One of the most common questions I see parents asking is: “Where can I take the kids during the school holidays or weekends?” If you’ve ever found yourself wondering the same, don’t worry—you’re not alone!
As a local parent and grandparent, I know how important it is to find fun and engaging places to keep little ones entertained. So, I’ve put together a list of great places in and around Dudley that are perfect for family days out. Some are free, some have a small entry fee, and a few may require a bit more planning, but all of them offer something special for kids of all ages!
Free & Low Cost Activities
1. Dudley Canal & Tunnel Trust
🚶♂️ Great for: Adventurous explorers and curious minds
Take a walk along the canal or watch the boats pass by. If you fancy spending a little, the boat trips through the historic tunnels are a fantastic experience! Kids will love learning about the underground world beneath Dudley.
2. Himley Hall & Park
🌳 Great for: Picnics, walks, and outdoor play
This beautiful park is perfect for a family walk, feeding the ducks, or letting the kids run around. They now have a wonderful play area situated behind Himley Hall, which boasts plenty of equipment for all ages, from tots to teens. There’s plenty of open space for picnics and ball games, and special events are often held throughout the year.
3. Wren’s Nest Nature Reserve
🦖 Great for: Mini fossil hunters
If your kids love dinosaurs and fossils, this is a must-visit! Wren’s Nest is one of the most important geological sites in the UK, and you can even find fossils just by looking around. A great way to get outdoors and learn something new!
3. Sycamore Adventure Centre
🛝 Space, play and imagination are the words of the day at Sycamore Green Adventure Centre. This indoor and outdoor adventure play centre has been designed specifically with the freedom to play in mind.
Kids can explore the sensory room, climb cargo nets, run and jump or enjoy the massive slide climbing area. There are access play sessions at Sycamore Green for families and children with disabilities and additional needs sessions, too. Plus, adult-free zones for 8-13 year olds!
Click on the link below for full details of what the centre has to offer:
https://www.sycamoreadventure.co.uk
Indoor & Paid Attractions
4. Dudley Zoo & Castle
🦁 Great for: Animal lovers and history buffs
A visit to Dudley Zoo is always a hit with kids! They can see tigers, lemurs, and even penguins, all set against the backdrop of the historic Dudley Castle. It’s a great way to spend a full day out with plenty of interactive experiences.
5. Black Country Living Museum
⏳ Great for: Time-traveling fun
Step back in time and experience what life was like in the Black Country in the past. With traditional shops, a working school, and even the chance to try old-fashioned sweets and fish & chips, this place is both fun and educational!
6. Soft Play
🛝 Great for: Burning off energy indoors
If the weather isn’t great, soft play areas are a fantastic energy release for the kiddies, where they can climb, slide, and play while you relax with a coffee. In and around Dudley there are numerous soft play centres. Here are just a few suggestions:
- Chilli Kids – Mill Race Lane, Stourbridge
- Scallywags- Level St, Brierley Hill
- DB Leisure – Crystal, Halesowen and Duncan Edwards Leisure Centres.
- Zig Zags – Little Cottage St, Brierley Hill
- Little Lobsters – Platts Road, Amblecote, Stourbridge
7. Tenpin Dudley 🎳 Great for: Competitive fun
For a bit of family-friendly competition, why not try tenpin bowling. Visit the home of indoor fun in Dudley and enjoy the best bowling, karaoke and soft play area for the little ones.
Castle Gate Park, Castlegate Way, DY1 4TA
A Little Further Afield
8. West Midland Safari Park (Bewdley, 30 mins from Dudley)
🦓 Great for: Animal encounters
Drive through the safari and see lions, elephants, and giraffes up close! The park also has rides and a dinosaur park, making it a full day out.
9. Baggeridge Country Park (Sedgley, 15 mins from Dudley)
🌲 Great for: Outdoor adventures
With adventure playgrounds, woodland trails, and even a small lake for fishing, Baggeridge is a fantastic spot for families who love the outdoors.
Dudley and its surrounding areas have so much to offer for families looking for fun days out. Whether you’re after a free outdoor adventure or an exciting paid attraction, there’s something for every budget and interest.
A FREE Gift To You
FREE Mini Photo Shoot on Tuesday 15th April
Join me at Himely Park for a free 15 minute photoshoot. Click the link below to take you to the booking page. Don’t hang about though as there are a limited number of these free sessions available.
There’s no catch! You will receive 3 digital images absolutely FREE.
0 Comments