Looking for ways to keep the children entertained this half-term and beyond? Lakeside Village is bringing a summer of farmyard fun to Doncaster, with plenty for families to enjoy – and a brand-new character to meet.
Say hello to Elvie the duck, who will be at the heart of a packed programme of activities launching this May and running right through to the end of the summer holidays.
A summer of free family fun
From 20 May to 31 August, visitors can enjoy a range of activities every day between 10am and 5pm, designed to give families a fun and affordable day out.
At the centre of it all is Elvie’s Farm Family Fun Zone, located in Unit 12 (between Carvela and Radley). Here, younger visitors can enjoy:
· A farm-themed photo opportunity
· A cosy reading corner
· Colouring tables and creative activities
· Fun farm-themed games
It’s a relaxed, welcoming space where children can play while parents take a break.
Also returning due to popular demand is the Ping Pong Parlour, offering a casual space for families to unwind and enjoy some friendly competition together.
Explore the trail and outdoor fun
Across Lakeside Village, families can take part in Elvie’s Farm Trail, spotting a range of farmyard favourites including a cockerel, donkey, horse, cow, Billy goat and pig. It’s a great way to explore the centre while keeping little ones entertained.
Over on the Village Green, a second Farm Family Fun Zone brings even more ways to get involved, including quirky photo opportunities such as the ‘Cowch’ and pig bench, alongside a refreshed Elvie’s Crazy Golf.
Special activities for Spring Bank half-term
There’s even more to enjoy during Spring Bank Holiday week.
On Saturday 23 May from 10am-2pm, we have joined forces with Right Up Our Street (RUOS) to bring the Poetry Takeaway to the centre! It’s a fantastic project which sees a takeaway van loaded with poets listen to members of the public and then write them a bespoke poem based on what they’ve heard – and it’s all free of charge!
On Thursday 28 May, don’t miss Elvie’s Farm Creative Workshop, with sessions running from 10am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-4pm.
Activities include:
· Painting a cow
· Making ‘Posey Pig’ crafts
· Pop lollipop making
· Face painting
Get creative with Remake Learning Week
Lakeside Village is also proud to host activities as part of Doncaster’s Remake Learning Week, led by the Doncaster Create & Connect Pod.
Taking place on Wednesday 27 and Thursday 28 May, these hands-on sessions are designed to help people of all ages build confidence with creative and digital skills in a friendly, supportive environment.
Workshops include:
· Sticker and Design (10.30–11.30am)
· Creative Build Lab (STEM) (12–1pm)
· Build your own website/app (tech) (1.30–2.30pm)
Sessions cost £3 per person and must be booked in advance via https://shorturl.at/1JMtP. There will also be a Pod Open Art session running throughout both days, which is free and doesn’t require booking.
Whether you’re calling in for a quick visit or planning a full day out, Lakeside Village’s summer programme is designed to help families spend quality time together, with plenty to see, do and enjoy.
