A Collaboration Post with VisitBradford

Are you ready for an adventure this half-term? Calderdale and Bradford are bursting with family-friendly destinations that promise fun and learning! Public transportation makes it easy to explore these exciting spots without the hassle of parking or traffic. So, gather your little explorers and prepare for a day full of activities! Here are must-visit places in each area:

CALDERDALE

1. Halifax Central Library: Explore the ‘Library for Little Ones’ section in this award-winning building, located on the Square Church site right next to The Piece Hall. The Halifax Central Library & Archive blends with the remains of the old square church to create an iconic mix of old and new, complemented by the stunning Rose Window—an original feature made up of 85 individual glass pieces!
2. The Piece Hall: A stunning 18th-century cloth hall, The Piece Hall is now a vibrant hub with shops, eateries, and regular family events. Explore a display of tractors and farm vehicles in the courtyard on Saturday 15 & Sunday 16 February. From classic tractors to agricultural vehicles, this event promises a delightful celebration of the machinery that fuels our farms.
3. Blast from the Past at the Piece Hall: While away the hours at Blast from the Past, a freeplay retro gaming arcade with vintage pinball machines, classic video games, and retro consoles! Follow the evolution of the pinball machine from the first game made with flippers in 1947 through to the early digital pinballs of the 1980s. Simply pay £2.50 for 30 minutes or only £5 for up to 2 hours of non-stop gaming.
4. Calderdale Industrial Museum: See the machines that changed the world for everyone everywhere! Right next to The Piece Hall, Calderdale Industrial Museum houses a collection of industrial machinery and artefacts over four floors. Some of the machines are the only surviving examples in the country, and you’ll get the chance to see some of these in operation as you make your way through the museum. Open Saturdays from 10:00 to 16:00 and Thursdays in the school holidays.
5. Eureka! The National Children’s Museum: Right next to Halifax train station, Eureka! is an absolute must-visit. With hands-on exhibits designed for children, your little ones can learn about everything from science to the human body while having tons of fun. Check out their Colour Carnival during the holidays.
6. Bankfield Museum: Drop into this much-loved museum for some fantastic half-term activities, including a mask-making workshop, an illustration workshop with The Iron Man illustrator, Chris Mould, and a fantastic felting workshop! More details here:  What’s on | Calderdale Museums.

BRADFORD

7. National Science and Media Museum: Immerse yourself in the exciting world of science and technology! This vibrant museum features interactive exhibits focused on photography, film, and the digital age. During half-term, don’t miss the Yorkshire Games Festival on 15–23 February, packed with workshops, talks, and hands-on fun for all ages. And for a truly engaging experience, catch a film at the IMAX cinema!
8. Keighley & Worth Valley Railway: Climb aboard a steam or diesel train for a nostalgic journey through the stunning Yorkshire countryside. As part of the ‘Half Term Happiness’ on 15–23 February, families can enjoy themed train rides, quizzes, and fun activities designed for all ages. This iconic railway is the perfect setting for creating unforgettable memories together.
9. Cartwright Hall: Unleash your creativity at the “Who Am I?”activity day on Thursday, 20 February! From 11:00 to 15:00, families can enjoy costume-making and drawing self-portraits, perfect for letting imaginations soar. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Lister Park to wrap up a day of fun and artistry! For more exciting Bradford Museums activities, including the Witch Trial at Bolling Hall, visit What’s on – Bradford District Museums & Galleries
10. Brontë Parsonage Museum: Visit the Brontë Parsonage Museum this half-term and enjoy fun activities like dressing up, museum trails, and crafting with local artist Julia Ogden. These drop-in sessions are free with museum entry, no booking required, and children 11 and under go free.
11. Ilkley Toy Museum: Wander into nostalgia at the charming Ilkley Toy Museum, a treasure trove of vintage toys, games, and dolls that showcase the evolution of childhood play. From Victorian rocking horses to intricate dollhouses, this quaint museum invites kids to marvel at toys from the past while parents share fond memories of their own childhoods. It’s a delightful journey through the joy of play! Visit the museum on Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00 to 16:00.

Whether you’re exploring museums, wandering through historical sites, or enjoying the beauty of nature, Bradford and Calderdale have something for everyone this half-term. Pack your bags, gather your family, and get ready for an adventure! Happy exploring at www.visitbradford.com and www.visitcalderdale.com! 🚀