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March is the month of mothers and mayhem in Staffordshire, as we celebrate our marvellous mums and our theme parks crank back into action for the 2020 season.
Here are 10 reasons to visit our awesome county this month...
1. The Midlands Grand National, Uttoxeter Racecourse
Tickets are now on sale for the Marston’s 61 Deep Midlands Grand National Raceday held at Uttoxeter Racecourse on Saturday March 14th 2020.
The Marston’s 61 Deep Midlands Grand National has been the jewel in Uttoxeter racecourse’s horse racing crown since 1969.
Back for another year, racegoers can expect excitement, fun and adrenaline rushes as they watch 8 races, including the main event, the Marston’s 61 Deep Midlands Grand National.
This is the biggest and best race in the Midlands, which sees the UK’s best chasers running 4 miles 2 furlongs and 24 fences to compete for this highly anticipated title.
Alongside the races there will be entertainment from New Orleans meets 90s club classics" band Mr Wilson's Second Liners alongside rock and Celtic band Radio Murphy.
Plus, as it’s the 6 Nations Rugby, we will be also showing both matches on the day in the Marston’s 61 Deep village marquee.
Purchase tickets online at www.uttoxeter-racecourse.co.uk, under 18s are free.
2. Gangsta Granny ride unveiled, Alton Towers
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Escape to Alton Towers Resort from Saturday March 21st when the Theme Park will open for its fun-filled 2020 season, which will mark 40 years of unforgettable shared adventures, exhilarating thrills and happy memories!
To celebrate, Alton Towers will roll out its biggest ever programme of events, live entertainment, new rides and attractions, including Gangsta Granny: The Ride.
The thrilling new 4D ride experience will see guests join the main characters as they attempt the greatest heist in the history of the world: to steal the Crown Jewels.
A whole area of the theme park will be transformed, inspired by ‘The World of David Walliams’ and will feature a host of other rides and attractions.
Home to ten themed areas, world-renowned record-breaking coasters, fantabulous fun-filled family faves, Alton Towers Dungeon, underwater Sharkbait Reef by SEALIFE adventure and world’s only CBeebies Land featuring your favourite CBeebies friends, as well as tropical Caribbean Waterpark, Spa retreat and themed accommodation to suit every budget, Alton Towers Resort is a must-see, must do stop when visiting Staffordshire this March!
Plus, purchase tickets online, in advance, and save over £20 per person!
Find out more and join the fun at altontowers.com
3. Thomas & Friends Weekends, Drayton Manor
Welcome in Spring 2020 at another attraction celebrating a big birthday, Drayton Manor Park.
The home of Europe's only Thomas Land turns 70 this year, and the Thomas & Friends March Weekends are a fantastic start to a momentous season, featuring live entertainment starring well-loved characters like Thomas and The Fat Controller, and loads more to enjoy.
From 7th-22nd March (weekends only), you can start your day with the Welcome to Thomas Land Show at 11am, join in with The Fat Controller's 'To-Do List' Show between 12 and 2, and round off your visit with The Goodbye & Goodnight Show at 4pm.
The rides and attractions of Thomas Land will be open, as will the awesome zoo packed with exotic and endangered species.
And then, at the end of March, the main 2020 season begins, offering the chance to enjoy the thrill rides of the theme park, become a Zoo Keeper for the Day, meet the animals on a VIP experience, and take part in the 70th birthday fun!
4. Gandeys Circus, Newcastle-under-Lyme town centre
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Europe’s largest touring circus show is back home with an all-new for 2020!
After a sensational tour across the UK in 2019 with The Greatest Show Tour, Gandeys Circus returns from 5th-22nd March with the all new 2020 production, Unbelievable!
Taking you on an unforgettable fun-filled voyage, the show welcomes a host of new acts into the ring, including the Mallakhamba Duo, whose awe-inspiring Indian gymnastics will have you on the edge of your seat!
‘Gandeys Flying Saddles’ and the roller-skating Duo Eclipse also make their debut in the ring, as well as Camila the Goddess of the Skies, swinging through the clouds on the trapeze, and Alejandro, with his astonishing, risky Rolla Roll act.
Tickets are available now at https://www.gandeyscircus.com/tour-dates-2020-gandeys-circus-unbelievable-tour/
5. Mother's Day treats, World of Wedgwood
There's a memorable Mother's Day in store at World of Wedgwood this year, in the stunning surroundings of the Wedgwood Tea Room.
The Mother's Day Brunch and Afternoon Tea, on 22nd March, offer two delicious, dainty menus to choose from.
Brunch includes smoked salmon, sweet potato pancakes or an English breakfast, washed down with Wedgwood tea or coffee, and a glass of Bucks Fizz. There's one sitting, at 11am, priced at £18 per person.
Afternoon Tea includes finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and a selection of delightful cakes and pastries, plus a glass of Bucks Fizz.
There are sittings at midday and 2.30pm, and it's £28 each. A children's afternoon tea, for the under 12s, is available at £10 per person.
6. Mother's Day Afternoon Tea, Weston Park
One of Staffordshire's most spectacular stately homes, Weston Park, provides another beautiful backdrop for the Mother's Day celebrations.
On 22nd March, the House opens the doors to the Victorian Orangery and the historic Dining Room for their Mother's Day Afternoon Teas, with a harpist on hand to supply the soundtrack, and wonderful views to lose yourself in.
Choose from the Orangery, opening onto the Italian Gardens, or the recently renovated Dining Room, home of prestigious artworks by Gainsborough, van Dyck and Lely, not to mention the stunning crystal cut chandelier.
After your meal, enjoy a stroll around the Capability Brown parkland and gardens, or explore the ground floor of the magnificent House.
7. Mother's Day Lunch, National Memorial Arboretum
If you are searching for something special this Mothering Sunday, look no further than the National Memorial Arboretum’s delicious three-course Mother's Day Lunch.
Served alongside stunning views of the Arboretum, their chefs source only the freshest ingredients to complement this delicious menu, which is handmade at the Arboretum.
From juicy meats and seasonal fresh vegetables, to a tasty vegan roast and satisfying desserts, this menu has something the whole family can enjoy.
All tables will also receive a potted plant to take home on this special day.
Pre-booking is required as there is a limited number of tables, call 01283 245 100 or visit www.thenma.org.uk for further information, to see the full menu and to book.
8. Mothering Weekend, Goldstone Hall Hotel and Gardens
Goldstone Hall Hotel and Gardens in North Shropshire is hosting a special four course Sunday lunch celebration on 22nd March in honour of Mothering Weekend.
This family run, award winning rural hotel and gardens is focused on delivering innovative and tasty food made to exceptional standards, much of which is sourced from their own productive, one acre kitchen garden.
They also pride themselves on having one of the UK’s top hotel wine lists and have in-house expertise on food and wine pairing.
Goldstone is the perfect place to let your Mother unwind, relax and enjoy delicious food and drink in sumptuous surroundings.
To enquire, or make a booking, or for any further information, please contact them on 01630 661202 or email enquiries@goldstonehall.com or visit the website www.goldstonehall.com
9. Shire Horse Society Show, County Showground
Trot along to the Shire Horse Society National Show, the World’s largest gathering of Shire horses, which takes place indoors at the Staffordshire County Showground, from 20th to 22nd March.
Watch as the gentle giants of the horse world - dressed in all their finery - are put through their paces in hand, in harness and in ridden classes.
There’s also the chance to see these magnificent horses up close in their stables as they are prepared for the show, and to learn more about what it takes to breed and rear a champion.
New for this year are horseshoe-making and shoeing demonstrations, plus a mini museum showcasing horse-drawn vehicles and implements.
The event, which is organised by the Shire Horse Society and attracts horses from across Europe, is believed to be one of the oldest, almost continuous, horse shows in the world, having been held for the first time at the Royal Agricultural Hall in Islington, London, in 1878, when the charity was named the English Cart Horse Society.
It’s a fascinating and fun day out for the family, featuring trade and other stands, plus children’s entertainment.
Information and discount tickets are available in advance from www.shire-horse.org.uk/national-show
Free admission for children when accompanied by an adult on Sunday 22nd March.
Image: Carol Stevens
10. Sounds of the 60s with Tony Blackburn, Prince of Wales Theatre
Take a trip back to the golden age of pop music for an evening with the legendary Tony Blackburn at the Prince of Wales Theatre, Cannock on 7th March.
Featuring classic tunes performed by the All Star Band & Singers, the Sounds of the 60s show will include stories and memories regaled by the radio royalty as he reflects on almost six decades in broadcasting.
The first DJ to broadcast on Radio 1, Tony Blackburn was a huge star in the 60s and 70s, and is sure to bring some entertaining anecdotes with him.
Tickets are available from The Prince of Wales Theatre box office, priced at £30 each.
More events in Staffordshire
With more than 60 events in Staffordshire in March, there are plenty of options if you fancy a day out or a short break this month!
Details are in our What's On section.
Related
Uttoxeter Racecourse has something for everyone. Whether you are new to racing or a loyal follower of the Sport of Kings, come along to Uttoxeter Races and you are guaranteed a day of fun and excitement. With 25 race meetings each year, including the Midlands Grand National, you can enjoy racing in every season.
Alton Towers Resort is Britain’s Greatest Escape and home to the UK’s favourite theme park with endless family fun and ground-breaking roller-coasters.
Enjoy fun for everyone at Drayton Manor Resort; home of over 50 exciting rides and attractions including Europe’s only Thomas Land, epic family thrill rides and even a 15-acre zoo.
Prince of Wales theatre is the local town theatre based in Cannock, in the heart of Staffordshire. The theatre provides year long events and entertainment which include musicals, drama, art events, wrestling, flower shows, beer festivals: both professional and provided by local amateur companies.
The World of Wedgwood, a unique visitor experience celebrating the very best of British industrial and design heritage. Experience Wedgwood for the day through shopping, food and visitor tours.
Weston Park is one of the most welcoming stately homes with as much character as any English castle and with as many stories as any royal home.
Staffordshire County Showground is a multi purpose venue hosting a variety of events and functions all year round.
The National Memorial Arboretum is the UK's year-round centre of Remembrance. The 150 acre site, located in Staffordshire, features nearly 400 thought-provoking memorials for both military and civilian associations.
