Great family fun, from star gazing to Horrible Histories - coming up soon...

[caption id="attachment_1298" align="aligncenter" width="640"] The Thames and The Shard, London[/caption]

I'm often told about family friendly events and activities, but I've been particularly taken by four I've come across recently and which I think you will enjoy. In fact, I think they'd be enjoyed by all the family. What do you think? I'd like to try them all out......(if only I had endless time!)

1) Glamping with the stars

I have a son who wants to be an astronaut, so I'm always attracted by anything space-related and this sounds fantastic.

The National Space Centre, based in Leicester, is going on tour with its new astrocamps. They will combine workshops, rocket building challenges stargazing. They sound good, don't they?

Their first destination is the Dandelion Hideaway in rural Leicestershire which has six cottages and take place on June 6th. It sounds right up our street.

2) Free half-term admission for kids at the Shard

Talking of up, the Shard is offering free admission for children during May half-term (bank holiday week). It's a glorious place to enjoy sky high (well, almost, as it is the highest vantage point in Western Europe) views of London and they are also running a special Top Trumps London landmark "game" where you need to pick out London landmarks from the viewing gallery.

Tickets for adults cost £24.95 and as kids' tickets are usually £18.95, this is a rather attractive offer.

3) The W Factor at Warwick Castle

This is another which is right up my son's street as Warwick Castle challenges kids (and their parents) to take part in Wicked Warwick, a show from the makers of Horrible Histories.

It's X Factor meets Horrible Histories, in fact, as you enter (via the Warwick Castle website) and then audition live during half-term, on 27th May. Everyone who registers will receive a 2-4-1 voucher, but the winners will perform in live shows at the castle in June!! Such fun, especially for aspiring actors.

4) Storytelling at the Tower Bridge Exhibition

If you've got younger children, you need to head to the Tower Bridge Exhibition this weekend (16th May) where they are running free family learning events, including storytelling performances and art activities.

There is even the special tale - based on a true story no less - of the double-decker bus which jumped the Bridge as it opened in 1952. This will be performed four times throughout the day, from 11.30 to 3pm.

It's perfect for kids aged around 5-8 years old, but adults will enjoy it too. Make sure you take in the Glass Floor which gives you a remarkable view of London, from 42 metres above the Thames.