10 Fun Things to Do with Grandchildren on the Wirral and Beyond

There’s something truly special about the bond between grandparents and grandchildren. Whether you’re a hands-on grandparent who sees the little ones every week or you’re planning an extra-special day out during the holidays, the Wirral and wider Merseyside area is packed with brilliant things to do together.

The best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune or plan anything elaborate. Some of the most treasured memories come from the simplest activities — a walk along the beach, a story at the library, or flour-covered faces in the kitchen. We’ve put together this list of 10 tried-and-tested ideas that grandparents and grandchildren of all ages will love, from free outdoor adventures to brilliant indoor fun.

So grab the grandkids, pack a few snacks, and let’s get started.

10 Activities Grandparents and Grandchildren Will Love

1. Indoor Soft Play

If you’re looking for an activity that keeps the grandchildren entertained for hours while you relax with a good cup of tea, indoor soft play is hard to beat. Modern soft play centres are a far cry from the basic ball pits of years ago — many now have themed zones, dedicated baby and toddler areas, and proper cafes where you can sit with a coffee and watch the action.

The best venues cater for every age group, from tiny babies right through to 11-year-olds. Younger grandchildren can explore safely in separated toddler areas, while older kids burn off energy in climbing zones and adventure trails. Places like Bubbles World of Play in New Brighton are particularly well-suited for grandparent visits, with comfortable seating, free parking, and a cafe that serves proper meals rather than vending machine snacks.

Why grandparents love soft play:

• Everything is indoors and under one roof — no weather worries
• Comfortable seating areas so you can watch without being on your feet all day
• Dedicated areas for different age groups, so younger grandchildren are separated from the bigger kids
• CCTV coverage at many venues, so you can relax knowing the little ones are safe
• Fully accessible and pushchair-friendly

Practical tips: Book in advance to guarantee entry, especially during school holidays and weekends. Socks are required for the play areas at most venues, so pop a spare pair in your bag just in case.

Cost: Varies by venue. Under-1s often go free.

2. Beach Walks at New Brighton and the Wirral Coastline

There’s nothing quite like a blustery walk along the beach with a grandchild’s hand in yours. The Wirral coastline has some of the best beaches in the North West, and they’re perfect for multi-generational outings.

New Brighton Beach is a firm favourite for families. The wide, sandy stretch is ideal for building sandcastles, hunting for shells, and paddling in summer. The promenade is flat and accessible, making it comfortable for grandparents of all mobility levels. Afterwards, you can warm up with fish and chips overlooking the sea.

For a quieter option, head to West Kirby Beach, where you can walk out to the Marine Lake and watch the sailing boats. Or try Thurstaston Beach, which has rockpools perfect for exploring with curious little ones.

Why it works for grandparents:

• Completely free
• Fresh air and gentle exercise for everyone
• Flat promenades at New Brighton and West Kirby suit pushchairs and less mobile visitors
• Easy to combine with a cafe stop or a visit to a nearby attraction

Practical tips: Layer up in cooler months, and bring wellies for rockpool adventures. Pack a bag with baby wipes, towels, and a change of clothes — grandchildren and water are a predictable combination. If you’re at New Brighton, Marine Point has cafes and shops right on the seafront.

Cost: Free.

3. Park Adventures at Birkenhead Park, Arrowe Park, and Beyond

The Wirral is blessed with beautiful parks, and a morning or afternoon at one of them is a classic grandparent-grandchild activity. There’s room to run, things to discover, and plenty of benches for when you need a breather.

Birkenhead Park is a real gem. Designed by Joseph Paxton (who went on to design London’s Crystal Palace), it was actually the inspiration for New York’s Central Park. There are lakes, woodland paths, open fields, and a fantastic playground. It’s the kind of place where grandchildren can feed the ducks while you tell them about the history — if they’ll stand still long enough to listen.

Arrowe Park is another brilliant choice, with huge open spaces, walking trails through the woods, and a good playground. Central Park in Wallasey and Vale Park in New Brighton are also well worth a visit.

Why grandparents love parks:

• Free entry and parking at most Wirral parks
• Something for every age — swings for toddlers, climbing frames for older children, paths for everyone
• A chance to get outdoors without any pressure or time limits
• Perfect for combining with a picnic (see item 10!)

Practical tips: Most Wirral parks have accessible paths, but some woodland trails can be muddy after rain, so sturdy shoes are a good idea. Bring a bag of stale bread or birdseed for the ducks and geese — the grandchildren will be in their element.

Cost: Free.

4. Museum Visits in Liverpool

A trip into Liverpool opens up some world-class museums that are completely free and wonderfully child-friendly. This is a fantastic option for grandparents who want to share a bit of culture and learning in a way that feels like an adventure, not a school trip.

The World Museum Liverpool on William Brown Street is a winner every time. The natural history galleries with their dinosaur skeletons are an instant hit with children, and the aquarium on the lower level is mesmerising for little ones. The space planetarium is brilliant for older grandchildren.

Lady Lever Art Gallery in Port Sunlight (just over the water on the Wirral side) is a more peaceful option. The beautiful building itself is impressive, and children enjoy spotting animals and characters in the paintings. Port Sunlight village is lovely for a gentle stroll afterwards.

The Museum of Liverpool at the Pier Head is another great choice, with interactive exhibits about the city’s history and a dedicated section for under-5s.

Why it works:

• Free admission at all the major Liverpool museums
• Indoor, so weather-proof
• Genuinely educational but presented in a way children enjoy
• Cafes on site for refreshments

Practical tips: The World Museum can get busy during school holidays, so aim for a morning visit. The Merseyrail train from Wirral stations to Liverpool is straightforward, and grandchildren love the tunnel under the river. If you’re driving, there are car parks near all the major museums.

Cost: Free admission. Budget for travel, parking, and cafe stops.

5. Library Storytimes and Reading Together

Never underestimate the magic of a grandparent reading a story. Libraries across the Wirral run regular storytime sessions for babies, toddlers, and pre-schoolers, and they’re a lovely low-key activity for a morning out with the grandchildren.

Sessions typically last around 30 minutes and include stories, songs, and sometimes simple crafts. They’re free, welcoming, and a wonderful way to foster a love of reading from an early age. Birkenhead Central Library, West Kirby Library, and Wallasey Central Library all run regular sessions — check with your local branch for the current timetable.

Even without a formal session, simply visiting the library together is a treat. Let the grandchildren choose their own books, find a cosy corner, and read together. Many libraries have colourful children’s sections with soft seating and toys.

Why grandparents love it:

• Completely free
• Calm and gentle — no noise, no overstimulation
• Grandparents who love reading can share that passion naturally
• A great activity for very young grandchildren who might find bigger outings overwhelming

Practical tips: Get the grandchildren their own library cards — it makes them feel wonderfully grown-up. If your local library doesn’t have a specific storytime session that week, just go anyway. You’re the best storyteller they know.

Cost: Free.

6. Baking and Cooking Together at Home

Sometimes the best days with grandchildren happen right in your own kitchen. Baking is one of those brilliant activities that every generation can enjoy together, and it creates the most wonderful memories (and smells).

Start with something simple: fairy cakes, biscuits, or flapjacks. Grandchildren love the hands-on nature of it — measuring ingredients, stirring the mix, licking the spoon. Older children can take on more responsibility, while toddlers are perfectly happy just squishing dough and making a glorious mess.

Easy recipes to try together:

• Rice Krispie cakes — no oven needed, perfect for very young helpers
• Jam tarts — simple pastry work with instant results
• Decorated biscuits — bake them plain, then set up an icing and sprinkle station
• Banana bread — a great way to use up those overripe bananas

Why it works:

• No travel, no entry fees, no time pressure
• Teaches practical skills in a fun way
• You get to eat the results together
• Grandchildren can take their creations home to show mum and dad

Practical tips: Have everything measured out and ready before the grandchildren arrive if you want a smoother experience. Put a large sheet or tablecloth under the work area for easy clean-up. Aprons are essential — or just accept that everyone’s getting floury.

Cost: Just the ingredients you already have in the cupboard. Budget around 3-5 pounds if you need to pick up extras.

7. Nature Walks and Wildlife Spotting

The Wirral is a surprisingly brilliant place for nature-loving grandparents and their grandchildren. From coastal birds to woodland creatures, there’s plenty to spot if you know where to look.

Hilbre Island off West Kirby is one of the Wirral’s hidden treasures. At low tide, you can walk across the sands to this small island nature reserve where grey seals bask on the rocks and thousands of wading birds gather. It’s a genuine adventure that older grandchildren (around 7+) will remember for years. Just make sure to check tide times carefully and wear appropriate footwear.

For a gentler option, Thurstaston Common and the Wirral Way offer lovely walks through woodland and along the old railway line. Keep your eyes peeled for squirrels, woodpeckers, and butterflies. The Visitor Centre at Thurstaston has information about local wildlife and seasonal events.

RSPB Burton Mere Wetlands near Neston is another fantastic spot. The hides overlooking the mere are perfect for birdwatching with grandchildren — bring binoculars if you have them, or the centre sometimes has spare pairs.

Tips for wildlife walks with grandchildren:

• Bring a simple nature spotter card or checklist — children love ticking things off
• Let them bring a small rucksack with their own water bottle and snacks
• Walk at their pace, not yours. Stop when they want to investigate a puddle or an interesting stick
• Take photos of anything you find together

Cost: Free for most walks. RSPB Burton Mere has an entry fee for non-members (free for RSPB members).

8. Feeding the Ducks at Local Ponds and Parks

It might sound old-fashioned, but feeding the ducks is still one of the most popular activities with grandchildren — and for good reason. It’s simple, it’s free, it gets everyone outside, and small children are absolutely fascinated by it.

The boating lake at Birkenhead Park is a classic spot with plenty of ducks, geese, and the occasional swan. Royden Park in Frankby has a lovely pond surrounded by woodland. Coronation Park in Crosby and the lakes at Sefton Park in Liverpool are also excellent choices.

Important note: Bread isn’t actually great for ducks. Instead, bring along:

• Frozen peas (defrosted)
• Sweetcorn
• Chopped lettuce or grapes (halved)
• Oats or rice

The grandchildren won’t mind what they’re throwing — it’s the excitement of the ducks coming close that they love.

Why grandparents love it:

• Takes no planning at all
• Suitable for all ages, including babies in pushchairs who just love watching
• A peaceful, unhurried activity
• Often leads to wonderful conversations about nature and animals

Practical tips: Go in the morning when the ducks are hungriest and the parks are quieter. Bring hand sanitiser for afterwards. And remember — you’re never too old or too young to enjoy feeding the ducks.

Cost: Free (just the price of whatever duck-friendly food you bring).

9. Arts and Crafts Sessions

If you’re after a stay-at-home activity that keeps grandchildren busy and produces something they’re proud of, arts and crafts is your answer. You don’t need to be artistic yourself — it’s about the process, not the result.

Simple craft ideas for different ages:

• Toddlers (1-3): Finger painting, sticking things onto paper (feathers, buttons, pasta shapes), playdough
• Pre-schoolers (3-5): Collaging with old magazines, potato printing, making cards for family members, pipe cleaner animals
• Primary age (5-11): Friendship bracelets, papier-mache, simple sewing, building models from recycled materials

A trip to a local craft shop or even the pound shop can stock you up with everything you need — paper, glue sticks, googly eyes, pipe cleaners, paint, and stickers. Keep a craft box at your house so you’re always ready for a visit.

Why it’s great for grandparents:

• You can sit together at the table — no running around required
• Children love making things as gifts for other family members
• It’s creative and calming
• The finished products become keepsakes

Some local venues also run children’s craft workshops during school holidays — check community centres, libraries, and galleries for what’s on near you.

Practical tips: Cover surfaces with newspaper or a plastic tablecloth. Old shirts make excellent painting smocks. And always do the glitter outside if you value your carpets.

Cost: Minimal. A basic craft supply shop visit might cost 5-10 pounds and will last multiple sessions.

10. Simple Picnics in Scenic Spots

A picnic is one of the loveliest things you can do with grandchildren, and the Wirral has no shortage of beautiful spots to spread out a blanket. There’s something about eating outside that makes even the simplest sandwiches taste better — and children think it’s the height of excitement.

Top picnic spots on the Wirral and beyond:

• Birkenhead Park — lakeside spots with plenty of shade in summer
• Thurstaston Common — stunning views across the Dee Estuary to Wales
• Caldy Beach — a quieter alternative to the busier beaches
• Royden Park — woodland clearings that feel like a secret garden
• Otterspool Promenade in Liverpool — views across the Mersey with a great playground nearby
• Port Sunlight — the manicured gardens near the Lady Lever Art Gallery

Grandparent-approved picnic tips:

• Keep it simple: sandwiches, fruit, crisps, juice boxes, and a few biscuits. Nobody’s expecting a masterclass.
• Let the grandchildren help pack the picnic bag — they’ll eat more if they chose it themselves
• Bring a proper blanket, not just a towel. A waterproof-backed one is worth its weight in gold.
• Pack extra layers — it can be breezy on the Wirral coast even in summer
• Don’t forget wet wipes. The universal grandparent tool.

Why picnics work so well:

• Almost free — you’re just eating your normal lunch somewhere more interesting
• No time limits or schedules
• Easy to combine with any of the other activities on this list
• Grandchildren remember picnics with their grandparents for a lifetime

Cost: Whatever you spend on the food — which can be as little or as much as you like.

Making the Most of Your Time Together

The truth about being a grandparent is that what you do together matters far less than the fact that you’re doing it together. Children don’t remember expensive days out as much as they remember the feeling of being loved, listened to, and given someone’s undivided attention.

That said, having a few ideas up your sleeve makes it easier to plan those special days. Whether you start with an active morning at Bubbles World of Play and follow it with a beach walk, or keep things simple with baking at home and a trip to the library, the Wirral and Merseyside give you plenty to work with.

A few final tips for grandparent days out:

• Match the activity to the child’s age and energy levels. A toddler won’t last a three-hour nature walk, and a ten-year-old won’t sit still for a library storytime.
• Build in rest stops. Cafe breaks, snack breaks, and sit-on-a-bench-and-watch-the-world breaks are all perfectly valid.
• Keep a stash of essentials in the car or by the front door: wet wipes, spare socks, sun cream, snacks, and a change of clothes.
• Take photos. Not just of the grandchildren, but of you together. These become the most precious pictures in the family collection.

Whatever you choose to do, enjoy every minute of it. These are the days the grandchildren will talk about when they’re grown up.