Tuesday, 18 October 2016

Christmas - Tis the season to be jolly!



Image result for i love christmas
I know it's a cliché but I bloody love Christmas,  I guess because there's not only so much to do but I've embraced it as a time to bring families together.  Coming from an Indian family the only thing we used to do at home growing up was have a few lights,  some sad little tree in the corner.  But! I remember the excitement my dad used to bring by driving us to the city to see lights.  Those amazing lights!  They're just not the same anymore!  And I remember consuming copius amounts of chestnuts whilst there,  stopping outside Hamley's (you could park in those days) and gushing at the scenes every year... On the way back dad would take us for apple pie and ice cream at McDonald's!  Those days were magic!

Image result for hamleys christmas scenes 1990
Now there's so much hype on getting tonnes of presents for the kids they don't even care about,  going to a panto as mandatory,  going to winter wonderland and if you don't you get fomo (fear of missing out)  because your mates have all posted photos of it on Facebook!
My biggest joy is decorating my house and making it magical.  Past few years I've gathered alot of 'scenes' with which I create a magical Christmas village with snow and all around the fire place.  My eldest doesn't believe in Santa but I still put food out for his reindeer and go through that whole ritual.  My favourite last year and year before was the 'elf on the shelf'  this elf did some super cool things every night and was found the next morning by the kids with gasps of joy.  That was all good until the kids played tug of war with him and broke him!!!

My Christmas Village Scene which I will be extending this year!


There's a lot to do at Christmas so I have tried to add as much as possible here, it would be impossible to cover all bases but here are my top picks for Ice Skating, Grotto's and Panto's!

I start with Ice Skating & some grotto's and will post the rest soon!
Please note, all information is as correct as per websites for each venue/show, I cannot take responsibility for any mis communications in price, dates and last minute amends.

Ice Skating with the kids


The biggest tip I can give you, is if you can book skate aids online check availability first before booking, else its a bit of a fight to see who gets them first (on a first come first serve basis!)


London Designer Outlet - Wembley
When: 18th November to 2nd January
Time: 11am - 8pm
Admission: £5 off peak tickets, else £12.50 adults and £7.50 child
Age group: 3+
Session duration: 45minutes
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: Wembley Park Boulevard, Wembley, HA9 0QL
Pooja's top tip: You have to get there early to acquire the penguin aids, they are first come first serve basis and £5. They have lockers on site. Last year the rink was wet with a big puddle as the sun had melted the ice and they would not give refunds, so please check out the ice skating rink first before buying tickets! Do not go if there are puddles, it really wasn't fun.


Westfield Shopping Centre - White City
When: 24th November to 8th January
Time: 10am - pm (timings are different for sundays and xmas eve)
Admission: Adult £10-14 (off peak/peak)
Child 4-12 £8.50
Family ticket £31.50 - 39 (off peak/peak)

Age group: 4+
Session duration: 45mins
Website: Please click here for details
Address: Westfield, White City, Ariel Way Shepherds Bush LONDON W12 7GF
Pooja's top tip: Great fun and they have music, last time I went they had a live band! They have seals and penguins bookable online, Seals are seated. Combine with their grotto, details coming!


Somerset House - London
When: 17th November - 15th January
Time: 10am - 915pm
Admission: £8.90 adults/children (under 12)
Age group: n/a
Session duration: n/a
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: South Building, Somerset House, Strand, London, WC2R 1LA
Stations: Charing cross or Waterloo


Van Hague - Ware (Hertfordshire)
When: Thursday 17th November - Monday 9th January
Time: 9am - 9pm
Admission: Adults and children £6 each and skating aids are £5-7 and 50p booking fees!
Age group: 3 onwards
Session duration: n/a
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: Van Hage, Great Amwell, Pepper Hill, Hertfordshire, SG12 9RP
Pooja's top tip: This is an undercover ice rink! and they have skating aids which can be booked in advance, as well as parent and toddler sessions (10-11 every day kids up to 8)...they also have an amazing grotto, see below in the grotto's section for details!


Hyde Park - Winter Wonderland
When: Friday 18th November - Monday 2nd January
Time: 10am - 10pm
Admission: Adult £9.50-15.50 (off peak/standard/peak)
Child £7.50-10.50 (off peak/standard/peak) (under 12s)
Family £30-42 (off peak/standard/peak)
Ice aids £5
Age group: Doesn't say but min child size skates are 9
Session duration: 50 minutes
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: Hyde Park, Winter wonderland
Pooja's top tip: This place is extortionate as you can tell from the prices! yes there is lots to do there but a family of 4 could easily spend £100+ on attractions as there are rides etc. If you just want a wander and a few rides go for it, but there are plenty of other nice rinks, but I have to be unbiased and still let you know about it!


Alexandra Palace
When: Sunday 17th December Christmas special (else year round)
Time: 8.30pm-11pm
Admission: Looks like adults and students only £9.40
Age group: Looks like adults and students only - but a year round option for kids
Session duration: see timings
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: Alexandra Palace Way, London, N22 7AY
Pooja's top tip: As you may/may not know this is a year round ice skating indoor rink, they have skate sessions as well as disco skate, its massive!


Natural History Museum
When: Sunday 17th December Christmas special (else year round)
Time: 8.30pm-11pm
Admission: Looks like adults and students only £9.40
Age group: Looks like adults and students only - but a year round option for kids
Session duration: see timings
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: Alexandra Palace Way, London, N22 7AY
Pooja's top tip: I absolutely bloody love this place! It just feels like how Christmas should be, don't know whether its the backdrop, the intimate nature of it or just the décor and the smell of mulled wine! but its special! It is a bit on the small side so just note that. Check out the double bob skates for kids. Skate aids can be purchased on a first come first serve basis.


Christmas Grotto's


The Squires - Stanmore
When: Santas Grand arrival 20th Nov / Grotto 20th Nov - 24th December
Time: 10am for the grand arrival on the 20th Nov / Sat Grotto 1030-4pm & Sun Grotto 1030-330pm
Please note: Santa goes for lunch 1-2pm!
Admission: FREE!
Age group: Looks like adults and students only - but a year round option for kids
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: Common road, Stanmore, Ha7 3jf
Pooja's top tip: Its a nice small garden centre, their Christmas decor is lovely, lots to buy and see, look out for their little village they make every year. Great cafe and you can take the kids to see the pets and aquarium too. The grotto is free and okay its in a decorated shed but who cares, its nice enough!


Westfield - White City
When: 19th November - 24th December
Time: Varies see at time of booking
Admission: £8-10 off peak / peak
Family tickets £28-35 off peak / peak - everyone needs a ticket
Age group: Presents for under 12s
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: Westfield, White City, Ariel Way Shepherds Bush LONDON W12 7GF
Pooja's top tip: Book early, this place gets sold out! best to book in advance, pair this up with the ice skating as recommended. Its a Kung fu panda theme this year and you get a 4d experience too!


Christmas Wonderland Springtime nurseries - Enfield
When: 10th November - 24th December
Time: 10-5pm (4pm sundays closing)
Admission: £2 for Santa's train only & £10 for Santa's train and grotto (babies to 24months free sitting in arms if you want a gift you will need to pay for £10 ticket)
Age group: Babies upwards
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: Cattlegate Road in Crews Hill, Enfield, EN2 9EE
Pooja's top tip: If you book in advance you beat the queues, I have heard queues are quite enormous!


Hamleys - London & other branches across the UK
When: 26th November - 24th December
Time: Various see website for details
Admission: £37.50 (lasting 45minutes)
Age group: 2-8 years
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: London and other locations


Willows Farm - London Colney
When: 23rd November - 24th December
Time: Various see website for details
Admission: 25% discount online for dated tickets, prices are discounted:
Adult £9 / Child 2-16years £24.75 / Under 2s £17.50
Age group: 2-16 years
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 0PF
Pooja's top tip: Kids get a key to the toy store and the toys are good! there is a synthetic ice rink and rides, crafts etc. A little on the pricey side this year though!


Van Hague - Ware
When: 5th November - 24th December
Time: 10-6pm
Admission: £7.50
Age group: up to 8 years
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 0PF
Pooja's top tip: Pair this up with ice skating as recommended. For those with younger kids can go to parent and toddler sessions 10-11am and visit the grotto straight after!


Leicester Square Santa's Grotto
When: 11th November - 24th December (Celebrations continue till Jan)
Time: Various
Admission: £10 including 2 accompanying adults
Age group: n/a
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: Leicester Square, main square, London


Other Christmas events


Lapland UK
When: 19th November - 24th December
Time: 9-5pm
Admission: 3.5 hour experience £55-130 per ticket
Age group: Various
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: Ascot, Berkshire, Winkfield Row, Ascot SL5 8BD


Winter Wonderland - Hyde Park
When: 18th November - 2nd January
Time: Various
Admission: Free but pay for attractions
Age group: Various
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: Hyde Park, London
Pooja's top tip: This can be a super duper expensive day, the atmosphere is wonderful but so is the price of the attractions!


Kew Gardens - Richmond
When: 23rd November - 2nd January
Time: 5pm
Admission: £18 / £10 concessions / Free under 4s
Age group: Various
Website: Please click here for booking details
Address: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew , Richmond, Surrey, TW9 3AE

Tuesday, 4 October 2016

Celebrate the Festival of Light - Diwali!

Image result for diwali

Diwali is such a special time for celebration, coming together of communities, families and friends. As a child I remember it just for its fireworks, now it means so much more.

Diwali this year falls on Sunday 30th October and there are many things to do to celebrate in the area and its outskirts. Below are just a few picks, if anyone has any more to add please comment on the post and I will ensure I add them.

Where and when to see the fireworks this year

Image result for happy diwali fireworks

Stanmore Swaminarayan Temple

When: Sunday 30th October 2016
Time: 7pm
Admission: Free
Address: Shree Swaminarayan Temple Stanmore, Dharma Bhakti Manor
Wood Lane
Stanmore
Middlesex, HA7 4LF
Website: Please click here
Pooja's Tips: Park on Stanmore Hill and walk down to the temple, its the easiest way to get there. There is plenty of residential parking.

Hare Rama Hare Krishna Temple - Watford

When: Sunday 30th October 2016
Time: 630pm
Admission: Free
Address: Bhaktivedanta Manor
Dharam Marg
Hilfield lane, Aldenham
Near Watford, Herts
WD25 8EZ
Website: Please click here
Pooja's Tips: The A41 gets extremely busy as everyone is trying to go down the same road to get to the temple, try coming in from other roads to the temple, Bushey and Watford areas and find alternative routes.

Swaminarayan Temple - Kingsbury

When: Saturday 29th October 2016
Time: 630pm-9pm
Admission: Free
Address: Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa Complex
Kingsbury Road, Kingsbury, London NW9 8AQ
Website: Please click here
Pooja's Tips: This place will be immensely busy and given limited parking, strongly advise to park elsewhere and walk up


Dishoom Diwali Festival - Kings Cross - yes that's Dishoom the restaurant hosting this!

When: Sunday 23rd October
Time: 330-8pm
Admission: Free
Address: West Handyside Canopy
N1C4, London
Website: Please click here
Pooja's Tips: This looks to be awesome, its my favourite jaunt!. Music, facepainting, Henna Tattoos and all sorts. Plus a fireworks display to end it!

 

Other things to do and kids workshops

The Mayor's Diwali on the Square

When: Sunday 16th October
Time: 1-7pm
Admission: Free
Address: Trafalgar Square, London
Website: Please click here / or here
Pooja's Tips: They have a great programme lined up, if the weather is good this would definitely be worth it. Stations will be busy so use Charing cross, or Picadilly circus and walk down. Leicester Square isn't that far either!

Image result for diwali on the square

Diwali Mela - Harrow Leisure Centre

When: Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd October
Time: 10am-8pm
Admission: £4 - available in advance or the door, please check website for details
Address: Harrow Leisure Centre, Byron Hall, Christchurch Ave, Harrow HA3 5BD
Website: Please click here
Pooja's Tips: This is good if you like shopping, plenty of stalls and deals, they also have actors and actresses from Indian soaps, music and entertainment

Diwali Dhamaka - RCT Hall - Harrow - Dinner and Dance

When: Saturday 29th October 2016
Time: 6pm onwards
Admission: £15pp including Dinner, Dance, Games, Karaoke Singing and Fireworks Display.
Under 4s are free
Address: RCT Hall, RCT Sports Ground
Headstone Lane, Harrow, Middlesex HA2 6NG
Website: Please click here

Diwali workshop and Tea Party

When: Tuesday 25th & 26th October
Time: 3-445pm or 515-7pm
Admission: Kids aged 3-13 £13 and accompanying adults are £10 (can leave kids there)
Address: The coffee lounge, 378 Long Lane, Hillingdon, Uxbridge, UB10 9PG
Website: Please click here




Diwali Funday - Pinner

When: Sunday 23rd October
Time: 11-4pm
Admission: Kids day pass £5, adult goes free
Address: West House,
Pinner Memorial Park West End Lane, HA5 3AW Pinner
Website: Please click here


Diwali Rangoli Workshop - Queensbury

When: Saturday 15th October
Time: 2-5pm
Admission: £5 members / £7 non members, kids under 10 free with paying adult
Address: Cannons High School, Shaldon Road, HA8 6AN



Diwali Festival - Watford High Street

When: Sunday 9th October
Time: 12-6pm
Admission: Free



Diwali Show - Watford Palace Theatre

When: Sunday 19th November
Time: 6pm
Admission: £7 including a complimentary snack
Website: Please click here

Diwali Bollywood Night with Jay Kumar- Venue 5

When: Friday 21st October
Time: 8pm onwards
Admission: £15 including a finger buffet
Details below:


Diwali Dinner & Dances - Venue 5

When: Friday 28th October and 4th November
Time: 8pm till 1am
Admission: £27.50 for adults and £15 for kids aged 4-10 includes 3 course menu, welcome drink, and unlimited soft drinks
Website: Please click here for booking details


For events further afield this website has some details, although most of the updates have not been made yet, gives you an idea!






Monday, 5 September 2016

Kids Garba for Navratri

Where to take the kids for Navratri - Kiddie Garba's!
Image result for kids navratri


Garba is a form of dance which originated in the state of Gujarat in India. The name itself is derived from the Sanskrit term Gharba (womb) and Deep (a small earthenware lamp). Tradition has it that garbas are performed around a centrally lit lamp or a picture or a statue of the Goddess Shakti, although a lot of people have Mataji too. It is performed during the 9 day Hindu festival 'Navratri'.
There are often garbas that are held in the afternoon for ladies or more generally these are at night at various places throughout the UK.

As a very small child I remember getting dressed up in Kenya (birth place of my parents not mine but stayed there for 7 years), me and my cousin arguing over wanting the same chaniya choli (traditional garba dress) and painting our nails, putting on mother's make up and going to the temple for garba. Kisumu was a very small town so there was only one place to go to but it was so much fun! In fact Navratri is the whole reason I am here today. So when my mum who was 15 at the time and Dad who was 19 were madly in love with each other and they had to get engaged after one fine day at garba when it was announced that my mother has won the best dancer (female) and father in the male category and they were no where to be seen! That is how their love story came out and they were told they had to get married! (yes they started young! lol)

In this country Dad used to go out and buy season passes at the community garba. We would go every single night and pass out at midnight every day for 9 days on a school night! Again amazing fun and I did this all the way up until my late teens. The day I stopped was the day it got rowdy, tuned into a meat market, and I saw girls texting whilst playing dandiya and mobiles hanging out of their sarees! That's the day the essence of garba was lost for me, I felt disappointed and didn't go for years! However, despite my friend telling me about it a couple of years ago I never paid attention to a kids garba (I have two boys and try telling the eldest that we are going somewhere to dance in a circle, he used to grimace) but last year we all went along to the Sansaar garba and I absolutely loved it! as did my kids! I don't remember there being a lot of kids garbas back in the day but I totally understand why they do it now. Kids do not get an opportunity to experience it and some of the garbas are truly fantastic as they make it fun, traditional and teach them about garba and how to play garba all at the same time!

So! what's in this for you you may ask, well have a look below, I have picked out some top picks of kids garba's in the area....there will be a few more I will add on as not all of them have been published yet. As per usual I will give my personal opinion where I can!....Enjoy!



Sansaar
Date: Sunday 9th & 23rd October
Time: Morning 11-1.30pm or afternoon 3-5.30pm
Venue: Jewish Free School, The Mall, Kenton, HA3 9TE
Pricing: £7 adults and kids over 2 - under 2's are free
Where to buy tickets: Tickets on sale 10th September and sell out so be quick, you can buy them here: http://www.sansaar.org/
This was brilliant last year, they have characters, teachers teaching how to and a play for kids. Fun for all the family. Snacks were on offer and very reasonably priced, I would say if you can take a few drinks/snacks for the kids though.




Ishara Children's Charity Raas and Garba
Date: Sunday 9th October
Time: TBC
Venue: Sattavis Patidar Centre, Wembley
Pricing: TBC
Where to buy tickets: Keep an eye on https://www.facebook.com/Childrenscharitygarba

Young Lohana Society, North London
Date: Sunday 2nd October
Time: 12-3.30pm
Venue: Dhamecha Lohana Centre, Brember Road, South Harrow, HA2 8AX
Pricing: TBC
Where to buy tickets: Live to the pubic on Tuesday 6th September and registration on http://www.ylsnl.com/. You will then be sent an email requesting payment.

Bal Vihar's Children's Garba
Date: Sunday 2nd October
Time: 12-3pm
Venue: The Campion School, Wingletye Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 3BX
Pricing: Earlybird £6.50 adult or child, thereafter £8
Where to buy tickets: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bal-vihar-childrens-garba-2016-tickets-27193126373

Bal Garba - AVDBF
Date: Saturday 8th October
Time: 2.30om-5pm (Doors open at 2pm)
Venue: Dada Darshanm Unit 2, Stonefield way, Ruilsip, HA4 0JA
Pricing: FREE!
Where to register for tickets: https://ukevents.dadabhagwan.org/gncgarba   
or email: LMHT.Ruislip@uk.dadabhagwan.org

SKLPC Navratri Family Workshop
Date: Saturday 2nd October
Time: 2-6pm
Venue: West End Road, Northolt, UB5 6RE, Northolt, Slough
Pricing: FREE!
Where to register for tickets: Pre registration opens on 17th September sen@sklpc.com
https://www.facebook.com/events/484528508338313/ 

Where can you buy kids clothes from?
Aside from Southall where every corner you turn you can find kids clothes for garba from, I found Ealing road last year to be really good. Venisons have a myriad of stores on the street but the one near Maru Bhajiya has boys clothes upstairs (sherwani's etc) and the one opposite that has girls clothes. Plenty on offer and in the local area!

I will keep this blog post updated as information becomes available.....if anyone has any more info to share, please comment below!

Saturday, 6 August 2016

Splash time in London!

Top Picks for London's Fountains to make a splash & Lido's

Appearing Rooms - Southbank

This was installed in 2006 and makes an annual appearance every year. Adults can sip a cocktail or two whilst keeping a watchful eye on the kiddos. 
Jets send walls of water high into the air creating 'rooms'; they then disappear as quickly as they emerge. After cooling off - Kids can have a play in the playground which is a little further in between Royal festival Hall and the London eye.

Diana Memorial Fountain - Hyde Park
There are three bridges you can cross into the centre without getting your feet wet: but really, it's a great place for kids (and grown-up kids) to paddle.
The two sides are supposed to represent the two sides of Diana's life: happiness in the calmer pool; and turmoil in the choppy waters.
There's plenty else to do in Hyde park, like the pirate ship afterwards. Just be careful you don't slip, some people have been sent to hospital. Don't let that put you off though!

Granary Square fountains

Granary Square features 1,080 individually controlled and lit water jets. The result is a brilliant splash park for kids of all ages; the perfect way to cool off on a warm day.
They start off quite mellow first thing in the morning (at 7.40am), then get more boisterous as the day goes on.
After dark, their personalities change again, with the addition of colours to the seemingly random squirt patterns.
If you need more excitement from your London play fountain, download the Granary Squirt app: from 4pm-5pm, you and up to eight of your mates can control the fountains from your phone. Yes, really. It's a bit like playing Snake, but wetter.

More London fountains - London Bridge, City Hall

Silly name but 200 play fountains, and some really cool water features.
Approach from the Scoop ampitheatre from London Bridge. The fountains have 200 sprouting jet with views of City Hall and Tower Bridge. 
Head off to Borough Market for some well deserved drinks and food after.

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park fountains

Head to the south of the Olympic Park to find the Waterworks Fountains; 195 individual jets creating walls of water in a kind of maze to splash through and cool off.
Just remember: the fountains aren't available on major events days.

John Madejski Garden fountains, V&A

Inside the inner courtyard at the V&A you'll find a calming pool dotted with the occasional fountain water jets.
It's a fantastic space to sit and enjoy some tranquility after the bustle of the museum.
And on hot days, it makes for a very sophisticated, secluded paddling pool.

Edmond J Safra Fountain Court, Somerset House
The 55 jets that make up the playful Edmond J Safra Fountain Court inside Somerset House aren't always available to run around in.
They will be available, however, between 5-17th August.

Russell Square Gardens fountain

The pretty garden in Bloomsbury's Russell Square gained a fountain when it was re-landscaped in 2002.

It gushes from the centre of the square: small, yes, but still offering a perfect paddling opportunity for kids and kidults alike.
Feel free to add any more water features you think are worth visiting! please feel free to make comments below

Thursday, 4 August 2016

Crazy Golf - Tee Time for Kids



Crazy golf is all the rage at the moment, we often go as its a fun day out, usually all of them are american style ones with dinosaurs and other bits of entertainment and the kids love it. Thought I would pick out some in the area and some I have been too (check out ‘Pooja’s opinion’ to find out more) They often have offers on their sites so do have a quick look before you go!

Please note - descriptions have been taken from their websites and sources.

Dinosaur adventure safari golf in Barnet /Elstree
A1 Golf Driving Range, Rowley Lane, Barnet EN5 3HW
http://www.dinosaursafari.co.uk -  they often have offers on their site.
18 holes of fun packed Adventure Golf amongst 9 dinosaurs from the Jurassic period, cascading waterfalls, flowing streams, lagoons, lush greenery and tropical palm trees.
Dinosaur Safari has been designed and built by one of the World's leading Adventure Golf designers and is within easy driving distance of the M1 and M25.
Poojas opinion : we go here all the time,  it's entertaining,  accessible and fun for the kids,  also there's a fair few challenging holes too.

Top golf - Bushey
Bushey Mill Lane, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD24 7AB
Open all year round, the outdoor course is also floodlit so you can play at any time of day or night up until we close.
The adventure is in playing, as you putt your way around our course that features ponds, streams, rocks, plants, waterfall, and dare you choose to play through the water on their feature 14th hole?

Dinosaur Escape, Northolt
West London Golf Centre, Ruislip Road, Northolt, Greater London, UB5 6QZ
It's nice to see one of these courses that shies away from the trend for that lurid blue water we were just talking about (what's with that, golf gods?) although not sure that the red is a vast improvement. Either way, expect "life size prehistoric predators" dotted among the 18 holes.
Poojas opinion : this is a super brilliant place, plenty of parking, not as hectic as the one in Barnet and the dinosaurs are more accessible if you know what I mean!



Play Golf - Harrow
Watford Road, Harrow Middlesex HA1 3TZ
Let your hair down and tackle the Mini Majors. 9 holes of fun golf on our spectacular, floodlit 9-hole ‘Nautical’ Adventure Golf Course. Based on a nautical theme with games and water its great fun for everyone including Mums, Dads and Grandparents, however old.Can you birdie the 9th hole…?The Adventure Golf Course is designed to introduce the youngest children to the game of golf. It’s colourful, there’s water and obstacles, and there are even bunkers to avoid… It’s great fun, and brings out the 5 year old in everyone.
Poojas opinion : its okay, its basic, no dragons, dinosaurs, but a quieter gentler intro for younger kids. Groupon offers at the moment as well.


Safari Adventure Golf - Paradise Wildlife Park Broxbourne
https://www.pwpark.com/on-safari-adventure-golf
Paradise Wildlife Park, White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, EN10 7QA
A fantastic challenging 18 hole adventure golf course ideal for all the family.
Our adventure golf course is themed to take you through the African plains and beyond! Pit your wits against zebra, lions, tiger falls waterfall, the loop the loop and some pretty wacky trick shots. You can even complete the safari spotter and win a prize! Our on Safari Adventure Golf is suitable for all ages, all abilities and great fun for all of the family!
Our on Safari Adventure Golf comes at an additional fee to that of your entry price!

Jurassic falls -  Chingford
Southend road (A406), Chingford, London, E4 8TA
Whilst on an expedition to Mexico, adventurer Dr Rex discovered a living prehistoric dinosaur habitat deep in the jungle. Keen to share his discovery with the world, Dr Rex has brought his primeval companions to the UK. Jurassic Falls, is an educational, action packed 18 hole Adventure Golf course where you can wander safari style through dinosaur territory and watch our near life size predators move, breathe and roar!

Jurassic Encounter Adventure Golf
Jurassic Encounter, World of Golf London, Beverley Way, New Malden, KT3 4PH
These 18 prehistoric holes are flanked by nine giant dinosaurs, and surrounded by caves and waterfalls. The course is open every day, and stays open until 9pm for anyone who fancies a bit of night golf.



Moby Golf, Dagenham
Moby Golf, Cranfield Golf Academy, Whalebone Lane North, Romford, RM6 6SB.
We'd make the "whale of a time" joke here, but Moby Golf's website beat us to it. The course is based on the whale which is rumoured to have washed up in Dagenham in 1790. Unsurprisingly, water features prominently in the course, but the highlight is the 9ft mouth of a full size sperm whale, which you have to putt through to complete the course.


Mr Mulligan's Dino Golf, Sidcup
Mr Mulligan's Dino Golf,  American Golf, Sidcup Road, BR7 6RP
There's a special place in our hearts for these giant dinosaurs — they were our introduction to the London adventure golf scene back in 2015, when we ventured down to the scenic delights of the A20 in Sidcup. Back then it was known as Lost Island Encounter and there was a choice of two courses. Today, it's one giant, 36-hole adventure. This Mulligan chap has venues all over the country, so we trust he knows what he's doing with our prehistoric pals.

Dragon Quest, Croydon
175 Long Lane, Croydon, CR0 7TE

18 holes of fun-packed adventure golf!

Lumbering, snorting, fire breathing, great wing flapping,long tail shaking enormous dragons.Dragons horde gold to sleep on.  Are you brave enough to risk all for a share of this plunder?

Monday, 1 August 2016

A few ideas free and paid for the kids this summer


Exciting Museums

Natural history museum
Come face to face with a roaring T-Rex at the Natural History Museum and find out how baby dinosaurs were born. Under-sevens will love the museum’s Explorer Backpacks, which contain a safari hat, binoculars, drawing materials and an activity booklet. Older children can visit the Investigate science centre and touch specimens in the Earth Lab.

National maritime museum
Learn about Britain’s exciting maritime history at the National Maritime Museum, which is part of Royal Museums Greenwich. Under-sevens can explore the AHOY! Children’s gallery, while older children can see what it would be like to steer a ship into port from the open sea at All Hands.

British museum
Be wowed by the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian Mummies at the British Museum. Entertain kids at the Digital Discovery Centre, or follow a family trail for a fascinating journey through Ancient Greece and other famous moments in history. Great for learning about school topics and keeping their minds afresh this summer holiday

Science museum
Trace the history of the space rocket (and visit the Apollo 10 command capsule) or meet Isambard Kingdom Brunel at the Science Museum. Youngsters can get hands-on in multi-sensory areas like The Garden (ages 3-6) and Pattern Pod (ages 5-8).

Museum of childhood
Explore the V&A Museum of Childhood, which houses the UK’s national collection of childhood objects. Wander through the museums’s collection of teddy bears and dolls houses, or take part in daily activities including storytelling and treasure hunts

Parks and open spaces
Some of you will have seen my Park post on Facebook,  here's some more suggestions

Olympic Park
Splash about in the fountains at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. There is also a climbing wall in the Pleasure Gardens play area, while the Tumbling Bay playground at the north of the park contains sand pits, tall treehouses, and wobbly bridges, as well as slides, swings and plenty of space to run about.

Kensington Gardens
Visit the popular Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens. Youngsters can climb the giant wooden pirate ship or commandeer a teepee for hours of outdoor fun.

Crystal Palace
Meet life-size dinosaurs (well, large models built by the Victorians) in Crystal Palace Park. The Crystal Palace exhibition used to stand in this park, which now also contains a children’s farm, playground and maze.

Holborn
Head to Coram’s Fields in Holborn, a unique seven-acre park and playground for children for an afternoon of family fun. It can only be entered when accompanied by a child, providing a calm, safe and stimulating environment for children to play in the centre of London.

Horniman-museum and Park
Meet the gigantic overstuffed walrus at the Horniman Museum and Gardens. Kids will also learn something new from the museum’s collections of anthropology, natural history and musical instruments.
This is an excellent open space aswell with stunning views

Mudchute farm
Feed the cows at Mudchute Farm and Park, London’s largest urban park with 34 acres (14 hectares) of open parkland. Youngsters can visit the farm animals, go horse riding and explore the farm’s educational facilities.

Theatre And Art
Take the JCB Glass lift in the Royal Festival Hall and enjoy the surprise on everyone's faces when the elevator starts to sing.

Visit the Southbank Centre for the Imagine Children’s Festival this February half term. Free events and workshops include the Junk Orchestra, where little ones experiment with music and recycling by making their own instruments. The Southbank Centre is a child-friendly space and holds lots of other free events throughout the year.

Make your own temporary sculpture with Liminal at Tate Modern, which lets youngsters experiment with shape, form and composition. Or try the Time (Travel) Line, which helps children discover what artists were creating the year they were born and plan a trail through the gallery to meet artworks that are the same age as they are.

Monday, 13 June 2016

Fathers Day Ideas!

Here are my top picks for Fathers Day pressies/Days Out



Please note - these have not been written by me, but I have scoured the internet for you to give you some cool ideas!

Father’s Day Ideas: #1 Get Groomed, Get High

There seems to a growing (sorry) trend for grooming experiences in really high-up places this Sunday. We’re not quite sure of the correlation between the two, but hey, don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it right…
Top 5: Simply Sensational Father's Day Ideas in London, Father's Day Ideas in London, aqua shard, grooming, shaving, london, what's on, events, top, expensive, high-end, cool, food, foodie, steak, wet shave, barber
Good For: Someone who likes both heights and a smooth face.
The Lowdown: The Shard’s British restaurant aqua shard has teamed up with luxury grooming company ManMade to create the UK’s highest barber. Come along to Level 31 where a pop-up salon will house three rooms offering wet shaves, beard trims and quick haircuts. You’ll get a complimentary treatment before the meal; the menu offering is a very British affairs – starters such as Lobster Benedict with poached egg, mains such as fig tart with braised shallots and horseradish mousse. Finish with a bakewell tart and enjoy the stunning view. 
Where: Level 31, The Shard, 31 St Thomas St, London SE1 9RY
Price: Three courses for £48 – book
Top 5: Simply Sensational Father's Day Ideas in London, Father's Day Ideas in London,greenwich, the 02, adrenaline, aqua shard, grooming, shaving, london, what's on, events, top, expensive, high-end, cool, food, foodie, steak, wet shave, barber, up at the 02, climbing, wall climbing, rock climbing, outdoor, activity, adventure, sports
Good For: The pleasure seeker AND adrenaline junkie.
What: Did you know you can go climbing at The O2? Well, you can. And this Father’s Day, they’ve organised a very special climb indeed; when you reach the top of the summit, there will be a whole host of fatherly activities to enjoy. There’s cheese tasting with Pistachio & Pickle, grooming sessions with The Groom Room, lessons on how to tie the perfect bow tie with Grosvenor Shirts and massages from Urban Massage. Enough reason to put on a harness any day.
Where: The 02, Peninsula Square, London, SE10 0Dx
Price: £33 per person – book

Father’s Day Ideas: #2  Get Groomed, Get Low

Ok, so not everyone wants to get a shave at the top of really high stuff. This one’s good for the father and son who are happy to have their faces pampered at ground level.
Top 5: Simply Sensational Father's Day Ideas in London, Father's Day Ideas in London,greenwich, the 02, adrenaline, aqua shard, grooming, shaving, london, what's on, events, top, expensive, high-end, cool, food, foodie, steak, wet shave, barber, up at the 02, climbing, wall climbing, rock climbing, outdoor, activity, adventure, sports, murdock, london, salon, top 5, pampering, facial, haircut, beard, trim, groomed
Good For: The face proud man.
The Lowdown: Champagne Charles Heidsieck has joined forces with Murdock London to offer fathers and sons luxury grooming treatments along with a glass of bubbly. There’s a range of classic treatments, including wet shaves, full beard and Champagne Charlie-esque moustache reshapes all to be enjoyed with a glass of Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve NV. Fathers whose treatments are booked in advance will be gifted with a complimentary bottle of the Brut Réserve NV, the champagne of choice for stylish gentlemen. Win. 
Where: Covent Garden, Shoreditch and Soho barbershops – Friday 13th to Sunday 15th June.
Price: Treatments start at £45 – more info here

Father’s Day Ideas: #3 Get Tipsy on Strange Objects

On a Giant Wheel
Top 5: Simply Sensational Father's Day Ideas in London, Father's Day Ideas in London,greenwich, the 02, adrenaline, aqua shard, grooming, shaving, london, what's on, events, top, expensive, high-end, cool, food, foodie, steak, wet shave, barber, up at the 02, climbing, wall climbing, rock climbing, outdoor, activity, adventure, sports, london eye, whisky, tasting, whisky tasting, spirits, alcohol, tourist, tourist attraction, pricey, cool, views, london views, skyline, unusual, quirky
Good For: Someone who likes multiple senses being massaged at once.
The Lowdown: The EDF Energy London Eye are offering a special boozy package with their Vinopolis Whisky Tasting Experience. You’ll be guided through 5 whiskies whilst enjoying a selection of savoury nibbles alongside the stunning view; they’ll be a personal guide to talk you through the Scotch whiskies and tasting notes from Vinopolis, whilst you make two rotations on the Eye.
Where: The London Eye, Riverside Bldg, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB
Price: £48 per person – Saturday 14th June, Sunday 15th June, 5.30pm
On an Old Bus
Top 5: Simply Sensational Father's Day Ideas in London, Father's Day Ideas in London,greenwich, the 02, adrenaline, aqua shard, grooming, shaving, london, what's on, events, top, expensive, high-end, cool, food, foodie, steak, wet shave, barber, up at the 02, climbing, wall climbing, rock climbing, outdoor, activity, adventure, sports, champagne, oysters, giant bus, vintage bus, one canada square, pop up, restaurant
Good For: Someone who finds the idea of a three-course meal as trapping as David Blaine’s glass box.
The Lowdown: During Motorexpo One Canada Square park is hosting their very own special party bus serving crisp Joseph Perrier Champagne and shucking Loch Fyne Oysters from a lovingly restored open top Daimler Fleetline built in 1971. There’s also a special Father’s Day menu at One Canada Square – treat your dad to a spot of brunch and add an extra £15 for bottomless Bloody Marys, Raspberry Bellini’s or white, red or rosé wine throughout your meal. That’s dangerous, right there.
Where: One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AB
Price: £20 for two courses, £25 for three courses
On a Boat
Top 5: Simply Sensational Father's Day Ideas in London, Father's Day Ideas in London,greenwich, the 02, adrenaline, aqua shard, grooming, shaving, london, what's on, events, top, expensive, high-end, cool, food, foodie, steak, wet shave, barber, up at the 02, climbing, wall climbing, rock climbing, outdoor, activity, adventure, sports, champagne, oysters, giant bus, vintage bus, one canada square, pop up, restaurant, boat, canal, cruise, kings cross
Good For: The father that likes to be out in the sunshine with a good beer.
What: Hidden Depths Canal Cruises, who offer affordable cruises and private hire boats in London, have a special Father’s Day cruise on. It departs from Kings Cross every hour from 11am and is only £10 for adults (£8 for fathers) – you can take your own beer and food on the boat, so this would be great for a Father’s Day picnic.
Where: Kings Cross – see here for more info
Price: £10 per person – book

Father’s Day Ideas: #4 Eat All the Food

Sometimes you can’t go wrong with a good meal. Here’s a few ways to get all the food in London:
Eat: All the Sushi
Top 5: Simply Sensational Father's Day Ideas in London, Father's Day Ideas in London,greenwich, the 02, adrenaline, aqua shard, grooming, shaving, london, what's on, events, top, expensive, high-end, cool, food, foodie, steak, wet shave, barber, up at the 02, climbing, wall climbing, rock climbing, outdoor, activity, adventure, sports, champagne, oysters, giant bus, vintage bus, one canada square, pop up, restaurant, sushi, aqua kyoto, japanese, fixed price, buffet, sashimi, sake, cocktails, whisky
Good For: The buffet lovers, the endless drinkers.
The Lowdown: At contemporary Japanese restaurant, aqua kyoto, all dads dining will receive a complimentary miniature bottle of Yamazaki 12-year whisky. All can enjoy the Infinity Brunch, which includes a large sushi platter, unlimited yakitori – grilled marinated skewers – from the sumibi-yaki grill, green tea and mixed mushroom noodles, Datterini tomato, edamame & seaweed salad, a selection of homemade ice-creams and mocha and unlimited Veuve Clicquot Brut NV champagne, house wine or beer for up to two hours!
Where: 5th Floor, 240 Regent Street, London. Entrance on 30 Argyll Street, London, W1B 3BR – opposite The London Palladium
Price: £55 per person, reservations available between 12-4pm. Book here.
Eat: All the Pancakes
Top 5: Simply Sensational Father's Day Ideas in London, Father's Day Ideas in London,greenwich, the 02, adrenaline, aqua shard, grooming, shaving, london, what's on, events, top, expensive, high-end, cool, food, foodie, steak, wet shave, barber, up at the 02, climbing, wall climbing, rock climbing, outdoor, activity, adventure, sports, champagne, oysters, giant bus, vintage bus, one canada square, pop up, restaurant, pont street, american, brunch, pancakes, waffles, egg, steak, burgers, sophie michell
Good For: People who like maple syrup and folk music.
What: This Sunday at Pont St., the trendy restaurant run by Sophie Michell at the Belgraves Hotel, sees the launch of a New York style Sunday Brunch and live music from the soulful Lauren Flynn. The menu includes Nutella stuffed french toast with caramelized bananas, Lobster club sandwiches and burgers with truffle mayo. There’s jugs of bloody mary’s and manly cocktails (whatever they are too) to sip whilst enjoying the great music.
Where: Pont St, 20 Chesham Place, London, SW1X 8HQ
Price: Menu starts at £7.50 – book
Eat: All the Cake 
Top 5: Simply Sensational Father's Day Ideas in London, Father's Day Ideas in London,greenwich, the 02, adrenaline, aqua shard, grooming, shaving, london, what's on, events, top, expensive, high-end, cool, food, foodie, steak, wet shave, barber, up at the 02, climbing, wall climbing, rock climbing, outdoor, activity, adventure, sports, champagne, oysters, giant bus, vintage bus, one canada square, pop up, restaurant, atheneum, afternoon tea, classic, mens, english, traditional, scones, tea, cake, sweet, savoury, yummy, tarts, fruit tarts, bubbly, south kensington
Good For: Blokes too embarrassed to be taking Instagrams of scones.
What: The Athenaeum has crafted a special Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea designed with those who prefer the savoury to the sweet in mind. Wild Boar sausage rolls and miniature Steak & Ale pies are just some of the savouries on offer, and to top it off the afternoon tea comes with a dram of single malt whisky. Because whisky truffles are much more manly than regular ones, don’t ya know…
Where: 116 Piccadilly, London W1J 7BJ
Price: £34.50 per person – book

Father’s Day Ideas: #5 Get Merry to Match of the Day

If all else fails, buy him some booze, put the footie on and have a good jolly good time. Here’s a few nice boozy gift and film ideas to get the party started:
Port + Pirates
Top 5: Simply Sensational Father's Day Ideas in London, Father's Day Ideas in London,greenwich, the 02, adrenaline, aqua shard, grooming, shaving, london, what's on, events, top, expensive, high-end, cool, food, foodie, steak, wet shave, barber, up at the 02, climbing, wall climbing, rock climbing, outdoor, activity, adventure, sports, champagne, oysters, giant bus, vintage bus, one canada square, pop up, restaurant, atheneum, afternoon tea, classic, mens, english, traditional, scones, tea, cake, sweet, savoury, yummy, tarts, fruit tarts, bubbly, south kensington, special reserve, gin, port
What: Buy him some Cockburn’s Special Reserve Port; it’s one of the most iconic ports of all time and tastes of strawberry, plum and being on a ship all at the same time.
Price: £12.00 for 75cl
The Idea: Drink it watching Pirates of the Caribbean in HD.
Gin + Gambling
Top 5: Simply Sensational Father's Day Ideas in London, Father's Day Ideas in London,greenwich, the 02, adrenaline, aqua shard, grooming, shaving, london, what's on, events, top, expensive, high-end, cool, food, foodie, steak, wet shave, barber, up at the 02, climbing, wall climbing, rock climbing, outdoor, activity, adventure, sports, champagne, oysters, giant bus, vintage bus, one canada square, pop up, restaurant, atheneum, afternoon tea, classic, mens, english, traditional, scones, tea, cake, sweet, savoury, yummy, tarts, fruit tarts, bubbly, south kensington, special reserve, gin
What: The Tanqueray Collection kit provides a tasting experience through the three Tanqueray variants: Tanqueray London Dry, Tanqueray Rangpur and Tanqueray No. TEN. The Tanqueray Collection kit includes a tray and three mini gin & tonic glasses and the recipes to make the perfect G&T for each variant. It also includes two great tools for budding mixologists: a Zester peeler and a jigger.
The Idea: Drink a cold G&T whilst watching James Bond.
Price: £110 – Alexander and James
Lager + Lost in Translation
Top 5: Simply Sensational Father's Day Ideas in London, Father's Day Ideas in London,greenwich, the 02, adrenaline, aqua shard, grooming, shaving, london, what's on, events, top, expensive, high-end, cool, food, foodie, steak, wet shave, barber, up at the 02, climbing, wall climbing, rock climbing, outdoor, activity, adventure, sports, champagne, oysters, giant bus, vintage bus, one canada square, pop up, restaurant, atheneum, afternoon tea, classic, mens, english, traditional, scones, tea, cake, sweet, savoury, yummy, tarts, fruit tarts, bubbly, south kensington, special reserve, gin
What: Kirin Ichiban Japanese lager is one of the world’s most expensively brewed premium beers; made using the unique Japanese ‘Kirin Ichiban Shibori’ process. Unlike other lagers which are pressed and re-pressed, only the sweet, flavoursome liquid from a single pressing of the finest ingredients goes in to Kirin Ichiban, for an amazing tasting beer.
The Idea: Eat it with salmon sashimi whilst watching Lost in Translation.
Price: £1.49 per 330ml bottle – Tesco, Ocado and www.drinkshop.com
. Go for a beer. London has some of the best bars and pubs in the world. As it should be warm in JUne, how about one of the best beer gardens in London, or perhaps a glass of wine with a view at theserooftop bars.
You can take a stroll down by The Thames and see the sights, before stopping off for a well deserved pint in one of these riverside pubs.
2. Tour a brewery. Meantime in Greenwich have a lovely beer garden to relax in after a tour, and Camden Town Brewery in North London have some casual drop-in tours available on the day.
Meantime
Meantime
3. Head to a food festival. Taste of London will be on over in Regent’s Park, where you can try different taster plates from some of London’s best restaurants.
4. Treat him to Gent’s Afternoon Tea. The Montcalm At Brewery and the Sanctum Soho all do variations on the Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea. Expect relishes and scotch eggs among other delights making their way onto the table.
5. Eat a steak dinner. Try Hawksmoor, which has long been established as one of London’s premier dining experiences.

How about a bit of pampering?

Male-facial
6. Gift him a spa treatmentGone are the days when these were just aimed at women – you can sign him up for a facial, massage, or one of these special “for him” spa experiences.
7. Book him into a barbers. From traditional close shaves to beard-styling – London has some top professionals wielding the razor. Esquire magazine has put together a useful list to get you started.

Father’s Day at the theatre

The Book of Mormon
8. Watch the Book of MormonThis long-running, politically-incorrect musical is still packing out the theatre. Not for the easily offended, this is a tale about a couple of American Mormon missionaries sent to a Ugandan village to convert the locals.
9. See Sunny AfternoonTelling the story of 1960s band The Kinks, this raucous show is more like a gig than a musical as the cast all play their own instruments. With one of the best back catalogues in the business and a stellar cast, this is a rollercoaster rock-n-roll story
Here are the latest West End theatre show deals if you fancy taking him to the theatre to see something else

Or what about a weekend away?

10. Get away for the weekend. Book the family into a nice hotel, just one hour away from London.
The Grove
Golf Course at The Grove
11. Play a round of golf at The Grove. If your dad is into golf in a big way – then this five star is one of the best hotels. After playing 18 holes, he can head to the poolside bar if the weather is nice – or get a massage in their premium spa.
(The hotel is also really close to the Warner Bros Studio Tour if he fancies a bit of film action.)
Brooklands
Brooklands
12. Ask for a room with a view of the Mercedes Benz race track opposite Brooklands Hotel Surrey. It’s also close to the Brooklands Museum – home of Concorde – and is the site of the first purpose built motor racing circuit. They have collections of aircraft, motorbikes and cars as well.
If all else fails there's always a bottle of their favourite tipple and aftershave n'est pas?