FROM arty fun to bowling in a haunted house and a visit from a film star, Bolton is the place to be this half-term.

A host of activities are being held at Bolton Central Library and Museum.

Children are being given the chance to get hands on with activities and demonstrations during a Meet the Scientists event on Monday, from 11am to 3pm.

Science experts, from Bolton University, will be at the museum for the free event, which is part of Manchester Science Festival.

Between 10.30am and 11.30am on Tuesday, Central Children’s Library will host a sing and sign session.

The technique teaches communication with babies, from birth to two-years-old, before speech using simple gestures.

Arty staff from the University of Bolton will be at the museum, between 10am and 12pm and 2pm and 4pm on Tuesday, to help youngsters get creative with smart materials — objects which have one or more properties that can be dramatically altered.

Spaces are limited so booking is advised by calling 01204 903846.

Between 1pm and 3pm on Tuesday, get inspired by the museum’s Japanese Cloisonné: The Seven Treasures exhibition where over 11s can create their own piece of Japanese art.

On Thursday, five to 11-year-olds can learn about the fish collection with expert staff at Bolton Aquarium, then create their own fluorescent fish using drawings and colour, between 1pm and 3pm.

And on Saturday (October 27) there will be an Ancient Egypt Halloween Special at the museum between 11am and 3pm, where children can don fancy dress and take part in activities including family trails, a fish feed, the chance to cast a hieroglyphic spell and storytelling.

A council spokesman said: “As usual, there’s lots going on for families at Bolton Museums and Library Services over half-term.

“Most of the activities are free and don’t require pre-booking. However, if anyone wants further details they can call 01204 332211.”

On Thursday, the Market Place Shopping Centre will welcome Sid the Sloth, from Ice Age 4.

The lovable character will be posing for photos with shoppers and fans at 1pm, 2pm and 3pm.

Rod Neasham, centre manager, said: “We’re all very excited about having such a high profile VIP at the shopping centre and we know our young visitors will enjoy meeting Sid.”

Hollywood Bowl, The Link Way, Horwich, will be transformed into a haunted house of fun for half-term.

October activities include spooky glow in the dark bowling sessions with ghoulish glowing pins, fancy dress theme nights and packages for adults, kids and over 60s.

An array of activities will be taking place for children at Bolton Lads and Girls Club.

Its holiday club will be open throughout the school holidays, from 8am to 6pm, with indoor and outdoor climbing, computer games, quizzes, trips, performing arts, archery, football, kayaking and canoeing.

Prices start from £5 for a full day and £3 for half day, for eight to 12-year-olds.

Youngsters can bring along a packed lunch or have a meal for just £1.20.