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With predictions suggesting a dire lack of sun this summer comes the perennial problem of what to do with the children when the weather turns bad.
If the forecast does forfeit adventures in the great outdoors, it’s worth checking out some of the best indoor attractions around the country. From discovering the tricks of the trade in the magical world of Harry Potter films to the UK’s only underground bouncy net experience in a disused Victorian slate mine in Snowdonia, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained – and away from their tablets – without getting wet.
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Portsmouth
Starring Nelson’s HMS Victory and the wreck of the Mary Rose, Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard is a must for the kids. You can also discover the Worlds Beneath the Waves and learn about the Royal Navy’s study of the oceans or explore the excavation of the Mary Rose with Dive the Mary Rose 4D.
How to do it: Tickets from £26 (children) and £36 (adult). Portsmouth Historic Dockyard (023 9283 9766, historicdockyard.co.uk). Double rooms at Portsmouth Village Hotel cost from £99pn. Read our review here.
The Warner Bros Studio
London
The Warner Bros Studio reveals some of the film-making trickery behind the magic and stunts of the Harry Potter films. Visitors will be able to witness some of their favourite scenes brought to life, including the disappearing effect of the invisibility cloak, the infamous fireplace letter scene, and how Mrs Weasley delivered an origami howler to her son in The Chamber of Secrets.
How to do it: Tickets to Warner Bros Studio London (wbstudiotour.co.uk) cost from £53.50 adult; £43 child; under-fours free; must be booked in advance. Double rooms at Number One Port Hill cost from £130pn. Read our review here.
