10 things to do this summer

So here are 10 ways to help keep youngsters entertained during the summer break.

1. Enrol in Spy School at the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford. Everyday throughout August youngsters can take part in a Secret Spy Trail around the museum’s National Cold War Exhibition and on Wednesdays can sign-up for Secret Spy School workshops, suitable for secret agents in the making.

2. Be sporty at the Black Country Living Museum. Discover how the Black Country kept fit over the summer during the 19th and 20th centuries as you race, jump and skip your way through some traditional games. Knock boredom on the head with skittles, the whip and top, hoop and stick and hopscotch or grab an egg and spoon for a sports day at Folkes Park.

3. Hit the trails at Cannock Chase. Whether it's walking and cycling, or for the more adventurous zip-wiring, there are plenty of ways to enjoy some fresh air at this beauty spot. Young visitors will enjoy the Gruffalo Spotters trail and augmented reality app.

4. Go to battle at Hartlebury Castle. Staff at Worcestershire County Museum are running different themed activities each week during the holidays. The first is battle and sieges and will be followed by nature rangers. Crafts and trails are among the summer fun programme of activities.

5. Meet the animals at West Midland Safari Park. The attraction near Bewdley is running its Safari Cubs Club for eight to 11-year-olds and Safari Explorers for 12 to 14-year-olds. Both include hands-on experiences with smaller creatures.

6. Get crafty at Jackfield Tile Museum. Weekly drop-in workshops offer the chance for anyone to make their own ceramic masterpieces. With a variety of sizes you could make a collection of coasters, a circular door plaque or a gift for a loved one on a heart shaped tile.

7. Climb a tree at Shugborough Hall. On August 31 and September 1, The Great Big Tree Climbing Company will be on hand to show youngsters how to safely climb with harnesses one of the oak trees. To book call 0800 0556760.

8. Watch an outdoor performance of Peter Pan. Chapterhouse Theatre Company will be playing at Attingham Park in Atcham, near Shrewsbury on August 4. The play will go on what ever the weather so don't forget waterproofs, bug spray, low backed chairs or blankets and a picnic. To book call 01743 708165

9. Join the Octonauts at the National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham. Take part in a range of interactive activities to discover how creatures of the deep use light to hide from predators, attract their prey and even talk to each other. From now until August 13.

10. Cook up a feast with Shropshire Wildlife Trust. Children can learn about the joy of campfire cooking to make damper bread pizza, kebabs, chocolate orange cakes at s'mores at The Cut Visitor Centre in Shrewsbury on August 2 from 10.30am until 12.30pm.