Every child is capable of extraordinary Scan here to find out how to save 40% on your fees! Save 40% Scan today REGISTERED www.smart11plus.co.uk 0121 517 0339 Based in Solihull at Tudor Grange Academy SUTTON COLDFIELD COMPETITIONS P30 ASH END FARM P3 WMSP P32 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk AUTUMN 2026 WW I I NN WIN
2 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES Visit statfold.com or scan here All aboard Statfold’s Magical Santa Express this Christmas for a festive day out for the whole family!
3 Raring2go! PLACES TO GO Play Barn The BIG •Meet the Wizard’s creepy critters •Pumpkin picking and carving • Explore the Spooky trail • Spooky crafts •Lucky Dip for a sweety treat •Prizes for kids in costumes SpookTACULAR SPOOKTACULAR TICKETS INCLUDE ALL OF THE FARM ACTIVITIES meet and feed the animals ... chat to a chick and choose a fresh egg ... sit on a pony ... ride the bumpy tractor trail BOOK COMBI TO INCLUDE THE BIG PLAY BARN FOR THE PERFECT DAY OUT WEDNESDAY 21ST to SATURDAY 31ST OCTOBER NOW BOOKING FOR CHRISTMAS, TOO! www.childrensfarm.co.uk We are at B78 2BL between Sutton Coldfield and Tamworth
The days are getting shorter and the nights are growing longer, but don’t be blue, there’s still, lots of fun to be had! Over the next few months, we have Diwali, Halloween and Bonfire Night and soon Father Christmas will be on his way! Remember to keep hold of your copy of Raring2go! as we’ve got pages and pages full of fabulous events, activities and places to visit lined up for you in this magazine, taking you all the way through from now until the end of December ! Whatever you do and wherever you go, have fun and I’ll see you again in 2027 with the next magazine! 07929 656748 Penny.beddows@raring2go.co.uk Penny X Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date all year with your local #gotoguide for families Facebook: Raring2gosuttoncoldfield Copyright © 2026 TDW Publishing Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical or electronic, including photocopying and recording, or by any information storage & retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. Requests for permission or further information should be addressed to the publishers. All information in this magazine is published in good faith and cannot be reproduced without prior written permission.The publisher makes every effort to ensure that the businesses which are featured in this magazine are of the highest quality, we do not guarantee the services and products from any businesses featured. Printed by Gemini Print Group. Website Member E-newsletter emailed monthly with latest offers and events Download vouchers and save £££’s Access all our online competitions with great prizes to be won Become a Join today by visiting www.raring2go.co.uk Welcome to the Autumn issue of Raring2go! 4 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WELCOME
5 Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES SATURDAY 31ST OCTOBER BOOK NOW WMSP.CO.UK SAVE 30% WHEN YOU BOOK EARLY! TICKETS INCLUDE A FULL SAFARI DAY OUT! SAFARI SKIES DRONE SHOW
6 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES S4 Swim School are now offering brand new Rookie Lifeguard courses. Suitable for swimmers from the age of 8 years who have achieved their stage 6 award and have a minimum distance badge of 100m. Key Benefits: • Build Confidence & Communication • Swim Safely with Clothes On • Rescue Techniques: Reach, Throw & Wade • Practice Safe Towing of Casualties • Gain Essential First Aid Skills • Learn the Recovery Position & CPR • Bronze, Silver & Gold Rookie Awards My daughters took part in the intensive course and absolutely loved it. Was really pleased at the progress they made in such a short time; we have now signed up to regular classes and can’t wait to see the progress they will make. (Facebook) f: @s4swimschool s4swimschool.uk New_NOV_2022_Mag_ad129x89Ad.indd 4 28/11/2022 10:42 Find a pool near you! We run weekly aerial silks classes and aerial hoop classes for children age 2 - 13 yrs, as well as monthly circus academies and half term circus camps Book on our website www.addicঞ ve tness.co.uk or contact Karen on 07803 043933 for more informaঞ on. Locaঞ on: Addicঞ ve Fitness Ltd, 53 Coleshill Industrial Estate, Coleshill, B46 1JT
7 Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES BOOK A FREE ASSESSMENT AND GET 40% OFF YOUR FEES! REGISTERED The feedback given to parents after every session is very valuable and confidenceboosting. Children are taught and cared for just like their own. Elara, the centre manager, has been very approachable, kind, understanding and dealt with all and any worries (big/small) in a very friendly and professional way. Saima Our son went to Smart 11+ for about 8 months prior to sitting his 11 plus exam and I can honestly say that they were brilliant. He loved the tutors and always came out of his sessions really positive. Danny Brooks The tuition provides overall information about the test and the progress of your child. Also it provides a sense of company with many other buddies who are working towards the same goal. Alex Lam What our parents say... BOOK YOUR CHILD'S FREE ASSESSMENT TODAY *Not the normal small print. We are extremely confident that your child will love our tuition, so following your free assessment you can decide THEN if you wish to sign up. 40% off fees is available for new customers signing up using a multi-session discount and paying by Tax Free Childcare. You are protected by our no-risk two-week guarantee. Scan the QR code for more information!
8 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES Sing, Dance, Play, Learn Award-winning performing arts classes www.dramatots.co.uk Find a class here emma@dramatots.co.uk or call Emma today on 07837 062600 Be a part of the Raring2go! family... Advertise with Raring2go! and reach thousands of local families in Sutton Coldfield & surrounding areas... E: penny.beddows@raring2go.co.uk Wilnecote High School Tinkers green road, Wilnecote , Tamworth B77-5LF After School Mon, Tue, Wed & Thurs and Sat Morning 4-16 yrs All abilities New Hall Primary School Langley Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield, B75 7NQ. All abilities & ages welcome from parent & baby/toddler up to age 16
9 Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES DEANERY C OF E PRIMARY SCHOOL 14 FOX HOLLIES RD, WALMLEY. B76 2RD MONDAY 5:30 - 6:30PM WEDNESDAY 5:30 - 6:30PM LITTLE SUTTON PRIMARY SCHOOL WORCESTER ROAD, MERE GREEN. B75 5NL TUESDAY 3:45 - 4:45PM (AFTER-SCHOOL CLASS EXCLUSIVE TO STUDENTS OF LSPS) TUESDAY 5 - 6PM NEW OSCOTT PRIMARY SCHOOL MARKHAM ROAD, NEW OSCOTT. B73 6QR FRIDAY 3:45 - 4:45PM ALL SAINTS CHURCH PARISH CENTRE BELWELL LANE, FOUR OAKS . B74 4TR FRIDAY 5:45 - 6:45PM SATURDAY 10 - 11AM Now! Book Your Place KOMBATKIDS TO REGISTER: TEXT: 07730 899722 (Child’s first & last name + venue ) EMAIL: info@kombatkids.com www.kombatkids.com / www.facebook.com/kombatkids
10 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! HOLIDAY CLUBS
11 Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 15% discount with Raring2go! use code GO15 Screen-free fun Uses everyday materials Inspires curiosity Planet-friendly learning Hours of family adventure “Activity boxes for children that are just outstanding!” Award-winning eco activity kits filled with creative, hands-on activities that inspire children to explore, imagine and care for the planet.
HOLIDAY CLUBS, CAMPS & SCHOOLS Addictive Fitness workshops 27th,28th and 29th October circus & Aerial Camps https://www.addictivefitness.co.uk Aspire sports Active Camp Sutton Coldfield 26th - 30th October 15 % off quote R2GOCT26 ( before 23rd Oct ) Bishop Vesey grammar school, 0121 663 1082 activecamps.co.uk Ackers Holiday Club Activities each day 27th,28th and 29th October will include: skiing, climbing, canoeing,, bell boating, Kayaking, archery, tubing and much more. Ackers-adventire.co.uk S4 Swim Intensive Queen Mary’s Grammar School Walsall and Tamworth Enterprise College. Non-Swiimmer - Advanced Levels www.s4swimschool.uk/swim-intensives/ Fun Fest Holiday Club 26th October- 30th October 2 venues Mere green primary , Four Oaks school and Deanery Primary school, Walmley www.fun-fest.co.uk Aquanauts Swim school Intensive Week course at Wilnecote High School 26th - 30th October groups and 121/122 available also fun diving sessions every morning for more details call 07792 181483 Wilnecote High School Tinkers green road, Wilnecote , Tamworth B77-5LF After School Mon, Tue, Wed & Thurs and Sat Morning 4-16 yrs All abilities New Hall Primary School Langley Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield, B75 7NQ. All abilities & ages welcome from parent & baby/toddler up to age 16 12 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO For more info visit aspire-sports.co.uk or call 0121 663 1979 Ofsted registered Open from 8am - 6pm BOOK ONLINE *Offerends5pmonFriday23rdOctober 15% OFF* with code R2GOCT26 Holiday Childcare for active kids! Spooktacular October Half Term For more info and to book your place visit activecamps.co.uk or call 0121 663 1082 Sutton Coldfield Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School Monday 26th October - Friday 30th October Sign up today, just 1 click away! Visit raring2go.co.uk and start saving today • Great Competitions • Money-off Vouchers • Generous Discounts Sign up today and gain access to: With brands like these: Your LOCAL family magazine and website From places to Visit, Stay, Play, Eat, Shop & Explore... you'll find things to do, local to you! www.raring2go.co.uk
14 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Help your child learn to read in 30 days for FREE with Reading Eggs! Created by experts and loved by over 20 million children worldwide, Reading Eggs is designed to develop early essential literacy skills such as phonics, sight words and vocabulary, planting the foundation for a life-long love of reading. Here’s why you’ll love our programs: FREE 30-DAY TRIAL in 30 Days Learn to Read FREE! readingeggs.co.uk/bts21 Scan QR code for 30-Day FREE trial This 30-day free trial offer allows you to add up to 4 children. You will be charged at the end of the trial period unless you cancel before this time. You can cancel any time by selecting the ‘Cancel Subscription’ option located on the ‘Manage My Subscription’ page in your family dashboard. Offer is valid for new UK customers only. Hundreds of fun learning games Exciting rewards keep your child motivated See results from just 15 minutes of play a day! Positive screen time that’s KidSAFE & Ad-free Automated progress reports Log in across multiple devices at the same time, with no restrictions!
15 Raring2go! NURSERIES Don’t forget... the clocks go back October 25th!
OCTOBER Black Country Living Museum Saturday 3 October – Sunday 4 October, daily 10am – 5pm Step back in time and experience the story of the Black Country, a region that helped shape the industrial world. Meet historic characters and discover the stories of the iconic people who made their mark on this remarkable region. See live metal working demonstrations showcasing the ingenuity, hard work and craftsmanship that powered generations of local people and businesses. Marvel at large steam traction engines in action, enjoy mamod displays, join the women chainmakers’ strike, and experience live music throughout the day. Bring the whole family for a day of entertainment and industrial-powered action, and discover why the region became famously known as the Black Country Saturday 10th October – Sunday 1st November. Spooky Spectacular at West Midlands Safari Park A monster mashup for a spooky experience like no other! We’re pulling out all the stops with a mix of thrilling adventures, spooky shows, and monstrously good fun for the whole family! + Don’t miss the BRAND NEW Safari Skies drone show on 31 Oct for an extra-spectacular Halloween finale where the sky comes alive with an incredible 12-minute drone show, featuring spectacular images of some of the world’s most amazing animals, all brought to life through light, movement and music. https://www.wmsp.co.uk/events 21st - 31st October Spooktacular fun at Ash End House Children’s Farm and The Big Play Barn Meet The Wizard’s creepy critters , Pumkin picking and carving, Explore the spooky trail , spooky crafts ,Lucky dip for sweety treat, book a combi to include The Big Play Barn and Ashend Farm for the perfect day out. We are Taking Bookings for Christmas too ! www.childrensfarm.co.uk B78 Between Sutton Coldfield and Tamworth 23rd October – 3rd January Neverland at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery Open Tue-Sun, daily in school holidays. The Gas Hall has been transformed into a spellbinding Neverland, enchanting visitors of all ages with a festive experience inspired by the beloved children’s classic, Peter Pan. https://www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/ exhibitions/neverland 24th, 25th, 28th, 29th, 30th & 31st October | 10am - 4pm Statfold’s Spellbound Adventure New for 2026 Looking for somewhere that’s familyfriendly, big on spooks and low scares this Halloween season? Early Bird Tickets are now on sale! Step into Statfold’s magical world for a Spellbound Adventure! Perfect for families with younger children, there will be silly surprises, giggles around every corner and lots of memory-making for a great day out… and yes, costumes are encouraged! With a whole host of new activities to explore from Toby’s Seasonal Switch-Up Trail to The Big Boo Bash Live Show, a Potion Lab Workshop and so much more, this new event is not to be missed! So what are you waiting for? Book and visit our Halloween event! www.statfold.com Raring2go! WHATS’ ON 16 raring2go.co.uk
17 Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 24TH, 25TH, 28TH, 29TH, 30TH & 31ST OCTOBER JOIN US FOR A WHOLE HOST OF NEW ACTIVITIES & ADVENTURES... For families with younger children, Step into a magical world of silly surprises, giggles & spooky memory-making… & yes, Halloween costumes are encouraged! SCAN ME TO BOOK October Half Term Family Fun at Black Country Living Museum This half term, Saturday 24 October – Sunday 1 November, take on the role of detective as you investigate strange happenings around this historic town. Join our historic police and search for clues - What will you believe? Ghostly apparitions, curious cures and mysterious goings-on await at the Museum. Our constable is on the case, but they can’t solve it alone – will your verdict be superstition or true stories? Help track down the suspicious Quack Doctor who is up to no good. Rumour has it they’re recruiting apprentices – have you got what it takes to treat ailments of the past? Follow the discovery trail to explore superstitions throughout the past, from questionable cures of the 1800s through to the lucky charms and traditions of our 1950s bride. Meet quirky characters as you uncover tales, tricks and unsettling facts. Whether you’re a believer or a sceptic, there’s plenty to explore. And don’t worry, your favourite Museum experiences are still here… Step back in time with an Edwardian school lesson, play traditional street games, enjoy historic fairground rides, watch live metalworking demonstrations and experience a taste of the past with bostin’ fish & chips. There’s something for everyone, bring the whole family to uncover the truth behind these myths and superstitions together!
18 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! THINGS TO DO
19 Raring2go! BRAND-NEW SIXTH FORM OPENING SEPTEMBER 2027 Your Digital Future Starts Here APPLICATIONS OPEN Thursday 1 October 2026 st Find out more at www.boa-digital.co.uk
20 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON OCTOBER October Half Term Fun – Myths and Superstitions Saturday 24 October – Sunday 1 November, daily 10am – 5pm Something strange is stirring in historic streets of Black Country Living Museum… Join the historic police and search for clues - What will you believe? Ghostly apparitions, curious cures and mysterious goings-on await at the Museum. The constable is on the case, but they can’t solve it alone – will your verdict be superstition or true stories? Halloween Nights at Black Country Living Museum Saturday 24, Thursday 29, Friday 30 & Saturday 31 October, 6.30pm Get ready for a spooktacular night of family fun and tricks and treats around the historic streets of Black Country Living Museum and experience a slew of spine-tingling entertainment. Take your little terrors for a trip of trickor-treating, enjoy frighteningly fantastic experiences and meet ghoulish characters as they stir up mischief and entertainment around the historic streets. Saturday 24th October – Sunday 1st November. Autumn Half Term at Severn Valley Railway Starting the week with a Christmas Gift Fayre and then enjoy an autumn adventure on the railway with Halloween half-term fun, spooky Ghost Trains and the thrilling Scream Train. Expect seasonal activities and family fun during the day, with scarier experiences for those looking for a Halloween fright! https://svr.co.uk/all-events/ Saturday 24th + Thursday 29th – Saturday 31st October Halloween Nights at The Black Country Living Museum Enjoy a night of tricks and treats around our historic streets and experience a slew of spine-tingling entertainment. Take your little terrors for a trip down to the village for trick-or-treating, enjoy frighteningly fantastic experiences and meet our ghoulishly good fun historic characters as they stir up mischief in our historic streets. https://bclm.com/tickets-and-events/whats on/halloween/ Saturday 24th October – Sunday Selected dates between 10th October – 31st October. PLUS special evening dates on Fri 16, 23 & 30 October Pumpkins at Lower Drayton Farm Pick pumpkins where they’re grown at Lower Drayton Farm! Explore the pumpkin fields, choose your perfect pumpkin and carve it in the cosy undercover barn, with plenty of autumnal photo opportunities along the way. Tickets start from £6 per person, with optional fresh farm vegetables available too. Pre-booking essential; PLAY@ entry not included. Get £1 off your online booking with code PKPYO. https://lowerdraytonfarm.co.uk/pumpkins/ Monday 26th – Friday 30th October Half-term at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery Join us for some festive fun during the school holidays. Led by our museum learning team, we’ll be celebrating the changing of the seasons and giving little ones the chance to make their own clay leaves. My First Museum Tour: Halloween Edition (Tue-Thu only) offers a gentle, spooky introduction to the museum for little ones, with stories and activities to discover along the way. https://www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/
21 Raring2go! NURSERIES Is a pumpkin actually a fruit or a vegetable? What’s the name given to a full moon in October? What do you call a group of crows? What tree do conkers grow on? What do you call a group of owls? What do squirrels do with acorns and nuts in autumn? True or false: people used to carve turnips before pumpkins became popular for Halloween. Why do leaves change colour in autumn? Which spider spins the classic wheel-shaped web you see covered in dew in autumn? What’s it called when an animal sleeps through the whole winter to save energy? 1. 3. 5. 7. 9. 2. 4. 6. 8. 10. Answers: 1. A fruit – it grows from alower and has seeds inside. 2. They bury them, to dig up and eat later in winter. f 3. The Hunter’s Moon. 4. True - turnips cameirst, pumpkins took over once the tradition reached America. f 5. A murder. 6. The green chlorophyll breaks down, revealing the yellow and orange colours that were hiding underneath all along. 7. The Horse Chestnut tree. 8. Orb-weaver, (also called a garden spider). 9. A parliament. 10. Hibernation. Autumn Quiz
22 raring2go.co.uk RARING2GO! THEATRE THERE ARE LOTS OF FAMILY FRIENDLY SHOWS COMING UP AT OUR LOCAL THEATRES. HERE ARE SOME OF OUR FAVOURITES. 30th November - 15th December The Christmas Carol BOA Theatre www.ticketsource.com/boa 19 th December – 31 st January Sleeping Beauty , Birmingham Hippodrome www.birminghamhippodrome.com 5th December - 3rd January One Tiny Penguin Birmingham Hippodrome www.birminghamhippodrome.com 20th Oct - 1 st November The Snowman 18th November - 17th January Peter Pan 3rd December- 10th January The Ugly Ducking Birmingham Rep www.birmingham-rep.co.uk 6-31 December Beauty and the Beast 20th November - 10 th January Robin Hood Lichfield Garrick Lichfieldgarrick.com 5th December - 31st December Cinderella Sutton Coldfield Town Hall Suttoncoldfieldtownhall.com 5th December - 19th December Snow White and the seven dwarfs Sutton Arts Theatre suttonartstheatre.co.uk 21st November – 31 st December Beauty and the Beast The Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham www.oldrep.co.uk Panto
23 Raring2go! THEATRE TICKETS AVAILABLE AT TICKETSOURCE.COM/BOA 30 NOVEMBER - 15 DECEMBER 2026 BOA THEATRE, 1 GROSVENOR STREET, BIRMINGHAM, B4 7QD MUSIC BY ALAN MENKEN LYRICS BY LYNN AHRENS BOOK BY MIKE OCKRANT & LYNN AHRENS BASED ON THE STORY BV CHARLES DICKENS ORIGINAL CHOREOGRAPHY BY SUSAN STROMAN ORIGINALLY DIRECTED BY MIKE OCKRENT NOVEMBER Santa Hunts at Black Country Living Museum. Various dates throughout November & December Have you ever wondered how Santa stays up ALL night on Christmas Eve to deliver presents around the world? We’ve got just the adventure for you to find out. Join Santa’s helpers on an immersive journey for the whole family as you work together to find the pages of Santa’s magic nap time book and decipher the clues to uncover the secret location of Santa’s Black Country grotto! Wander through historic streets and along the way, little ones can write heartfelt letters to Santa, raise their voices in joyful song, and most importantly… meet Santa himself. 1st November. October half-term at ThinkTank, Birmingham Science Museum LEGO Coding & AI Workshop (24 Oct–1 Nov) gets children hands-on with coding and LEGO’s new Computer Science & AI kits, while Magic Mayhem Science Show (26–30 Oct) brings interactive experiments and games. Try Wizard Bubble Shields (28 Oct) for some magical hands-on science, meet the Science Magician (30 Oct) for a spooky mix of science and magic, or finish the week with Spooky Cinema: Hocus Pocus (30 Oct) under the stars in the Planetarium. https://www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/ whats-on
NOVEMBER Black Country Living Museum Festival of Light Saturday 7 November, 6pm An unforgettable evening of live music, authentic cuisine and a procession of light, as the Black Country Living Museum comes alive with the vibrant sights, sounds, and spirit of Diwali. Black Country Living Museum Peaky Blinders Nights Saturday 14 November, 7pm Journey into the gritty industrial landscape of the 1920s, where shadowy gangs once ruled the cobblestone streets. Walk in the footsteps of the show’s biggest stars as the Museum celebrates the show that put Birmingham on the map. Explore “Charlie’s Yard” and other historic streets that make up one of the key sets of the global smash hit drama. Dress to impress in your finest threads and frocks as you wind your way through the historic streets. Enjoy incredible live music, witness wild entertainment and tuck into fantastic food. For Peaky Blinders fans, this is an unmissable event! Thursday 19th - Sunday 22nd November Festive Gift Fair at NEC Find something special for everyone on your Christmas list, with hundreds of unique gifts, handmade treats, homeware, fashion and more from independent makers and small businesses. It’s a great chance to get your Christmas shopping sorted while supporting local and independent traders. www.festivegiftfair.co.uk Selected dates between 21st November – 24th December. Santa Safari & Pantomime at West Midlands Safari Park Join us for a magical festive day out the whole family will love – combining a fourmile winter Safari with an unforgettable visit to Santa in his beautifully decorated Grotto. Plus, due to popular demand from last year, the Christmas panto is returning this festive season! Join us in Treetops Pavilion for a dazzling performance of Sleeping Beauty, showing on selected dates between 18th - 31st Dec. https://www.wmsp.co.uk/events 27th November - 23rd December The Magical Santa Express Make everlasting family memories at The Magical Santa Express for a festive experience like no other! Whether you are returning for your family tradition or exploring Statfold’s Christmas event for the first time, our experience truly brings the magic and belief to the children, but also the adults too! www.statfold.com 27th November - 2nd January Winter Light Experience at the Belfry Hotel & Resort A Magical journey for the whole family Step into a spectacular world of light, colour and winter wonder as you follow an enchanting trail through the grounds of The Belfry Hotel and Resort. Somewhere within liesa little mystery . Santa has made a unexpected landing , and not everything has arrived with him! Presntd, reindeer and pieces of Christmas magic are scattered along the trail. Dog friendly nights and sensory sessions available. Limited offer Kids go free ! To book Visit www.winterlightexperience.co.uk or call 0121 816 2050 24 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON
25 Raring2go! HALL’S GARDEN CENTRE
NOVEMBER Festive Days Out at Black Country Living Museum, From Saturday 28 November – Sunday 3 January, daily 10am – 4pm Start a new Christmas tradition with a step back in time to explore Christmas through the decades. From the Victorian era through to the Swinging Sixties, discover period shops and houses brimming with Christmas cheer. The fires are lit; the stockings are hung and generations of Christmas traditions are brought to life. Selected dates between Saturday 28th November – Thursday 24th December Festive Season at Severn Valley Railway Choose between Santa’s Steam Specials, the Elf Express, relaxed Santa trips and festive Carol Trains. Meet Santa, enjoy magical steam-hauled journeys and soak up plenty of Christmas atmosphere, with a quieter option available for families who prefer a more relaxed experience. https://svr.co.uk/all-events/ Saturday 28th November – Thursday 24th December. Christmas at The Black Country Living Museum From family adventures to cosy couple outings, enjoy a full day of festive fun, warm food, and living history. Experience the magic of Christmas at BCLM - there’s something for everyone! To include Santa Hunts on selected dates 28th Nov – 24th Dec, and Glad Tidings Christmas evenings on selected dates 11th - 23rd Dec. https://bclm.com/tickets-and-events/whatson/christmas-at-bclm/ Saturday 28th November – Thursday Saturday 5th – Wednesday 23rd December. Christmas at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery Spot Santa! You never know where Father Christmas might appear at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery this festive season! While there, why not start the day having Breakfast with Santa and/or enjoying a Santa’s Workshop, where little ones are welcomed into a cosy, festive setting to meet Santa himself. https://www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/ whats-on DECEMBER Selected dates between 5th – 24th December. Jingle Ville at Lower Drayton Farm Step into the magical world of Jingle Ville at Lower Drayton Farm! Meet Santa, choose a gift from his Toy Shop, make your own TeddyTastic bear, enjoy festive crafts, indoor sledging and plenty more surprises. With a hot drink or milkshake included too, it’s a wonderfully immersive Christmas adventure for the whole family. Prebooking essential. Get 10% off your online booking with code RKXMAS. https://playatthefarm.co.uk/christmas/ Saturday 5th – Wednesday 23rd December. Breakfast with Santa / Santa’s Workshop at ThinkTank Santa’s Workshop brings festive making and crafting fun to Thinktank, with children getting creative and helping Santa’s elves. For an extra-special start to the day, Breakfast with Santa includes a festive breakfast, Christmas activities and a chance to meet Santa himself. https://www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/ whats-on 26 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON
birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank Funded by: • Santa’s Workshop Crafts • Seasonal Planetarium Shows • The Science of Light Live Show 27 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON
28 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON DECEMBER Black Country Living Museum Glad Tidings - Christmas Nights at Black Country Living Museum Friday 11, Saturday 12, Saturday 18, Sunday 19, Monday 21, Tuesday 22, Wednesday 23 & Thursday 24 December, 6.30pm It’s the time of year to bring friends and family together for a cosy evening at Black Country Living Museum. Gather around cosy open fires, sing along with traditional carollers and Fifties favourites, and enjoy traditional Christmas treats to get into the festive mood. 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd & 23rd December Breakfast With Santa at Stratfold Make it a Christmas to remember with our sell out Breakfast with SantaEnjoy a delicious breakfast, meet Santa, and experience festive fun in a vintage fairground setting. It’s perfect for families with children aged 2–10 www.statfold.com The Garden Room at Hall’s garden centre Breakfast with Santa. Saturday 19th December, Sunday 20th December and Thursday 24th December. 9:00am to 10:30am. £24.99 per child Inc. breakfast with apple or orange juice, the chance to meet Santa and his elf, have a photo taken and a gift from Santa. £29.99 per adult Inc a full English breakfast with unlimited tea or filter coffee. Booking required on 0121 321 6078. A non-refundable payment in full is required upon booking. 24th December. Santa’s Grotto at Dudley Zoo & Castle Visit Santa in his magical grotto within the walls of the 11th-century castle, with your ticket also including admission to Dudley Zoo. See your favourite animals, meet Santa’s reindeer and receive a special gift. Alternatively, try Santa’s Grotto After Hours! Follow Santa’s cheeky elf to the twinkling Reindeer Ravine, take the Santa Express to Santa’s Grotto, enjoy reindeer talks, Christmas crafts and festive photo opportunities. Zoo admission isn’t included, but a free return visit on another day is included. https://www.dudleyzoo.org.uk/events/ whats-on-at-dzc/
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 29 A spectacular winter adventure at The Belfry Hotel & Resort. Find out more: @winterlightexperience ✦ 1+ mile of illuminated adventure ✦ 30+ installations & interactive games ✦ Festive food & après bar ✦ Live characters ✦ Dog-friendly & sensory nights Moorhall Hotel Christmas events To book visit www.moorhallhotel.co.uk Breakfast with Singing Santa and Mrs Claus Sunday 13th December Saturday 19th December Sunday 20th December Wednesday 23rd December Thursday 24th December Breakfast with Santa & Mrs Claus at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa in Sutton Coldfield Afternoon Tea with Singing Santa and Mrs Claus Sunday 13th December Thursday 24th December Afternoon Tea with Singing Santa & Mrs Claus at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa in Sutton Coldfield Sunday Lunch with Singing Santa & Mrs Claus Sunday 20th December Sunday Lunch with Singing Santa & Mrs Claus at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa in Sutton Coldfield Afternoon Tea With Christmas Carols Friday 18th December Afternoon tea with carols
WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO THE WINTER LIGHT EXPERIENCE AT THE BELFRY HOTEL AND RESORT The Winter Light Experience is a brand-new, immersive winter adventure at The Belfry Hotel and Resort. Follow a spectacular trail of light and mystery, where interactive games and live characters bring the story to life, helping Santa recover his lost Christmas magic scattered along the way. Visit www.winterlightexperience.co.uk or call 0121 816 2050 Raring2go! WIN WIN TICKETS TO THE FESTIVE GIFT FAIR Festive Gift Fair returns to NEC Birmingham 19th to 22nd November 2026, for its landmark 30th Anniversary. Tickets go on sale 1st of September and we have 24 pairs of tickets to give away! For 30 years the Festive Gift Fair has been the annual tradition that kicks off Christmas for thousands of shoppers for four spectacular days of shopping, food, drink and live festive entertainment. Christmas shopping starts here! The fair has built an incredible and loyal following of over 30,000 visitors. Tickets sold out in 2025, making 2026 the one not to miss! This year the fair moves into Hall 17 at the NEC – a larger hall to celebrate 30 years in style, with more stalls, and even more festive magic… Tickets on sale from 1st September, Buy 3 Get 1 Free on Thursday and Friday adult tickets, and follow @festivegiftfair on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news. 30 to enter visit https://raring2go.co.uk/area/sutton-coldfield/competitions WIN TICKETS TO SLEEPING BEAUTY THE BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME PANTOMIME We have 4 tickets to Sleeping Beauty, Birmingham Hippodrome’s Pantomime, to give away. Tickets will be for the 7:15pm performance on Friday 15 January 2027. Your dreams will come true at the UK’s biggest regional pantomime this Christmas, with award-winning television presenter, radio DJ, podcaster and number one best-selling author Rylan as the Diva of Dreams, and the return of Birmingham panto legend Matt Slack as Lester the Jester! Joining them are the celebrated West End star and acclaimed singer and presenter Zoe Birkett as Carabosse and – back for a 10th season – Birmingham’s favourite dame, Andrew Ryan, as the Queen. Musical-theatre stars Ben Culleton and Keziah Ibe complete the glittering line-up as Prince Peter and Princess Aurora. www.birminghamhippodrome.com WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO WEST MIDLANDS SAFARI PARK SPOOKY SPECTACULAR The prize is for a family ticket for up to four people to visit during the Spooky Spectacular event. The closing date is Midday on Wednesday 21st October and the winner will be contacted via email. The ticket will be able to be used on a date of your choice until the end of the October halfterm week, excluding Saturday 31st October when brand new event ‘Safari Skies’ is taking place. The ticket includes admission plus ride wrist bands! Good luck… www.wmsp.co.uk COMPETITIONS
Raring2go! COMPETITIONS Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES Here’s what one of our franchisees says about Raring2go! You really can have a rewarding career and bring up your family! I decide my working hours. Raring2go! has allowed me the flexibility to do the school run, attend sports days, and take time off in the school holidays. My family & I have been privileged to try so many new activities and days out. We’ve reviewed after hours events at Marwell Zoo and attended opening events at Paultons Park. Most of all, I love working with some fantastic local businesses and amazing organisations. Sometimes, as I’m sat chatting with them over a hot chocolate, I can’t believe how lucky I am that this is part of my job! Being a Raring2go! Editor The role of Editor is very varied, with everything from researching local what’s on info, social media, design, distribution and sales. Support is ALWAYS available from the Raring2go! Franchise. No previous experience is necessary although an interest in the local area is helpful. Please note that a financial investment of £4,999 is required to buy this established business. If you’re passionate about local families having fun and you’re eager to be your own boss, I’d love to talk to you. Don’t miss out on this rewarding career and family friendly lifestyle. Ask for more details by calling Penny on 07929 656748 or by email to penny.beddows@raring2go.co.uk Have you ever dreamed of taking control of your working life to fit around your family? We’re looking for a special person to join our network by purchasing either a new, or existing, magazine franchise area. Could you be the next Raring2go! Editor? Sutton Coldfield Your local Franchise is FOR SALE!
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDA0NjA=