Life as a SEN mum

The summer holidays can be a stressful time, the cost of days out definitely comes up at the top of the list of things that cause stress for parents. Whilst there are plenty of free options it can sometimes feel like you constantly end up going to the same park over and over. There’s not anything wrong with that, but every now and then it’s nice to go somewhere different. For those of you familiar with Garden King, you’ll know that they regularly have seasonal woodland walks, and this summer the theme is dinosaurs. I know, you’re thinking, but everywhere has dino themed events this summer, and yes there is a lot, but most of them can also be quite pricey for a family.

Dino Woods, however, is free. When we visited, the weather was certainly onside, but take your wellies and the kids will have a blast whatever the weather.

As you make your way through the woods you’ll have plenty of chances to have your photo with all your favourite dinosaurs, but there are also plenty of other photo opportunities and activities to really turn this from a walk into a fun experience for the whole family.

Kids can try their hand at fossil hunting, or really immerse themselves as dino hunters. Whilst all of this is part of the free walk, there are also some paid for activities.

Paid activities include bouncy castles (£2 per child for half an hour) marshmallow toasting and mini golf. There is also popcorn and candy floss on offer.

If you want to make into a longer day the onsite restaurant does some lovely food and there is also a soft play, although it is advised to book this in advance. We haven’t been in the soft play at Garden King so wouldn’t be able to review whether it is better to book, or review it.

Swadlincote also has several other ideas for days out over the summer only a short drive away, so if you are travelling further out then you can make the most of the local area with Moira Furnace Museum or Rosliston Forestry Centre.