Half-term 2014: Top activities and ideas for kids this February

Half-term. It's greeted with both excitement and fear in equal measure. But if you're either a parent who's run out out of things to make with loo rolls, or a student who's lacking inspiration to wriggle out of the duvet, go NO-WHERE because here's the only list you'll need of half-term ideas and activities this February.

1. If they like being outdoors: Bewick's Boredom Busters
If you've got little ones who like to run free, wrap up warm and enjoy Cherryburn National Trust cottage, Northumberland where there are free outdoor adventures each day, including den-building and toasting marshmallows at the campfire. All you need to remember is your own thermals. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday in February half term.

2. If they like playing make believe: Knights and Princesses week
For youngsters with imaginations, make your own swords, crowns and tiaras in the Coach House at the Stables at Waddeson Manor, Buckinghamshire. Hunt for the hidden shields on the trail around the gardens. Saturday 15 February to Sunday 23 February 2014.

3. If they love their teddies: Teddy Zipwire.
Might need a bit of convincing if they're particularly fond of their cuddly toy friend, but Corfe Castle, Dorset is looking for 'bears who dare' to attempt the Teddy Zipwire. Teddy goggles and gear provided.

4. If they like getting messy in the kitchen: Make home made jammy dodgers
This will keep you and them busy for a while - plus produce something yum for tea. Just add PG tips.

Ingredients:
125g icing sugar
225g unsalted butter soft
225g plain flour
100g ground almonds
1 egg yolk
1 tsp vanilla
few tbsps spoons of strawberry or raspberry seedless jam

5. If they like films:See The Lego Movie or Peabody and Sherman
Both animated movies are out this week. Peabody and Sherman is about a boy, a dog and a time machine and contains a song by Peter Andre, bound keep everyone happy, right? And if that doesn't take their fancy, who doesn't want to watch lego pieces come to life on the big screen?

6. If they like girlier films than that: Watch Tinker Bell and the Pirate Fairy
When a misunderstood dust-keeper fairy named Zarina steals Pixie Hollow's all-important blue pixie dust, and flies away to join forces with the pirates of Skull Rock, Tinker Bell and her fairy friends must embark
on the adventure of a lifetime to return it to its rightful place'. Fairies and friendship: What's not to love?

7. If they're creative:Get them involved with Tower Bridge's Design a Bridge competition
To celebrate its 120th birthday this year, Tower Bridge, has launched a national competition for six to 14 year olds, offering them the opportunity to design a bridge. From 7th February to 14th March 2014, aspiring young artists, designers and engineers are being invited to draw their very own version Tower Bridge – and the overall winner will see their masterpiece transformed into a ‘real-life’ 3D model for public display. Now THAT'S a challenge!

8. If they like books: The London Children's Book Swap
Take part in a GIANT book swap in the capital. The London Children's Book Swap takes place across the city and encourages kids to bring in books they are ready to let go of and swap them for a new library of stories. Venues taking part include the Museum of London, Discover Children's Story Centre, artsdepot, Polka Theatre, Rich Mix, Shoreditch Trust, Southbank Centre, Unicorn Theatre, V&A Museum of Childhood and William Morris Gallery.

9. If they like the theatre:Go see Matilda The Musical
It's just brilliant ok. Inspiring cast, catchy songs by the amazing Tim Minchin and a set to light up imaginations. You'll all be singing the tunes as you head home - guaranteed. Just watch out they don't try and superglue your hat when they get home.

10. If they like chocolate: See the Chuckle Bean pantomime at Cadbury's World
Forget the fact that the place is FILLED with Dairy Milk, a new pantomime starring Professor Chuckle, who is battling to save his chocolate lab is being hosted at Cadbury's World this half-term week. And just think of all the Caramels you can grab on the way out.

11. If they love acting: Take them to stage school at the RSC
Set their creativity free on stage at The Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon where there are a range of workshops taking place, including teaching them how to perform the Taming of the Shrew in a day, a new look at Wendy and Peter Pan and pirate sword stage fighting. Can we join in?

12. If they fancy themselves as a bit of a Sherlock: Take them on a treasure hunt
Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse museum in Norfolk is putting on the Mystery of the Missing Brooch across half-term - can they solve the clues and codes around the strange disappearance of Lady Hermione's precious jewel? Guaranateed to get their brains ticking. Available daily until February 21.