It feels like we've barely recovered from the Easter holidays and spring half-term, so how has another Bank Holiday arrived so quickly in 2025?
For those of you who feel you've exhausted your options for family activities during one of the busiest periods of the year for public holidays, we're here again to help those across the Yorkshire region with some last-minute ideas for the long weekend.
From Scarborough lighting up its streets with a cavalcade of street performances to celebrating spring with tulips or admiring majestic Highland cattle, or just taking in some introspective folk music around the area, we've collated 17 possible ways to occupy your time this time of year.
Many of the events we've chosen are either free or have a very nominal fee, but what caught our eye for some last-minute Early May Bank Holiday activities around the region in 2025? Read on to find out!
7. Pontefract Castle Explorers Tour - until June 1 2025
Embark on an engaging journey through history with the Pontefract Castle Explorers Tour. Available until Sunday, June 1st, 2025, this tour offers insights into the fascinating past of this significant Yorkshire landmark 📌 Pontefract Castle, Castle Chain, Pontefract, West Yorkshire, WF8 2BA. | Scott Merrylees
8. Meet Paddington - May 3 - May 4 2025
Delight the family by meeting the beloved bear from Peru, Paddington™, at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. He will be making special appearances on Saturday, May 3rd and Sunday, May 4th, 2025, along the picturesque railway line 📌 Various stations along the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, including Pickering Station, YO18 7AJ.
9. Spring Sports Cars in the Park 2025 - May 4 2025
Admire a stunning collection of classic and contemporary sports cars at the Spring Sports Cars in the Park event held at the beautiful Newby Hall. This event takes place on Sunday, May 4th, 2025 📌 Newby Hall & Gardens, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 5AE. | Canva
10. Richmond MayFest - May 3 - May 5 2025
Experience the charm of Richmond during its annual MayFest. From Saturday, May 3rd to Monday, May 5th, 2025, the town will be alive with various events and activities for all ages 📌 Various locations throughout Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 | Provided
11. Ilkley Carnival: A May Day Extravaganza - May 5 2025
Join the traditional May Day celebrations at the Ilkley Carnival: A May Day Extravaganza. This family-friendly event takes place on Monday, May 5th, 2025, as a parade starts at The Grove and makes it's way to it's final destination - East Holmes Field in Ilkley 📌 East Holmes Field, Ilkley, West Yorkshire, LS29 0BZ. | Provided
12. Sledmere's Spring Fair 2025 - May 4 - May 5 2025
Enjoy a delightful day out at Sledmere's Spring Fair. Running from Sunday, May 4th to Monday, May 5th, 2025, this fair at the beautiful Sledmere House will feature crafts, food, and entertainment 📌 Sledmere House, Sledmere, Driffield, East Yorkshire, YO25 3XG. | Provided