Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained at May half-term? You’re not alone. We understand how difficult it can be to find activities that interest both younger kids and teens, yet also offer meaningful health, wellbeing, and educational benefits too.
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Whether you’re gearing up for a full day of adventure or simply looking for a fun-filled afternoon, we’ve got loads of ideas to get everyone moving, inspired, and genuinely enjoying time together.
Seven things to do in May half-term with kids
May half-term is the chance for kids to be bold, be brave, and discover what they are truly capable of! Free from school work and the everyday rush of life, families can slow down, reconnect, and explore the great outdoors or discover something entirely new together. Let’s take a look at six exciting things to do with kids:
1. Explore local parks and nature trails
As the weather warms and flowers begin to fully bloom, it’s time to get back to nature. The UK’s landscape is bursting with life in Spring, and there are many woodlands, parks, and countryside trails to explore during the half-term break. It could be somewhere right on your doorstep, or a place you haven’t even visited before!
Kids and parents alike will appreciate the fresh air and freedom the outdoor world brings, reducing stress and anxiety by calming the mind, lowering cortisol levels and providing a break from digital distractions. It is also an easy yet powerful way to support our physical fitness, build stamina, and encourage movement, while sparking curiosity in children as they learn about local wildlife and seasonal changes.
You’ll need:
- Comfortable walking shoes, wellies, or boots
- Weather-appropriate clothing (e.g., waterproof jacket, layers, or hat)
- A backpack with water and snacks (e.g., fruit, sandwiches)
- Route map or GPS trail app
Bonus tip: Pack a journal, and play a game of “Wildlife Bingo”. Ask your children to draw or write down three things they spot. This could be a specific plant or animal, turning the walk into a fun, interactive experience.
2. Try a new sport
Why not try your hand at a new sport? This is a brilliant half-term activity for children to break out of their usual routine, stay active, and master a new skill. Targeted sports like fencing or archery are ideal for children who love adventure, strategy, and a bit of friendly competition. For example, fencing improves hand-eye coordination, balance, and agility as it requires fast footwork and quick movements to best your opponent.
Archery, meanwhile, enhances focus and concentration by training the hands and eyes to work together. The satisfaction of scoring a point or hitting the bullseye is a huge confidence boost, too! Even better, both sports are available at our May holiday camps, allowing children to learn from expert instructors in a safe and supportive environment.
You’ll need:
- Activewear (e.g., tracksuit bottoms, leggings and a t-shirt)
- Trainers or flat, closed-toe shoes
- Hair tie (for long hair)
- Any personal safety gear (e.g., gloves, arm guards)
Bonus tip: Look for taster sessions or half-day lessons advertised by local leisure centres, camps or clubs. These are often cheaper and designed for beginners to get a feel for the sport, without committing to a full course.
3. Feel the rush at a theme park
For all you adrenaline-seekers out there, the thrill of a theme park is unmatched. This is the ultimate May half-term activity for families, offering rides and attractions for all ages. Whether you prefer gentle carousels and Ferris wheels, retro arcade games, splash-tastic water rides, or high-speed rollercoasters, there’s something for everyone!
But a theme park isn’t just about fun; it’s also fantastic for building confidence and resilience in kids who may be afraid of heights or big drops, pushing them out of their comfort zone. Some even offer educational experiences like Chessington World of Adventure’s SEA LIFE centre, where kids can learn more about marine life. Plus, there are plenty of exclusive half-term events and entertainment, making your visit extra special!
You’ll need:
- Appropriate footwear (e.g., trainers)
- Rain ponchos — great for sudden downpours or water rides
- Small first-aid kit for minor bumps and scrapes
- Pocket money for food, souvenirs or other purchases
Bonus tip: Download the park’s app before you arrive, and use it to check ride wait times, plan a route, pre-book parking (which can save you a lot of money!) and check for any height restrictions or last-minute closures to avoid disappointment.
4. Go kayaking
Whether you are gliding down a canal or paddling across a lake, kayaking is an amazing way to explore the UK’s stunning waters from a unique perspective. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature, you can hire single or double kayaks from a local watersports centre and enjoy the tranquil, scenic setting together.
Exercise-wise, it strengthens upper-body muscles, improves balance, and builds endurance while boosting teamwork and communication skills. Kids will love the independence and sense of accomplishment that comes with steering confidently in the water. And because it’s so accessible, everyone at our PGL camps, from complete beginners to experienced paddlers, can join in on the fun!
You’ll need:
- A dry bag for phone, keys and other belongings
- Water shoes
- Life vest (usually provided)
- Towels for drying off afterwards
Bonus tip: When paddling, keep the shaft of the paddle low over the water. This helps to conserve energy and improve stability as you glide along, making it easier to maintain control.
5. Visit a museum or art gallery
Spending the day at a museum or gallery can be very inspiring, especially with so many incredible venues and sites across the UK. If your child is fascinated by dinosaurs, space, ancient history or modern art, there’s a whole world of discovery behind every exhibit! The best part? Most are free to enter and ideal if the weather isn’t great.
Moreover, these educational sites help deepen children’s understanding of the world through historical artefacts and hands-on experiments. They also build cultural awareness and encourage critical thinking by exposing visitors to diverse perspectives and prompting them to engage in open-ended discussions on a variety of topics. To put it simply, museums and galleries are immersive learning spaces that bring abstract ideas to life for families.
You’ll need:
- Comfortable shoes for walking around the museum or gallery
- Family passes or ID membership cards
- A camera/phone for photos and looking up information
- A small notepad and pen for taking notes
Bonus tip: Don’t try to see everything at once! Instead, focus on one or two specific exhibitions that your kids will love. It’s also worth taking regular short breaks to keep younger minds engaged and prevent fatigue.
6. Feed the animals at a petting zoo
Love animals? One of the best things to do with kids during May half-term is a trip to a petting zoo or farm. May is a particularly wonderful time of the year, as many places will have new Spring lambs, chicks, and calves to see up close and even help with gentle feeding. For children, spending time with animals can be incredibly therapeutic, helping them develop empathy and compassion.
Beyond the cute encounters, kids can also explore farm trails, watch milking demonstrations, or learn more about topics like biology, sustainability and ethical farming through guided tours, making it a half-term day of fun, learning, and family bonding!
You’ll need:
- Extra hand sanitiser
- Suncream (SPF 30 or higher) and a hat
- A backpack filled with snacks and water
- Cash for purchasing animal feed or farm shop goods
Bonus tip: Make sure to wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves and trousers, and choose items that you don’t mind getting a little muddy or messy out on the farm.
And number 7? Discover a PGL Kids Camp this May half-term!
Watch your kids’ independence, confidence, and skillset grow at a thrilling PGL May half-term holiday camp!
We offer 2, 3, 4, or 7-night stays for children aged 8–16, where they’ll take on thrilling challenges and experience a wide range of exciting outdoor activities, from climbing and archery to watersports — and so much more!
On top of the action-packed days, your child will also enjoy:
- Three tasty and nutritious meals per day, with plenty of hot and cold options to suit every taste
- Fun evening activities, including campfires, discos, quizzes, and arts and crafts
- Sleepovers with new friends in comfy bedrooms
- 24/7 care and support from our highly trained team
Book now or get in touch with our friendly team, and make their half-term one they’ll never forget!
