When you fancy a bit of sand between your toes but can't quite make it to the beach, you could always head to the Trafford Centre this summer.
The beach is back for the long school break, along with other children's attractions at the Summer Hub, located outside The Great Hall.
Visiting the beach and use of the deckchairs is free and there are charges for other activities including the water walkers, bumper boats, carousel, a bungee trampoline and more.
There's also a pop-up gin and fizz garden with garden games, outdoor seating and a bar serving up a selection of summer drinks and if the weather takes a turn for the worse, you can shelter under the stretched marquee.
Just remember to take along your own buckets and spades for the kids to play with.
The beach, which is open 11am to 7pm Monday to Sunday, is among a huge line-up of free family fun at the shopping centre this summer.
There's the Big Bug Tour inside the centre until July 30, where families can hunt for 12 intricately-designed, giant lifelike bugs placed around the mall.
And on Thursday, August 1, it's the popular 999 Emergency Services Day - a free family-focused day with displays of emergency vehicles, vintage appliances, demonstrations and displays.
For more details of the events visit the website here .
