There's admittedly been a brief respite between holidays, but the late May Half Term break is upon us, with some scratching their heads about what to do over the next week (May 24 - June 1 2025).
Thankfully, there's plenty on offer around Yorkshire and the Yorkshire Coast to keep everyone entertained before the big summer holiday getaway – which for many across the country, starts around June 23, 2025, so mark that on your calendar if you haven't yet.
But before then, we've amassed 35 different events that range from trails and activities to a bit of hands-on edutainment for those who still want their little ones to learn something over the half-term. Though some of the events might seem pricey, they are also the ones where attendees will take something home with them; be it slime, a trinket from a trail, or even something woollen if you're around the Leeds area.
Here’s our pick of what’s on offer this May Half Term to help inspire some suggestions around the dinner table later this week
17. May Half Term at Harewood House - May 26 - June 1 2025
Big adventures await this May Half Term at Harewood, open daily, 10am – 6pm. From climbing, sliding and exploring in our brand new Adventure Playscape to getting creative with Jane Austen and JMW Turner inspired activities, there’s hours of fun for families. Try on Regency inspired outfits, get arty with free creative drop-in activities and burn off energy outdoors whilst uncovering the secret corners of the gardens. 📍 Harewood House, Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LG | Provided
18. May Half Term at North Yorkshire Moors Railway - May 26 - June 1 2025
Looking for a special day out this May half term? Hop on board the North Yorkshire Moors Railway – with interactive activities, imaginative play, and thrilling bird encounters, young adventurers will be engaged all week long. Don’t miss the Railway 200 Writing & Art Competition and take part in the Spring Rail 200 Trail with 40 fun family activities to discover. 📍 North Yorkshire Moors Railway, various stations including Pickering, Levisham, Goathland, Grosmont, Whitby | Provided
19. Tropical World's Love your Zoo Week - May 26 - June 1 2025
Celebrate Love Your Zoo Week this half-term at Tropical World! As part of BIAZA’s Love Your Zoo week, come and meet our Sulcata Tortoises for a fabulous family outing. The zoo has lots on offer: Tank’s Tortoise Trail, Keeper Talks, Children’s Craft Activities, and the Tropical World Café for the older ones to take a rest at. 📍 Tropical World, Roundhay Park, Princes Ave, Roundhay, Leeds LS8 1DF | Provided
20. Gnomes Galore - May 24 - June 1 2025
Help! Abbey House's cheeky gnomes have escaped and are hiding all over the Victorian Streets at the museum! Grab a trail sheet and see who you can find! The museum are making sure things are ‘neat and tidy’ by ticking off/finding all of the gnomes on their family trail. Be sure to come and join the mischief! 📍 Abbey House Museum, Abbey Walk, Leeds LS5 3EH | Canva