February brings brighter days, Valentine's, and the first half-term after Christmas. So here's our list of the best things to do across the network.
Southbank Centre Food Market
When: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout February
Our nearest station: London Waterloo
Just ten minutes' walk from the platform you'll find an international culinary opportunity - dishes bursting with fresh, vibrant flavours from across the globe. Whether you're a dedicated foodie or just exploring, head to the Southbank Centre from 12:00 to enjoy gluten-free brownies, duck confit with a unique London twist, or the novel Korrito - Korean BBQ in burritos.
The Tiger Who Came to Tea at Osterley House
When: Every day in February, every 30 minutes between 11:00 and 14:30.
Our nearest station: Isleworth (or Hounslow for stair-free entry and exit to the station)
This free exhibition of Judith Kerr's illustrations gives children the chance to step into Sophie's kitchen. Have tea with the tiger himself with a life-size toy to cuddle, as well as crafts and dressing up to bring the fun to life. Entry to Osterley Park and House is free to National Trust members.
Brooklands Museum: Ready to Race
When: 17 to 21 February
Our nearest station: Weybridge
Brooklands starts their regular half-term feature in 2020 by exploring the science behind speed with Ready to Race. Children will be able to join the pit crew for a hands-on session getting a car ready to race at Brooklands, or take a ride in a vintage or classic car. Concorde Mini Tours will take place twice a day, and you'll be able to enjoy rides on a vintage London bus courtesy of the London Bus Museum. Entrance is included with your Brooklands Museum ticket - £46.95 for two adults and three children.
Winter Beach Clean
When: Saturday 15 February, 15:00 to 16:30
Our nearest station: Bournemouth
The Great British Beach Clean takes place every year in September, and of course there's the #2minutebeachclean initiative - encouraging us to take two minutes at the end of our trip to the coast to tidy up. But there are often events throughout the year to do a little more - so why not combine a day in Bournemouth with a environment-aiding activity? Equipment is provided, and it's run in conjunction with the Leave Only Footprints team.
Imagine Children's Festival
When: 12 to 23 February
Our nearest station: London Waterloo
The 19th Imagine Children's Festival features Michael Rosen, Dermot O'Leary, Cressida Cowell and Blue Peter's Konnie Huq, and gives children the chance to interact with dinosaurs, celebrate the Harry Potter books, and even go on adventures with Pippi Longstocking. Covering 12 days, with around half of the events being free to take part in, it's the largest festival of its kind in the UK - dedicated to families experiencing art and culture together.
Half Term at the Emirates Spinnaker Tower
When: 15 to 23 February
Our nearest station: Portsmouth Harbour
Discover towers across the world at Travel and Collect the View at the Emirates Spinnaker Tower. Children get their very own Spinnaker Passport to keep, can take part in the Glass Sky Walk and Sky Garden, as well as learning about the amazing features of the view from the Spinnaker Tower.
Snowdrop Sunday at Chawton House
When: 16 February, 11:00 to 16:00
Our nearest station: Alton
Chawton House sees some of the earliest blooms of one of England's most loved flowers - the snowdrop. The gardens at Chawton open specially for the event, which sees the snowdrops form a carpet across the south lawn - traditionally seen as a herald of Spring. The Old Kitchen Tearoom will also be making the most of the day with a specially-themed menu.
Light Up Poole
When: 20 to 22 February, 18:00 to 22:00
Our nearest station: Poole
Lava lamps, astronauts and cultural & social history all meet at Light Up Poole, a digital light art festival. 2020's theme is "Spectrum", which sees Poole's diverse landscape lit up with entrancing light and sound installations in the old town, high street and waterfront. Featuring a new "Light Up Family Rave" and daytime talks at Lighthouse, evening events are free of charge making for a great way to spend an evening by the coast.
