Half Term in Reading

With half term just around the corner, you might be looking for ideas and activities to keep little ones amused throughout the week. Well, look no further! From theatre shows to bee trails, Reading has lots to offer for the whole family – here are a few ideas to get you started.

Get busy at Reading Museum
Drop into the Busy Bee Trail and see how many bees you can find in the museum galleries. Or join a crafty workshop and make your own printed picture out of recycled materials. For budding gardeners, make your own special seed labels and packet, ready to plant at home. Find out more at Reading Museum.

Have fun, sustainably, at MERL
Visit The Museum of English Rural Life for a whole host of family-friendly events and activities inspired by ‘Our Green Stories‘, a project exploring environmental issues through our collections. Enjoy workshops, free trails, activities and crafts - or have fun exploring trails in the garden (complete with sit-on wooden tractor and chickens!). Find out more at MERL.

Get crafty at Reading Libraries
Reading’s many libraries have a range of family activities throughout half term week, from craft-making sessions at Southcote and Caversham, to ‘Moomin’ themed storytelling and the Toy Library at Reading Central. Find out more at Reading Borough Council.

Feel the magic at Southstreet’s ‘The Bubble Show’
South Street will be bursting with fun as ‘The Bubble Show’ brings a unique blend of magic, storytelling, and bubble art to Reading on Wednesday 15 February. Join The Highland Joker, one of the top bubble artists in the world, for an interactive, fun, international award-winning bubble extravaganza. More info and book via What’s on Reading.

Enjoy a take on a family favourite at The Hexagon
On 10 and 11 February RARE Youth Theatre presents ‘Bugsy Malone’. Gangster warfare in New York - Dandy Dan's hoodlums terrorise the district, his rival is Fat Sam Stacetto, who runs the Grand Slam Speakeasy. Can you see yourself caught up in this gangster’s paradise? More info and book via What’s on Reading.

Have a glimpse at Ukrainian culture at The Concert Hall
One for older kids - the Reading Ukrainian Community Centre and Reading Borough Council present this benefit concert for Ukraine at The Concert Hall, showcasing the beautiful richness of Ukrainian culture. BBC’s Matt Allwright will be your host, joined by acts including the outstanding dance ensemble “Prolisok” (as seen on The One Show); Mirage, performing a modern take on Ukrainian songs; and “Band Era”, playing the bandura (the national instrument of Ukraine). Find out more and book via What’s on Reading.

Visit Wellington Country Park
Wellington Country Park sets to re-open its doors for the 2023 on 11 February – just in time for half term! Wellington Country Park is an award-winning destination for a family day out or overnight stay in the country, with a whole host of outdoor attractions and exciting events to enjoy. Find out more and plan your trip.

Make the most of Reading’s leisure facilities
With brand new upgrades to some of Reading’s leisure centres, why not make the most of it this half term, with sports and leisure activities the whole family can enjoy? From swimming to indoor climbing, golf to horse riding, there are plenty of options to get out and about during half term week. Find out more about sports and leisure activities in Reading.

Get some fresh air in Reading’s parks and gardens
Reading is home to over 100 parks, gardens and green spaces. What better (free) way to burn off energy than getting outside? There are lots of options in Reading, as well as the walking and cycling routes to inspire your next adventure. Find out more about Reading’s parks and gardens.

Catch the latest blockbuster at the cinema
While we all hope for sunny, dry weather for half term week, a rainy day in England is not unusual. If this happens (or you just fancy a film) why not head to one of Reading’s cinemas with the kids to catch the latest blockbuster or independent film? Take a look at Reading’s cinemas.

And - if you are still in need of extra inspiration - have a read of our family-friendly activity guide, with plenty of options for activities in Reading. Also visit What’s on Reading for a list of events in the arts and culture world during half term week.