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
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
21. Scarecrow Trail at Kirkstall Abbey - May 24 - June 1 2025
Explore the historic ruins of Kirkstall Abbey whilst looking for our fun scarecrows during the Scarecrow Festival! Running from 24th May-1st June. You might find a Hungry Caterpillar in the Kitchen, a ladybird in the library or a horse in the hospital! Wander through the park and woodlands, and take a leisurely stroll beside the River Aire whilst learning about our historic Abbey. 📍 Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Rd, Leeds LS5 3EH | Canva
22. Pugneys Light Railway - May 25 - June 1 2025
Open daily in the school holidays and every weekend, visitors can take a ride on the miniature railway at Pugneys Country Park! It’s a great addition to a walk around the lake and play in the adventure playground!📍 Pugneys Country Park, Asdale Road, Denby Dale Rd, Wakefield, WF2 7EQ | Pugneys Light Railway
23. Half Term at Royal Armouries Museum - Second World Week - May 24 - June 1 2025
This year, as we mark the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day, our May half-term event at the Royal Armouries Museum will focus on the Second World War. Running Saturday 24 May – Sunday 1 June, the daily programme will include live performances, battle stories and talks, plus a free museum trail and activity sheet. There will be 5 live performances throughout the day, including a mix of combat demonstrations, battle stories and talks about weapons. 📍 Royal Armouries Museum, Armouries Drive, Leeds, LS10 1LT | Getty Images Photo: Getty
24. William’s Jungle Adventures - May 24 - June 1 2025
Get ready to unleash your inner explorer this May half term as William’s Jungle Adventure swings into action! Running 24th May to 1st June 2025, their wild jungle experience is packed with thrilling challenges, hilarious trials, and memory-making moments for all ages. From taste tests and mystery boxes to obstacle courses and scavenger hunts, the jungle is bursting with surprises around every corner. 📍 William's Den, Castle Farm, Wold Hill, North Cave, HU15 2LS | Provided