Great ideas for kids’ activities during May half term

Great ideas for kids’ activities during May half term —from big days out to simple (and cheap) things you can do locally. Here’s a mix so you can pick what suits your budget, weather, and kids’ ages.

Outdoor & Nature Activities (perfect for spring weather)

• Explore parks, woods, and nature trails – May is ideal for wildlife spotting, picnics, and bike rides.
• Farm visits & petting zoos – lots of places have baby animals (lambs, chicks, calves) in spring
• Beach days or splash parks – many reopen in May for water play
• National Trust / historic sites – often run themed trails and scavenger hunts for kids

Big Days Out (family favourites)

• Theme parks
  • LEGOLAND Windsor
  • Alton Towers
  • Chessington World of Adventures
  • Crealy Theme Park
  • Drayton Manor
  • Adventure Valley
  • Gulliver’s Kingdom
• Zoos & wildlife parks:
  • Chester Zoo
  • Twycross Zoo
• Adventure attractions:
  • The Bear Grylls Adventure – indoor skydiving, climbing, high ropes

These are classic half-term choices with lots to do in one place, see here for more ideas and discounts!

Creative & Educational Activities

• Museum workshops & science centres (many are free)
• Craft sessions & storytelling festivals do a little research, there’s lots happening
• Art galleries often run family-friendly sessions and activities

Low-cost & FREE Ideas

• Free Pets at Home “My Pet Pals” workshops (learn about animals & get a certificate)
• Local Libraries (story time, Lego clubs, crafts)
• Playgrounds & outdoor gyms
• DIY:
  • garden obstacle course
  • baking day
  • movie afternoon at home

Many museums are free entry, with extra kids’ activities during holidays

Adventure & Holiday Clubs

• Multi-activity camps (e.g. climbing, kayaking, archery)
• Sports clubs (football, gymnastics, swimming)
• Educational fun clubs ( Computer coding, cookery, science)

Good if you’re working or want structured days. Lots to choose from HERE!

Special Events & Festivals

• Family festivals with music, fun activities and workshops
• Local councils often run:
  • funfairs
  • half-term trails
  • craft days

Simple Home Ideas (rainy days)

• Build a den or indoor fort
• Science experiments (volcano, slime)
• Lego or puzzle challenges
• Kids cooking day, see our selection of recipes here!

Suggestion: Mix 1–2 big days out with cheaper/local activities to keep costs down but still make it feel special.