Family day out in Crawley - things to do
PUBLISHED: 10:18 13 January 2016 | UPDATED: 10:18 13 January 2016
Tilgate Park, Crawley
JON RIGBY 07850 900673
Every month, Emily Bamber and her family test-drive days out around Sussex. This month it is the turn of Crawley
If it rains...
On a cold wet day there’s nothing like a silly panto or a beautiful ballet to get you into the Christmas spirit. Check out the programme at The Hawth Theatre: the line-up in December includes Town Mouse and Country Mouse, Jack and the Beanstalk and a Russian Christmas celebration, all with matinée shows. Alternatively if your little ones can’t sit still, head to Treasure Chest Soft Play Centre on Faraday Road for pirate-themed mayhem with slides, ball pits, ride-ons and more.
01293 553636; parkwoodtheatres.co.uk | 01293 549009; treasurechestsoftplay.co.uk
If it shines...
It may be winter, but more than 100 species of animals are waiting to meet you at Tilgate Park Nature Centre; and what’s more, entrance is free in December. So wrap up warm and watch feeding time, follow a quiz and a nature trail, and meet everyone from endangered species to farmyard friends. If it’s a special occasion children can become a keeper for an hour or sign up to adopt an animal. If they have any energy left then head to the play area afterwards or take a walk around this vast park and enjoy the lakes, forest paths, formal lawns and walled gardens.
01293 521168; crawley.gov.uk
Family lunch
• Walled Garden Café, Tilgate Park - Enjoy a light lunch in this smart café in the former walled garden of Tilgate Estate, and explore the maze afterwards.
01293 521168; crawley.gov.uk
• Royal Oak, Ifield Green - On the outskirts of Crawley, this popular gastro pub sources meat from the local butcher and has a children’s menu.
01293 544444; Royaloakifield.com
READ ON
• Family day out in Littlehampton - things to do - Each month, Emily Bamber and her family test-drive the best family days out in Sussex. This month is the turn of the West Sussex seaside town, Littlehampton
