These are Greater Manchester’s top places to keep younger kids entertained according to Molly Whitehead-Jones, founder of “mums group with a difference” Mamas Collective.

Museum of Science & Industry

Though some of MOSI’s displays aren’t that suitable for tiny children (mill machinery and unstoppable little hands don’t mix), up on the first floor you’ll find the ‘Experiment!’ exhibition which offers tons of interactive displays and plenty of space to run around. There’s also a brilliant and totally kiddo-friendly restaurant if you really want to make a day of it.

Mini Moose Land at Chill Factore

Though they’re way too young to take to the ski slopes here, little ones can get their own share of snow-based fun in this specially designated area for under 4s. It’s a white winter every day here –wrap them up extra warm and let them loose in the ice maze, mini sledging ramp and igloo.

Smithills Open Farm

If you’re blessed with fine weather for your day out, this is a good shout – kids can get up close to all the traditional farm animals you’d expect, as well as some you might not (like llamas, chinchillas and meerkats). There’s also a bouncy castle, donkey rides and adventure playground for older siblings.

Legoland Discovery Centre

If you’ve got a potential future architect on your hands, they’ll go wild for this giant interactive play zone, which also offers three rides and a 4D cinema. (And it’s just across from the Trafford Centre if you can somehow convince them to behave so you can enjoy a short shopping trip afterwards.)

Runway Visitors Park

One for the aviation enthusiasts, this is the ideal place to plane spot. You can take a tour of one of the five iconic aircraft on site, enjoy views of Concorde as you eat your lunch in the restaurant, and let them burn off a bit of extra energy in the outdoor play area.