If you are searching for fun activities to keep the kids entertained this May half term, you’ll find a huge range of days out, places to visit and activities across North Yorkshire.
Whether you want to enjoy the brighter weather outdoors or you’re thinking of visiting one of the great family attractions in the county, we have plenty of ideas to keep the whole family happy.
May half term around the North York Moors
The Wild Wild West is coming to Monk Park Farm! Dust off your boots (or wellies) and head to the ranch for western inspired activities like gold panning, lassoing and the rodeo – plus all the usual friendly farmyard faces including piglets, donkeys and sheep.
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the whole family on the North York Moors Railway this half-term with short tours of Grosmont station, play dress-up with period costumes, or step into the role of signaller. Feed the family at Malton Food Lovers Festival, taking place over the bank holiday weekend with delicious street food, chef demos and artisan stalls. While you’re in the area, call into Eden Camp Modern History Museum and discover the stories of WWII, explore heritage vehicles, and join in special kids activities.
May half term in the Yorkshire Dales
If you’re headed for the Yorkshire Dales this half-term, be sure to visit Skipton Town Hall for free ‘Make and Take’ and Art Club sessions where kids can get creative, plus printmaking and willow weaving at the Dales Countryside Museum. If you fancy discovering the beautiful scenery, join a canoeing expedition from Ripon to Boroughbridge, or test your balance with a paddleboarding session on the Ripon canal from How Stean Gorge instructors.
May half term on the Yorkshire Coast
Discover the Yorkshire Coast with a treasure hunt along the Cleveland Way National Trail using a GPS unit from Ravenscar Visitor Centre, followed by an ice cream at the beach. For something a little more adventurous, head to Mr E Rooms for axe-throwing and take part in one of the fastest growing – and most fun – experiences. Compete within your group or challenge yourself with the chance to win some fantastic prizes. Explore historic sites with Victorian sports day at Scarborough Castle or be inspired by tales of the supernatural at Whitby Abbey.
May half term in the Harrogate area
Journey back to Victorian times at Ripon Museum with your young adventurers and make learning fun with dress up activities, craft activities and hands-on kitchen fun – and don’t miss the Prison & Police Museum for some fingerprinting fun. Enter the magical world of Peter Ppan and the Lost Boys at Mother Shipton’s as you explore themed displays, from shipwrecks to pirate hideouts. Fall down the rabbit hole and visit Alice’s Wonderland at Stockeld Park, with an enchanted maze and trail, plus one of the biggest indoor playgrounds in Europe.
Get active in the great outdoors
Breathe in that fresh Yorkshire air and get active with North Yorkshire’s Outdoor Learning Service action-packed Adventure Club for 8 – 13 year olds, as well as fun-filled Family Activity Days where the grown-ups can join in, too. With centres in Pateley Bridge and Whitby, challenge yourself with climbing, caving, high ropes, river scrambling, paddleboarding and sailing.
