THAT didn’t last long. The kids only just went back to school and now they’re already on October half term.

Keeping youngsters entertained as the days get colder and shorter can be a nightmare, especially on a budget. But don’t worry there are plenty of things to do in Bolton this half term that will keep them entertained all day for less than you would think.

Here are 7 cheap activities for the whole family this half term.

Bolton Steam Museum, Mornington Road, Bolton

Take a step back in time at the fantastic volunteer-run Bolton Steam Museum. The museum hosts a large collection of machines from a bygone era and on Saturday and Sunday many will be in operation for guests to see. With free admission and parking, the Bolton Steam Museum is a great day out.

The Meatloaf Story: Bat Out Of Hell, Albert Halls, Bolton

Wednesday sees Steve Steinman, the creative force behind the hugely successful Vampires Rock, return with this epic musical concert delivering the best of the best from Meat Loaf's Bat Out of Hell record-breaking album. With incredible stage set and Steve Steinman’s unique sense of humour, this is one for the older kids. Tickets start at £28 and can be booked by calling 01935422884

Air Vault Halloween Disco, Great Bank Road, Westhoughton

On Friday Air Vault will be hosting a two-hour Halloween-themed disco on their 90 interconnected indoor trampoline arena. Any age is welcome but children under 4 must be accompanied by an adult on the trampolines. Attendees can wear fancy dress or attend in normal clothing. The event includes a supper.

Smithills Open Farm

Open year round 10-5, Smithills Open Farm is a great place to take the kids to explore. On Friday and Saturday the farm is hosting a Halloween themed spooky event for £10 a person, and organisers dare you to walk their spooky trail. The farm has the animals you would expect but also the ones you wouldn’t like their reptiles and meerkats. With adult entry costing £8 and children costing £7, the trip won’t break the bank either. The site is suitable for those with disabilities with tarmacked paths and ramps.

Jumbles Country Park

Wrap up warm and head out to enjoy a beautiful country park as the leaves start to change. Jumbles Country Park is only four miles north of Bolton town centre. With a car park and Bromley Cross train station a quarter of a mile from the southern end of the park, it makes a great place to get away from all the hustle and bustle of modern life with your family this half-term.

Nevada Roller Rink, Croft Lane, Bolton

Suitable for ages four and up, this classic family-friendly roller skating rink is sure to keep the whole family entertained. Open Wednesday through Sunday, with Saturday skating costing only £2 from 11.30 to 1.30. They even have a café lounge for those who don’t want to take a break from skating.

The Pelican Centre, Castle Street, Tyldesley

The pool is open seven days a week for public swimming, swimming lessons for all ages, Swimfit and fun swims. This half term the Pelican centre is open as usual and it’s a great time to teach the little ones how to swim and for the whole family to have fun at the pool. With the family price set at £9.50 and the fun swim at £3 a person, this is another great day out for less.