Posted on Wednesday 17th July 2019
Some of Staffordshire's attractions to visit this summer (left to right): Drayton Manor, Trentham Gardens, Waterworld, Alton Towers
Families are being urged to get out and about and explore the county’s many attractions over the summer school holidays.
Whether it’s thrilling rollercoasters, an arts festival, family cycle rides in beautiful countryside, or a virtual trip to the moon, the county promises something for all the family over the holidays.
At Drayton Manor Park in Tamworth there’s a Summer of Fun, which includes live shows, keeper talks in the zoo, and the chance to go Around the World with Rory the Lion. Families can also enjoy the wonders of Thomas Land and even meet their favourite characters.
Thrill seekers will enjoy the adrenaline rush of rides and roller coasters in Alton Towers. Are you brave enough to enter the terrifying Alton Towers Dungeon? Or perhaps you can take on the challenge of the high ropes courses at Alton Towers’ Tree Top Quest. Young children can ride and meet all their favourite characters in CBeebies Land, home of the brand-new Peter Rabbit ride.
Cannock Chase offers beautiful scenery and picturesque views for lovers of nature. With a number of different trails, you can walk, bike, hike and explore the forests!
The Trentham Estate has many different attractions for all the family! Whether you enjoy the quiet and beautiful gardens or if you want to brave the barefoot walk, conquer the adventure park or take a stroll in the Monkey Forest, it is a perfect day out for everyone to enjoy!
Lichfield Cathedral will take you to the moon this summer. ‘One Small Step’ (Saturday 20 July – Wednesday 25 September) will give visitors the opportunity to walk on the moon as they transform the Cathedral Nave floor into a lunar landscape.
There’s a special guest coming to Uttoxeter Racecourse too – Peter Rabbit! Come and meet Peter Rabbit himself on Peter Rabbit Family Fun Raceday (Sunday July 28). There will be lots of other family entertainment as well including electric go karts and inflatables.
If you love water slides, then Waterworld has four brand new rides for you to explore. And, the Big Feast – Stoke-on-Trent’s biggest outdoor arts festival is back this August! Over the bank holiday (Friday 23 – Saturday 24 August) it will be a weekend of world-class family performances and entertainment.
Staffordshire’s libraries are also joining in the summer fun. Children aged 4-11 can join in the Space Chase as part of this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. Sign up at your nearest Staffordshire library and simply borrow and read any six library books during the summer holidays. It’s all free.
Mark Winnington, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth at Staffordshire County Council is urging families to opt for a staycation this summer and explore the county’s amazing attractions. Mark said:
“Whether it’s the thrills of our theme parks or visits to our wonderful countryside and parks, we’ll have something for everyone over the school holidays. “Staffordshire really is a wonderful county to explore, so there’s no need to go anywhere else. With so much on offer and a booming tourism economy, I’d definitely urge people to go for a Staycation this summer.”
Staffordshire’s tourism economy is worth around £1.7 billion annually with around 25 million people enjoying day or overnight trips to the county. The sector also supports over 31,000 jobs.
People can find out more about the activities taking place during the summer holidays on the Enjoy Staffordshire website.