SHOWERS, sweltering sunshine, torrential downpours and full-scale hurricane warnings – we've had it all over the past couple of weeks in Notts.
And with the summer holidays in full swing, parents are faced with that daily dilemma. Shall we or shall we not actually go out of the house and do something worthwhile with the kids instead of letting them spend all day in front of a screen?
Fortunately, there is bags of stuff to do locally both indoors and outdoors. Here are some great suggestions over the next week:
Indoors
@What Price Glory? Nottingham in the First World War, Central Library, Angel Row, today from 10.30am
Thought-provoking and respectful day of activities for all ages looking at some fascinating aspects of the Great War – with talks including how the conflict changed our eating habits, songs from the period, stories of local people, films, childhood experiences and crafty capers. You can even make your own reminiscence box to commemorate the day. Free.
@Robin Hood vs the Villainous Sheriff, Galleries of Justice, until August 31, 10am-4pm
The new actor-led tour for summer is full of fun, with five floors of original prison cells, caves and dungeons to explore and the chance to rescue the imprisoned Robin from his mortal enemy. Tour lasts around 1.5 hours. Adults £9.95, children £7.95, family of four £27.50. Details at www.galleriesofjustice.org.uk.
@History and Mystery Beneath Your Feet, City of Caves, Broadmarsh Centre, until August 31, from 10am
The perfect place to escape the elements, the summer tour at this underground venue includes a chance for kids to become detectives for the day and find out all about the hidden marvels of Nottingham's amazing cave network. Adults £7.50, children £5.50, family £19.50, Details at www.cityofcaves.com.
@Cool Down and Chill Out, National Ice Centre, Bolero Square, throughout summer
There's loads going on every day including structured under fives sessions, parent and toddler groups and Skate UK courses for those wanting to learn new skills. Or simply get away from the fierce heat or storms and enjoy daily skating sessions for all ages. Standard price £6 (plus £2 skate hire). Details at www.national-ice-centre.com.
@Free Family Activities – Who Are We? Nottingham Contemporary, Weekday Cross, every day except Monday throughout the holidays
Enjoy free family fun all summer, including making a life- sized cut-out of yourself in the Psychedelic Question Zone. How could you resist? Details at www.nottinghamcontemporary.org.
@Crazy Golf, The Lost City, The Cornerhouse, every day
This unique adventure golf experience features two 18-hole courses, all indoors. Choose from the Sacred Skull Pass or the Temple Trail. You'll face the challenge of playing during a thunder and lightning storm, climbing over crumbling walls or battling on despite the appearance of venomous snakes. Adults from £7, children under five £3.50, family £22.50. Details at www.lostcityadventuregolf.com.
@Summer Reading Challenge, Local libraries throughout the summer
Head to your local library for lots of fun ideas and special craft sessions – including the challenge to read six books of your choice over the summer holidays. More details at www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk.
@Family Craft Days, The Workhouse at Southwell, every Wednesday over summer
Children have a chance to get hands on with a range of traditional craft activities throughout the summer. Plus look out for the costumed characters who bring this fascinating historic venue to life every day. Adults £8.50, children £4.25, family £21.25. Details at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/workhouse-southwell.
@Wollaton's World War I, Dovecote Museum, Sunday, 2pm to 4.30pm
The latest exhibition is dedicated to the men of Wollaton who served during WW1 and on Sunday afternoon there'll be additional activities courtesy of the ladies from Wollaton WI, who will be holding a sale of cakes, preserves, books and hand-made crafts, with proceeds to Guide Dogs for the Blind. There's also a guided walk around the village at 3pm. The museum is on Dovecote Drive, opposite Wollaton Library. Admission is free.
Outdoors
@Summer Fete in the Mill Yard – including Teddy Bear's Picnic,Green's Windmill, today, from 11am
Bring your favourite teddy and head to this traditional summer fete with a marvellous picnic for furry friends, plus stalls, crafts and much more. Free.
@Open Air Theatre – Macbeth, Langar Hall Hotel, Sunday, 3pm
Traditional all-male version of Shakespeare's Scottish play in the beautiful gardens of this popular hotel, presented by the Festival Players Touring Theatre Company. Tickets £12.50. Book on 01949 860559.
@Robin Hood Festival, Sherwood Forest Country Park, continues until Sunday
More jousting, jesting and general jolliness as Robin Hood and his Merry Men do battle with the Sheriff of Nottingham – with stalls, sideshows and loads of fabulous theatre entertainment from 11am to 4pm. Free.
@Midland Kite Flyers, Rufford Abbey Country Park, today and Sunday, 10am-4pm
Pop along and see some leading kite enthusiasts demonstrating brilliant tricks – there's even an opportunity to make your own kite. This is one event where the weather really will play a part in proceedings, so performances will vary depending on the winds. Parking £3.
@Car Free Sundays, Victoria Embankment, Sunday, from 10am
The latest in a series of summer events designed to promote cycling, scooting and skating with exciting activities for all ages. Bunbury Road to Wilford Grove will be closed to cars from 9am to 5pm.
@Outdoor Theatre - Hugless Douglas, Rufford Abbey Country Park, Monday, noon and 2.30pm
Blunderbus Theatre Company present this charming tale of a cute brown bear who wants to find the perfect hug. The show is ideal for kids aged 3-7 years – limited seating will be provided but grown-ups might have to bring a rug along and sit on the cobbled floor. Tickets £8. Book on 01623 821323 or 01623 821338.
@4th Broxtowe Summer Play Event, Hickings Lane Playing Fields, Stapleford, Monday 1pm-4pm
The latest in a series of free play afternoons for children, with sumo suits, frisbee, tug of war, face painting, circus skills and loads more.
@Picnic in the Park 2014, Clifton Playing Fields, Tuesday, 11am-3pm
Annual fun day for all ages with climbing wall, inflatables, sports, games and stalls. Don't miss the thrilling Skatejam competition. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Free.
@Have a Go Drumming, Sherwood Forest Country Park, Tuesday, from 11am
Don't miss this chance to get with the beat and learn a new skill in these hour-long hand drumming sessions. Adults £3, children £1.50. Book on 01623 823202.
@Natural Art, Forest Recreation Ground, Wednesday, 11am
Use leaves, sticks, stones and other natural objects to make a really wild piece of art. Free but book a place on 07508 439050 .
@Youthfest '14, The Burgage, Southwell, Wednesday, 3pm-7pm
More free activities for children aged ten to 19 years, with slack lining, DJ workshops, inflatables, sports and creative fun.
@Outdoor Theatre – Wuthering Heights, Wollaton Park, Friday, 6pm
Emily Bronte's beloved book is brought to life in the moody surroundings of Wollaton Hall where Cathy and Heathcliff's doomed love affair plays out in a new production by writer Laura Turner. Adults £14, children £10, family £40. Box office 0115 989 5555.
