5 Reasons the Vauxhall Zafira Tourer is an ideal car for families looking for flexibilty

Our current family car is an older model Vauxhall Zafira. It's a car we love and that has served us well. The main reason we went for this car in the first place is that we wanted a car with seven seats so we could separate the children during car journeys- I swear sometimes they can't even stand to touch each other! The flexible design of the seats have worked out perfectly and Vauxhall agreed to let us test drive a brand new Vauxhall Zafira Tourer over Christmas which just confirmed why we love this car! If you're a family of 5 who loves a road trip, here's why I'd recommend:

1 - Very flexible seating and space 

The number one reason we love our Zafira is the flexible seating and space. Our 'day-to'day' configuration is to have the two boys in the middle row and Heidi in the back row with one seat down. This still allows us plenty of boot space but also separates the kids so they don't fight!

When we're travelling somewhere for an overnight stay, the rear seats are folded down which gives us plenty of boot space - I love that the boot is large enough to carry all of our camping gear without us having to wedge it in! You can also add a roof box if you really need to but we've honestly never needed to.

Sometimes we use all seven seats when we're taking our grandparents out or if the kids' friends are coming home from school with us for tea and you can push the middle of seats forward to give you even more space which is perfect when you're a solo driver and need to take a trip to the DIY store or transport all of your Christmas presents as I am doing in this picture here!

2 - It doesn't 'feel' big & is easy to drive

I'm not going to lie, driving a 'big' car is a little scary! But our Vauxhall Zafira has never felt big to me, in fact, my old Ford Mondeo felt bigger. Driving is super easy thanks to the front camera system (which btw also highlights speed limits), automatic cruise control and there's even a blind spot alert. You can set many of the controls such as lights and wipers to automatic and everything is pretty intuitive.

3 - Onstar and Intell link

The Vauxhall Zafira Tourer comes with OnStar which is a fabulous piece of tech offering a range of services from an in-car personal assistant who can set your sat-nav to direct to the nearest service station or find out the best place to park in a city you're not familiar with to in-car WiFi and road assistance. It also features a Navi 4.0 navigation system which is honestly the best system we've ever used. It includes maps for 30 European cities and was a breeze to use. You can also plug your phone into this system via a USB portal and the screen will mirror your phone book and allow you to use the touch screen to access your phone (when safely parked of course) and you can easily link to the system via Apple Play which Steve declared was the best thing ever. He loves it when technology just works and with this car that was definitely the case. 

4 - Low COs emissions

You can drive up to 803 miles on one tank of fuel and CO2 emissions start at 119g/Km. The new version of the Zafira is much more economical than our older version and this alone has made us seriously consider upgrading.

5 - It's comfortable 

We've driven thousands of miles in our Zafira over the past few years - from South Wales, to festivals, Manchester, Leicestershire, the Scottish Highlands and more. It's really important to us that the kids (and us) are comfortable and in a Zafira this is definitely the case. I love that we always have so much room and even when the kids do have to sit next to each other, they're never squashed. I just love this photo of Harry sitting with my beloved Christmas cake on his knee during a trip to our Christmas Cottage - I'm pleased to say it survived the journey! 

We love our Vauxhall Zafira and if you're a family of 5 who is partial to a road trip and looking for a super flexible car with the option of 7 seats and lots of storage, I'd recommend you pop along to your local Vauxhall retailer and find out more. You can also book your own test drive or request a brochure to find out more.

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Top Tips for planning a Summer Holiday to Padstow

*This is a collaborative post

Cornwall is a place that's very close to my heart. I remember visiting on numerous occasions as a child with my grandparents. We'd always leave in the middle of the night - all bundled into my dad's estate car with our suitcases tied our suitcases on our roof. I used to make a little bed den in the boot with my brother and that's where we'd spend the journey. I'm not sure if that was even legal? I certainly wouldn't attempt it now. It was fun though and I have lots of happy memories from those trips exploring various harbours and being introduced to cream teas. These are memories I'm keen to recreate with my own family now and I've decided that 2018 will be the summer we take the trip ourselves. Time to get planning! 

Where to stay in Padstow

I know we'll want to stay in self-catering accommodation as I like the space and flexibility this offers. Somewhere with outdoor space would be ideal. The dream would be to stay in Padstow and these Padstow Cottages have caught my attention. From converted barns to accommodation with Estuary views, there's a lot to choose from and there is still plenty of availability for this summer. 

Padstow is one of Cornwall's most famous villages thanks to the Rick Stein effect. As well as being a top foodie destination, it's a busy fishing port with plenty of coves, beaches and walks in the area and is perfectly located for visiting the South West Coastal Path. Our trip to Cornwall is still in the early stages (you can follow my Cornwall Trip Pinterest Board here) but here's a peek at what I've planned so far: 

What to do in Padstow

There is so much we're looking forward to exploring in Padstow - I am hoping Jack will be confident enough on his bike so we can cycle around the famous Camel Trail. We also can't wait for lazy days at the beach where we'll explore rock pools and coves and I might even sign us all up for a surf lesson. You can catch the Padstow Ferry across to Rock which I'd love to do one evening and I'm sure the kids will twist my arm and we'll take a speedboat trip one day too.

Where to visit near Padstow 

Cornwall is a big place and I think we'll probably stay for a full two weeks. Port Issac, Perranporth and Newquay are all places I remember visiting as a little girl so they're top of my list! I hope they're still full of that special Cornish charm. 

I'm really interested in joining the Arts & Culture Trail and have been investigating options available via Cornwall 365. They produce monthly guides to what's on in region and are packed with insider information. 

The two big places I want us to visit are the Eden Project & Lost Gardens of Heligan. The Eden Project was still in the process of being built the last time I visited Cornwall and it's a place I always said I'd go back to. 

Where to eat in Padstow 

Padstow is a renowned foodie destination and as you know, every holiday of ours has to revolve around food. Here are the restaurants I'd like us to visit so far: 

• The Seafood Restaurant by Rick Stein
• The Olive Tree 
• Prawn on the Lawn 
• Paul Ainsworth at No. 6

The logistics of travelling to Cornwall from Northumberland 

Padstow is 461 miles from our home in Northumberland which is around 8 hours by car without any stops. We always used to travel through the night when I was a child but I'm not keen on this idea now that we're the drivers as I'm worried about staying awake! I think we'll plan our trip in a way where we can stay over one night half way (likely to be around Nottingham). I'd really like to take the kids to Alton Towers and The National Space Museum and think they'd both be ideal half-way points.

We're also planning on staying for 2 full weeks so I think we may spend one week in Padstow and then another week somewhere else in Cornwall, maybe further South. I really fancy trying The Point at Polzeath as reviewed here by Tin Box Traveller.  I'd love to hear if you have any recommendations for where we should stay or visit during our trip. 

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Northumberland Country Zoo Review

Northumberland Country Zoo (formally known as Eshottheugh Animal Park) is just off A1 before Felton, a few miles North of Morpeth and 10 miles South of Alnwick. It's open all year round and admission is super reasonable. We decided to visit on a cold January day in 2018 where it was hail stoning one minute and sunshine the next. Got to love the Great British Weather. Despite the changeable weather, we really enjoyed ourselves and would recommend as a day out to be enjoyed by all ages. We spent around 2 hours there on a miserable day but you could easily spend half a day there in the warmer months (or even longer).

10 Child-Friendly UK Short Breaks to try this February Half Term

*This post contains affiliate links

I know, I know......the kids have only just gone back to school and I'm talking about February Half Term. It will be here before we know it though. I always think February Half Term is a bit of a funny one, the rest of Europe isn't really warm enough for us to justify jetting away somewhere and the weather in the UK is just so unpredictable! Plus most people are still feeling the financial pain of Christmas. We tend to book a staycation or enjoy days out in the North East and there are some lovely options to choose from this year with many holiday companies putting together some fantastic deals. I've found 10 getaways I think are perfect for February Half Term. Let me know if you fancy any of them or if you already have plans. 

Darwin Forest

We're staying with Darwin Forest over part of half term and are really looking forward to our stay. I love that there's a real mix of activities from archery, cycling, orienteering, tennis, mini golf and swimming combined with relaxing lodges with hot tubs, woodland trails and a health spa. You can find out more here. 

Credit | Wandermust Family

Butlins Skegness

February Half Term breaks are available at Butlins from just £68 per person. Lots of entertainment is guaranteed and what I like about a Butlins break is that you don't need to spend much once you're there - even fairground rides are included. Expect a jam-packed itinerary including discos, Mr Men, Puppet Shows, Circus Skills, Danger Mouse, Pool Parties, Wrestling, Little Mix Tribute Bands and more. There's loads to do both inside and out (read 10 things to do at Butlins Skegness when it rains here) and I promise your children will never mutter they're bored at Butlins. Find out more and book here. 

Thomasland 

Thomasland is hosting a special Thomas & Friends February Half Term this year. You can stay in the on-resort Thomasland themed hotel from £147.20 per family over half term including breakfast and theme park entry which is a massive bargain. We've visited Thomasland in the school holidays before and it's ideal with little ones as the queues aren't long and there are indoor attractions such as the soft play area and train rides if you need to warm up. Find out more and book here.

Tattershall Lakes with Away Resorts

Tattershall Lakes is just under 4 hours drive away and such a fun place to visit with kids (read our review here) - kind of a cross between Center Parcs, Butlins and Haven - with all the best bits from all I think. There's an outdoor cinema under the stars by the lake, hoverboarding, raft building, cheerleading, bike hire, superhero academy, teddy bears picnic, a fabulous adventure play area, entertainment, archery, fishing & so much more..... Prices are available from just £224 for a family of 6 and some lodges can include hot tubs. Find out more and book here .

Eureka Museum in Halifax

Eureka is the National Children's Museum and is especially lots of fun for pre-schoolers and Primary school-aged children. The location is located right next door to Halifax Train Station and if you buy a Friends & Family Railcard , train travel can cost as little as £30 each way for 2 adults and 2 children. Your ticket to Eureka admits you for a full year and there are a couple of Premier Inns nearby (available from £29 per room) if you'd like to make a night of it and visit on 2 consecutive days. Read about our trip to Eureka last year here. 

Parkdean Resorts

Parkdean Resorts are offing February Half Term breaks from the bargain price of £99 per accommodation. If you're looking for a traditional caravan holiday with entertainment and fun for the whole family, that's what you'll get with Parkdean. You can stay local and enjoy a staycation at Whitley Bay Caravan Park or travel further afield to Scotland, the Lakes, Yorkshire or even further afield. We thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Sundrum Castle in Scotland a few years ago and would 100% recommend this park. Find out more and book here.

National Holidays

There are lots of fab deals with National Holidays this February and they're ideal for families who don't drive as prices include coach travel, attraction tickets, accommodation, dinner and breakfast. Options departing from Newcastle over February Half Term include Cadbury World & South Midlands Safari Adventure, Legoland Discovery & Blackpool Tower, Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour, Matilda in London, Chester Zoo and Blackpool Tower & more..... I wasn't a fan of our trip with National Holidays a few years ago but most people I know rave about them so worth checking out I think.

Stay, Play Explore Break

We enjoyed a Stay, Play, Explore weekend last year and I have been recommending it to everyone I know ever since. It is such a good deal for families AND there are hotels that accommodate families of 5 too. For £149 for a family of 4, you can choose a hotel (and the selection includes some decent options - many including spas and pools) and you'll receive a voucher which you can redeem at 3 attractions across the weekend (or you can save for another day - it's valid until the end of the year) from a choice of 9. Options include Twycross Zoo, The National Space Centre, Twinlakes Park, Conkers and more. Find out more and book online here. 

Pirate & Princess Takeover at Alton Towers Resort

The Alton Towers theme park is closed over half term but there's still plenty of fun to be had in resort. From £160 per family of 4, families can enjoy a stay at the Alton Tower's Hotel or in a Woodland Lodge and enjoy Treasure Hunts, have the chance to meet Cbeebies land characters, join pirate school, enjoy a family disco and take part in a fancy dress parade. You'll also be treated with access to the waterpark, a round of crazy golf, access to the Sharkbait reef by SEA LIFE and breakfast too. This break really does seem to offer exceptional value and it's also available for families of 5 too. Find out more and book here.

Credit : Here Come The Hoopers

Flamingo Land Resort

Flamingo Land Resort is not fully open during February Half Term but they do offer an extended package which includes Zoo Keeper Talks, 5 rides for younger children, Pirates of Zanzibar, Animal Shows and parts of Dino-Stone Park. The Zoo is open and there's a splash zone complex too. If you'd like to find out more about staying at Flamingoland, check out this comprehensive review by Nomipalony. Prices are available from £309 for a gold caravan for 2 nights - sounds ideal if you have little ones. Find out more and book here.

Credit | Nomipalony

Is it bad that I actually want to go on all of these short breaks! There are so many options and considering it's a school holiday, the prices are all pretty reasonable too.

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Gigglewicks Village Cramlington - A role play centre for children aged 0-6 years | All you need to know

2024 Update - Gigglewicks has now sadly closed. 


Gigglewicks Village is a new role play centre for children aged 0-6 years in Cramlington, Northumberland. You'll find them in Nelson Industrial Estate (full address: Unit 2, Network Centre, Colburn Avenue, Cramlington. NE23 1WD.

There is ample free parking outside. I popped along with a 2 year old, 6 year old and 8 year old (I messaged their page to check it's ok to take older children along beforehand and it's fine) today and we were all really impressed.

Gigglewicks Village - Booking, Prices & Opening Times

Sessions should be pre-booked by messaging the Gigglewicks Village Facebook Page or calling 01670 738990. There is a flat fee of £6.50 per child which can be paid by cash or card on arrival. At the moment, sessions take place across the following times:

Mon - Fri
11am - 12:30pm
1pm - 2:30pm
3:45pm - 5:15pm

Saturday & Sunday
9am - 10:30am
11am - 12:30pm
1pm - 2:30pm
3pm - 4:30pm

Sessions last 90 minutes, every child who plays will need to pay and you can turn up to your booked session at any time however all sessions will end at the stated time. There is no charge for grown-ups.

Photo credit | Gigglewicks Village

Gigglewicks Village - Cafe Prices & Menu

There is a small hatch serving basic food, drinks and snacks at very reasonable prices. They cut the crusts off the sandwiches for the kids which is a cute touch. We ordered a couple of sandwiches, a yoghurt and a few drinks for less than £6. It's not haute cuisine but it's all freshly prepared, speedy and toddler-friendly.  There are healthier options such as vegetable sticks too which is nice to see (although they'd ran out on this occasion). There are also some delicious looking cakes for sale at the counter but we managed to resist.

Gigglewicks Village - What is there to do? 

Gigglewicks Village is set out like a real village. There are various little buildings that children can enter and role play to their hearts content. Everything was neat and tidy (on arrival) and in good condition. I loved the attention to detail and the various dressing up outfits. Here's a little snapshot of what to expect:

Gigglewicks Village Supermarket

Gigglewicks Village Supermarket

Gigglewicks Village Supermarket

Gigglewicks Village Doctors

Gigglewicks Village Doctors

Gigglewicks Village Hairdressers

Gigglewicks Village Hairdressers

Gigglewicks Village Hairdressers

Gigglewicks Village Hairdressers

Gigglewicks Village Post Office

Gigglewicks Village Post Office

Gigglewicks Village Boat and baby area

Gigglewicks Village Baby Area

Gigglewicks Village House

Gigglewicks Village Ride-on

There's also a Builder's Yard and a Police Station complete with it's own jail which was Jack's favourite part. There are two cars for children to ride around in as well as this ride-on car too. Personally, I think they should get rid of these as there isn't really enough room and toddlers ended up fighting over them - plus there's plenty to do without them.

Gigglewicks Village - Party Packages 

You can privately hire Gigglewicks Village for £200 on weekends and school holidays and £180 on weekday. This includes entry for up to 24 children plus a meal box for all. If booked on a weekday and used to capacity, this works out at just £7.50 per child which is only £1 more than regular admission and a bargain I think.

Gigglewicks Village FAQs & Policies

• Gigglewicks Village operates a 24 hour cancellation policy
• All children should be fully supervised by an adult
• Adults and children need to remove their shoes on arrival and socks should be worn
• Gigglewicks Village is aimed at children aged 0-6 years. Older siblings are welcome. If they are aged 7/8 and intend to play (like Heidi did), they will be charged. Siblings older than this that don't play will not be charged. 
• Gigglewicks Cramlington are currently in talks with Autism Northumberland to provide Autism-friendly sessions - keep an eye on their Facebook page for further announcements. 

Gigglewicks Village - Our Final Thoughts

I only visited Gigglewicks Village as we had a 2-year-old in our party - I wasn't sure Heidi and Jack would enjoy it but they actually ended up loving it. I'm not sure I'd visit with just them but with younger siblings or friends in the party, it's perfect. Jack loved dressing up as a Police Officer and throwing us in jail then disguising himself as a robber and Heidi enjoyed taking her shopping trolley to the supermarket and loading it up with shopping.  Gigglewicks really encouraged creatie play and some of the games they were coming up with really made me smile. Everyone definitely had fun. Gigglewicks is fairly small but as numbers are limited you don't feel as if it's as chaotic as a traditional softplay can be. I think it's perfectly suited to 1-5 year olds and if my children were in this age group I imagine Gigglewicks would become one of my go-to places.

Gigglewicks is shiny and new and because of this, I think they can get away with charging £6.50 per child. It is expensive compared to other places though - we paid £9.50 to visit TJ's Jungle for three children recently (in school hours) and it was £19.50 for the same three children to visit Gigglewicks so £10 more which is quite a difference. Space to Play up the road also only charges £5 for entry and a cooked meal. Personally, I'd still pay £6.50 to visit as I think it's great and a concept that's new to Northumberland but it would be nice to see a sibling discount, monthly pass, meal deal, special offers or a loyalty card scheme moving forward I think. I'm sure this is probably something they will consider in the future and it's just not needed yet.

What I especially like about Gigglewicks is that you can't easily lose your child like you can in some of the huge softplays we have in our region. I used to be beside myself at places like Round the Twist when the children were small and imagined losing them in a ball pool or them running off and ending up trapped somewhere. I like that Gigglewicks is small and all of the seating is in the centre so your child is always within easy reach. 

We give Gigglewicks Village a huge thumbs up and think it's well worth a visit. It's a place that exceeded our expectations. Let me know if you're going to give them a try and please share this post with your friends.  

Disclosure | We paid for our own entry and food. 

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