PARENTS have the chance to expand their children's minds this half term with an out of this world experience at Herschel Museum of Astronomy.

It is one of several attractions in Bath offering a range of activities.

The museum is in the house that pioneering brother and sister William and Caroline Herschel lived, worked and made a series of remarkable discoveries – the most famous of which was the very first ever sighting of the planet Uranus in 1781, from their back garden and using a homemade telescope.

During half term visitors are invited create a pinhole camera for free in the museum gallery.

There will also be a special planetarium show on October 24 at Bath Central Library where they can marvel at the wonders of the solar system and discover more about the amazing discoveries of the Herschel family.

On October 29, between 6:15 and 10:30pm, there’s a chance to get in the Halloween mood early with a series of talks about the myths and legends surrounding the night sky, as well as learning about the moon itself. If the skies are clear, telescopes will be available to observe the stars and distant planets, with some spooky astronomers on hand to guide you across the galaxy.

At No.1 Royal Crescent, the magnificently restored townhouse museum visitors can explore and experience fashionable life in 18th Century Bath. A special workshop will introduce people to entertaining and dining Georgian-style.

They can see superb examples of the various types of kitchen and tableware used for some of the most extravagant and showy meals of the day with a special display of fine Regency porcelain and the chance to design a plate in a free workshop on October 26.

Amateur sleuths can follow a trail of clues at Beckford’s Tower in the countryside just outside the city.

Built by William Beckford between 1826 and 1827 and paid for by the wealth he gained from owning plantations and slaves, it once housed one of the greatest collections of books, furniture and art in Georgian England.

Now it stands as the only surviving example of his architectural vision. Join professional artist, outdoor educator and storyteller Holly Dabbs October 27, between 11am and 3pm, on a mission to find out the truth behind a series of perplexing events. Precious objects have gone missing and strange noises have been heard.

Follow the clues to work out what’s going on? As members of Detective Dabbs’ team of trainee sleuths, you’ll find and follow clues that will send you on a trail of discovery around the Tower, before creating your own, very special memento of your day.

The Museum of Bath Architecture reveals how 18th-century architects and craftsmen helped to create the destination of choice for Georgian high society, and how they contributed to Bath becoming a Unesco World Heritage Site city.

Among its collection is a 1:500 scale model of Bath, affording visitors a miniature birds-eye-view of the whole city.

On October 25, surrounded by these curios and architectural treasures, youngsters can have fun using modelling and craft materials to create their own Georgian-inspired wallpaper and plasterwork designs.

Claire Dixon, Director of Museums for Bath Preservation Trust says: “Taking part in Museums Week and being able to offer such a rich programme for families during this school holiday is a very important part of our work. We really value the opportunity to welcome younger audiences and find creative ways to ensure our collections and stories are accessible for everyone.”

Visit herschelmuseum.org.uk, no1royalcresecent.org.uk, beckfordstower.org and museumofbatharchitecture.org.uk for information about booking and admission.