National Space Centre, Leicester

I just visited with my 17 month old son and didn't expect there to be so much for him to do! As soon as you walk in you are presented with 6 different areas to explore. Each one is full of sound, colour, hands-on exhibits, amazing pictures and lots and lots of information. It's all been presented in a fun and interesting way. My son's face absolutely lit up as soon as we entered, he didn't know where to look first. He was obviously too little to understand what everything was but it didn't mean he enjoyed it any less. He was so excited by everything, pointing, oohing and ahhing at everything. There are lots of things for a toddler to enjoy, there's even a small play area with books, games and a TV designed especially for them. All the beautiful pictures, lights and interactive screens was a bonus. And all the screaming, excited school children that were visiting were proof that its not just my son that was completely enchanted with the place. Each section is designated to a certain subject with lots of interactive bits and buttons. Its all laid out in a fun way so children just don't realise they're learning. The tranquility base is a space training SIM where you'll need your ticket to use some of the exhibits in here. There's also an actual simulator but you have to be 120cm or above to go on it. If you go to the 2nd floor you can take the lift right to the top of the centre where you'll be thrown back in time and possibly down memory lane as you learn about the mission to the moon and what went on in the years around it. You'll also find a spaceman themed guess who up here. We ate at Boosters cafe which has a small range of snacks and sandwiches that are reasonable priced. the school groups were mostly eating picnic food in here so I presume its ok to eat your picnic inside but if not the space centre backs onto a picturesque river where there's plenty of grassy areas and picnic benches available. There are plenty of baby change facilities and toilets throughout the centre which are good and clean. But the best bit which is definately not to be missed is the 'Are We Astronomers' show in the theatre, you will be allocated your entrance time when you purchase your tickets. I don't want to spoil it for you but it is a visual delight and one of the best planetarium shows I've seen. Bring every one of your family here because there is something for everyone, young or old.

I took four children aged between 18 months and 6 years to the Space Centre on a rainy day in February. We all had a fantastic time! There are loads of hands-on activities, buttons to press to make things happen, experiments to look at - all connected with space travel. So even if your child can't read, they can get a lot from the exhibits. The planetarium show had them all spellbound - the subject matter was pitched at older children, but the pictures and movement were so interesting they were completely enthralled. We were there for around 4 hours and didn't cover everything - so lots to go back for and you can request an annual pass when you buy your entry ticket, which allows you to go back unlimited times for free. The gift shop was good too - lots of pocket money toys. My children are dying to return and explore the rest. A really good day out. My only criticisim would be the cafe, which has only basic things on offer, but you are able to take picnics in better weather.