This February half term, Beeston Castle invites families to really shake off the winter blues with a week of hands on fun and games.

With a Civil War encampment over the weekend and den building workshops throughout the week, this is a great way to get out and about over the holidays.

Soldiers of Beeston’s Civil War Garrison will be setting up camp in the castle grounds on Saturday, February 14 and Sunday, February 15.

History hunters young and old can meet the soldiers, see the equipment and armour which they used in battle, soak up the aromas of 17th century cuisine with cookery demonstrations, witness musket firing displays – and maybe even have a go themselves with children’s musket drills!

The star of the show will be the soldier’s cavalry horse, who will be groomed authentically for the Civil War. Find out what it takes to groom such a noble steed and prepare for battle.

From Monday, February 16 to Sunday, February 22, outdoor adventurers will love exploring Beeston’s woodland park and building their very own den among the castle ruins.

With plenty of natural materials on hand throughout the park and woodlands, den builders will be spoilt for choice in their quest to make the perfect den.

Surrounded by 40 acres of beautiful woodland park, with pathways and resting areas dotted around the wildlife-thronged woods, Beeston is just the spot for a exploring the great outdoors this February.

Once you are ready to put down your muskets and built the den of your dreams, be sure to take some time to really explore Beeston Castle.

Known as the ‘Castle on the Rock’ the remains of Beeston’s medieval castle sit high above the Cheshire Plain – climb to the top and enjoy views over eight counties.

For more details, visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/beeston . Prices (includes entry to castle and grounds): adults £6.10, concessions £5.50, children £3.70, family £15.90.