Brighten up the school holidays with a trip to Valentines Mansion this summer. There’s lots for families to do and explore, including the dedicated Family Room, packed with activities for all ages, including dressing up, jigsaws, children’s art gallery, touch screen computer and much more!

The mansion’s latest initiative makes a visit here even more exciting for the whole family. Valentines has just launched its free indoor and outdoor family backpacks - each bursting with games and challenges for some serious family fun!

There are three types of backpacks you can borrow - the red backpack is full of outdoor games including an egg and spoon race set and Victorian skipping rope. The blue packs are designed for 3-6 year olds with games exploring the house, and the yellow packs for children aged 7 years plus are packed with challenges taking them around the mansion.

The brightly coloured and fun-filled bags are now available on every public open day and can be borrowed free of charge for up to an hour and a half.

The packs were launched on Sunday 2 August, with twenty five families taking advantage of them on their first day. One dad, Richard from Leystonstone had a great time using the bags with his 5 year old son. “Brilliant, unexpected bonus to the day out. Really, really, really (x1000) good. We even made up a few games of our own, will definitely visit again, many thanks!’

So for some traditional family fun, get down to Valentines Mansion. The mansion is open to the public every Tuesday and Wednesday from 10am to 5pm and Sundays from 10am to 4pm with free entry. Regular events take place throughout the year including regular free family Sundays with activities ranging from free egg hunts to ghost hunts!