With the school holidays fast approaching, Stockport is gearing up for one of its biggest ever summer programmes – packed with events, activities and creative days out for families across the borough.
From beach days and museum adventures to creative workshops and outdoor play, the summer-long programme aims to help local families make the most of the school holidays without breaking the bank. Many events are drop-in and free, with something happening every day across Stockport’s cultural venues, parks and town centre.
Cllr Dan Oliver, Cabinet Member for Culture at Stockport Council, said:
“We want every child, young person and family in Stockport to have a summer to remember. This year’s line-up has something for everyone — and we’re proud to offer so many inclusive, accessible and free activities. Whether you’re getting messy at a museum, exploring our parks, or trying something new at Stockroom, we hope you’ll join in and make the most of what’s on offer.”
Stockroom
Since opening in May, Stockroom has been a huge hit with families. It offers a welcoming children’s library and creative learning space — a great place to read a book, meet friends, and join in with free regular workshops and activities. This summer, Stockroom’s packed programme includes:
- FamJam – 10 August. OmniMusic’s FamJam brings joyful, inclusive music sessions for disabled people and their loved ones to Stockroom. These stay and play sessions are designed for everyone to join in the fun and make music together.
- Children’s Storytime: every Wednesday at 11am. Drop in, no need to book!
- Lego Club: every Wednesday throughout July and August.
- Games nights for teens: every Friday.
- Family Foodie Fridays: 25 July and 29 August
Merseybay at Merseyway
From 25 July – FREE
The town’s favourite urban beach returns to Merseyway Shopping Centre, With golden sand, deckchairs and a splash of Hawaiian sunshine in the middle of town. Look out for Extra Fun Fridays with themed crafts, characters and games and don’t miss the Ohana Summer Party on 1 August.
SmileyWorld Art Trail
Until 15 September
Get ready to explore a full spectrum of emotions as Totally Stockport brings a vibrant new art trail to the heart of Stockport. Stockport will transform into a playful outdoor gallery as the SmileyWorld Art Trail takes over the town centre with a colourful collection of quirky, fun and exciting sculptures, each inspired by the SmileyWorld icons. Download the map.
Hat Works Museum
24 July – 30 August – FREE
Discover the UK’s only hat museum and dive into local history alongside creative activities.
- Creative art activities including colouring-in placemats and a Summer Art Club in the activity room (all materials provided).
- ‘Arc in the Park’ activity map for creative outdoor fun in nearby Viaduct Park — perfect for drawing, photography, or writing inspired by nature.
Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery
Celebrate 100 years of this iconic gallery with Beautiful Things: Children and Young People’s Exhibition, welcoming artwork from young artists up to age 25 to showcase their creativity. Submissions open throughout July.
Stockport Museum – Grimwood Museum Adventure
26 July – 31 August – FREE. Quiet Opening times: Mondays 4, 11 and 18 August
Join this fun, interactive museum trail featuring Grimwood characters and challenges. Complete the trail to earn a free sticker and enter a prize draw for a signed book bundle and National Art Pass.
Animate and Create Workshop with Goofus Theatre
30 July, 11:00am – 12:00pm – £3 per person
Explore non-verbal theatre making through puppetry and physical play in this hands-on workshop for ages 6+. Adults and children participate together, so tickets are required for all attendees. Booking essential via Stockport Museum’s event page.
Bramall Hall
20 July – tickets £18
The Merry Wives of Windsor by William Shakespeare
Whether you’re a Shakespeare aficionado or new to his work, this event promises to be fun and accessible, against one of the most beautiful backdrops in the North West of England. Performance is recommended for ages 12+
Book your tickets.
Staircase House
26 July – 31 August – entry charges apply for adults; children go free
Explore Stockport’s oldest townhouse and see the rare Jacobean cage-newel staircase. Take part in free peg doll craft activities while you visit and spot the replica dolls throughout the house. Plan your visit.
Life Leisure
Stockport’s parks and Stockroom will be filled with free fun all summer long! Join them for football, basketball, skateboarding, games, art and crafts and much more. Visit their Facebook page for dates and times.
Life Leisure hold regular SEND friendly play, fitness, and swimming sessions at Life Leisure hubs. Eligible families can apply for a Stockport Active Card or Carer Companion Pass for discounts and free entry.
Young Inspector’s Programme at Woodbank Young People’s Centre, Offerton
July 28-30 FREE
For young people aged 13-25 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Learn new skills, make friends, and improve SEND services. Visit community services, give feedback, and help us inspect. Earn a certificate and a £50 voucher. Don’t miss out on this chance to make a difference and have fun! Register in advance.
Stockport’s parks and green spaces are also the perfect place to get active outdoors. From woodland trails to open play areas, there’s something for all ages – and many parks have accessible paths and inclusive equipment. Plan your park day.
New Greek Street bridge beams installed in just four days 
Stockport NHS finalists for ‘Chefs of the Year’ 
Stockport manufacturer expands premises