Things to Do During Halloween Half Term

The spookiest of half terms is nearly upon us again; kids excited, parents not quite so much! But hey, as well as Halloween, here’s what family fun and activities we’ve found locally to pass the time, save on Haribo and prevent wine 0’clock overloading…..

There’s a list of pumpkin patches at the end! What more do you want?!

Have a fangtastic ๐ŸŽƒ fortnight, and oh, and come back to spook this list again soon, as I’m sure more will be added!

Wed 15th

Okay, let’s kick off early, Wednesday 15th, school gates still open, but St Thomasโ€™ Church Trowbridge has a Brownie Trail session from 6:45, find the link below…..


Rag and Bone Arts CICs recurring event in Chippenham for ages 12+.
You can do art and design or acting improvisation, delivered in 10 week blocks. Taught by professional actor Rebecca Osborne, learn how to think on your feet, respond and listen and make up scenes using just your brilliant mind and spontaneous ideas.


Pete Firman: Tricks & Giggles @ The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

With over 4.5 million social media followers and countless TV appearances under his belt, Pete Firman is the UK’s top comic magician. Join him for an evening of ‘Tricks & Giggles’, as Pete brings his trademark blend of magic and comedy from the small screen to stages around the UK with this brand-new show. Expect impossible feats, sleight of hand and big laughs from one of magic’s most exciting performers! As seen on Amazon’s Good Omens, ITV1’s Tonight at the London Palladium and The Next Great Magician, BBC1’s The John Bishop Show and The Sarah Millican Television Programme. He’s probably also popped up on your social media feeds with his mind-boggling and regularly viral magic videos. Age restriction: 11+.


Fri 17th

Rock the Tots: Spooky Fun@ The Rondo Theatre, Bath

Steph & Craig Mitchell presents a spooky and ghouly edition of their Gigs for little onesโ€ฆ and their grown-ups!

Weโ€™re edging closer to Halloween, and Steph & Craig are back with all things spooky and ghouly! Donโ€™t worry โ€“ nothing too scary for the babies and Littlesโ€ฆ or grown-ups for that matter! But there will be some seasonal bangers โ€“ think Monster Mash, Ghostbusters and The Cranberries to name a few.

Get into the mood and come in spooky fancy dress. Who ya gonna call? Rock The Tots!

Sessions are approximately 1 hour long, without an interval.
Suitable for children aged 0-6, and their adults. Under 1s go free!


Journey to the Centre of the Earth @ Pound Arts, Corsham

Standard: ยฃ15

Lamphouse Theatre presents โ€ฆ Journey to the Centre of the Earth!

Take a break Rick Wakeman, back to your trailer Brendan Fraser, watch and learn Jules Verne, Lamphouse are going on a journey all the way to the centre of the Earth! Two intrepid explorers, one impossible mission (featuring at least one joke about a big hole), and no special effects budget whatsoever. What could possibly go wrong?

From the makers of War of the Worlds (On a Budget) and Frankenstein (On a Budget) this new comedy take on Jules Verneโ€™s classic novel will be one epic night out, full of belly laughs, brand new music and really impressive* dinosaurs.

Featuring Tom Fox and Becky Owen-Fisher, the familiar faces behind the On a Budget series, Journey to the Centre of the Earth will be another fan favourite. Expect silly jokes, catchy tunes, ridiculous costumes and lots and lots of cardboard.

*not actually that impressive

Suitable for 10+


Sat 18th

Devizes Halloween Bingo

Come along to the 1st Devizes Halloween Bingo for an afternoon full of treats and spooky fun at 1st Devizes scout hall 29 Southbroom Rd Devizes SN10 5AD. Eyes down 4pmโ€“6pm. Bingo games for everyone. Fancy dress โ€“ come in your best Halloween costume! Prizes & goodie bags. Yummy food and refreshments. Raffle with lots of surprises. The perfect way to enjoy Halloween with the whole family!


It’s Trowbridge Carnival, see the link below for details!


Brick Creative Club with Trowbridge Library

A recurring feature for Trowbridge Library, for all those little builders.


Sun 19th

Storytime: The Dinosaur That Pooped A Monster!

Join Waterstones, 29 Borough Parade, Chippenham SN15 3WL for their Sunday afternoon storytime where they will be reading the slimy ‘The Dinosaur That Pooped A Monster’ by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter. All are welcome.


Mon 20th

Rock the Tots: Spooky Fun @ Pound Arts, Corsham

Steph & Craig Mitchell presents a spooky and ghouly edition of their Gigs for little onesโ€ฆ and their grown-ups!

Weโ€™re edging closer to Halloween, and Steph & Craig are back with all things spooky and ghouly! Donโ€™t worry โ€“ nothing too scary for the babies and Littlesโ€ฆ or grown-ups for that matter! But there will be some seasonal bangers โ€“ think Monster Mash, Ghostbusters and The Cranberries to name a few.

Get into the mood and come in spooky fancy dress. Who ya gonna call? Rock The Tots!

Sessions are approximately 1 hour long, without an interval.
Suitable for children aged 0-6, and their adults. Under 1s go free!


Tues 21st

Online 1 Year GCSE Food and Nutrition Courses


Know Your Chalk Horse!

Our friendly historian Brian Edwards has a talk on white horses in Pewsey. I’m not sure how family-friendly this will be, but budding historians might find it of interest.


(-25th) Blood Brothers@ The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

Running until Saturday 25th. Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences. Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi-award winning Blood Brothers. The production ran for more than 10,000 performances in Londonโ€™s West End, one of only five musicals ever to achieve that milestone. It has been affectionately christened the โ€˜Standing Ovation Musicalโ€™, as inevitably it โ€œbrings the audience cheering to its feet and roaring its approvalโ€ (The Daily Mail). The superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me Itโ€™s Not True. Age Guidance: 12+


Wed 22nd

(-25th Oct) SIX: Teen Edition@ The Rondo Theatre, Bath

Wed 22 โ€“ Sat 25 Oct โ€ข 3pm & 7:30pm โ€ข Admission ยฃ15 โ€ข Community Theatre

By Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss
Presented by Merriman Productions

His-storyโ€™s about to get overthrownโ€ฆ again! Back by popular demand, Merriman Productions present SIX: TEEN EDITION; a full-length adaptation of Toby Marlow and Lucy Mossโ€™ international phenomenon SIX, modified for performance by teen actors for family audiences.

Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived. From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the mic to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a euphoric celebration of 21st-century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over.


Thurs 23rd

Kidโ€™s Spooky Half Term Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

All children must be accompanied by one adult per child. If you have multiple adults coming (parents/grandparents), we kindly ask that they wait in the cafรฉ for the workshop to finish.

Numbers are limited. Booking is essential and due to limited spaces please book early to avoid disappointment. Sessions are ยฃ9.50 per child. Refreshments will be available from our coffee shop to purchase. Our age recommendation for our Art Clubs is 3-11.


Fri 24th

Lunchbox Buddy is back in Devizes!


Devizes Ghost Walks โ€“ October 2025

I’m not sure how child-friendly John’s famous ghost walks are, bit if you dare!!


Kidโ€™s Spooky Half Term Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

All children must be accompanied by one adult per child. If you have multiple adults coming (parents/grandparents), we kindly ask that they wait in the cafรฉ for the workshop to finish.

Numbers are limited. Booking is essential and due to limited spaces please book early to avoid disappointment. Sessions are ยฃ9.50 per child. Refreshments will be available from our coffee shop to purchase. Our age recommendation for our Art Clubs is 3-11.


North Bradley Pumpkin Trail 2025


Sat 25th

Autumn in the Park @ Hillworth Park, Devizes

Our awesome Parks and Open Spaces crew is rolling out their tractors, electric vehicles, and cool machinery for you to explore โ€“ talk about a joyride!

This year, weโ€™re joined by Arty Kids Pottery Painting, Crazy Cheeks face painting and Chloeโ€™s Mobile Farm. And donโ€™t forget to flex those brain muscles with our Halloween themed word search โ€“ go on a letter hunt around the park and see if you can conjure up the spooky words!

๐Ÿ‘ป Dress to impress in your Halloween finest! The Deputy Mayor will be on the lookout for the best costumes at 1:30pm right outside the Cafรฉ โ€“ and there are prizes up for grabs in these categories:

Ages 6 and under

Ages 7-12

Ages 13+ (adults, unleash your inner ghoul!) ๐ŸงŸโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ•ท

Come for the fun, stay for the spooky vibes โ€“ see you in the park!


Woodbridge Inn Halloween Fest, North Newnton

This October half term, The Woodbridge Inn is bringing the community together for a spooktacular celebrationโ€”and everyoneโ€™s invited!

๐Ÿ“ Dates:
๐Ÿ—“๏ธ Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th October
๐Ÿ—“๏ธ Thursday 30th & Friday 31st October
โฐ Fest opens at 12PM | Fun until 6PM

โœจ Whatโ€™s waiting for you:
๐ŸŽƒ Pumpkin Picking
๐Ÿ›๏ธ Craft & Produce Market โ€“ handmade gifts, bakes, jams, plants, sweets & more
๐Ÿฐ Sweet & Cake Stalls
๐ŸŽจ Arts & Crafts Activities
๐Ÿ‘ป Face Painting & Hair Braiding
๐ŸŒญ Burgers, Hot Dogs & Autumn Eats
๐Ÿ”ฎ Fun Tarot Readings
๐ŸŽถ Live Music & Autumn Vibes
๐Ÿบ Beer, Wine & Seasonal Sips from the Bar

Whether youโ€™re here to shop, snack, sip, or simply soak up the spooky atmosphere, this is a celebration for all ages. Weโ€™re proud to support local businesses and bring our community together for a few days of festive fun.


The Parade Cinema Marlborough Family Halloween Trail ๐ŸŽƒ

Our annual halloween trail makes it’s return on Saturday 25th October at The Parade Cinema Marlborough!

Each ticket purchase for Corpse Bride or Hotel Transylvania on the 25th October gives a child a free spot on our yearly Halloween Trail around Marlborough, open from 11am to 2:30pm. We expect the trail to take around 45 minutes to complete, so last entry for the trail will be 1:45pm.

Book your tickets now… if your dare! www.theparadecinema.com ๐Ÿ“ž 01672 646232 (Between 10am & 7pm)


Longleat Ghost Tours

This October Half Term, Ghost Tours are making a spooky return during Longleat’s Great British Autumn event. Longleat House was built between 1567 โ€“ 1580, and it is believed to still have people who featured in its history making their presence felt. Discover the supernatural stories as expert guides reveal the tale of Lady Louisa Carteret, known as the Grey Lady, who is said to still walk the corridors searching for her lover.

 https://www.longleat.co.uk/events/ghost-tours


Trowbridge Musical Theatre presents Robin Hood โ€“ A Pantomime Adventure!




Kidsโ€™ Halloween Spooktacular @ Broadtown Brewery – Hop Chapel and Hop Gardens, Lydiard Tregoze

Bring the kids along to The Hop Chapel on Saturday 25th October from 1 – 3pm as we transform The Old Brewhouse into The Old BOO-house!!

๐ŸŽƒ We’ll have two whole hours full of Halloween fun, with pumpkin carving, ghoulish games and more (all treats no tricks, we promise – we don’t want to scare your little ones!)

๐Ÿ‘ป We’ll have a prizes up for grabs for the best pumpkin design, best pumpkin carving and the best dressed, so don’t forget your costumes!

https://allevents.in/lydiard-tregoze/kids%E2%80%99-halloween-spooktacular/200028572175743


The Three Little Vikings @ Salisbury Arts Centre

Presented by Wrongsemble. Salisbury Arts Centre. Tickets from ยฃ12 (ยฃ10 for children) Family show suitable for children 3-9 years olds.


October half term bug trail at Dyrham Park

from 25th Oct to 2nd Nov 2025, get out into the great outdoors this October half term for an insect-themed trail around the 270 acres of parkland. ยฃ2.50 per trail (normal admissions apply). Booking not required. Running 10am to 4pm, with last entry at 3pm.


Sun 26th


Mon 27th

Half Term Chocolate Experience@ Hollychocs, Poulshot, Devizes

Autumn Half Term Chocolate Experience at Hollychocs
A cosy, hands-on chocolate-making adventure for grown-ups and children aged 5 & up to enjoy together

Looking for a fun and creative way to spend time with your child or grandchild this October? Our Autumn Half Term Chocolate Experience is the perfect school holiday activityโ€”designed for adults and children aged 5 & up to enjoy side-by-side.

Hosted by The Southwestโ€™s Chocolate Champion, Holly Garner, this joyful and cosy experience is all about making sweet memories together as the autumn chill sets in.

๐Ÿซ Start with a hot chocolate treat
Warm up with a choice from our Ultimate Hot Chocolate Menuโ€”featuring 12 indulgent flavours to begin your chocolate-filled day.

๐ŸŒ Discover where chocolate comes from
Taste raw cocoa beans, sample our signature blends, and learn how chocolate is madeโ€”plus how we support small, ethical cocoa farms around the world.

๐Ÿ‘‰๐ŸปMake & decorate your own chocolates
Roll up your sleeves and create your own delicious chocolate treats to take home (if they donโ€™t get eaten first!).

๐ŸŽ Enjoy a special shopping discount
Take home even more chocolatey joy with an exclusive Hollychocs discount on the day.


Rowdey Cow Halloween Festivities

Perfect for parents, grandparents and carers looking for something memorable to do with their children this autumn. Whether itโ€™s bonding time, a school holiday treat or a special birthday surpriseโ€”this is time well (and sweetly) spent.

Join us at the Rowdey Cow for our halloween festivities ๐Ÿ•ธ๐ŸŽƒ

Pick a pumpkin from its patch & come in to carve your spooky artwork!

๐ŸŽƒ27th – 31st October

๐ŸŽƒ9.30am – 11am

๐ŸŽƒยฃ5 per pumpkin

***No need to book


The Farm Cookery School Halloween Holiday Club


Arty Pants in Sutton Veny


Lights Up, Sounds Down Days at the REME Museum

Join us for a more relaxed visit at the REME Museum during this special opening outside of our regular hours.

We have designed these โ€˜Lights Up, Sounds Downโ€™ days to reduce sensory input for individuals who would prefer a quieter experience. These sessions are primarily for, though not limited to, anyone who has sensory processing disorder; autism; social, emotional or mental health needs; dementia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or any other sensory needs.

During these days we will have:

Lights On โ€“ our overhead gallery lighting will be turned on, without spotlights, to create a brighter environment in which to explore.
Sounds Down โ€“ we will reduce sound effects throughout the museum as much as possible by turning off most โ€˜surround soundโ€™ interactives and reducing volumes.
Sensory maps โ€“ we have marked out any areas around the museum where you may find louder interactives or visual effects that we cannot turn off. This means you can choose your own route and avoid any areas as you wish.

If you would like to bring any sensory items (including but not limited to ear defenders, magnifying glass, book, squeezy toy) that will help you or your loved one to enjoy their experience better, please feel free to do so, just make sure you hold onto it and take it home with you!


Wonder Gigs: Bigger Kids @ Pound Arts, Corsham

Child: ยฃ6 Adult: ยฃ6 Under 1s: FREE

Join Filskit Theatre for an uplifting and relaxing hour with a talented live musician playing beautiful acoustic versions of well-known folk, jazz and pop songs. Enjoyable for both big and small ears alike thereโ€™ll be beautiful, atmospheric sensory visuals perfect for even the youngest audience members. And, as itโ€™s halt term, bigger kids are welcome too so bring them along for this hour of fun and sensory play for the whole family.


Tues 28th

October Holiday Activities @ Wiltshire Museum Devizes

October Holiday Activities Lecture Hall  28th October 2025 10:30 am – 12:00 pm  10:30 am – 12:00 pmCome along to our spooky Halloween activities for ages 3 to 11: pebble skulls spooky ghosts paper pumpkins and puppetsโ€ฆ

 Book OnlineOctober Holiday Activities Lecture Hall  28th October 2025 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm  1:30 pm – 3:00 pmCome along to our spooky Halloween activities for ages 3 to 11: pebble skulls spooky ghosts paper pumpkins and puppets.


Art Workshop in Rowde

On Tuesday morning, the 28th of October, from 9am to 12 noon, an Art Workshop takes place, at The Mind Tree Cafe in Rowde. It’s creative fun with collage and mixed media, hosted by Nancy Rose. It’s ยฃ30 for the session, and you must book in advance by emailing nancyrosehats@yahoo.com


This October Half Term, join us at the REME Museum for spooktacular STEM and crafts activities for all the family to enjoy.

https://www.rememuseum.org.uk/

โ€˜Rocket Poweredโ€™ โ€“ Tuesday 28 October
Drop-in, Education Suite

Design and launch your own bottle rocket or air powered car, using the same principles of engineering in rocket science! Led by our Education Officer, Andrew.

Miniature Assault Course โ€“ Every day 28-31 October
Drop-in, outdoors

Take on our miniature army-style assault course! Race your way across the course or take your time and enjoy the challenge! Please note: This activity is weather dependent.


Princess Pirate @ Pound Arts, Corsham

Adult: ยฃ10 Child: ยฃ10 Under 2s: FREE

Pirate Princess is a heartwarming story of hope against adversity told with physical theatre, clowning and circus. This brand new solo show by circus performer and professional idiot Gemma Bond tells the tale of poor shipwrecked Princess Poppy. Can she overcome a big dress, extreme weather and the ultimate test of strength to see her way to safety?

Inspired by strong and inventive women of history, Poppy must transform physically and mentally if she is to have any hope of rescuing herself from eternity on an island in the ocean. The show encourages all to reuse, repurpose and recycle as Poppy reinvents her outfit and her mindset to overcome her predicament.

A visual feast of colourful costume and a unique crowโ€™s nest on a pole prop, this is a fun filled show for children aged 5 to 11 and their families.

Wed 29th

October Holiday Activities @ Wiltshire Museum Devizes

Come along to our spooky Halloween activities for ages 3 to 11: pebble skulls spooky ghosts paper pumpkins and puppetsโ€ฆ


+11 Holiday Club @ The Farm Cookery School


Pumpkin Painting @ St Peter’s, Marlborough


Pumpkins in the Park, Warminster



This October Half Term, join us at the REME Museum for spooktacular STEM and crafts activities for all the family to enjoy.

https://www.rememuseum.org.uk/

LEGOยฎ Engineering โ€“ Wednesday 29 October
Pre-bookable sessions, Education Suite

Unleash your inner engineer and build a vehicle from LEGOยฎ that will actually drive! Recommended for ages 7 and above.


Thurs 30th

Kidโ€™s Spooky Half Term Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

All children must be accompanied by one adult per child. If you have multiple adults coming (parents/grandparents), we kindly ask that they wait in the cafรฉ for the workshop to finish.

Numbers are limited. Booking is essential and due to limited spaces please book early to avoid disappointment. Sessions are ยฃ9.50 per child. Refreshments will be available from our coffee shop to purchase. Our age recommendation for our Art Clubs is 3-11.


The Sheep Ate Up The Fairies @ Trowbridge Museum

3 days of captivating talks, hands-on crafts & engaging activities start today!



This October Half Term, join us at the REME Museum for spooktacular STEM and crafts activities for all the family to enjoy.

https://www.rememuseum.org.uk/

Meccano Makes โ€“ Thursday 30 October
Drop-in, Education Suite

Get hands-on with Meccano construction sets to engineer your own vehicle, equipment and more! Recommended for ages 7 and above.


Fri 31st

Kenavon Venture (Halloween Children)

A one hour boat trip on Friday 31st October at 16:00 and 18:00 along the canal packed with fun and games for the children. Fancy dress welcome. 

Please Note:
Dogs are accepted at the discretion of the Skipper on the day who will check with other passengers first. Family tickets not available. 

Children must be accompanies by at least one adult.

Kenavon Venture is a wide beam boat, seating up to 38 passengers, operated by volunteers of the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust.
To book a private charter of this or any other trip, please send an enquiry via the main website.


Devizes Halloween Ghost Walk โ€“ October 2025


Cook Together with The Farm Cookery School


Halloween Disco at Trowbridge Civic Centre


This October Half Term, join us at the REME Museum for spooktacular STEM and crafts activities for all the family to enjoy.

https://www.rememuseum.org.uk/

โ€˜Build a Tankโ€™ Junk Modelling โ€“ Friday 31 October
Self-led, Creation Station

Come and create your own special REME-inspired vehicle to take away with you! Get creative and see what you can make from recycled materials. The only limit is your imagination!


Pumpkin Patches

Farmer Mark’s Pumpkin Patch

4.9(21) ยท Pumpkin patch


Marlborough”Lovely variety of pumpkins and gourds to pick, at very reasonable prices.”


Lotmead Pick Your Own

4.5(750) ยท Farm shop

Swindon

Closes soon โ‹… 5โ€ฏpm ยท 01793 790137″Great small farm, we picked a good piece of pumpkin for Halloween.”


Pumpkin picking patch

5.0(10) ยท Farm shop

Chippenham

Closed โ‹… Opens 8:30โ€ฏam Sat”We visited early this year and grabbed us a nice variety of pumpkins.”


A Parsons & Son Farming/Pumpkin Picking Patch

4.9(19) ยท Farm

Salisbury

Closed โ‹… Opens 9:30โ€ฏam Sat ยท 07887 642801″Great valve and a massive selection of top quality pumpkins


Easton Farm Pumpkin Patch

5.0(4) ยท Farm

Pewsey

Closed โ‹… Opens 10โ€ฏam Sat ยท 07964 860741″Farm beef also available to purchase.”


V & P Collins Farm Shop

4.5(170) ยท Farm shop

Chippenham

Closes soon โ‹… 5โ€ฏpm ยท 01380 850228″A great farm shop, they have a massive amount of pumpkins on off right now.”


Pomeroy Pumpkin Patch

5.0(6) ยท Pumpkin patch

Trowbridge

Closed โ‹… Opens 10โ€ฏam Sat”Bring wellies!!”


Roves Farm

4.5(1.1K) ยท Tourist attraction

Swindon

Closes soon โ‹… 5โ€ฏpm ยท 01793 763939″Entry fee was nearly &60 for 3 Adults and two toddlers.”


Allington Farm Shop

4.5(419) ยท Farm shop

Chippenham

Open โ‹… Closes 5:30โ€ฏpm ยท 01249 658112″The kids get so excited it helps getting them up and out early!”


Ansty Farm Shop

4.5(186) ยท ยฃ1โ€“10 ยท Coffee shop

Salisbury

Closed โ‹… Opens 10โ€ฏam Wed ยท 01747 829072″Fun place to go with super friendly staff, loved the pumpkin picking.”


Pound Farm

4.7(82) ยท Farm shop

Chippenham

Closed โ‹… Opens 10โ€ฏam Thu”My boys enjoyed picking out their own pumpkins.”


Bath Pumpkin Patch

4.4(63) ยท Farm

Bath

Closed โ‹… Opens 10โ€ฏam Wed”… recommended well organised friendly good quality pumpkins


Stourton Farm

4.4(7) ยท Farm

Trowbridge

01380 870484″Great excuse to pick up a dozen duck eggs.


Allington Farm

4.8(4) ยท Farm

Chippenham“Lush coffee and walnut cake!”


Pick of the Patch

5.0(7) ยท Pumpkin patch

Devizes

Temporarily closed ยท 07970 781828“A fabulous few hours picking pumpkins with kids.”


Online Stuff 2 Do This Half Term

Yay! Home Schooling is out for half term, but before itโ€™s replaced with excruciating racket, higgledy-piggledy hullabaloos, and junior revolutionary uprisings, diligent stay-at-home parents teetering on the edge of wine oโ€™clock should note, if the outside activity mountain won’t come to Muhammad, well, Muhammad has to get there online. Hereโ€™s some โ€œlitโ€ bodacious suggies to get him harnessing his cramponsโ€ฆ.

No, Iโ€™ve no idea what that meant either, just hit me with your suggestions, homies, and Iโ€™ll add them here without beef!

Firstly, keep them well fed, and if you’re having difficulty…….

FREE SCHOOL MEALS ELIGIBILITY

Wiltshire Council is urging families who find themselves in difficult circumstances to check if they are also eligible for free school meals and the holiday food funding. Families can find out details of how to apply for free school meals support on the Wiltshire Council website including those families on: -โ€ข Income Supportโ€ข Job Seeker’s Allowance (income-based)โ€ข Employment and Support Allowance (income-related)โ€ข Support under part six of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999โ€ข The Guarantee element of State Pension Creditโ€ข Child Tax Credit – providing you are NOT entitled to Working Tax Credit and your family’s annual income (as assessed by HMRC) is not more than ยฃ16,190 (as at 6 April 2012)โ€ข Working Tax Credit ‘run-on’ – the payment you may receive for a further four weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Creditโ€ข Universal Credit (provided you have an annual net earned income of no more than ยฃ7,400, as assessed by earnings from up to three of your most recent assessment periods) โ€ข Better2Gether Funding (two year olds only) Universal Credit – if you and your partner are on a low income from work (this usually means a combined income of less than ยฃ15,400 a year after tax)Or if the two year old child: -โ€ข Has a statutory statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN) or an Education, Health and Care Plan.โ€ข Has left local authority care through a Special Guardianship Order, adoption or a Residence Orderโ€ข Is currently a Looked After Child, for example in foster careโ€ข Is in receipt of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)People should apply directly to Wiltshire Council if they are eligible but currently do not have free school meals by using the form on the Council website.

Morrisons Kids Meal and Pizza making Boxes Here!


Creative

Stuff!

Get Cartooning!

Thereโ€™s always cartoon and comic workshops to get creative darlings budding. Enter Beano artist and charismatic comedian Kev F, whose Comic Art Masterclass usually travels the schools and libraries of the country, and ends with some seriously entertained kids each with their own homemade comic. The only need to travel is to grab some paper and pens now Kevโ€™s class is online.

But check here for a number of different creators giving away their artistic secrets in comic workshopsโ€ฆ


The End of the Pier Show

Jonny Fluffypunk presents a brand spanking new show for families, with poetry, puppetry, story, song and a healthy dose of ramshackle anarchy.

Cooking

Stuff!

The Farm Cookery School in Netherstreet

have their popular holiday clubs online, and are available to book NOW! They are only ยฃ10 – ยฃ15 per login and that includes LIVE Tuition as well as a Recipe and Ingredients Guide which will be emailed to you straight away. Just imagine, dinner may be served by your little horrors!

Learning

Stuff!

Family half term activities among online events at Chippenham Museum

Prior to lockdown Wiltshire Museum were really enjoying hosting Curious Kids sessions for under 5โ€™s and their grown-ups. They have adapted sessions to deliver them on zoom. A chance for younger children to have some interaction with people from outside the home and for families to learn, create and play together โ€“ supported by the museum.

February Half term session will focus on Saxon Crafts and will look at weaving jewellery.


STEM Venturi

 February Half Term online coding courses for 7 – 12+ year olds. Also debuting Girls Who Code course…โ€ฆ Lots of coding courses including Minecraft!


Music

Stuff!

Open to all young people aged 12 โ€“ 18s who love to sing, the new Wiltshire Youth Choir (WYC) will take your singing and performance to the next level.
– Learn from inspiring choir leaders with years of professional experience
– Explore music from different genres: musical theatre, pop, classical and more…
– Work towards performances in some of the countyโ€™s top music venues
Join us for our next free virtual Come and Sing workshop on Thursday, 18 February, 10.00 – 12.00 via zoom.

Trending now….

Lady Nade; Sober!

Dry January, anyone? Well, Lady Nade just plunged into an outdoor 4ยฐC eucalyptus sauna for a social media reel. But whilst I’d require a stiffโ€ฆ

Ha! Let’s Laugh at Hunt Supporters!

Christmas has come early for foxes and normal humans with any slither of compassion remaining, as the government announced the righteous move to ban trailโ€ฆ

Rooks; New Single From M3G

Chippenham folk singer-songwriter, M3G (because she likes a backward โ€œEโ€) has a new single out tomorrow, Friday 19th December. Put your jingly bell cheesy tunesโ€ฆ

Burning the Midday Oil at The Muck

Highest season of goodwill praises must go to Chrissy Chapman today, who raised over ยฃ500 (at the last count) for His Grace Childrenโ€™s Centre inโ€ฆ

Half Term Worries Over; things to do with little ones during February half-termโ€ฆ

Donโ€™t panic, and reach for the crate of wine, itโ€™s only a half-term holiday. Plus, weโ€™ve some solutions to keep them from wearing their X-Box out. So, without further a-do hereโ€™s the lowdown on exciting activities and events to engage their little minds, and help keep your sanity!

Events which run through the week are listed on the day they begin, but Iโ€™ll put a little OG next to them to let you know itโ€™s ongoing, because we all like an og now and then.

Only a few solutions youโ€™ll note, mind, not found as much as I usually do for other school holidays, but we have the power to amend this, do let me know what Iโ€™ve missed, local area only please, and we can always add them, provided youโ€™re nice! Also note, we do this for each school holiday, so donโ€™t forget it for Easter too; let me know, saves my legwork.


Saturday 15th February

OG: At Stonehenge this half-term, theyโ€™re running hands-on workshops for all the family all week, with forensic facial reconstruction experts. Learn how to use archaeological evidence to uncover what people might have looked like thousands of years ago, (Iโ€™ll give you a clue, a bit like me in the morning) and even have a go at a reconstruction yourself! No booking required; workshops are included with a standard Stonehenge admission ticket.


Sunday 16th February

OG: Pick your own daffodils at Whitehall Garden Centre in Woodborough from Sunday until the end of March, subject to availability and weather permitting. ยฃ4.99 per bag โ€“ Maximum of approximately 50 stems. Book tickets.


Monday 17th February

OG:CJ School of Music introduces an interesting idea over the half term, starting Monday; a recycled orchestra project will see children make their own instrument out of recycled โ€œthingsโ€ and create a recycled orchestra together! They promise โ€œit wonโ€™t be rubbish!โ€ Bring a lunch as itโ€™s from 9-3:30.

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OG: Scrap Modelling at its finest for ages 3 to 11, at the Holiday Art Club of the Wiltshire Scrapstore & Resource Centre on Bowden Hill near Lacock. Running all week, bring your mini-Monets along to a popular Holiday Art Club, and teach them the importance of reducing and reusing our waste, all whilst having lots of fun using the scrap resources! Each session is run by a qualified trainer. Parents/guardians must stay with attending children during the session, and pre-booking is essential.


Blue Butterfly Yoga Provides yoga instruction for children in Devizes and surrounding areas, and theyโ€™re at Rowde Village Hall in the morning with a class for 3-7-year olds. Yoga games and songs, breathing techniques and a short relaxation. Siblings receive a ยฃ1 discount. Tea, coffee, squash and biscuits available in the adjoining room so parents/carers can have a little relaxation time too. You are also welcome to bring babies or younger siblings along as there is plenty of space in the next room. Limited numbers for this, payment secures your place; contact here to book a slot.


Meet children’s author Rachel Jane @ Melksham Library at 10:30 on Monday, and hear all about the adventures of Milo and Lil the Campervans! Rachel will be reading two of her books, and this will be followed by a themed craft activity. Ideally 3-7-year olds, this is a free event. Please book your place at the library: Tel: 01225 702039


M4 Stompers is a regular line dance class, every Monday evening at The Town Hall, Devizes and welcomes all ages & abilities. Absolute Beginners Class 6.30-7.30pm ยฃ5. Beginners 7-8pm ยฃ5. Dance 6.30-8pm ยฃ6. Improvers Class 7.30-9.30pm ยฃ6.


How about you create a dinosaur or unicorn on Monday? Childrenโ€™s party organiser, Smarty Party Roxy invites you to fill a 16″ Dinosaur or Unicorn with fluff, a make-a-wish token and love at Shrewton Methodist Church. Complete the birth certificate and take your new friend home in their own carry bag. Squash and snacks available, there will also be a fancy-dress competition for the best Dinosaur/Unicorn outfit or accessories. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times, this activity is best suited to ages 4 and over. ยฃ12.50 per Dinosaur/ Unicorn tickets available from Eventbrite.

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Tuesday 18th February

OG: Devizes Tennis Club has a holiday camps, running from Monday to Thursday. Promises to be fun, enjoyable days for juniors to come along, make new friends and improve their tennis skills with coaching activities. Theyโ€™ll be serving up three days of tennis fun for Minis (aged 3-9 years) this February Half term and best of all, itโ€™ll be indoors. Spaces are limited, just 20 per day, so early booking is recommended! Camp will run Tuesday 18th to Thursday 20th February 2020, from 10am to 3pm daily. Half days are available by prior arrangement. The cost is ยฃ20 per day, held in the School Hall at Bishops Cannings Primary School.
Camps are run by experience LTA qualified, DBS checked and first aid certified coaches so you can be assured your kids are in safe hands. No experience, no membership, no racket required! Just a packed lunch, drink and suitable clothing are needed, oh and plenty of energy and enthusiasm!


Holiday Activities at the Wiltshire Museum, Devizes starts off with star splatter pictures in a workshop called โ€œStars and Space.โ€ Inspired by the โ€˜Earth and Universeโ€™ photographic exhibition, youโ€™ll be creating star splatter pictures and other space and star themed craft. Two sessions: 10.30am-12.00noon and 1.00 โ€“ 2.30pm. Booking essential โ€“ ยฃ6 per child, no charge for adults attending workshop.


CJ School of Music in Potterne again, with a Feb Sing, today and on Friday 21st too. 9am-1pm, with a performance for the parents at 12:30. ยฃ19 per person.

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Wednesday 19th February

Another holiday Activity at Wiltshire Museum, this time itโ€™s Stone Age Discoveries. Art and craft creations for the whole family inspired by cave art and prehistoric animals. Two sessions 10.30am-12.00noon and 1.00 โ€“ 2.30pm. Booking essential โ€“ ยฃ6 per child, no charge for adults attending workshop.

Crafty Kids in the Cafรฉ: The Cafe in the Park, Hillworth Park, Devizes.

Wally loves to find treasure on his travels! Bring your mini-makers along to decorate their very own wooden treasure box to keep their own riches in!Sessions running at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Tickets are ยฃ4.50 per child and include the box, a drink and a snack.

Please note that you cannot leave your child unattended during these sessions.


OG: Meanwhile, over at the Potterne village hall, the Potterne Pantomime presents Jack & The Beanstalk. It runs each day until Saturday, at 7 and a matinee on Saturday at 1:30pm. See the poster for details.

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Leadership Martial Arts run classes every Wednesday afternoon and Sunday morning at the Cavalier Community Hall on Eastleigh Road, and are open right through the half term holiday.


Thursday 20th February

OG: Jackโ€™s Beanstalk also grows over to the Seend Community Centre on Thursday as Fawlty Players Presents Jack and The Beanstalk. Running until Saturday, tickets on sale at the Post Office and Community Centre.


Friday 21st February

The Hillworth Park gang are throwing open the gates to Wally, Wanda and their friends on Friday!

Have your picture taken with Wally and Wanda, take part in our treasure hunt and add yourself to our very own enormous Whereโ€™s Wally poster! The wonderful books will be on sale too from our friends at Devizes Books.

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Saturday 22nd February

Frozen fans need to head to the Cavalier Community Hall where they have a Children’s Frozen Theme Ball, with a special guest appearance from Alsa and Anna, oh and Pippa Langhorne too, who sang with her dog on Britain’s Got Talent. It promises to be an afternoon of songs, stories, photos and a disco to follow. There will be a prize for the best dress girl and boy.

This one is just a fiver, and ยฃ3.50 for photos, but itโ€™s all in aid of my favourite 5-year-old, Carmela, who you may recall from my Spiderman outing last summer. If not, she is battling a rare progressive muscle wasting disease which will weaken all her muscles including her heart and lungs, shortening her life to potentially 16. Money raised will go to her Therapy Fund to help with ongoing specialised equipment, physiotherapy and adaptions as she grows. Tickets limited so book online. Photos must also be paid in advance on the ticket line.

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Sunday 23rd February

Nothing new yet, have a day of rest and pray Monday isn’t a teacher training day, or as I like to call them, teacher down the pub day! Have a great half term!


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Half Term Fill: Local Things To Do For Kids

Big gulp of wine Mums, itโ€™s half term next week. Okay, thatโ€™s quite enough, donโ€™t panic. From daffodil picking, cooking and first aid, to football, driving tanks and having a go at being a DJ, hereโ€™s some things to keep little soldiers and princesses of all ages at bay, and smiling!

 
Sure thing is a movie; โ€œHow to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World,โ€ is at the Palace Cinema, from today until Thursday 21st. โ€œThe Lego Movie 2โ€ is a must, from Friday 15th also until Thursday 21st.

 

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From Thursday 14th through to Friday 22nd thereโ€™s a funfair at The County Ground in Swindon, from 2pm. Scream if you want me to go faster, or youโ€™re running low on wine.

 
There will be the usual free swimming at the Leisure Centres, but check ahead, as some timetables have changed.

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You could take them for a trip down the Kennet & Avon, The Admiral is free on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th, find it at the Caen Hill Cafรฉ, below the bridge at lock 44, at 11am. There will be trial sheets to explore the Jubilee Woods, and, back on board there will be a history of the canal and its restoration.

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Starting Saturday 16th, you can pick your own daffodils at Woodboroughโ€™s Whitehall Garden Centre, available daily until 31st March. ยฃ4.99 per bag. Both centres, at Woodbrough and Lacock, have a Gardening Nature Trail until Thursday 21st. Claim a lollipop at customer services for every completed entry.

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Saturday (16th) The Devizes Family Club have at Childrenโ€™s Disco at the Conservative Club. 6:30-8pm, all are welcome but only above 9 years should be left. Thereโ€™s an adult creche for you, with bar! ยฃ3 on the door, lucky dip 50p, tbc face painting and optional princess and superhero fancy dress. Proceeds are going to Rowde Academy.

 
Starting Sunday and running through the week, The Wyvern Theatre in Swindon has a roadshow at The Brunel Centre, inviting children to join in at The Crossing, to make dinosaurs or dragons to celebrate the arrival of Dinosaur World Live and Julia Donaldsonโ€™s Zog in April.

 
In Melksham thereโ€™s activities all week long at Young Melkshamโ€™s The Canberra Club. These clubs are for all young people in Year 5 and above (aged 8 to 16) and will run from 2pm till 5pm Monday to Friday, with entry costing ยฃ2.50 per session or a week-long pass for just ยฃ10. There will be a plenty of activities on offer including pool, table tennis, table football, arts and crafts, karaoke, cooking and baking, games and sports and much more. There are also computers and consoles available for use and a chill out room where you can watch tv or a film together.

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The Canberra Centre is amazing building with lots of space to run around and have fun and play games with your friends. There is also an outside courtyard for football, basketball and just burning off some energy! A variety of hot and cold food and snacks will be available to purchase as well as free squash.

 
How about teaching your nipper some line dancing on Monday? All ages and abilities welcome at The Town Hall, Devizes. Early Bird Session: 6.30-7.30pm ยฃ5 Beginners: 7-8pm ยฃ5. Improvers 7.30-9.30pm ยฃ6.

 
For footballers ages three to six, Devizes Town Youth has free coaching in their Little Kickers sessions from 9.30am to 11am on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the Football Club. Kid receive a free t-shirt and football. To sign your child up contact Mr Sheridan on 07860232052 or Raymond King on 07917787903 or Jon Wozencraft on 07767851332

 
Tuesday and Wednesday with two sessions per day: 11.00am โ€“ 12.30pm & 1.30pm โ€“ 3.00pm, thereโ€™s Wildlife in Wiltshire at The Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. Art and Craft activities linked to their Natural History Exhibition. You can make animal masks, create animal models and pictures. These sessions are very popular, so booking is essential. Itโ€™s suitable for age 11 and under. Age 8 and under to be accompanied. ยฃ5 per child. Accompanying adults free.

 
Or maybe try your hand at being a DJ? Trowbridgeโ€™s Community Area Future has a Free Half Term DJ Workshop at Studley Green People’s Place on Tuesday 19th. DJ Nina LoVe will show you how to mix the Old Skool way, using vinyl records! There will be a few different types of music available โ€“ House, UK Garage or Drum and Bass. Come and check it out, book yourself some time on the decks or get on the microphone! For ages 13-18. Please feel free to drop in or call to book a place on 07765371051/tcaf@trowbridge.gov.uk

 
Have a go at a soldier-led assault course, plus Tank-themed fun family activities, at the REME Museum, Lyneham. Make your own tank with parachute and see if your engineering skills are up to scratch by dropping your tank โ€œinto battleโ€ in one piece. On the artistic side, you can design and colour-in tanks. Thereโ€™re model tanks which you can drive on a special course. Drop in from 11 am to 3 pm, any day from Tuesday until Friday. Special soldier run kidโ€™s assault course will be running, plus fun tank-based kids trails, activities and craft in the museum. All children to be accompanied by an adult. All activities are included in the admission fee. Assault Course suitable for 5 – 12-year olds. The Museum is open from 10 am to 4.30 pm (last entry at 3.30 pm), some activities run from 11 am to 3 pm. Museum admission required to take part in activities. No pre-booking required for this activity, just turn up and enjoy.

 
Wednesday 20th is time to get fit in Hillworth Park, free event, in association with Boot Camp UK, itโ€™s going to be all Sprint, Slide, Shake, Scamper, Scurry, Swing and Stomp!

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For arts and crafts, Fired Thoughts at the Old Potato Yard, Devizes, has Half Term Lino Workshops, from Wednesday to Friday. A two-hour workshop to design, cut and print using Lino and inks. All ages and abilities welcome. All materials included, but please book: Tel:01380 840666 email: info@firedthoughts.co.uk

 
At the Court Street Gallery in Trowbridge, thereโ€™s a Children’s Silk Sun Catchers Workshop on Wednesday at 10am. ยฃ15 per person including materials. To learn more and book, visit: www.nicoladaviscrafts.co.uk/workshops.html

 
How about some first aid training for your children? Louise Worsley, a qualified trainer is at Marlborough Rugby Club on Thursday, 21st, 09:30 โ€“ 15:30 with an essential First Aid Training for Children. Sessions are tailored to age groups and are full of practical to make them fun and memorable: 9:30-11am – Mini Life-Savers course for 5-8-year olds – ยฃ18 (ยฃ15 for a sibling.) 11:30am-1pm – Mini Life-Savers course for 8-12-year olds – ยฃ18 (ยฃ15 for a sibling) and 1:30-3:30pm – Teen-Aiders course for 12-16-year olds – ยฃ24 (ยฃ20 for a sibling)

 
Thursday is the opening night for MACS Theatre Schoolโ€™s โ€œThe Addams Familyโ€ at Devizes School. It runs until Sunday. Tickets at Devizes Books or online here. Doors open at 6:30pm for a curtain up at 7:30. Thereโ€™s also a mini Macs matinee performance on Saturday at 2:30pm.

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From Thursday until Saturday 23rd The Seend Village Pantomime presents โ€œSnow White and the 7 Dwarfs.โ€ It takes place at Seend Community Centre, itโ€™s the Fawlty Players 40th Anniversary, and thereโ€™s three of the cast were in the first Snow White in 1981! Tickets at the Post Office and Community Centre.

 
At Bradford on Avonโ€™s St Margaret’s Hall, two of Roald Dahlโ€™s Revolting Rhymes will be performed by local theatre group, the multi award-winning Bradfordians Dramatic Society. A take on Dahl’s retelling of the classic fairy tales, Cinderella and Jack and the Beanstalk. Following their success with The Twits last year, the group will bring Dahl’s honest, often vicious wit and humour to the stage in this production. Show times: Thursday 21st February – 6.30PM, Friday 22nd February – 6.30PM, Saturday 23rd February – 11AM, Saturday 23rd February – 2.30PM, Sunday 24th February – 2.30PM. Head to the Bradfordian’s website to see the full cast and more information here: http://www.thebradfordians.com/

 
Learn some street dance with a taster class at Charlotteโ€™s School of Dance, Bath Rd Business Centre, Devizes, at 7:30pm on Friday with Jacinta Childs. To book this ยฃ5 session text: 07903812364.

 
Aspiring chefs, Saturday 23rd is for you; Margaret Bryant hosts Middle Eastern at Vaughan’s Kitchen Cookery School, Devizes. Spicy (but not hot) Falafels; Hummus; Baklava. Designed to give your youngster a firm foundation that will provide them with the techniques and knowledge they need to grow into competent and confident cook, it is also lots of FUN and they will bring home the results of the session to share with the family.

 

That enough?! Still bored?

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