May half term in North Yorkshire

Many memories to be made

May half term is almost here

As we head towards the May half-term holiday there are lots of great attractions to visit across North Yorkshire as well as exciting events taking place. With such a great vibe you will be kept entertained every day.

So now’s the time to find your family’s happy place on a visit to North Yorkshire and make this the best half-term ever.

A man and a girl entering a train carriage from the platform

Smaller children can meet their favourite steam train as the North Yorkshire Moors Railway hosts ‘A Day Out with Thomas TM’ (23–27 & 29-31 May). Climb aboard for a steam ride before watching Sodor Station Sweepers Rusty & Dusty’s live show.

There are lots of other activities to try including garden games, arts and crafts and storytelling so book your tickets today.

Image credit: ©2026 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. ©2026 Mattel 

All aboard!

Thomas the Tank Engine steam train with three human characters stood on the platform

Scarborough is a great family destination this half term with lots of events happening to keep all the family entertained. The town is home to amazing free street entertainment as Scarborough Streets returns (29-31 May). Head to Westborough, Aberdeen Walk, North Street and the Crescent Gardens and discover lots of fun outdoor events, music and performances as well as arts and crafts workshops - perfect for children of all ages.

Make a day of it and head to the beach, visit Scarborough Castle for fun Mystery Mission family activities (23-31 May) or join a Dino Hunt guided walk (26 May) and find dinosaur footprints as highlighted in the new South Cliff Dino Hunt. All children receive a free Dino Hunt activity pack too. Finish your day with an ice cream or some yummy fish and chips.

Woldies near Malton are celebrating all things bees during their Bee Week (23-31 May). Children can follow the Bee Happy Trail, see bee-friendly plants in the Bee Garden and join in the Pollination Game. Join in with hands-on activities, spot the different bees around the gardens and learn more about these beautiful buzzy creatures.

May half term family fun awaits at Harewood House near Harrogate (23-31 May) with a mini beast safari and lawn games including chess and croquet while children can give a home to some little creatures by building a bug hotel. Explore the grounds and watch the kids having the best time in the treehouse and adventure playground. There are lots of crafts to try in the house too.

The Wizard of Oz comes to Mother Shipton’s Cave in Knaresborough this half term (23-31 May) as the woodland is transformed.

The yellow brick road takes you on an emerald adventure where you will meet the Green Witch of the Forest, the radiant Good Witch of the Glade, and the jolly Scarecrow.

Booking is essential. 

Discover the magic

A small child in a blue gingham dress standing on a yellow brick road in woodland.

Many family attractions in North Yorkshire offer the perfect day out with lots of events happening during the school holidays to keep everyone entertained. Join The Great Garden Game-a-thon at RHS Garden Harlow Carr  (23-31 May), Storybook Spring at Stockeld Park (23-31 May) and Mini Beasts at Castle Howard (starts 23 May). Or head underground for adventure at Stump Cross Caverns with crystal workshops and geode cracking.

With so many things to see and do in North Yorkshire this May half-term you and your family will be able to fill your days with adventure, activities and experiences. Find out about lots of other exciting events happening over the May half term on our family events page and check out our socials for more half-term inspo.  Happy smiley faces guaranteed!

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