Family Fun – February Half-Term at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House
Step inside a Victorian family home this February half-term for time out with family and friends. Try something a bit different with a visit to Manchester’s very own hands-on literary house. Try our popular Cranford the Cat kids trail and talk to our friendly volunteers around the House. Then let the kids use their imaginations with Valentine-inspired creative craft in our Servants’ Hall. Plus there is dressing-up, colouring and hands-on activities. You could always treat everyone to a hot chocolate and delicious cake in our famous Tea Room too!

Family craft activities are included in admission and kids go free with a paying adult. Your ticket includes 12 months entry so banish boredom and visit as many times as you like!
The craft activity is available 11am – 4pm (last entry 3pm) on open days between Sunday 16th – Sunday 23rd February*. Adults are £8.50 per person and under 16s are free with a paying adult. Booking is advised as it helps us make sure you have the best time possible – or just turn up and pay on the door.

Family Friendly venue
We love to welcome families at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House:
- Buggies and prams are welcome throughout the House and garden (we have a lift and ramped entrance), there are baby change facilities and the House is breastfeeding-friendly. We also have a ‘do touch’ policy so the majority of items in the House can be touched and chairs sat on.
- Drinks (including cordial with free refills), cakes and snacks are available to buy from the Tea Room. We have a limited food offer so you are welcome to bring a picnic.
- There is a small shop with pocket money items from £1 upwards including quill pens, cat toys and erasers. We also have a small selection of second-hand children’s books on sale.
We are approximately a 10-15 minute walk from Manchester Museum and the Whitworth Art Gallery on Oxford Road.
The House is open every Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday 11am-4.30pm (last entry 3pm).
Wed, Thurs, Sun (Open days) 16th -23rd February 2025
16th February
19th February
20th February
23rd February
ALL DAY
Family Friendly, Workshops