Looking for ways to entertain the children without stretching the family budget? The Brunel Swindon has the answer, with six weeks of free activities designed to keep youngsters busy throughout the school holidays.
The town centre shopping destination has joined forces with a host of local organisations, including the Wyvern Theatre, Festival of Tomorrow, Signal Festival Swindon, the National Literacy Trust and Swindon Story Shed, to present its Wonderful Wednesdays programme.
Every Wednesday until 26 August, families can drop in between 10am and 4pm for a different themed activity near Boots, with no booking required. Alongside the weekly events, visitors can also take part in a free treasure trail running throughout the holidays. Trail maps are available from Card Factory, with children challenged to find hidden letters around the centre before claiming a small prize.
A spokesperson for The Brunel said the programme was designed to give families an affordable way to enjoy the summer.
“We know the school summer holidays can be long and often expensive for parents, so we wanted to offer something practical, fun and totally free. By teaming up with some fantastic local organisations we’ve created a varied mix of activities from science experiments and storytelling to arts and crafts.”
The programme began with arts and crafts hosted by Signal Festival Swindon and continues on 5 August with a National Literacy Trust pop-up book swap celebrating the National Year of Reading. Families will be able to browse and take home free pre-loved books, while donations can be made in advance at Something Different or Swindon Story Shed.
Science takes centre stage on 12 and 13 August, when Festival of Tomorrow brings a series of hands-on experiments and creative activities to the shopping centre.
On 19 August, Swindon Story Shed presents activities inspired by the classic children’s favourite We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, combining storytelling with themed crafts.
The season concludes on 26 August, when the Wyvern Theatre brings a touch of pantomime magic with Jack and the Beanstalk-inspired activities, giving children the chance to plant their own beanstalk and perhaps even meet the famous pantomime cow.
Free face painting will also be available every Wednesday, with donations welcomed in support of Swindon & Wiltshire Pride.
With shopping, cafés and a packed programme of free entertainment all under one roof, The Brunel is once again offering families a welcoming and affordable destination throughout the summer holidays.
