SUMMERTIME means sun (hopefully), fun and school holidays.

It also means children in need of entertainment and — now we are well into August — let the Bury Times help you keep the kids from uttering those words: 'I'm bored'.

When it comes to things to do in Bury, you might not automatically think of Bury Market as a place to visit but it is ranked as one of the best 'things to do' in the area.

Over the summer holidays, the thriving market has been hosting family fun activities on Fridays including circus skills workshops and arts and crafts.

This week, there will be birds of prey on display followed by a petting area with farm animals next Friday.

The fun and popular events take place from about 10.30am until mid-afternoon in the golden mile area, located in the middle of the market.

Markets manager Andrew Heyes said: "It's been great for kids."

Speaking of the market which attracts visitors from Bury and beyond, he said: "It's got tremendous variety.

"The sheer size of it, we've got just short of 400 stalls.

"The stall-holders are all very friendly.

"Comments include, you have to see it to believe it."

1. Bury Market, Murray Road

4.5 rating from 555 reviews

Bury Market is one of the most prestigious markets operating in the North West, having been named market of the year by TripAdvisor on four separate occasions, including last year.

The market has a wide range of goods and services on offer, and is hosting a series of Family Fun Fridays throughout August.

2. The Fusilier Museum, Moss Street, Bury

4.5 rating from 122 reviews

Located in the town centre, the Fusilier Museum is dedicated to Lancashire Fusiliers, a long-standing regiment founded in the North West that saw action in both of the world wars.

Although the Fusiliers were merged into the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers in 1968, visitors to Fusilier Museum can learn all about the regiment’s long and decorated history.

3. Bury Transport Museum, Bolton Street

4.5 rating from 93 reviews

Opposite the East Lancashire Railway Station, Bury Transport Museum preserves our industrial heritage and way of life at the turn of the 20th century.

Admission is free to the museum until September 2, except for special event days.

4. Peel Tower, Holcombe Hill

4.5 stars from 107 reviews

Standing tall among the moors on Holcombe Hill, the tower commemorates the life of Tory Prime Minister Robert Peel

Born in Ramsbottom, Peel held many positions in government during the first half of the 19th century, including Chancellor of the Exchequer and Home Secretary.

He is mainly remembered for his abolition of the Corn Laws and his creation of the Metropolitan Police.

5. The Met, Market Street, Bury

4.5 stars from 83 reviews

The Met is a great venue for quality live music and is known for its comedy night every Thursday. Besides performances, there is a restaurant and bar to refuel. This Christmas, the venue will play host to Hansel and Gretel.

6. Whitefield Garrick Theatre, Bank Street

5 stars from 38 reviews

The theatre, which holds only 87 seats, is an intimate venue in which you can get lost in the performance on stage.

Ticket prices are reasonable at £8.50, but regulars recommend arriving early to the theatre as the seats are first come, first serve!

7. Summerseat Players at the Theatre Royal, Smithy Street, Ramsbottom

5 stars from 43 reviews

The Summerseat Players is a dramatic society founded in 1968 by local acting enthusiasts. Originally based in a church hall, the Summerseat players moved into the Buskers Showbar and Snooker Hall, which has now become the theatre royal. The acting troupe is well known for its high quality performances, with plenty of opportunities for young people to get involved.

8. Bury Parish Church, The Rock

4.5 rating from 27 reviews

Although a church has stood on this spot in Bury since the 10th century, this grade I listed building is a fine example of the Neo-Gothic architecture.

The beauty of the church’s exterior is matched by the ornate frescos painted on the inside of the building.

9. Bury Art Museum & Sculpture Centre, Moss Street

4 stars from 54 reviews

This museum is an ideal place for lovers of both local and international art, housing the Wrigley Collection gathered by local manufacturer Thomas Wrigley.

The collection contains works by many prominent British artists including J MW Turner and John Constable.

The museum is hosting a special exhibition ‘Your Shelter is R’ about life during World War Two until October 22.

10. Burrs Activity Centre, Woodhill Road, Bury

4 stars from 36 reviews

Next to the River Irwell, Burrs Activity Centre is a great place for an active day or an adventures long weekend with the family.

The many activities that are possible at the centre include kayaking, orienteering, archery and many more.

Reservations can be made to stay at the bunkhouse on site.