OK, so you've some screamin', frustrated kids with you that need some entertainment, so where do you take them?
Here are some ideas from our own personal experience. Its all down to what you want so they are split into Free and Pay. Then the choice is up to you.........
More ideas soon.
Freestuff
Southerndown Beach (Dunraven Bay) - the Vale's only large sandy beach outside Barry. At high tide the beach is totally useless but at other times this is a huge sandy beach. Great for the kids, lots of rock pools and fossils - though keep away from the cliffs as they can fall at any time. If you are into geology then there are some brilliant faults and deformation folds at the far (eastern) end of the beach. Only swim between the lifeguard flags though I wouldn't recommend it as the water is filthy. There is also the remains of Dunraven Castle nearby. This was demolished by the Earl of Dunraven about 30 years ago in a fit of pique at the local council who wouldn't let him develop it. Location - 3 miles south east of Bridgend. Entry - car-parking costs £1 or thereabouts for the whole day, though it's free during the winter months.
Paystuff
Amelia Trust, this is a farm centre run by a religious trust. The kids will love it. The centre has a large number of different farm animals indoors and in nearby fields. Its easily navigable with a push-chair. Ensure that the children wash their hands after touching the animals. Location - 5 mile lane (between A48 (Bonvilston) and Barry. Entry - they ask for a voluntary donation of about a £1.00
Oakwood Leisure Park, this is a large adventure park with famously the largest wooden rollercoaster in the UK, or Europe. Whatever, its pretty scary for grown-ups, but the kids will love it. If you want a real scare then try Vertigo, though that's £10 per person extra. There are a large number of rides and amusements for all ages. A full day out, though it can get a bit tedious when the weather is bad. Try to avoid school holidays if you want to avoid the queues for the bigger rides. Location - about 8 miles west of Narbarth off the A40, Pembrokeshire. Entry - not cheap but you get a full day out, family tickets are available.
Techniquest, this
is a brilliant children's (and adult's) science and technology
centre situated in Cardiff Bay. Its full of really fun experiments
and activities and will keep the little ones occupied for 3 hours
or so. Location - Cardiff Bay, next to Harry Ramsdens. Entry -
about £5 or 6 for adults and £2 or 3 for kids.
XLWales this is a family technology centre in
Swansea for children aged 4 to teenager, children take part in
Invention and Discovery challenges. You'll have trouble
pulling them away! Location 20 Princess Way, Swansea, tel.
01792-610000. Children and adults £2-50 each.
Open 11am to 7pm school holiday weekdays, 3:30pm to 7pm term time
weekdays, 11am to 7pm all weekends. (
map)
Heatherton Country Sports
Park - a family leisure park near Tenby. Good fun for
the kids. Pay as you go, each ride priced separately.
