Kindermusik, Madrid
Recommended by Andrès Valencia
Renowned music and Movement classes in English
kindermusikmadrid@gmail.com
www.kindermusikmadrid.blogspot.com
Comments:
"A licensed Kindermusik Educator, Laura who is bilingual and has lots of experience working with babies, toddlers and preschoolers has been teaching Kindermusik to my son and two other kids in the neighbourhood and we are delighted. My son has learned lots of new songs, and dances. Now we bought some instruments because he was using other things in the house to make music! I recommend it to all parents who want their children to learn English and develop music skills in a fun way. The first class is always free, there are different groups for children 1-6 years old and I think she is organizing groups in different areas in Madrid" (AV, May 2012)
La Bolsa Mágica
La Bolsa Mágica is a Ludoteca located next to the Retiro Park.
C/ Menéndez Pelayo 25. 28009. Madrid
Tel: 91 574 22 45 – 692 401 017
E-mail: info@labolsamagica.com
www.labolsamagica.com
www.facebook.com/labolsamagica
Comments:
"A place where children can go and do fun activities: painting, crafts, or celebrate their birthday. This week we have started our urban summer camp with activities from 9 to 14:00 in Spanish and English. Ideal for foreign mums and dads who work and cannot leave their children with their grandparents. Also an opportunity for local kids to learn English and develop their creativity" (EG, July 2012)
Vanania World
Recommended by Mayte Bohada
Vanania World offers english classes for children from age 2 to adults in a relaxing environment. They give the same importance to education and the fun aspects of teaching/learning. Classes are given by native teachers and in small groups.
They also offer different subjects workshops on Saturdays including storytelling, reinforcement classes and exam preparation.
They also work as an academy for adults who want to come to classes at the same time as their children.
Madrid - Alcobendas
San Sebastián de los Reyes
T: 654 64 67 42
91 169 40 38
info@vananiaworld.com
www.vananiaworld.com/
Comments:
"My daughter is completely delighted coming to Vanania World classes and fun activities, she comes happy to the classes and when she leaves she doesn't stop singing their english songs. And we can also attend english classes at the same time for adults!. Saturday workshops is another Vanania World activity that we like and where she has lots of fun, learning different vocabulary through games and crafts" (MB, Oct 2012)
Ice Skating in Madrid
Recommended by Georgina Sanchez
Palacio de Hielo is a sports centre specially designed for ice skating. The main rink is 1800m2 and they offer a variety of courses and classes for children of all ages. There is also a crèche there for smaller children.
Silvano Street 77, 28043 - Madrid www.palaciodehielo.com
Comments
“A wonderful and fun afternoon. You can rent your skates there and there is no need to take gloves” (GS Nov, 2011)
Madrid Parents Group
Atenas Playgroup is an international (Spanish, Australian, Hungarian, Canadian, French) group of parents in the Arganzuela area of Madrid who meet every Monday in Parque de Atenas (in winter they organise an indoor place) from 17.30 - 18.30. In the hour that they are together they sing, play games and have storytime all in English. The activities are FREE they only ask that each parent volunteers to organise an activity or take charge of a song/story etc.
www.atenas-playgroup.org
Teté CaféCostura
Recommended by Harriet Browning
Sewing & design workshops for kids
Mondays 5pm - 9pm
Tuesdays -Saturdays 11am - 9pm
Sundays from 10 am - 3pm
C/ San Pedro nº 7
28014 Madrid
Tel: 913 600 019
Email: info@tetecafecostura.com
www.tetecafecostura.com
Comments:
"This quirky fabric store/boutique/learning space is unique. Situated near Las Huertas, it caters for anyone interested in craft and vintage. The space is host to dozens of workshops, ranging from 'Fashion Men Workshop' to 'Lady Gaga Halloween Make-Up' and many Japanese crafts, including sushi-making and origami. There are also courses where children can learn some basics, and you can rent a sewing-machine, in-store. I believe they also hold 'Vintage Tea-Parties, where you can pop on your best frock and sip daintily!" (HB, Sep 2011)
Aquópolis-Villanueva
Recommended by Kathy Burke
This well-equipped summer favourite is among the biggest pool leisure centres in all Europe. Among its main attractions are its wave pools and huge water slides. The water mazes, hanging bridges, waterfalls, rapids and boats round out the water activities. Landlubbers will enjoy the playgrounds, picnic areas, mini-golf and cafes. Mid-June to mid-Sept noon-9pm
Av de la Dehesa, 28691, Villanueva de la Cañada, Madrid, Tel 91. 815 69 33, Metro Moncloa,
Bus 627 from Moncloa bus station. Free bus service from Cuesta de San Vicente
www.aquopolis.es/vilanueva
Comments:
Great water park for the whole family shallow pools for children with ship and slides. There can be a long queues so get there early.
Bahía Madrid
Recommended by Maike Huebner
If you want to start with swimming-lessons before the age of 18 months, in Madrid you have to go for private pools such as the Piscina Bahia, near Legazpi (more reasonable in price, water without chlorine). Only Spanish speaking.
C./ Eugenio Sellés, 8 (Arganzuela) 91 - 517 58 15 www.bahiamadrid.es
Berlin Park
Recommended by Maike Huebner
Made up of close to five hectares, it is home to monuments to Beethoven, and Álvaro Iglesias and has play grounds and an auditorium The park boasts a lovely playground for real sports enthusiasts. Lots of children`s play areas.
Calle Ramon y Cajal / Calle Marcenado 91 588 29 00 metro Concha Espinas
Burrolandia
Recommended by Anne Lennon
Home to more than 26 donkeys this Donkey Refuge is a 15 mins drive outside of Madrid. A wonderful opportunity for the kids to experience some country living as well as feeding and petting some well cared for donkeys. All donations go toward the upkeep of the center
Open Sundays 11am-1.30pm
Entrance is free (But any donations go toward the upkeep of the centtre)
www.amiburro.es
Comments:
Full directions at www.amiburro.es/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17&Itemid=32
By Bike
Recommended by Katrina Hendry
Explore the new cycle paths, or cycle around the Retiro Park as a family.
Daniel, the English speaking owner has a large range of bikes to rent, including four with toddler seats. Check his website for suggested routes and prices.
Avda. Menédez Pelayo, 3528009 Madrid (+34) 902 876 483 www.bybike.info
Caixa Forum
Recommended by Anne Lennon
Exhibitions on historic, modern and contemporary art, music and poetry festivals, multimedia art, current affairs debates, social events, educational and family workshops... these are some of the activities you will find at Caixa Forum Madrid. Point out to your kids Spain's first vertical garden on the outside wall comprising 15,000 plants. Kits available for them to create their own interpretation of it.
Timetables: Daily, 10am-8pm Entry fee: Free admission. Some activities may have admission charges.
Caixa Forum Madrid. Paseo del Prado, 36 28014 Tel. 34 913307300
Comments:
"Fantastic workshops and concerts for families. The free admission charge also means I’m more likely to bring my 3yr old who, while enjoying the exhibition as she has a short attention span and powerful lungs!" (AL, May 09)
Cañada Real Open Center
Recommended by Marie Elisabeth"O'Sullivan
This is a nature park dedicated to the study and interpretation of Iberian wildlife. Situated 48km west of Madrid, near the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo, it’s two lakes provide homes to many aquatic birds, and its high population of storks make Cañada Real one of the most important reserves of these birds in the centre of the iberian peninsula.
Moreover, Cañada Real offers a range of installations for workshops, schools´ and colleges´ extracurricular activities, summer camps, and residential courses.
Cañada Real Open Center – M-533 road Km 1,6 Peralejo El Escorial 918906980 www.opennature.com
Comments:
"What we really liked was that you just walked around at your own pace to see the animals. Perhaps we were just lucky that there weren't many people. Also, I spoke to the people at the information desk and they told me that they can, on request organise tours in English" (MEO, June 09)
Casa de Campo
Recommended by Kathy Burke
Its 1.800 hectares and its proximity to Madrid have made the casa de campo the principle “lung” of Madrid. It includes a lake, the city’s zoo and an amusement park, and although it is not as popular as the Retiro, it is very popular with madrileños families. It has considerable vegetation; oak trees, maple, chestnut, willows etc. Boats can be rented on an artificial lake and refreshments can be had at any of the many stands while enjoying lovely views of Madrid. The Teleférico cable car is a fun way to get to the park and there is also an amuseument park there.
Paseo del Pintor Rosales. This ride offers outstanding views of the city from the sky.
Av. de Portugal Metro: Lago
Comments:.
"We took the teleferico across to the park and spent a lovely day there" (KB)
Centro Jugalia
Recommended by Lilian Levyi
The Centro Jugalia in Majadahonda holds many activities for children of all ages. For babies under three years old there is baby-gym and playgroups, for older children there are numerous workshops and "fiestas" and for mums-to-be there are yoga courses. You can also hold birthday parties there.
Travesia de Navaluenga 3, 28221 Majadahonda (+33) 911396530 info@centrojugalia.com www.centrojugalia.com
Comments
"Centro Jugalia has great activities for kids in Majadahonda (Madrid) and many of them are in English" (LL, May 2011)
Cine Aventura Agui
Recommended by Kathy Burke
This old cinema is now used as a play centre on two levels for kids. They have an area for under 3’s and the rest of the installations are suitable for kids up to 12 yrs. Open Mon -Fri 5-9pm Sat and Sun 11.30am -2pm and 4.30 til 9pm
Prices are per hour or for every 30 mins after the first hour. You can also buy ‘bonos’ or passes for 10 visits which works out a bit cheaper. And you can arrange to have your child’s birthday party there. Small coffee shop on the top level.
C/ Alcalde Sáinz de Baranda, 26 Metro: Ibiza y Sainz de Baranda. 914008237 www.cineaventura.com
Comments:
"These centres are great in the winter to let the kids test their physical abilities. This one is our favourite" (KB, Jan 09)
Circulo de Bellas Artes
Recommended by Harriet Browning
This well-known venue for music and the arts has a hidden secret. For a €3 fee, one can access the azotea, or roof-terrace. Truly spectacular views accross the centre of Madrid. You can see for miles, and I made myself green with envy, spying into all the roof-gardens.
Suitable for older children.
C/Alcalá 42
(Metro Banco de España)
Comments:
"The ground floor houses a very reasonably-priced, but superbly belle-epoque cafe. Lots of renderings of naked ladies!" (HB, Aug 2011)
CosmoCaixa
CosmoCaixa is always a sure hit with the kids, it's a science museum, and almost 100% interactive. Locatedon the outskirts of the northerly suburb of Alcobendas, just a short bus trip from Plaza Castilla. Here activity rooms show how nature's laws work and how matter evolves from atomic structure into the most complex forms of life. Note that to participate in the workshops, Clik, Toca Toca and Planeta Burbuja you need to book in advance and pay separately from the museum entry fee. Last Sunday of the month entrance is free excluding the special activities. %u2028Open to the public: Tues to Sun from 10am to 8pm %u2028Closed Mondays and Christmas, Reyes and New Year. %u2028Entry: Under 7's free. Adults €3, senior citizens and students €1.50
C/ Pintor Velázquez, s/n 28100 Alcobendas (Madrid) Tel. 91 484 52 00 Line 10 MetroNorte %u2028Station: Marqués de la Valdavia %u2028Exit: Paseo de la Chopera: from Pza. Castilla bus no. 157 is best (bus stops 3 mins away from Museum) 151, 152, 153, 154 %u2028From Canillejas: 827
Comments:
This was recommended by Donall aged 5! He has been twice with his school and talked none stop about how much fun it was!
Craft and Class
Recommended by Mabel Alvarez Giay
Craft and Class is an innovative and original way of teaching English to children. The classes are interactive and fun and the only language spoken is English. They can also hold Birthday parties on Saturdays.
Mon-Fri 11am until 2.30pm and 4.40pm to 8.30pm
Calle juan de austria, 24
Madrid, 28010 telf. 91 59 19 750 craftandclass@gmail.com
Comments:
"The main purpose of these classes is to teach English to kids of different ages (3 to 12), although it is also an excellent way of developing art and craft skills. It is not a traditional class, as kids just do all sort of crafts in English. It is an amazing way of developing oral skills and learning new vocabulary in English but also an excellent way of working on their art and craft skills.
The art and crafts projects are fun and very creative. They focus on a different theme each month (eg, Spring, bugs, Halloween, Chinese New Year, etc). They also paint pictures in the style of famous painters and learn from other cultures. The two women in charge of the class are very professional and they ensure that the kids are happy there, while learning new things. Kids just adore them!
My daughter started when she was 2 ∏ (she is now 4 ∏). We are not an English speaking home (we are actually a German/Spanish home), but thanks to this class she can communicate successfully in English with other kids and adults as well. We are also amazed at the things she produces every week. And last but not least, kids just love going there. My daughter goes twice a week, although she wishes she could go every day.
I would recommend it to families wishing their kids to learn or improve their English, to English-speaking kids who just arrived to Madrid or even to perfectly bilingual kids who just want to have fun and develop their craft skills. I hope other mums get the chance to know and enjoy this place as much as we do. Please feel free to contact me if you need any further information. As you may see, I am very enthusiastic about this place!" (MAG, June 09)
Daoiz y Velarde (Centro Deportivo Municipal)
Recommended by Anne Lennon
Air-conditioned indoor pool. Really fun summer swim programme for kids. Very Reasonably priced. Nice water installation outside the building for kids to play in afterwards.
Avda. Ciudad de Barcelona 162 (Retiro) 914338950
Dehesa de La Villa
Recommended by Tania Lopes
This park is located next to the Manzanares River and is full of pine trees, although you can also see almond trees and cork trees as well. It has an exceptional view from northeast Dehesa of the Capital and its sunsets. There are a number of children’s playgrounds, terraced bars and cycle paths.
Metro: Francos Rodríguez.
English for Fun
Recommended by Virginia Pérez-Orive
Fun way to learn English for children
Calle del Darro 5 – Zona Chamartin (El Viso)
91 441 22 33
info@englishforfun.es
www.englishforfun.es
facebook.com/englishforfun
twitter.com/englishffun
Comments:
"My son Martin (3) goes regularly to these english classes in Madrid, and for the first couple of weeks he thought he was actually going to a birthday party!! That's how much fun they have!!! They start out singing and dancing (by the way with their own microphones.. how cool is that!) , and afterwards they do their game-lessons, which are always based on a particular theme (like animals, transportation, or weather and seasons, etc..) Jill, their teacher, who is just wonderfull and sooooo patient and enthusiastic, always rewards them with a sticker, when ever they say something correctly. She also has all sorts of prizes for them at the end of the class. The kids really look forward to speaking in english because they know if they get it right there is fun stuff coming along. They also get to paint and do all sorts of arts and crafts. The kids have to ask for all materials in english otherwise they don't get them. Oh and one thing I love, is that please, thank you or you are welcome always are part of the sentence. There is always a cooking sesion towards the end of the class, right when the kids start to loose interest and this gets their atention back in track, since they get to do the cooking!!!! Can you imagine a group of three year olds cooking!! They really love pouring whatever it is that has to be poured in a bowl and stirring up the ingredients etc...At the same time the kids are learning all the food words involved, where it comes from, plus the cutlery words.
The name says it all it is "English for fun ", but I would add the word learning. It is fun learning. It is not just about having a good time, the expresions and words actually stick in there. And I have to say my son really surprises me with his english. Just the other day at the beach when I finished my part of the sand castle, Martin said "Good Job!!" And I thought good job Jill! (VP, Nov 09)
Faunia
Recommended by Anne Lennon
Wildlife theme park. Here you could start your day in the jungle and finish up with a stroll through Mediterranean forest, feeding various animals along the way. The whole family can experience 8 different habitats and natural environments from the remotest areas of the planet. It is suitable for all ages.
Avenida de las Comunidades, 28.28032 MADRID Tel.91 301 62 10
Public transport Buses: 8, 71, 130 Metro: Valdebernardo, Line 9 (plus 10 min. walk) www.faunia.es
Comments
Both my 3 yr old and 5 yr old love going to see the penguins, the Vietnamese potbellied pigs, and getting caught in the simulated tropical thunderstorms. Opportunities to pet and feed some of the animals.:
Gymboree
Recommended by Anya Pinkney
A mums and tots program designed for babies aged from 0-5. They offer a variety of classes – gym, yoga, music and art, all of which include lots of singing and participation! Avda Europa 13-15, 28198 Alcobendas. 91 6619116. www.gymboree.es
Comments:
"All the classes .... are such brilliant fun! The centre is spotless, bright and wonderfully decorated, with the most fabulous – and super safe - play gym area. It’s so unusual in Madrid to have a class that you can actually go to with your child, rather than the usual dump and run approach. They also do birthday parties, free-play (ie non-class) sessions and organise specialist talks and promotions" (AP, Aug 09)
Hello! Creative Movement in English
Recommended by Sophia Gowan
Hello! Creative Movement in English is an exciting place for young children (and their parents too!) to explore and discover their creativity, free expression, physical strengths, and artistic potential.
They have a series of inspiring movement-based programs, taught entirely in English by a native instructor, that provide a loving environment for growing children aged 1+ and their families to put their language skills into motion. Central to their philosophy is the belief in a healthy lifestyle full of physical activity, artistic expression and cultural awareness, all beginning at an early age. All classes culminate in an end of term demonstration and an end of year performance for the whole family.
The children who come to Hello! may have one or both English speaking parents; others may have been exposed to some English through other activities; and some may have never been exposed to the language at all before joining.
www.helloenglishmadrid.com info@helloenglishmadrid.com 697978771
Comments:
"Natalia is so so enjoying her English ballet classes, they are really great fun both for her as well as for me (her mother) as I watch her have such a great time. She especially likes the chassé, and runs round our house after the class with her arms out chasséing in great excitement!! It is also great for her to have an activity in English, I would really recommend it to other parents and daughters who want to have a really enjoyable thing to do together and improve language skills in a fun environment." (SG, March 09)
Hiking for kids in Madrid
Recommended by Anne Lennon
The book 'Excursiones para Niños por la Sierra de Madrid' by Javier Zarzuela Aragon is a must for all active families!
www.madrid.org Has free hiking route maps to download
Comments:
"Even if you have limited Spanish this book is fabulous with its easily understandable charts containing extensive information on 40 routes including the likes of pushchair accessibility, least favourable seasons, etc" (AL, Jan 09)
Indoor Play areas
Recommended by Anne Lennon
CHIQUI PARK CHAMARTÍN (Chamartín Area)
C./ Agustín de Foxá, s/n.
Zona recreativa de la Estación de Chamartín
91 - 323 19 83
www.chiquipark.com
DINOPEPPINO (Centro + Moncloa-Aravaca Area)
C./ Mártires de Alcalá, 4 -semiesquina C./ Princesa, 24-
91 - 559 61 21* 91 - 559 22 04
www.dinopeppino.com
DIRDAM MADRID (Arganzuela Area)
Travesía de Gil Imón; naves 3-4 -a 100 metros de la Puerta de Toledo-
91 - 366 10 40 * 618 - 12 61 45
www.dirdammadrid.es
EL DUENDE TRAVIESO (Arganzuela Area)
Paseo de las Acacias, 30 and Paseo de las Acacias, 59
91 - 91 530 32 65 * 619 - 13 93 78
www.elduendetravieso.com
AL TROTE (Chamartín)
C./ Bolivia, 40
91 - 345 02 93
www.altrote.net
CHIQUI PARK CHAMARTÍN (Chamartín Area)
C./ Agustín de Foxá, s/n. Zona recreativa de la Estación de Chamartín
91 - 323 19 83
www.chiquipark.com
KANGAROOS PARK (Chamartín Area)
C./ Eugenio Salazar, 45; bajo
91 - 510 10 42 * 91 - 415 04 07
www.parqueinfantilkangaroos.com
MAGIC PARK (Chamartín Area)
C./ Uruguay , 13; on the corner with C./ Puerto Rico
91 - 413 25 96 * 647 - 26 77 60
Metro: Colombia Exit C./ Príncipe de Vergara-.
www.magicpark.com.es
TEATRÍN-TEATRÁN (Chamartín Area)
C./ Padre Damián, 37; planta baja
91 - 359 55 22 * 695 - 39 42 31 * 659 - 39 41 28
www.teatrinteatran.com
PARQUE SECRETO (Chamberí Area)
Plaza Conde del Valle Suchil, 3
91 - 593 14 80
www.parquesecreto.com
Metro: San Bernardo.
CHAMAQUITOS (Ciudad Lineal Area)
C./ Ángel Larra, 37
91 - 406 02 10
www.chamaquitos.com
Metro: Ciudad Lineal y Barrio de la Concepción.
EL DUENDE TRAVIESO (Ciudad Lineal Area)
C./ José Noriega, 9
91 530 32 65 * 609 - 58 51 04
www.elduendetravieso.com
TELEO CUENTOS (Moncloa-Aravaca Area)
C./ Juan Álvarez de Mendizábal, 54
91 - 758 16 08.
www.teleocuentos.com
Metro: Arguelles.
MY GYM ARAVACA (Moncloa-Aravaca Area)
Avenida de Valdemarín, 165; 1ª.
www.my-gym.es
91 357 62 17
CINE AVENTURA AGÜÍ (Retiro Area)
C./ Alcalde Sáinz de Baranda, 26
91 - 400 82 37
www.cineaventura.com
GORONGORO (Salamanca Area)
Avenida Felipe II, 34
91 - 431 06 45
www.iespana.es/centrodeocioinfantilgorongoro
PAPAGENO CENTRO DE OCIO (San Blas-Las Musas Area)
C./ María Sevilla Diago, 19.
91 - 313 53 37 * 629 - 55 24 35
www.centrodeociopapageno.com
Metro: Las Musas.
CHIQUI PARK ALCOBENDAS –( Alcobendas Area )
C./ Manuel de Falla, 12. ALCOBENDAS
91 - 651 85 27
www.chiquipark.com
CHIQUI PARK DIVERSIA – (Alcobendas Area)
Parque de Ocio Diversia
Carretera de Burgos (N-I), km 14.5 (Exit 16) * Avenida de Bruselas, 21-23. ALCOBENDAS
91 - 661 58 48
www.chiquipark.com
CHIQUI PARK RÍO NORTE – (Alcobendas Area)
Parque Comercial Río Norte
Carretera de Fuencarral, km 4.5. Parque Empresarial Río Norte Fase II. ALCOBENDAS
91 - 661 61 33
www.chiquipark.com
CHIQUI PARK XANADÚ – (Arroyomolinos Area)
Parque de Ocio Xanadú
Carretera de Extremadura (N-V), km. 23.5 (salidas 23 y 25)
91 - 648 20 48
www.chiquipark.com
AVENTURA PARK – (Alcorcón Area)
Centro de Ocio Opción
C./ Oslo, 53. Polígono Industrial Parque Oeste. ALCORCÓN.
Carretera de Extremadura (N-V), km 15 (salida 16)
91 - 498 30 71
www.aventurapark.com
CHIQUI PARK SAN JOSÉ DE VALDERAS –( Alcorcón Area)
Carretera de Extremadura (N-V), km 12.5 Centro Comercial Hipercor San José de Valderas-. ALCORCÓN
91 - 610 52 29
www.chiquipark.com
CHIQUI PARK – (Las Rozas Area)
Carretera de El Escorial, Km 2.2 LAS ROZAS
902 - 99 90 02
www.chiquipark.com
KIDS AVENTURA – (Las Rozas Area)
Centro Comercial Burgo Centro
Carretera de El Escorial, Km. 15
Avenida de la Comunidad de Madrid, 37-41
Local 35
91 - 637 81 41
www.kidsaventura.com
JUGUERULETES – (Leganés Area)
C./ Esteban Terradas, 6; No 2.
Polígono Industrial Nuestra Señora de Butarque
91 - 686 20 62
www.jugueruletes.com
CHIQUI PARK DIVERSIA –( Rivas Vaciamadrid Area)
Centro Comercial Parque Rivas
Carretera de Valencia (N-III), Km. 17.5 -Exit 17-.
Rivas Urbanizaciones. Polígono Industrial de Santa Ana.
Avenida de la Técnica, s/n.
91 - 670 22 22
www.chiquipark.com
CHIQUI PARK TRES CANTOS – (Tres Cantos Area)
Centro Comercial Ciudad de Tres Cantos
Avenida de los Labradores, 9-11
91 - 804 77 15
www.chiquipark.com
Jardín Botánico
Recommended by Anne Lennon
The entrance to the Botanical Gardens is the Glorieta de Murillo right beside the Prado Museum. These gardens, contain about 30.000 different species of trees and plants from all over the world. The different sections are divided by magnificent avenues and each tree and plant is labeled with its Latin name and species. They also run workshops for families on Sundays and occasionally hold exhibitions there.
Hours 10 a.m. to 8p.m. daily. Small entrance fee.
Plaza de Murillo, 2. 28014 Madrid Tel. 91 420 30 17 inforjb@rjb.csic.es Metro: Atocha. www.rjb.csic.es
Comments:
"Before the kids started picking flowers for me this was a favourite spot to visit" (AL, March 09)
LIBOMBO
Recommended by Tania Lopes
Gym for babies and kids 2 months to 4 years. Parent and child can enjoy a whole host of stimulating and structured activities suited to the various age groups lncluding, yoga, infant dance, arts&crafts as well as a range of interesting courses such as baby massage, reki and first aid.
Calle Módena, local 41 del Centro Comercial El Soho de Las Rozas (next to the Polígono Európolis) de Madrid - C.P: 28232, 91 626 63 20 www.alibombo.es
Madrid Players
Recommended by Joy Mackie
The Madrid Players is an amateur English language theatre group based in Madrid they run children’s workshops twice a year.
Contact Anne (678 71 77 86) or Amy (679171868) or amyecka@hotmail.com for more information.
Museo del Arte de Reina Sofia
Recommended by Anne Lennon
With it’s new extension the Reina Sofia is one of the largest contemporary art museums in the world today. Home to the works of many very famous national and international artists including Picasso and Dali, it also hosts very interesting temporary exhibitions by contemporary artists. Child friendly workshops and tours available and the exterior glass lifts are fun too.
Calle Santa Isabel 52, 28012 Madrid 91 7741000 www.museoreinasofia.es
Comments:
Has a special program for kids on Saturdays, which is pretty cool. Went with my 5 year old who was a little young, but it is definitely worth signing up for and we would do it again in a year’s time
Museo del Ferrocarril (Railway Museum)
Recommended by Nerrily Grant
Kids will love this museum Located just south of Atocha in the barrio of Delicias, this trainspotter's delight was built in 1880 by Gustave Eiffel. Not only do you get to climb aboard many of Spain’s older trains, they have a fantastic collection of miniature trains to see, and on Saturday mornings they run a number of mini-trains for the kids to ride on.
Sat. 11.30am-14.00 pm. Child: 1.00 €. Adult: 1,50 €.
Open Tues-Sun 10am-3 pm. Theatre shows Tues-Fri 10:30-11:45am Closed August. Free on Saturdays
Paseo de las Delicias 61 Metro: Delicias 915068333 www.museodelferrocarril.org
Comments:
"This was a favourite weekend outing for my son. We went 24 times!" (NG, March 09)
Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales
Recommended by Kathy Burke
This museum aims is to promote a greater awareness of the diversity of the natural world. It also has interesting permanent exhibits, such as the one devoted to the history of the earth and life, in which spectacular specimens can be viewed, such as the replica of a Diplodocus and lots more.
Hours: Tue -Fri: 10.00 a 18.00 Sat: 10.00 a 20.00 h. July and August, Sat de 10.00 - 15.00 Sun and Holidays: 10.00 a 14.30
Closed: Monday, 1st and 6th Jan 1st May and 25th December.
Entry fee: General admission: €5. Reduced: €3.00 (unemployed persons and students, with ID, and children 4 to 14 years); €2.10 (groups, minimum 12 people, from 10am-3pm); €1.50 (groups, minimum 12 people, from 3-6pm). Free: retirees, and children under 4 years.
Calle José Gutiérrez Abascal, 2 28006 Madrid Tel. +34 914111328
Comments:
They have some very interesting material and there is a large portion dedicated to youngsters.
Musicaycolor
Recommended by Maria Hurley
This is a child psychology and music therapy centre with sessions available in English. It is suitable for treating children with autistic spectrum disorder, speech and language delay (with special experience in bilingual children), learning difficulties, motor disorders, etc. They give considerable emphasis to parental involvement and support. The director of the centre, Dr Rosa Garcia Perez, did a PhD in London in psychology and music therapy and has on-going research links with colleagues there.
Musicaycolor Calle Maldonado 41 Bajo A, Madrid 28006 Tel 914116998, www.musicaycolor.com
Comments:
"She is a wonderful, gifted, infinitely patient professional and your child will be in very safe and loving hands" (MH, May 09)
Music Together in Madrid
Recommended by Charissa Seward
Music Together is an internationally recognized early childhood music and movement program for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, kindergarteners, and the adults who love them. First offered to the public in 1987, it pioneered the concept of a research-based, developmentally appropriate early childhood music curriculum that strongly emphasizes and facilitates adult involvement.
Music Together classes are based on the recognition that all children are musical. All children can learn to sing in tune, keep a beat, and participate with confidence in the music of our culture, provided that their early environment supports such learning.
Núñez de Balboa 17, 2º (Salamanca District)
Tel.: 91 28 11 499 / 662 16 05 37
Email: carolaibanez@musictogethergoya.com
http://musictogethergoyaenglishversion.yolasite.com/
Comments: "'Music Together' classes have just started in Madrid with a great teacher!" (CS, Sep 2010)
MY GYM Children's Fitness Center
Recommended by Tania Lopes
For children six weeks to thirteen years of age. They have structured, age-appropriate weekly classes incorporating music, dance, relays, games, special rides, gymnastics, sports and other original activities. Their classes include several English elements (songs, dances, puppets,...), full English classes on request minimum 5 kids per group.
MY GYM POZUELO c/ Francia, 2 (entrance via Pablo VI with Bruselas) 28224 Pozuelo de Alarcón (Madrid) email: pozuelo@my-gym.es phone: 91 357 62 17 www.my-gym.es
Comments:
"I bring Leo in the Autumn because right now I prefer that he enjoys outside activities. The gym concept is different, It’s an unusual concept here, and it’s a good option for kids who don’t go to daycare and need to do some exercise. Especially when the cold weather comes and we don’t have many options to choose from" (TL, Jan 10)
Original Version cinemas
Cinemas Showing English-Language Films
Cine Ideal Yelmo Cineplex
C/ Doctor Cortezo, 6 Plaza de Jacinto Benavente 28012 MADRID
Metro Sol, Sevilla, or Tirso de Molina
Younger ones get in free if they are sitting on your knee.
Verdi
At: Calle Bravo Murillo 28, 28015 Madrid
Tel: 914 473 93
UGC Manoteras
Avenida de Manoteras, 40; 28050 Madrid
Metro Virgen del Cortijo
Only some movies are in original version
Renoir Cuatro Caminos
Calle Raimundo Fernández Villaverde, 10
Metro Cuatro Caminos Tel: 915.41.41.00
www.cinesrenoir.com/cartelera
Renoir Plaza de España
Calle Martín de los Heros, 12
MetroPlaza de España tel:915.41.41.00
Renoir Princesa
Calle Princesa 5
Metro Princesa Tel: 915.41.41.00
Renoir Retiro
Calle Narvaez 42
metro Ibiza
Recommended by AL.
Nice cinema but rarely shows any of the mainstream kids movies, probably better for Mum and Dad than junior.
Recommended by Anne Lennon
Imax Cinema
Address: Parque Enrique Tierno Galván Meneses, s/n. Méndez Álvaro
IMAX MADRID - Suitable for the whole family, a great varierty of shows.
Tel: 91.467.48.00.
Metro: Méndez Álvaro.
Cine Golem
Dirección: Calle Martín de los Heros, 14
Metro Plaza de España
Tel 915.59.38.36
Parque de Atracciones
Recommended by Anne Lennon
Situated in the Casa de Campo this fairground is equipped with 48 attractions for all ages and tastes.The venue is divided into five large theme areas: Maquinismo (Machines), Gran Avenida (Main Avenue), Naturaleza (Nature), Tranquilidad (Relax) and Infantil (Kids). The kid’s area is suitable for children from 3 to 7 years old approximately, and has 16 mini-rides.
Prices: Adult (over 7 years old):
- Full ticket 27.50 €
- Admission only 9.30 €
Children (from 3 to 6 years old):
- Full ticket 18.00 €
- Admission only 9.30 €
Pensioneers (over 65):
- Full ticket 18.00 €
- Admission only 3.40 €
Children under 3 years old: free entrance
Admission and 4 attractions only: 15.80 €
Metro station: Batán (Line 10) Bus lines: 33 and 65 By car: Carretera de Extremadura (N-V) or exit nº 18B “Casa de Campo” from M-30
Phone number: (+34) 91 526 80 31
Comments:
Bono Parques: it's a personal card that allows unlimited free access for one year to the Fairground, Cable Cars, Zoo-Aquarium, Aquópolis Villanueva and Aquópolis San Fernando. It costs 83 € for new members and 60 € for renewals (plus € 5 for issuing fees). There are also discounts for families with 3 or more members (parents and children exclusively). Further information at www.bonoparques.com
Parque El Capricho
Recommended by Harriet Browning
A very tranquil park, perfect for a stroll with a buggy. This is more of a formal gardens, than Retiro. There are no swings/play areas, and it's more for strolling around than going crazy, but made a pleasant change.
Tel: 91 588 01 14
Metro: El Capricho (L5)
Bus: 101, 105, 151
Hours:Winter (October-March) Saturdays, Sundays and Festivos 09:00 a 18:30. Summer (April - September): Saturdays Sundays and festivos 09:00 a 21:00 horas. Closed 1st January and 25th December. The park also closes at 3pm on days when holding an event.
Paseo de la Alameda de Osuna
Alameda de Osuna, Barajas
Parque del Oeste
This park was designed as a place for strolling and resting. This is an ideal play area for children, with it’s spacious stretches of lawn, shady trees and sandy paths. Stroll around “La Rosaleda” where some of the most gorgeous roses can be seen at an annual international rose contest held there.
Paseo del Pintor Rosales, s/n Metro: Moncloa (Close to Pza España)
Parque Juan Carlos I
Recommended by Joy Mackie
A huge park with many activities for kids. One of the attractions of the Juan Carlos I park is the Garden of Three Cultures (Jardin de las Tres Culturas), which contains three landscaped zones that represent the Christian, Jewish and Muslim cultures. Apart from the rich variety of flora, the park is most famous for its state-of-the-art multimedia show (with illumination, water and music) held next to the Fountain of Cybernetics with about 9,000 places for spectators. Juan Carlos I Park offers a lot of space for jogging, cycling and sunbathing There is free bike hire, a kite flying zone, a tourist train ride and lots more.
Glorieta Hamburgo, 28042 Madrid Metro: Campo de las Naciones www.parquejuancarlos.net
Comments:
This park can be very cold in winter as it's very exposed, and very hot in summer as there is little shade. The rest of the year it’s great and the kids loved it especially the 2 large wooden ships to play on. You can also hire bikes for free
Pekids
Recommended by Rowena Stevens
Books, DVDs, educational games, story telling and many, many workshops organized for parents with young babies and for children up to 12 years old. Check their online events calendar.
Avenida Conde de Mayalde, 33 Local 7
Madrid
917187088 www.pekids.es
Pepa Luna
Recommended by Imke Buttkus
Pepa Luna is a children’s shop that offers a space for parents and children (up to ten) to play together. In the shop you will find children’s books disguises, and games. They run a variety of workshops for kids.
Calle Potosi 7, 28013 Tel: 91 457 39 71Metro Columbia www.pepaluna.com
Comments:
Pepa Luna offers English speaking theatre for kids, reading nights, paint classes and organizes birthday parties. They also have a number of good toys and books.
Retiro Park
Recommended by Maike Huebner
Madrid's principal public park is situated in the city centre. Besides the boating lake, the Rose Garden and many children’s playgrounds, it also hosts festivals, exhibitions, concerts and other events. The puppet shows are very popular with the kids at the weekend.
Various Entrances: Plaza de la Independencia C./ Alcalá C./ O'Donnell Avenida Menéndez Pelayo C./ Alfonso XIII C./ Poeta Esteban Villegas. Metro Retiro, or Ibiza, Comments: All summer the Symphonic Municipal Band plays for free in the “Templete de Música” in the Retiro-Park every Sunday at 12pm classical Spanish music, right by the metro-station Retiro
Riding School - Espinar Soto
Recommended by Georgina Sanchez
The riding school Espinar Soto has an approximate area of 59,000 m². Located in a privileged environment with direct access to the Jarama river and a ravine that connects with all the mountains of Madrid. It is ideally connected by road and by bus to Madrid, 20 minutes from the Plaza de Castilla. It has a capacity for a total of 140 horses. The school offers riding classes to children from the age of 6.
www.sotodelespinar.es
Swimming classes at the Colegio Natación Fusión
Recommended by Judy Rose
Colegio de Natación y Gimnasio Fusión has 30 years experience teaching babies, children and adults how to swim. ‘Matronatación’ classes (parent and baby) start from 6 months in a chlorine free pool. Consult website for timetable and prices (in Spanish)
Infanta Mercedes, 92 (Edif. Río Miño) 28020 - Madrid 91570928 www.natacionfusion.es
Comments:
"My three started with 5 months and have been going weekly to classes for over 7 years" (JR, Dec 08)
Teatro Circo Price
Recommended by Anne Lennon
Stable theatre-circus that can seat almost 2,000 spectators, with a circular, multi-use hall that can host circus and theatre shows, concerts, galas and all kinds of event. It aims to promote the great circus tradition and, at the same time, strengthen the possibilities of reinventing and experimentation that are part of circus arts.
C/ Ronda de Atocha 35, 91 528 81 22 Bus: C , 6, 19, 27, 34, 36, 41, 45, 59, 60, 78, 85, 86,102, 116, 118, 119, 148
Metro: Embajadores (L3, L5) / Atocha (L19
www.esmadrid.com/circoprice/portal.do
Safari Park
Recommended by Anne Lennon
Just 50 kilometres from Madrid, there is a real piece of the African Savannah. Unfortunately, the only way to get there is by car, around 40 minutes from Madrid, but well worth the effort as it's a great day out and very reasonably priced. The animals giraffes,camels, zebras, bears, rhinoceroses, monkeys and more live in semi-liberty, in surroundings that imitate their natural habitats.An exciting highlight is the daily lion taming show. In summer there is a swimming pool – with a large slide – where you can cool off.
Carretera de Cadalso de los Vidrios, Navalcarnero, Aldea del Fresno, Madrid, 28600 Tel.: (+ 34) 91 862 23 14
Comments:
Seasonally adjusted timetable.
Swimming Lessons
Recommended by Georgina Sanchez
Cnjimenez offers swimming lessons for children from the age of 18 months. There are 2 indoor heated swimming pools and one outdoor one open only in the summer. They also offer courses for pregnant women and birthday parties.
Club Natacion Jimenez, Parque del Conde de Orgaz, Avda. de los Madroños, 23 28043 Madrid www.cnjimenez.com
Valle 36
Recommended by Anne Lennon
A whole host of children´s activiities is available at this centre including baby massage, gym and water stimulation classes for babies from 4 months.
Avenida del Valle 36 Madrid 28003 915332071 info@valle36.es www.valle36.es
Wax Museum/ Museo de Cera
Recommended by Anne Lennon
The 450 wax figures include Bart Simpson, Harrry Potter as well as Kings, Queens and other historical figures
Adults 15 euros, Children (4-10) years 9 euros, 60+ with ID Card 9 euros.
Paseo de Recoletos 41, metro Colon - autobusBuses 27, 45, 53. Tel: 913192649 www.museoceramadrid.com
Zoo/Aquarium
Recommended by Anne Lennon
Inside the Casa de Campo is the Madrid Zoo, well worth a visit to see close to 3,000 animals from all continents, as well as a large aquarium and a dolphin tank. New attractions include the giant pandas, ant eaters and some Koala bears.
Casa de Campo, s/n 28011 MADRIDMetro: Batan - Bus: 33 +34 91 5123770 zoo@zoomadrid.com www.zoomadrid.com
Comments:
Much bigger animals here than in Faunia
