IHALF TERM ACTIVITIES: SCHOOL is out as local youngsters enjoy the half-term break next week.

But, for beleagured parents looking for places to go and things to do in the Bolton area and an easy journey away from it, here are a few ideas in a handy BEN Activity Guide.

TURTON TOWER, Bolton -- a rare chance to meet a real Tudor family in their home. Discover more about day to day family life in the 16th century with Lord and Lady Orrell, Wednesday October 24, 1-4pm, all ages, no booking required. Family Ticket £8. Also a woodland trail walk with a Countryside Ranger -- Wednesday October 24, to book in advance ring 01204 852203. Family art and video workshop 1-4pm -- Friday and Saturday, October 26 and 27, advance booking required.

ROYAL ARMOURIES, Leeds. The story of Guy Fawkes, a programme of special activities are planned which will bring to life his carefully planned attack on the Houses of Parliament, and the events leading up to the evening of November 5 1605, runs October 20-28. 24-hour information line 0113 220 1940.

SAVICK LIBRARY and RIBBLETON LIBRARY, Preston -- Print your own design on your T-shirt, or design one for all the family. Bring your own T-shirt. Wednesday October 24, 2-4pm, age four plus, advance booking required. Admission is free. Details available from 01772 729119 and 01772 792632 respectively. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

BUXTON OPERA HOUSE, Monday October 22, 2.30pm. A live pop concert specially created for seven to 12-year-olds. The teen tribute sensations bring two hours of fun, singing all the well known chart hits from Westlife and Britney Spears. Tickets £6.50. Box Office 01298 72190.

LEYLAND LIBRARY, explore the possibilities of digital photography Wednesday, October 24, 10am-12noon, age five plus. Advance booking required, Admission is free. Details 01771 432804. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

CLAYTON YOUTH and Community Centre, Chorley -- discover your family coat of arms, fun filled all day session. Thursday October 25, 10.30am-3.30pm. Admission free, all ages, For more information 01772 628482. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

SADDLEWORTH MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY, High Street, Uppermill, near Oldham. Craft Sessions for children to make puppets, owl masks, flame tail 3D birds and more. Aimed at four to 11-year-olds, £3 per child . Tuesday October 30 1-3pm. Tickets can be bought in advance. Details 01457 874093.

COPPULL YOUTH and Community Centre, Chorley -- compile your family tree, using CD Roms, internet and other useful contacts. Thursday October 25, 10am-4pm. All ages, admission free, just drop in or ring 01257 470201. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

THE CAPITOL CENTRE, Walton-le-Dale, Preston -- Family Cycle Ride. Get your bike post coded, attend the bike surgery or join this interesting cycle ride along the Preston Junction Cycle Way with the expert guidance of a Countryside Ranger. Friday October 26, 10am, all ages, meet on the car park outside Virgin Active. Admission free. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

BURRS COUNTRY PARK, scary mask making sessions, Saturday October 27, 1.30pm. Booking essential 0161 761 1438. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

THE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY, Liverpool Road, Castlefield, Manchester. October Half Term events and activities run from Monday to Friday October 22-26, 12 noon-4pm. Admission adults £6.50. Adult conc £3.50. Half term events are free for 18s and under and over 60s. For more details ring 0161 832 2244.

THE WORLD OF GLASS, Chalon Way East, St Helens, Merseyside. Half term craft activities for kids of all ages 2-4pm, Tuesday October 23 and Thursday October 25. £1 admission includes materials for making scary Halloween masks. For a more detailed programme of events contact the World of Glass hot-line on 08707 444777.