It's hard to believe we managed to get through January, let alone that it's almost time for the first half-term of the new year. There are lots of different things to do in Nottingham but it can be hard to find things that are low-cost or free.
It may be difficult, but not impossible, as we've managed to create a list of some of the best things to do for either free or under a tenner in Nottingham.
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1 - Fruity cupcake baking in a windmill
Greens Windmill, Sneinton, Nottingham, Feb 16 10:15am to 2:30pm, £4 per child
The windmill team will be baking fruity cupcakes as part of their half-term activities across six sessions running throughout the day. You will need to book in advance, however, so make sure to call and reserve a place first.
Kids are encouraged to make their own fruity treat with all the ingredients supplied. If baking isn't your thing then it's worth having a look around the science centre or a quick nosey into the community gardens before heading to the playground in the nearby park at the front of the windmill.
2 - Slo Mo and Go!
Nottingham Contemporary, Weekday Cross, February 14 to 16, Free
The gallery uses the new exhibition, Charlotte Johannesson, Carolyn Lazard: Long Take and Rosalind Nashashibi: Hooks for inspiration, to create a new workshop aimed at young children. While the event is a drop-in, they do suggest booking in advance as there is limited space across two sessions.
3 - Get curious about science
Various venues, February 6 to 17.
The Festival of Science and Curiosity returns to Nottingham to celebrate Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths with a series of interactive and fun, free family events across Nottinghamshire.
There are lots of activities planned from robot building, slime making, fractal fun to sensory nature walks among many others. It's worth mapping your visit in advance to make sure you make the most of what's on offer across the city.
4 - Dream a little dream
Lakeside Gallery, University Park, Saturday, February 18. £8 per child.
Lakeside Arts Centre invites children to create their very own city by repurposing unwanted items. The fun, interactive session is suitable for all the family and there are different sessions across the day including one at 10-11 am and another at 11.30am-12.30 pm.
Afterwards, it's the perfect opportunity to take full advantage of the playground outside the front and the beautiful walk through the campus grounds complete with feeding the ducks. It's not the only workshop that Lakeside is offering, so if architecture isn't your thing, why not try one of the many others?
5 - Create your own cape
The Harley Gallery, Wellbeck, Worksop, Friday, February 17 £7 per child.
Superhero capes never go out of style and The Harley Gallery is offering children the chance to create their own. Textile artist Anne Kelly will be on hand to help with the design which will encourage children to get creative with fabrics. Anne is known for intricately embroidered artworks inspired by travel, memory, nature, and folk art.
All materials will be provided, but if you have a sewing kit, please feel free to bring it along.
6 - Feed the ducks
Canal walk Beeston to Nottingham, Free
If you fancy getting out into nature to take in some of the sights then going to feed the ducks is a good idea. There are many to find along the canal walk from Beeston to Nottingham with lots of opportunities to sit and watch the world go by as you make your way along.
Not only are there ducks but the canal boats are fun to watch as they cruise down the river. Just be sure to listen out for the sound of passing bike bells.
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