Sometimes you want the reassurance of an indoor activity for the family and there are all sorts of amazing options out there. Of course, we’re OPEN AIR Bounce so we’re big fans of getting outdoors in the fresh air – have a look at our 5 best outdoor family days out around Bolton and Manchester for more ideas.
But, when you need somewhere under a roof, here are our suggestions (and a few links) for the 8 best indoor family days out around Greater Manchester.
1. Eager to escape
Escape rooms and puzzles have become really popular with all ages, from teenagers to adults, and we’re close to one of the biggest centres in the UK, Crack It in Bolton. Thirty six rooms in three zones and it’s accessible too. If you need something to keep a crowd engrossed, this could be just the solution (!) you need.
2. Bowled over
It may not be the latest trend (see above) but there’s nothing beats bowling for a social activity that brings all ages together for a bit of healthy competition. Hollywood Bowl in Bolton is probably our nearest bowling alley and it’s a great option for an indoor family day out. If you’ve a family of early risers, it’s worth checking out their pre-11am pricing too – it’s a bit of a budget buster.
3. Roller rink
Roller skating feels quite retro but we’re probably showing our age – the Nevada Roller Rink is good fun and offers everything you need for a super skating session. There are even opportunities for special activities, skating parties and lessons – it’s worth keeping eye on their website.
4. Icy indoors
You can try skiing on snow without heading to the Alps for the school holidays – Chill Factore is on Trafford Park. You can see this amazing place from the M60 near the Trafford Shopping Centre and there’s indoor downhill skiing and much more, just remember your hat and gloves as it’s icy inside.
5. Game for gaming
Hidden away in the Arndale in central Manchester is Immersive Gamebox – just imagine playing your computer games all together as a group or family and surrounded by them in 3D on all sides. Immersive gaming is the latest trend from the US and Manchester is one of the first cities in the UK to have a site. If your kids hate being dragged away from their screens for a family day out, maybe this could be your most popular option… ever!
6. Crazy karting
As long as your family are all over 8 years, karting is an exciting option for an indoor activity and treat. TeamSport have indoor karting venues across the UK and our nearest is at Trafford Park – not too far down the motorway and ideal for the Lewis Hamilton’s of the future. Just be careful though – that competitive streak will be well used if you’re karting with family and it can be addictive.
7. Trampoline extravaganza
Trampolining has really taken off! We’ve some great centres in the NW of England. Two of the best are Jump Xtreme Trampoline Parks in Bolton and also in Manchester but there’s also Bounce Central at Swinton and look out for Fusion (previously Energi) re-opening in Preston too.
8. Mighty museums
From Bolton Steam Museum to the Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester and lots in between (we like Bolton Art Gallery and Museum too – it has an aquarium!), it’s worth sussing out your local museums for a grand day out that’s indoors. Many museums organise activities in the school holidays too and you might be surprised by what’s on offer on your doorstep. Check out nmes.org for Bolton Steam Museum boltonlams.co.uk/museum and scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk.
As you’d expect, we’d also recommend inflatables as a great way to burn off energy and have fun, whatever your age, and there are some great indoor soft play and inflatable sites near us. From Wobbly Bobs and Curly Whirleez to Air Vault at West Houghton and Wacky World Inflatable Park, just search online for what’s nearest to you and check the reviews.
But always remember, there’s outdoor fun to be had at OPEN AIR Bounce and we’re the only outdoor inflatable park in the north of England.
If you’ve got other indoor play recommendations, we’d love to know more. Just let us know or tag us on social media – we’re keen to make this blog as useful as possible and your recommendations could be just what people are looking for.
