Things To Do This Summer Holidays In Manchester 2026

Keep the kids entertained this year with our guide to things to do in the summer holidays for kids in Manchester 2026. 

The school holidays are on the way, and that means six whole weeks to entertain the kids.

If you are looking for inspiration to keep the kids busy and what’s on in Manchester in the Summer holidays 2026, there is lots going on with a whole of exciting events for children and families.

From huge funfairs and beaches to fun trails, family festivals, outdoor and indoor activities and even what’s on for free and lots more, you will find something for all ages and budgets.

To help you out we have put together a full list of fun things to do in the Summer holidays in Manchester for families for 2025 all divided up into: 

• Things To Do Outdoors 
• What’s On Indoors 
• Free and Cheap Events 
• Summer Holiday Discounts 
• Theatre Shows 

If we do get some great weather, make sure you check out

• Best beaches near Manchester.
• Splash Parks and Outdoor Pools around Manchester
• Best Parks for Kids in Manchester 

Or for those rainy days, check out: 

• Best Museums For Kids in Manchester 

Sponsored 

Kids Adventure Kingdom Inflatables, Torkington Park 

Outdoor Summer Holiday Events in Manchester 

Fingers crossed the sun will be shining throughout the summer holidays and we will all be able to enjoy the outdoors. 

For the days we do get some nice weather, some great outdoor family events are going on throughout the summer, ideal for a fun day out. 

Here are our top picks for outdoor events in Manchester over the summer holiday.

Plus, you can discover some great free outdoor events further down in our guide.

Pokémon Mega Evolution Trail, Quarry Bank

To Sunday 6th September 2026

Pokémon fans can head outdoors this summer for a brand-new Mega Evolution Trail at Quarry Bank. Families will search for hidden Pokémon characters around the gardens, complete themed challenges inspired by their powers and work together to finish the trail sheet along the way.

The interactive trail is designed to encourage children to explore nature while enjoying plenty of Pokémon-themed fun. Trail sheets are available on arrival and there’s even a themed photo opportunity at the end.

Free activity with normal Quarry Bank admission. Suitable for ages 2+.

To book >>> Pokémon Mega Evolution Trail, Quarry Bank

The Wind in the Willows Trail, RHS Garden Bridgewater

To 31st December 2026

For a great day out you can enjoy a nature-filled family day out at RHS Garden Bridgewater with The Wind in the Willows Trail! Explore the beautiful gardens and follow a hands-on adventure inspired by the beloved story of Mole, Ratty, Badger and Toad.

Young visitors can enjoy themed activities, discover hidden creatures along the garden paths, and take part in creative tasks as they wander through the stunning outdoor spaces together. It’s a lovely mix of story, exploration and green-space fun for families.

Garden admission applies; tickets for adults and children are available. A great choice for families and younger visitors.

To book >>> The Wind in the Willows Trail, RHS Garden Bridgewater

Summer of Play at Dunham Massey With Pokemon

Saturday 18th July to Sunday 6th September 2026

Dunham Massey is always a popular day out during the summer holidays.

For 2026, visitors can also enjoy lots of family events.

You can enjoy their Summer of Play with daily event, such as sensory trail, mindfulness, storytelling and more with an extra Pokemon Spin. 

Plus, there will be lots of natural play each day, or you can enjoy a fun children’s Trail at Dunham Massey house. 

Discover More >>> Summer Holiday Events at Dunham Massey

Summer of Play at Lyme Park With Pokemon

Friday 18th July to Sunday 7th September 2025

National Trust Lyme Park will also be offering a summer of play. 

It promises to be jam-packed with ways to play together with more than enough space to try it all.

There will be weeks of chock-full of games and activities to try. 

Read more >>> Summer of Play at Lyme Park 

Bricktastic Summer at RHS Bridgewater Gardens 

Saturday 18th July to Monday 31st August 2026

Head to RHS Bridgewater Gardens this summer holidays and have lots of fun in-store. 

From den building and tree climbing to crafts, forest school activities, four different trails and lots more. 

Booking is required for some activities.

More details and how to book >>> Summer Holidays at RHS Bridgewater Gardens

Open Air Bounce, Urmston Farm, Bolton 

Saturday 18th July to 31st August 2026

Open Air Bounce will be opening up for the Summer holidays.

You expect 15 different inflatables, including bouncy castles, slides, obstacles and assault courses.

The course will be open daily with sessions at 11.00 am and 2.30 pm 

Tickets cost £9.95 for under 3s and £12.95 for adults and children, and £2.50 for non-bouncing adults. 

More >>> Summer Open Air Bounce, Urmstom Farm, Bolton 

Summer of Play, Quarry Bank 

Saturday 18th July to Sunday 31st September 2026

Summer of Play is back at National Trust’s Quarry Bank.

There will be crafts, storytelling, den building, trails and even the chance to meet some amazing exotic animals. 

Read More >>> Summer of Play, Quarry Bank 

Summer Fun Fun Fair, Trafford Centre 

Saturday 18th to Sunday 31st August 2026

Enjoy all the fun of the fair at the Trafford Centre this summer. 

Along with an array of rides for all ages, including kids, families and adrenaline junkies, you will also find a giant beach. 

Plus, the splash zone will be back and entry will be just £2.50 plus a booking fee. 

Read More >>> Summer Fun Fair, Trafford Centre 

Farmlife Festival, Cockfields Farm

Saturday 25th July to Monday 31st August 2025 

Join Cockfields Farm for summer 2025 for their big summer blowout event.

This year, the event promises to be bigger than ever with everything from helter skelter rides,  party tractor rides and more. 

If that’s not enough, you will also be able to take part in animal activities and all the fun of the farm, including their huge bouncy pillow, sand play and lots more. 

Read More >>> Farmlife Festival at Cockfields Farm 

Reddish Vale Farm Fest, Stockport

Saturday 1st to Monday 31th August 2026

This summer, head to Farm Fest at Reddish Vale Farm. 

The event will feature fairground rides, children’s entertainers, an inflatable assault course, popcorn, glitter face painting, a foam party and a beach with deck chairs. 

If that’s not enough, you can enjoy all the usual fun of the farm with animal meet and greets, the indoor sand pit, outdoor adventure play with zipwire and more. 

Tickets cost £12.50 for adults and £12.50 for children.

More Info >>> Farm Fest at Reddish Vale Farm 

Summer Fun Fair, Heaton Park 

Saturday 2nd to Sunday 31st July 2025 

The summer funfair is heading back to Heaton Park for summer 2025. 

There will be a whole host of fun fair rides from children’s to white knuckle, a huge beach and fun entertainment. 

They will be running unlimited wristband events on set days and will have food and drink on offer. 

Read More >>> Summer Fun Fair at Heaton Park 

Oldham Summer Beach, Alexandra Park

To be confirmed for 2026

Oldham Summer Beach is back for the summer. 

It will feature huge inflatables, children’s rides, a huge beach, entertainment and lots more. 

Plus, for this year, there will be Colour Blast Parties each day. 

They will be offering unlimited wristbands for half and full days.

Read More and book – Oldham Summer Beach, Alexandra Park 

K-Pop Demon Hunters Tribute Night, Reddish Vale Farm

Saturday 29th August 2026

Calling all K-pop fans! Head to Reddish Vale Farm for an electrifying tribute night inspired by the world of K-Pop Demon Hunters. Expect high-energy performances, incredible choreography and a fun-filled evening celebrating the music and style of the hit phenomenon.

• Live Tribute Show – Enjoy an action-packed performance featuring favourite songs, dance routines and characters inspired by K-Pop Demon Hunters.
• Meet & Greets – Meet the performers, snap photos and enjoy magical moments with your favourite characters.
• Farm Fun Included – Your ticket also includes access to Reddish Vale Farm, where you can meet the animals, explore the play areas and enjoy the farm attractions before the show begins.
• Fancy Dress Welcome – Dress as your favourite character or embrace your best K-pop style for an extra fun evening.

Tickets from £10. Suitable for families and K-pop fans of all ages and will run from 5.00 pm to 8.00pm.

To book >>> K-Pop Demon Hunters Tribute Night, Reddish Vale Farm

Indoor Summer Holiday Events in Manchester 

Whether we have a summer of hot days or the odd bit of rain ( we are in Manchester after all), it is always good to have some indoor options for places to go. 

This summer holidays, there are some great indoor events and activities going on throughout Manchester.

Here are our top picks for indoor family events this summer in Manchester.

Plus, you can discover some great free indoor events further down in our guide.

Slides, Inflatables and Fun Swimming Sessions at Tameside Pools 

Saturday 25th July to Sunday 31st August 2026

A  trip to the swimming pool makes a great School Holidays day out and Tameside pools have some extra fun in-store. 

Kids and adults alike can enjoy fun sessions with toys, inflatables, and even slides at their Swim, Slides, and Waves at Hyde Leisure. 

Times and More >>> Slides, Inflatables and Fun Swimming Sessions at Tameside Pools

Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos, Science and Industry Museum

Until Sunday 3rd January 2027

Blast off into space this May at the Science and Industry Museum’s brand-new Horrible Science exhibition. Inspired by the hit BBC series and bestselling books, this interactive family experience takes visitors on a cosmic adventure through the Solar System, packed with experiments, challenges and plenty of gross-out fun.

Families can explore alien worlds, test their balance on a moonquake, programme a rover, discover what astronauts eat in space and even see a real space toilet used on the Soyuz-Mir spacecraft. There are hands-on activities throughout, plus plenty of silly science surprises from the mischievous Dr Big Brain.

Tickets from £10, with family discounts available and under 3s free.  Suitable for families and science-loving kids.

To book >>> Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos

Head, Shoulders, Knees & Goals, National Football Museum

To Sunday 1st November 2026

Discover the fascinating connection between football and the human body at the National Football Museum’s brand-new interactive exhibition, Head, Shoulders, Knees & Goals. Families can explore the science behind movement, exercise, nutrition and matchday experiences through hands-on activities, sensory play and football-inspired challenges.

Packed with interactive exhibits and playful experiences, the exhibition encourages children to learn through movement and discover how football impacts both players and fans on and off the pitch.

Included with museum admission. Suitable for families and football-loving kids.

To book >>> Head, Shoulders, Knees & Goals

Power Up, Museum Of Science And Industry 

Ongoing

Kids and adults who love gaming can enjoy the ultimate experience this summer

Gaming fans will be in their element with the chance to play the most popular games from the past 40 years. 

Expect a mix of vintage games, such as Pong and Pacman, Street Fighter, and modern-day favourites like Mario and Minecraft, alongside the latest VR experiences.  

Tickets are required and cost £8.00 for adults and £7.00 for children. 

Book and Read More >>> Power Up Gaming Event at Science and Industry

The Library Of Enchantment Escape Room, Z-Arts, Hulme 

Ongoing

Z-arts is giving you the chance to enjoy a fun family escape room over the summer holidays. 

Aimed at children over 6 years and their adults, the escape room will feature clues, puzzles and challenges with the aim to try to escape the room within the hour. 

Booking is required, and places and like to go quickly.

Discover >>> Review of The Library Of Enchantment Escape Room, Z-arts 

Read more and how to book >>> The Library Of Enchantment Escape Room, Z-arts 

Bear Trail, Bramhall Hall 

Thursday 23rd July to Sunday 6th September 2026

Join Nevill. T. Bear, beast and bug detective, is on this new spotting trail around Bramall Hall.

Children will enjoy being mini-detectives and finding out about some of the unusual creatures who live under the hall’s roof. From bats to birds and beetles, can you help him find them all?

Each child will receive a magnifying glass to help them in their search and continue their spotting at home.

Suitable for children 3 to 10 years old. Must be accompanied by a paying adult. Tickets cost £3.00 per trail plus standard admission prices. 

The trail will run from Thursday to Sunday, from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm. 

More >>> Bear Trail, Bramhall Hall 

Summer Fun at East Lancashire Railway, Bury 

Saturday 3rd August to Sunday 1st September 2026

East Lancashire Railway has lots going on this summer for families as follows: 

• Day Out With Thomas – 18th and 19th July 2026
• Wizarding Adventure – 6th August 2026 
• The Dino Adventure – 7th August 2026
• Wonderland Adventure – 12th August 2026
• Villain Academy -13th August 2026
• Goldilocks & Friends Teddy Bear Adventure – 21st August 2026 
• Peppa Pig Family Fun Day –  22nd August 2026

Read More >>> Summer Holidays at East Lancashire Railway 

Fun Workshops at Kargo MKT, Quay Side 

Monday 17th and Wednesday 19th August 2026 

This Summer Kargo MKT are running the following workshops over the summer. 

Mad Science Workshop: Matter of Fact – Monday 17th August, 10.00 am to 12.00 pm  – £6.13

Slime Making Workshop – Wednesday 19th August 11.00 am to 12.30 – £13.70 

Booking required. 

To book >>> Fun Workshops at Kargo MKT, Quay Side

Cheap and Free Things To Do In Manchester Over The Summer Holidays

Trying to entertain the kids over the summer holidays can prove expensive.

However, there are some great free and cheap events on over the summer across Manchester. 

Here are our top picks: 

Free Summer Activities, Trafford Centre 

Free

Wednesdays and Thursdays throughout August 2026

New for summer 2026, Trafford Centre welcomes the Cosmic Carnival Show, a spectacular programme of free live performances taking over the Orient Main Stage area twice a week throughout August.

Families can step into the magical world of the ‘Out of Time Circus’, with breathtaking aerial performances by larger-than-life characters and live vocals that transport them into the vibrant Cosmic Circus.

The fun continues with the Zero-Gravity Disco, an energetic celebration packed with chart hits, incredible dance routines, and audience participation.

After every show, children can take part in free interactive workshops, learning dance routines and trying circus-inspired skills with the performers.

Read More >>> Free Summer Activities Trafford Centre

Summer Activities At The Science and Industry Museum, Manchester 

Free 

Saturday 18th July to Monday 31st August 2026

This summer, the Science and Industry Museum has lots of fun for families in-store all based around space. 

Plus you can enjoy popular Experiment Floor, there will be pop-up activities, daily shows, demonstrations and more. 

Entry is free, but you need to book your visit in advance. 

More >>> Summer Holidays at The Science and Industry Museum, Manchester 

Free Activities at Manchester Museum

Saturday 10th July to Sunday 30th August 2026

Free

Manchester Museum has lots of free family activities in store this summer.

From the stories, trails, bug activities and more. 

Most of the sessions are drop-in; however, some require booking in advance. 

Read More >>> Free Summer Activities Manchester Museum

Discover >>> Top Tips for Visiting Manchester Museum 

Summer Holiday Activities at People’s History Museum

Saturday 19th July to Sunday 31st August 2025

Free

The People’s History Museum is lovely for families with lots of interactive exhibitions and activities. Plus, they will be running the following activities over the school holidays: 

• Banner Bingo, Daily, Free, Daily – Go on a quest to find images featured in the banners in the galleries to match those on your bingo card. Get a line and shout BINGO, get a full card and shout HOUSE. Suitable for over 5’s. 
• Story Telling Zone, Daily – Spin the dice on the story generator, peer into the emotions mirror and use your face, body, or voice to express different feelings and bring your story to life using puppets and props.
• Build-A-Bot, Daily – Power up your imagination and build your own mini robot from a simple sheet of paper! Choose from two robot designs – one simple and one more complex, each with step by step instructions.  Suitable for 5 to 12-year-olds.

The Museum is open daily except Tuesdays from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm

More >>> Family Fun at People’s History Museum

PLAYTIME Free Fun at The Whitworth, Manchester 

Saturday 19th July to Sunday 31st August 2025

Free

The Whitworth in Manchester has lots of free fun in-store for all ages this summer including  National PLAY Day celebration and more 

Read More >>> Summer Holidays at The Whitworth 

Greater Manchester Fire Station Open Days

Saturday 19th July to Thursday 28th August 2025 

Free 

Join Greater Manchester Fire Service at their open days this summer, which promise to be a fun-filled day for all the family. 

Here’s the full list:

• Sunday 26th July 2026 – Bury Community Fire Station, Magdalene Rd, Bury BL9 0ES | 10am–4pm
• Saturday 1st August 2026 – Wythenshawe Community Fire Station, Brownley Road, Wythenshawe M22 5EA | 10am–3pm
• Sunday 9th August 2026 – Oldham Community Fire Station, Lees Rd, Oldham OL4 1JN | 10:30am–3:30pm
• Saturday 15th August 2026 – Leigh Community Fire Station, St Helens Rd, Leigh WN7 3PA | 10am–4pm
• Saturday 15th August 2026 – Farnworth Community Fire Station, Albert Rd, Farnworth, Bolton BL4 9HF | 10am–4pm
• Sunday 16th August 2026 – Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Training Centre, Hinds Ln, Bury BL8 2GN | 10am–4pm
• Sunday 23rd August 2026 – Agecroft Community Fire Station, 45 Bolton Rd, Pendlebury, Swinton, Manchester M27 8XS | 10am–4pm
• Saturday 29th August 2026 – Gorton Community Fire Station, Birch Street, West Gorton, Manchester M12 5NS | 11am–3pm
• Monday 31st August 2026 – Bolton Central Community Fire Station, Moor Ln, Bolton BL3 5DB | 11am–5pm
• Saturday 12th September 2026 – Bolton North Community Fire Station, Crompton Way, Bolton BL1 8UP | 10am–4pm

More >>> Greater Manchester Fire Station Open Days

REFRACT is back for 2025 in Trafford and has lots of fun activities for families. 

The event offers live music, dance, experiential performances and some surprises along the way. nclude:

The events will be free and most are drop-in but some require booking.

Read More >>> REFRACT:24 – Free Family Events Trafford

PARKTASTIC – Free Activities Across Manchester Parks 

Throughout The Summer Holidays

Free

This summer, kids can enjoy a whole host of free activities across Manchester Parks. 

The parks are divided into South, North and Central Manchester and run each week. 

Full Timetable >>> PARKTASTIC – Free Activities Across Manchester Parks 

Summer Activities at Salford Museum and Art Gallery 

Wednesday 22nd July to Thursday 27th August 2026

Free to £3.00 

Salford Museum and Galleries has some fun, free and cheap activities over the summer holidays for families. 

From the chance to step back in time at Lark Hill Place to crafts and lots more fun. 

Summer Activities at Ordsall Hall, Salford 

Tuesday 28th July to 28th August 2026

Free to £3.00 

Ordsall Hall has lots planned for families over the summer holidays. From storytelling, bug hunts, crafts, cooking sessions and lots more. 

Some of the events are free or cost up to £3.00, and more require booking in advance. 

Read More >>> Summer Activities at Ordsall Hall

£2 Family Films at Cineworld Cinemas Across Manchester 

Saturday 18th July to Sunday 6th September 2026

£2.00 

This summer, Cineworld are offering families the chance to enjoy a whole host of films for just £2.00 per person. 

The films will change weekly, and there will be two different ones to choose from each week. 

You will be able to catch this offer at Cineworld Ashton, Cineworld Didsbury and Cineworld Bolton. 

More >>> £2 Family Films at Cineworld Cinemas Manchester 

Manchester Day 2026

Sunday 26th July 2026

Manchester Day is back with a fun Catalan theme and Book them. 

There will be performances and lots of free activities, including sports and the chance to win prizes throughout the day. 

Plus you can expect DJ sets, a parade and live acts. 

Read More >>> Manchester Day 2026

Free Summer Fun at Kargo MKT, Quayside 

Sunday 19th July to Sunday 18th August 2025

Free

Kargo MKT will be hosting a whole host of fun events for kids and families over the summer holidays. 

Salford’s very own food hall features 19 independent food vendors and is located in the Quayside shopping area. 

The events include: 

• Sunday 19th July, 10.00 am to 12.00 pm – Free Mini Disco with the Princess With The Red Rose 
• Sunday 26th July, 10.00 am to 12.00 pm – Free BOOMCHIKABOOM! Summer Carnival
• Monday 27th July, 10.00 am to 12.00 pm – Free Lego Build & Play with Bricklands
• Tuesday 4th August, 10.00 am to 12.00 pm – FREE Disco with Bluey
• Sunday 9th August, 10.00 am to 12.00 pm –FREE Mini Disco with the Princess with the Red Rose
• Tuesday 18th August, 10.00 am to 12.00 pm – FREE Kids Crafts: Make your own paper spinners
• Tuesday 25th August, 10.00 am to 12.00 pm – Mad Science Show – SPIN,POP,BOOM!

All the sessions are free but booking is required. 

Read More >>> Free Summer Fun at Kargo MKT

Summer of Stories, Z-Arts 

Tuesday 29th July to Saturday 23rd August 2025

Free 

Join the Z-arts for free family-friendly fun with their Summer of Stories events.

You can expect storytelling and drop-in arts and crafts, and each week will have different story tellers each week as follows: 

• Lizzie and Fiona– Tuesday 28th July to Saturday 1st August 2026
• Liv – Tuesday 4th to Saturday 8th August 2026
• Natasha– Tuesday 11th to Saturday 15th August 2026

The sessions are scheduled at 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm and 1:30pm. Sessions are free but booking is required. 

More >>> Summer of Stories at Z-Arts 

Greater Manchester Police Museum Open Days 

Tuesday 21st July to Tuesday 25th August 2026

Free

Greater Manchester Police Museum will be running its free open days over the summer holidays.

The museum will offer you will be able to check out the cells, the charge room looked like, a range of police uniforms and lots of different police transport. 

They will also be holding courtroom sessions at set times

Read More >>> Greater Manchester Police Museum Summer Open Days

Lots of venues will be hosting fun events in Manchester to celebrate. 

Check them all out >>> National Play Day Events In Manchester 

Emergency Services Day, Trafford Centre 

Thursday 6th August 2026 

Free

Enjoy a free family event at the Trafford Centre. 

The event will feature up to 100 vehicles, displays and demonstrations offering a unique insight into the vast array of emergency services that save lives every day across the region.

You can expect a host of departments including Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue, North West Ambulance Service, Greater Manchester Police and who will be able to talk to and watch demonstrations.

Read more >>> Emergency Services Day, Trafford Centre

Free Outdoor Theatre Shows, Tameside Parks 

Wednesdays from 29th July to  26th August 2026

The free outdoor theatre shows in Tameside are back for the summer holidays 2026.

From a new story from the Fabularium to the very funny Circus show and lots more, there’s something for all ages and tastes. 

The shows are free or pay what you can, but tickets are required. 

Read More >>> Free Outdoor Theatre In The Park Shows in Tameside

Summer Holiday Shows and Concerts in Manchester 

A trip to the theatre makes a lovely summer holiday treat. 

We are lucky to live in Manchester, where you will find some great theatres with amazing family shows. 

Here are our top picks for Summer 2026!

Buzz by Colour the Clouds, Oldham Libraries

Thursday 23rd July 2026 

Step into a colourful, sensory world with Buzz, an immersive family experience from Colour the Clouds. Combining interactive storytelling, movement and creative play, this engaging event encourages children to explore, imagine and take part in the adventure together.

The show will be showing at the following locations:

• Lees Library, Oldham – 10.30 am 
• Northmoor Library, Oldham – 2.30 am 

Suitable for families with young children. Advance booking is recommended as places are limited.

To book >>> Buzz by Colour the Clouds

Edy Hurst Presents: Dream Park, Z-arts

Thursday 23rd July 2026

What would your dream theme park look like? In this imaginative interactive family show, award-winning comedian Edy Hurst invites children and grown-ups to work together to design the greatest theme park ever created, discovering plenty of fun, silliness and surprising facts along the way.

• Create Your Own Theme Park – Help dream up thrilling rides, exciting attractions and unforgettable experiences as the audience works together to build the ultimate park.
• Interactive Family Theatre – Packed with comedy, storytelling and audience participation, this playful performance encourages children to share ideas and get involved throughout.
• Learning Through Play – Blending imaginative fun with themes of planning, creativity and teamwork, it’s an entertaining experience for curious young minds.

Suitable for families with children aged 5+. Running time approximately 60 minutes.

To book >>> Edy Hurst Presents: Dream Park

Outdoor Theatre: Romeo & Juliet & Hamlet Double Bill, Quarry Bank

Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd August 2026 

Experience an unforgettable evening of outdoor theatre as multi-award-winning A Place For Us Theatre brings two of Shakespeare’s greatest plays to the beautiful gardens of Quarry Bank. This special double bill features abridged, accessible productions of Romeo & Juliet and Hamlet, making for a dramatic and entertaining summer evening under the stars.

• Romeo & Juliet – Discover Shakespeare’s timeless tale of love, family rivalry and tragedy in a fast-paced 70-minute performance.
• Hamlet – Follow the gripping story of revenge, mystery and betrayal in this powerful adaptation, also running for approximately 70 minutes.

Set within the picturesque gardens of Quarry Bank, audiences are encouraged to bring picnic blankets or camping chairs, a picnic and weather-appropriate clothing for an evening of open-air theatre.

Both performances are included in one ticket, with a 40-minute interval between shows. Babies under 12 months go free. Advance booking is essential.

To book >>> Outdoor Theatre at Quarry Bank

Miss Saigon, Palace Theatre Manchester

Tuesday 4th to Saturday 8th August 2026

One of the world’s most iconic musicals returns to Manchester as Miss Saigon embarks on a major new UK tour. Featuring a soaring score, spectacular staging and an unforgettable love story, this acclaimed production is a must-see for musical theatre fans. 

• Great For Teens
• An Epic Love Story – Set during the final days of the Vietnam War, the musical follows Kim, a young Vietnamese woman, and American GI Chris, whose lives are forever changed by war, separation and sacrifice.
• Award-Winning Music – Hear beloved songs including The Movie in My Mind, Last Night of the World and The American Dream, performed as part of Boublil and Schönberg’s legendary score.
• Spectacular Production – Expect breathtaking staging, powerful performances and all the drama that has made Miss Saigon one of the most celebrated musicals of all time.

Recommended for ages 14+. Running time approximately 2 hours 40 minutes including an interval. The production contains scenes of a sexual and violent nature, wartime themes, firearms, strong language, drug use, simulated smoking, strobe lighting, loud sound effects, theatrical haze and pyrotechnics. 

To book >>> Miss Saigon, Palace Theatre Manchester

In The Night Garden Live, The Lowry 

Wednesday 5th to Sunday 9th August 2026 

In The Night Garden can enjoy the live show at The Lowry this July. 

Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends are back in their fun-filled live show Igglepiggle’s Busy Day! Join Igglepiggle as he looks for his friends in the Night Garden by following their funny sounds until he finds them all!

You’ll see all your favourite characters beautifully brought to life with full-size costumes, magical puppets, and enchanting music. This show lasts just under an hour and your little ones will be amazed when they see a very special visit from the amazing flying Pinky Ponk.

The are two shows each day and tickets cost from £17.00

More >>> In The Night Garden Live, The Lowry 

Dear Zoo Live, The Lowry

Tuesday 11th to Sunday 16th August 2026

Rod Campbell’s much-loved children’s classic Dear Zoo returns to the stage in a delightful live show packed with puppets, music and audience participation. Perfect for younger children, this charming adaptation brings the bestselling book to life as families discover which animals the zoo has sent.

• Beloved Story Brought to Life – Follow the journey as a child writes to the zoo asking for the perfect pet, meeting a host of fun animals along the way before finding the ideal companion.
• Puppets, Songs & Audience Interaction – Expect colourful puppets, catchy music and plenty of opportunities for little ones to join in throughout the performance.
• Perfect for Pre-schoolers – Designed especially for young audiences, this gentle and engaging production encourages learning through storytelling, repetition and play.
• Relaxed Performance – Thursday 13th August forms part of The Lowry’s Relaxed Day, offering a welcoming environment for children and families who may benefit from a more relaxed theatre experience.

Suitable for babies, toddlers and pre-school children.

To book >>> Dear Zoo Live at The Lowry

Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show, Palace Theatre Manchester

Friday 14th & Saturday 15th August 2026

Join Peppa Pig and her friends for a brand-new live stage adventure at the Palace Theatre. Packed with music, laughter and plenty of audience participation, this fun-filled family show is the perfect introduction to theatre for little ones. 

• A Brand-New Story – With a new baby on the way, Peppa, George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig are busy getting everything ready before the arrival of baby Evie. Can they finish all the jobs in time?
• Music, Adventure & Surprises – Enjoy catchy songs, colourful characters and plenty of exciting moments as Peppa’s world comes to life on stage.
• Perfect for Younger Children – Designed especially for pre-schoolers and young families, this interactive show is full of gentle humour and familiar faces that little fans will love.

Suitable for young children and families. Performances take place at 4pm on Friday and 10am, 1pm and 4pm on Saturday.

To book >>> Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show, Palace Theatre Manchester

CBeebies House Party LIVE!, The Lowry

Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th August 2026

Get ready for the ultimate family celebration as CBeebies House Party LIVE! arrives at The Lowry. Packed with music, dancing and favourite CBeebies stars, this interactive stage show is the perfect treat for younger children.

• Meet Your Favourite CBeebies Stars – Join Mister Maker, Rebecca Keatley, Dodge, George Webster and Duggee as they host a fun-filled party full of surprises.
• Sing, Dance & Join the Fun – Expect lively songs, dancing, giant jellies, streamers, bubbles and plenty of audience participation throughout the show.
• A Special Bedtime Story – The party wouldn’t be complete without a classic CBeebies Bedtime Story… although there’s still plenty of time to celebrate before bedtime!

Suitable for pre-school children and their families.

To book >>> CBeebies House Party LIVE! at The Lowry

Things To Do in Manchester City Centre with the Kids 

If you’re looking for a day out but are not sure where to go, Manchester City has lots of things to do for kids. 

From child-friendly activities, playgrounds, adventure activities, gaming and lots more, there is something for all budgets and ages. 

Read More >>> Best Things To Do With Kids in Manchester City Centre

Cheap and Free Days Out 

We all know that summer holidays can be expensive, but being on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. 

Did you know that there are lots of free places to go and cheap days out for families across Manchester?

There are options for all ages and tastes to occupy the kids for full days or for a couple of hours.

Read More >>> Best cheap and free days out in Manchester for Families.

Closest Beaches to Manchester 

A trip to the beach always makes a lovely summer holiday day out, weather permitting of course. 

Although Manchester doesn’t have a beach (well not yet – see here) there are some lovely beaches just a short drive away. 

Whether you fancy a lively seaside with lots of attractions or prefer a quieter day watching the tide, you will find a choice for all tastes not too far from Manchester

Read More >>> Best Beaches Near Manchester 

Splash Zones and Outdoor Swimming Pools

Fingers crossed summer will bring the sun. However, if it does get too hot an outdoor pool or splash area will make an ideal day out. 

There are some great play fountains, splash zones, paddling pools and even full-on outdoor swimming pools around Manchester. 

Most of these great summer days out cost nothing or very little to enter, but lots do require booking. 

Discover some great places for the kids to cool down this summer in our Splash Area and Outdoor Pool guide here. 

Cheap Manchester Cinema Tickets 

Whether it’s due to a rainy day, looking for a chilled activity or watching the latest blockbuster, a trip to the cinema always makes a lovely summer holiday treat. 

However, a trip to see a new film can work out expensive.

But did you know that not all cinemas charge the same prices every day? Some offer cheaper prices on different days and times of the week.

Plus there is a big difference in cinema ticket costs depending on the location. 

We have been on the hunt to find the cheapest cinema tickets right across Greater Manchester to help families save some money this summer. 

Read More >>> Cheapest cinema tickets in Manchester