood: A walk-through area where visitors can observe lemurs in a naturalistic setting. (en.wikipedia.org)

• Dinosaur Safari: An engaging trail featuring life-size animatronic dinosaurs, a fossil dig, and a central volcano water display. (en.wikipedia.org)

🎠 Children's Activities

• Children’s Farm: An interactive area where kids can meet and learn about domesticated animals like goats, donkeys, and rabbits. (liveblackpool.info)

• Playbarn: A multi-level indoor soft play area with slides, ball cannons, and a dedicated toddler zone. (liveblackpool.info)

• Keeper Kids Program: A one-day experience for children aged 8-11 to learn about zoo keeping through hands-on activities. (blackpoolzoo.org.uk)

🍽️ Dining Options

The zoo offers various food outlets, including:

• Lake View Café: Serving hot meals, salads, and snacks. 

• Subway: The first Subway located within a UK zoo. 

• Nawala Street Food: Offering Asian cuisine near the Dinosaur Safari. (en.wikipedia.org)

• Starbucks Coffee Shop: Located at the main entrance for light refreshments. 

Picnic areas are also available for those who prefer to bring their own food. (blackpool.com)

🎟️ Tickets & Opening Hours

• Admission Prices: Online prices start from £15.99 for children (3–15 years) and £21.99 for adults. Family tickets are available. (dayoutwiththekids.co.uk)

• Opening Times: The zoo operates year-round, with hours varying by season. For example, from April 1 to November 6, it's open daily from 10:00 to 17:45. (sandsradio.co.uk)

🚗 Accessibility & Facilities

Blackpool Zoo is designed to be accessible for all visitors:

• The site is generally level, making it wheelchair and pushchair friendly. (blackpoolzoo.org.uk)

• Manual wheelchairs are available for hire; it's recommended to reserve in advance. (blackpoolzoo.org.uk)

• On-site parking is available for £3.00 per day, including spaces for disabled visitors. (blackpoolgazette.co.uk)

For more information or to book tickets, visit the official website: Blackpool Zoo.

Lancaster offers a variety of engaging attractions for families, blending rich history with interactive experiences. Here's a guide to some of the top spots to visit with children:

🏰 Lancaster Castle

Lancaster Castle is a historic fortress with over 1,000 years of history, offering guided tours that delve into its past as a prison and courthouse. While standard tours are informative, they may include references to crime and punishment, which might not be suitable for younger children. However, the castle occasionally hosts Family Fun Tours, designed specifically for children aged 5–10. These tours feature costumed guides and interactive activities like exploring courtrooms, designing a coat of arms, and learning about medieval life. Tickets are £7.00 for both children and adults, with children under 5 admitted free. Advance booking is required. (lancastercastle.com, lancastercastle.com)

🚓 Lancashire Police Museum

Located within Lancaster Castle, the Lancashire Police Museum offers an insightful look into the history of policing in the region. Housed in the former HM Prison Lancaster, the museum features 16 displays set within old prison cells, providing a unique setting to learn about law enforcement's evolution. It's an educational experience suitable for older children interested in history and criminology. Admission is free, and the museum is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 10:30 am to 4:00 pm, with additional openings on selected weekends during the summer. (en.wikipedia.org, lancasterandmorecambebay.com)

🏛️ Lancaster City Museum

Situated in the heart of Lancaster, the City Museum is housed in the former town hall, an elegant Georgian building dating back to the late 18th century. The museum showcases Lancaster's history from the prehistoric era to the present day, featuring immersive galleries and a fine art collection. It also hosts the King’s Own Royal Regiment Museum, offering insights into the city's military heritage. The museum frequently organizes family-friendly events, including fossil handling sessions and interactive military history demonstrations. Admission is free, making it an accessible option for families. (lancaster.gov.uk, lancaster.gov.uk)

⚓ Lancaster Maritime Museum

Located on St George's Quay, the Lancaster Maritime Museum is housed in the historic Custom House, a Grade II* listed building. The museum explores the region's maritime history, including local fishing vessels, ship models, and the development of nearby ports. Exhibits also delve into the area's involvement in trade, including the slave trade, providing educational content for older children. The museum offers interactive displays that can engage children interested in nautical themes and history. (en.wikipedia.org)

Tips for Visiting:

• Check Event Schedules: Many attractions offer special events or tours during school holidays. It's advisable to check their official websites or contact them directly for the latest information.

• Age Appropriateness: While these attractions are educational, some content may be more suitable for older children. Consider the age and interests of your children when planning visits.

• Accessibility: Some historic buildings may have limited accessibility for strollers or individuals with mobility issues. It's recommended to inquire in advance if you have specific needs.

By exploring these sites, families can enjoy a blend of education and entertainment, making for a memorable day out in Lancaster.

Blackpool Tower is a treasure trove of family-friendly attractions, offering a blend of history, entertainment, and interactive fun suitable for children of all ages. Here's a guide to the exciting experiences awaiting your family:

🎪 The Blackpool Tower Circus

A must-see for families, the Blackpool Tower Circus has been delighting audiences since 1894. Led by the comedic duo Mooky and Mr. Boo, the show combines slapstick humor with awe-inspiring acrobatics and stunts from performers worldwide. The highlight is the grand water finale, where the arena floor transforms into a pool filled with 42,000 gallons of water, creating a spectacular end to the performance. (theblackpooltower.com, fivelittledoves.com, theblackpooltower.com)

👀 The Blackpool Tower Eye

Ascend 380 feet to the Tower Eye for panoramic views of Blackpool and beyond. Begin your journey with a 4D cinema experience that brings the town's history to life through special effects. At the top, brave visitors can step onto the SkyWalk, a glass floor offering a thrilling view straight down to the streets below. (visitsealife.com, visitblackpool.com)

🦖 Dino Mini Golf

Perfect for a fun-filled family activity, Dino Mini Golf is a 9-hole course set in a prehistoric-themed environment. With realistic dinosaur sounds and life-sized models, children can enjoy a playful game while learning about these ancient creatures. (wheretogowithkids.co.uk)

🧸 Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse

Inspired by the beloved children's book, this immersive indoor attraction invites young adventurers to explore the deep dark wood, meet the Gruffalo and his friends, and engage in interactive storytelling sessions. With six captivating zones, it's a haven for imagination and play. (visitblackpool.com)

🐰 Peter Rabbit™: Explore and Play

Tailored for toddlers and young children, this attraction brings Beatrix Potter's characters to life. Children can hop through themed zones like Mr. McGregor’s Garden and Mr. Bouncer’s Invention Workshop, culminating in a meet-and-greet with Peter Rabbit himself. (visitblackpool.com)

🎭 The Blackpool Tower Dungeon

For families with older children and teens, the Tower Dungeon offers a thrilling journey through Lancashire’s dark history. Featuring live actors, special effects, and a drop ride, it's an engaging mix of education and entertainment. Note: This attraction may be too intense for younger children. (visitblackpool.com, visitsealife.com)

💃 The Blackpool Tower Ballroom

Experience the elegance of the Victorian era in the Tower Ballroom. Families can enjoy afternoon tea while watching dancers glide across the ornate dance floor, accompanied by live organ music. It's a delightful way to introduce children to classic music and dance. 

🎟️ Ticket Options

To make the most of your visit, consider the Blackpool Pick 'n' Mix Pass, which offers access to multiple attractions at a discounted rate. Options include one-day, two-day, and seven-day passes, allowing flexibility to suit your family's schedule. Please note that the Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse and Peter Rabbit™: Explore and Play require separate tickets. (thesun.co.uk, visitblackpool.com)

For more information and to book tickets, visit the official Blackpool Tower website: The Blackpool Tower.