Half term does not always come with blue skies, but that does not mean there is nothing to do. Bognor Regis has plenty of affordable, family friendly options that work just as well on a rainy afternoon as they do on a crisp winter day.
Here are some easy ideas to help you make the most of half term, whatever the weather decides to do.
Visit the Library
Bognor Regis Library is a brilliant free option during half term. From book borrowing and quiet reading time to occasional children’s activities and events, it is a calm and welcoming space that costs nothing and encourages a love of reading. It is also a great place to warm up on a rainy day.
Grandad’s Front Room Budget Challenge
Turn a visit to Grandad’s Front Room into a game. Set a small budget and challenge children to find a treasure within that limit. It encourages decision making, creativity and shows that shopping second hand can be fun.
Get Creative at the Resourceful Scrap Store
The Resourceful Scrap Store is perfect for a full morning or afternoon of creativity. By joining as a member, families can fill their bags with recycled craft materials and plan a hands on creative session at home. It is budget friendly, sustainable and ideal for keeping children busy when the rain sets in.
Fish and Chips and the Arcades
A classic Bognor Regis combo that works in almost any weather. Grab some fish and chips and spend some time in the arcades for a mix of nostalgia and fun. It is an easy win for families and can be done at your own pace.
Little Piggies Soft Play
For younger children, Little Piggies is a great rainy day option. Enjoy a sweet treat or a hot drink while the kids burn off some energy in the soft play area. It is warm, relaxed and ideal when outdoor plans need to change.
Explore Bognor Regis Museum
A quieter, educational option that often gets overlooked. The museum offers a chance to learn more about the town’s history and is well suited to curious children who enjoy discovering something new indoors.
Arun Leisure Centre
Arun Leisure Centre on Felpham Way has a wide range of activities for families and children of all ages. It has swimming pools where you can enjoy public swim sessions or join structured lessons, soft play and a gym space, plus trampolining, gymnastics and squash courts on offer. During school holidays there are even day camps for children aged 5 to 12, making it a great rainy day destination that keeps everyone active and having fun.
Arena Sports Centre
The Arena Sports Centre on Westloats Lane is another all weather favourite. Alongside indoor facilities, it runs kids bootcamp courses during half term and has mid-week play sessions for under 3s. Younger children will enjoy the tots drop-in sessions and active young people can get involved with gym, pool and other multi-sports activities. ‘Pay-as-you-go’ options mean you can choose how long to stay, making it flexible for families during the holidays.
Crazy Golf on the Seafront
If the weather allows, crazy golf on the seafront is a simple outdoor activity that does not require much planning. It is fun, affordable and easy to combine with a walk or a stop for food.
Heygates for a Hot Drink and a Book
Slow things down with a visit to Heygates Bookshop. Enjoy a warm drink and take time to choose a book to add to your home library. It is a lovely way to create a calm moment in the middle of a busy week.
Beach Walks and Ice Cream Stops
On brighter days, wrap up warm and head to the beach. A simple walk (or ride on the prom’s very own train!) along the seafront followed by an ice cream from favourites like Pinks Parlour, Sweet Flamingos, Whittingtons or Hotham Park is an easy way to enjoy the outdoors without spending much.
Bird and Wildlife Watching
For a calmer outdoor activity, try bird or squirrel spotting. Popular local spots include Pagham Harbour, Hotham Park, Aldwick Wildlife Pond and Bersted Brook. It is free, educational and a great way to encourage children to notice nature around them.
Half term does not need to be expensive or weather dependent. With a mix of indoor facilities, cosy stops and simple outdoor adventures, Bognor Regis offers plenty of ways for families to enjoy time together, whatever the forecast.
