Broadland’s Tots2Teens Returns with Exciting Half-Term Activities for Families
Families across Broadland have something special to look forward to this October half-term as the beloved Tots2Teens programme makes its eagerly anticipated return. Broadland District Council has thoughtfully crafted a diverse schedule of affordable, engaging activities designed to keep children and young people aged 5 to 16 entertained during their school break. The programme combines creativity, fun, and social interaction, offering parents a reliable option for quality experiences that won’t break the bank. In the words of Councillor Natasha Harpley, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing, “Tots2Teens is a fantastic way for children to stay active, creative and connected during the school holidays. This programme is not only fun and engaging, but also affordable and inclusive for families across our district.”
The three-day programme, running from October 30 to November 1, kicks off with “Spooky Cookery” for older children aged 11-16. This culinary adventure at Sprowston Community Academy invites young chefs to create Halloween-themed delights that are as fun to make as they are to eat. Participants will get hands-on experience preparing witches’ hair pasta and adorable pumpkin-shaped pop cakes, combining cooking skills with seasonal creativity. The kitchen will buzz with activity as these young people learn valuable culinary techniques while embracing the Halloween spirit. This session perfectly balances practical life skills with seasonal enjoyment, giving tweens and teens something productive and entertaining to do during their time off school.
The Halloween theme continues on October 31 with “Creepy Crawly Crafts,” designed specifically for children aged 5-10. Taking place at the Hall for All in Weston Longville, this full-day creative workshop immerses younger children in a world of Halloween-inspired arts and crafts. The day includes pumpkin carving under careful supervision, bat-themed crafts that children can proudly display at home, and the opportunity to create monsters from recycled materials – adding an eco-friendly element to the fun. Children will return home with handmade treasures and wonderful memories of a day spent channeling their creativity alongside new friends. Parents can appreciate that their children are developing fine motor skills and artistic expression while thoroughly enjoying themselves in a safe, structured environment.
The programme culminates on November 1 with a Family Fun Day at the beautiful Broadland Country Park – an event truly designed for everyone to enjoy together. For just £5 per family, visitors can experience live performances by Strange Fascination Theatre, whose engaging storytelling captivates audiences of all ages. Families can also participate in a seasonally-themed autumn treasure hunt through the park, creating lasting memories as they search for hidden surprises amid the fall foliage. Creative stations will offer craft opportunities for children and adults alike, and everyone can look forward to taking home free goodies as souvenirs of their day. This final event emphasizes community connection and family togetherness, providing an affordable way for households to create meaningful shared experiences before children return to school.
Parents can feel confident about their children’s wellbeing throughout the Tots2Teens programme, as all activities are supervised by experienced staff who have undergone enhanced DBS checks. The entire programme adheres to strict out-of-school childcare guidelines, ensuring a safe, welcoming environment where children can thrive. Broadland District Council has prioritized both safety and inclusivity in designing these activities, recognizing that quality holiday experiences should be accessible to all families regardless of their circumstances. The careful planning behind each session demonstrates the council’s commitment to supporting family wellbeing throughout the district, providing structured activities that benefit children’s development while giving parents peace of mind during the school break.
Making these opportunities accessible to all families has clearly been a priority for Broadland District Council. Bookings can be easily made online through the council’s website, with special provisions to ensure financial constraints don’t prevent children from participating. Households receiving means-tested benefits can access a generous 50% discount on all activities. Additionally, as a Big Norfolk Holiday Fun provider, the council offers completely free places to children who receive free means-tested school meals – parents simply need to email T2T@southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk to learn how to claim these spots. This thoughtful approach to pricing reflects an understanding that all children deserve enriching holiday experiences, regardless of their family’s financial situation. Families interested in learning more, securing their children’s places, or requesting the programme brochure in alternative formats can visit southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk/tots-2-teens. With such careful planning and inclusive programming, Tots2Teens promises to make this October half-term a memorable one for children throughout Broadland.
<img src="https://www.mtlblog.com/media-library/a-woman-eating-a-sandwich-in-a-restaurant-window-right-two-people-share-a-pizza.jpg?id=61376485&width=1200&height=600&coordinates=0%2C39%2C0%2C39"/><br/><br/><p>Unless you've been living under a rock, you probably already know that <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/eat-drink/" target="_blank">Montreal is full of fantastic restaurants</a>.</p><p>From <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/montreal-restaurants-michelin-star-quebec-2025" target="_blank">internationally acclaimed kitchens</a> to local neighbourhood favourites, the city has no shortage of great food. But not every spot makes it onto a travel guide or TikTok itinerary for out-of-towners.</p><p><span></span>We recently <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MTLBlog/posts/pfbid02NdEAHV46r2t1iPGd3QUQL87Z5hRqKjaEY8xnJvYiaNaJY4n9jtvUxFPrHzuknancl" target="_blank">asked MTL Blog readers on Facebook</a>: "<em>What's your favourite hidden gem in Montreal that tourists might not know about?"</em></p><p><em></em> While we were expecting a mix of parks, events, or low-key attractions, one theme quickly took over the comments: food.</p><p>From neighbourhood mainstays to no-frills counters tucked away on quiet corners, many Montrealers were eager to share their go-to under-the-radar spots to eat. Others, though, preferred to keep their favourite places a secret, which is understandable. </p><p>But with so many responses about restaurants, we were able to put together a solid list of seven hidden gem eateries that locals say are worth checking out — whether you live here or not.</p><h3>Chalet BBQ</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BpxSW_nBPTL/" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BpxSW_nBPTL/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Rotisserie chicken (with fries) is a staple in Quebec cuisine, and few places do it better than Chalet BBQ. This NDG institution has been serving up delicious birds since 1944, earning a loyal following for its smoky, charcoal-roasted chicken, crispy skin, and savoury dipping sauce that many locals say beats St-Hubert any day.</p><p>It's not flashy or modern, and that's part of the charm. </p><p>Address: 5456 rue Sherbrooke O, Montreal, Quebec </p><h3>Moreiras</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DAWsQNSSZlB/" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DAWsQNSSZlB/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Tucked into a quiet stretch of William Street, Moreiras feels like the kind of Italian place you stumble into once and never forget. The pizzas come out thin and blistered, and the meatballs taste like a Sunday dinner at Nonna's. One reader described the atmosphere as "cozy with amazing food," and they weren't wrong </p><p>1744 rue William, Montreal, Quebec</p><h3>Patati Patata</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DIbfjVotoUP/?img_index=1" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DIbfjVotoUP/?img_index=1" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>This tiny St-Laurent diner is a Plateau classic known for crispy fries, cheap burgers, and one of the best poutines in the city. With just a few stools and booths, it keeps things simple, affordable, and reliably good. Locals love the quirky vibe and unchanged menu.</p><p>Address: 4177 boul. Saint-Laurent, Montreal, Quebec</p><h3>Bistro Amerigo</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C2BkB9EOxap/" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C2BkB9EOxap/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>This cozy Monkland Village trattoria is known for its fresh pasta, generous portions, and warm atmosphere. Locals love it for date nights and low-key dinners that still feel special. The gnocchi and short rib ragu are favourites.</p><p>Address: 6127 Monkland Ave, Montreal, Quebec</p><h3>Restaurant A.A</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B14ooi6A6jk/" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B14ooi6A6jk/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>A true local dive with no-frills charm, this cash-only joint on Notre-Dame serves up big portions of classic breakfast and greasy spoon fare at hard-to-beat prices. It's beloved for its retro vibe and dependable morning-after comfort food.</p><p>Address: 3702 rue Notre-Dame O, Montreal, Quebec </p><h3>Décarie Hot Dog</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BYLbUgjABAP/" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BYLbUgjABAP/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>This greasy staple has been slinging steamés, toasted buns, and classic Quebecois snack bar fare since 1969. It's a no-frills spot known for poutine, hot dogs, and a lineup of regulars who've been coming for decades.</p><p>Address: 953 boul. Décarie, Montreal, Quebec</p><h3>Tchang Kiang by Yangtze</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DGoh3V_JRhr/" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DGoh3V_JRhr/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>This Monkland Village eatery serves classic Chinese dishes. With a loyal following, thanks in part to its ties to the beloved <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/MontrealmemoriesTNG/posts/3046654608827506/" target="_blank">former Yangtze restaurant</a>, the menu features familiar favourites like sesame beef, egg rolls, and crispy noodles, all served in a casual, welcoming setting. It's a go-to for comforting plates with a nostalgic twist.</p><p> Address: 6066 rue Sherbrooke O, Montreal, Quebec</p>
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