Things to do with kids during May Half Term in Somerset

Dunster Castle, Dunster

May Half Term Trail – Saturday 24th May – Sunday 1st June 2025

Discover the gardens with a brilliant bee trail. Follow the trail, complete activities, and collect a prize at the end.

£3 per trail.

READ MORE: A Family Day Out in Dunster, Somerset 

Montacute House, Montacute

See and hear history come to life with the Taunton Garrison –

When: Wednesday 28th May – Saturday 31st June 2025

Come and meet the Taunton Garrison and learn about early military camp life when the building of Montacute House was just a grand idea in Edward Phelips’ mind.

Join in musket drills, watch pike drills, meet the blacksmith, camp cook and barber surgeon and learn about their crafts. Muskets will be on display but will not be fired. The camp will be in the Farmer’s Piece behind the two big cedar trees at the end of the cedar lawn.

Discover the gorgeous blossom at Montacute house at the Festival of Blossom (On now until Sunday 1st June 2025).

Barrington Court, Illminster

Falconry Displays – Tuesday 27th May 2025

Join Xtreme Falconry for two impressive flying displays on the South Lawn in front of the two mansions.

• 11:30 – 12:15
• 14:30 – 15:15

Ranger Activities

Back for May half term, is their popular guided drop-in ‘visiteering’ activities with the Ranger team. Get hands-on with hand and battery-operated tools and help the Rangers building wildlife nest boxes for the estate. You might build a home for a robin, a wren, a dormouse, a bee or little owl!

• Wednesday 28th May 2025, 11:00 – 15:00
• Thursday 29th May 2025, 11:00 – 15:00

Seed Sowing

Come along on Monday and Friday in May Half Term and have a go at sowing some flower seeds to take home with you.

• Monday 26th May 2025
• Friday 30th May 2025

Included in admission price.

Stourhead 

Half Term Heroes

When: Saturday 24th May – Sunday 1st June 2025

Come along this May half term at the historic Stableyard for a fun-filled family day out. Enjoy volunteer-led crafts, get active with games and challenge yourself to complete the obstacle course. And don’t miss out on our spotter challenge activity sheet, perfect for little explorers. With the garden in full bloom, it’s the perfect time to spend a day of picnicking and strolling by the lakeside.

Dyrham Park 

May Half Term Fun and Games

When: Saturday 24th May to Sunday 1st June 2025

Get active in the great outdoors with some garden games this half term at Dyrham Park.

Dyrham Park offers expansive gardens and an outdoor playground perfect for children to explore and play. The historic house and deer park add to the adventure, making it a great day out for families.

Prior Park, Bath

Check out the activities in the lower part of the garden at Prior Park  for children to discover. Conveniently located near the Tea Cabin for those much-needed refreshments.

Year-round children are also able to pick up an Explorer’s Backpack from Visitor Reception, filled with useful seasonal tools for any young outdoor explorer.

Don’t forget to visit the dens in the wild area. Explore the picturesque landscapes of Prior Park , discover the iconic Palladian bridge and enjoy panoramic views of Bath. It’s a great place for outdoor family adventures in Bath Somerset.

Where to see Animals: May Half Term in Somerset

Wild Place Project

Join in this May half-term for SpringFest – a fantastic street art exhibition in partnership with Upfest, plus fun games and crafts for everyone to get involved.

• Free face-painting
• Music making
• Spray painting and ink stamping
• Lawn games
• Plus, all the animals, play parks, food outlets

When: Saturday 24th May – Sunday 1st June 2025

Puxton Park

Visit Puxton Park for an unforgettable family adventure during May Half Term! This year the theme is Pirates and Mermaids. There is a spectacular line-up of daily entertainment, designed to keep the entire family entertained. From captivating shows to interactive experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Kids can meet a Pirate and Mermaid and play in the brand new adventure golf (opening in time for half term).

Court Farm, Banwell

Visit a real working farm and see lots of friendly animals from ponies to pigs with lots going every day. From bottle-feeding lambs to the milking show and free tractor rides, there is something to suit all the family.

Farrington’s Farm

Visit Farrington’s Farm Park in May half term to see the farm animals, straw pool, indoor soft play and play barn cafe. Play on the farm themed equipment and enjoy views across the surrounding countryside. Food/drink available from their deli counter, snack shack and chip shop. 

Animal Farm Adventure Park

A full day out at the park includes animal encounters, indoor play barn, the adventure play castle, mini golf and trampolines.

Avon Valley Adventure Wildlife Park

When: Saturday 24th May – Sunday 1st June 2025.

Dinosaur Valley is again taking over Avon Valley for a totally ROARsome, interactive eggstravaganza! Visit during May Half Term for the biggest and best dinosaur-themed day out in the south-west.

• Meet a T-Rex. Visit the South West’s largest collection of animatronic dinosaurs, including a 15m T-Rex in their beautiful riverside home, Dinosaur Valley.

• Raptor Encounter. Get up close to a velociraptor and hope she is in a good mood!

• Dinosaur Research Lab. The Dinosaur Research Lab is open with a theatrical and interactive experience.

• Baby Dinosaurs. Meet baby dinosaurs straight out of the hatchery.

• Fossil Excavation. Get digging to discover!

Also included in the day-entry is the mini jeep safari, miniature railway, animals, adventure playground and much more.

Chew Valley Animal Park

Discover all the interesting animals at Chew Valley Animal Park with animal encounters, keeper talks and loads of interactive activities. 

North Somerset Bird of Prey Centre, Congresbury

Visit the North Somerset Bird of Prey Centre during the Open Day on Sunday 1st June 2025 and other dates throughout the year. See over 60 resident birds of prey, mammals and reptiles.

Palette and Pasture, nr Frome 

Palette and Pasture Mini Beast Bail Trail is back for half term. Enjoy strolling around the fields on the farm and work out which bale is who. Complete your activity sheet and choose your book at the end.
There is no charge for adults. Children’s Tickets are £5 each.

There’s also inflatables (weather dependent), ride ons, some animals and sand play.

Palette and Pasture make their own delicious gelato from the small dairy herd at Pyle Farm. This is sold at the farm’s Ice Cream Parlour. 

Open every day during half term. 

Somerset Sheep Trekking

Visit a working farm for this truly unique, family-friendly farm experience. Meet their lovable, friendly sheep and lead them on a stroll across fields and into woodland. The activity is great for a fun, family day out or a cute escape to the countryside and is suitable for young and old alike.

After your trek, why not treat yourself to a delicious homemade cream tea? With fantastic views over the farm, it’s the perfect way to end your day (pre-order required).

Somerset Alpaca trekking

Get ready for a fun packed experience at Somerset Alpaca. Walk the alpacas – these gentle animals are good with children. Meet the sheep and feed the chickens on this fun and unique day out. Appointment by bookings only.

Bath City Farm

Visit the community cafe and farm shop, farm animals, children’s playground, woodland and nature trails at Bath city Farm. Entrance is free however donations are very welcome.

Noah’s Ark Zoo

Get set for a farm-tastic day out with daily animal talks and bird of prey flying display.

Ferne Animal Santuary, Chard

Wildlife Day at Ferne 

When: Monday 26th May 2025, 10 am – 4 pm.

This half term at Ferne Animal Sanctuary there is pond dipping, wildlife trail, arts and crafts, den building and more. Discover the rescue animals and animal talks.

Excellent value at £1/child and £5/adult. (They are a charity so please support them if you can).

Their Ferne Social Dog Walk is returning! The walk will begin at 11am, meeting at the bottom of the Ferne Animal Sanctuary main car park. The walk will be through public footpaths and small amounts of roads to The Cotley Inn and back. There will be other dogs on the walk, so please be mindful if your dog will enjoy being in the company of other dogs. Tickets are £5 which includes entry to the sanctuary. Book your spot!

RSPB Ham Wall – Half Term Events

Spring Wildlife Guided Walk at RSPB Ham Wall

When: Saturday 31st May 2025, 10am – 12.30pm

Join a walk around RSPB Ham Wall trying to spot as much of the spring wildlife as we can.

Ticket prices:
Adult RSPB member – £11
Adult non-RSPB member – £13.50
Child RSPB member – £6
Child non-RSPB member – £7.25 

Booking is essential – this is a ticket only event.
Advance booking only. Suitable for age 10+

Somerset Wildlife Trust 

Pine Marten Picnic

When: Saturday 31st May 2025, 11:00am – 3:00pm

Bring your rug and picnic for a day of outdoors fun at the pine marten picnic! Dive into nature crafts, face painting, creative writing and stories.

The Royal Bath and West Show

Thursday 29th May 2025 – Saturday 31st May 2025

Come along to the Royal Bath and West Showground in Shepton Mallet this half term for a Great British family day out!

The Royal Bath & West Show is one of the UK’s premier agricultural events, held annually in Somerset. Showcasing the best of farming, food, and rural life, it features livestock competitions, local produce, crafts, and thrilling family entertainment. With hundreds of trade stands, countryside displays, and hands-on activities, it’s a must-visit event for families and countryside enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re interested in agriculture, equestrian shows, or simply enjoying a great day out, the Royal Bath & West Show offers something for everyone in the heart of the West Country.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND OTHER SOMERSET SHOWS, READ:

The Best Agricultural Shows and Country Fairs in Somerset

Family Days Out In Somerset: Steam Trains and Heritage Railways in Somerset

West Somerset Railway

The West Somerset Railway is the UK’s longest heritage railway, offering a nostalgic steam train journey through the stunning Somerset countryside.

Running between Minehead and Bishops Lydeard, this scenic route takes visitors past the Quantock Hills, charming villages, and picturesque coastal views. Ideal for families, railway enthusiasts, and day-trippers, the West Somerset Railway combines history, engineering, and beautiful landscapes for a truly memorable experience. Perfect for heritage railway days out, Somerset attractions, and steam train adventures in the South West.

Rover Tickets available during May Half Term.

East Somerset Railway

At the lovely village of Cranmore, near Shepton Mallet is the East Somerset Railway. Ride the steam train (approx. 35 minutes), visit the engine shed and workshop to see restoration in progress, museum, signal box, miniature railway, cafe and kids play area.

24th – 26th, 28th May – Steam Train (Standard Timetable)

31st May – 1st June 2025 – Steam Gala*

*Steam Gala 2025 Tickets will allow unlimited travel on any of the trains throughout the day.

Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton

Spring Gala Event

When: Monday 26th May 2025

Take a trip back in time on the Mendip main line. Visit an original Victorian Railway station before setting off down the mile long track. All the home fleet will be in action giving you a chance to ride in a variety of trains from 10am. Trains will run every 30 minutes and also train movements in the station in between services.

Your ticket is an All Day Rover so allows you to travel on any or all of the services as you wish. Don’t forget to check out the museum with a wealth of railway and world war exhibits, and the World War II Anderson Shelter next door. At the top of the slope is a World War II Type 24 Pill Box which also houses one of the smallest museums in the country and is a must to see during your visit.

Stop for refreshments at the buffet carriage, check out their second-hand book shop and model railway.

Avon Valley Railway, Bitton 

When: Saturday 31st May and Sunday 1st June 2025

Jump onboard the Brick Express steam-hauled train and enjoy the Lego building workshops with the world’s most popular construction toy whilst you travel the line. Back at Bitton, admire models from Bristol’s GertLug Adult Fans of Lego® and see their latest creations. There’ll be cityscapes, fantasy scenes, trains and more!

Children travel for £1 this weekend too! For anyone aged 4 – 15.

Trains depart at 10:45, 12:00, 13:15, 14:30 and 15:45 on both days.

Yeovil Railway Centre

Model Railway Weekend with optional Diesel train rides

When: Tuesday 24th and Wednesday 25th May 2025

Ride on one of the diesels’ along the 1/3rd mile of the ex-Great Western Railway Clifton Maybank branch. Passengers travel in historic brake van. Trains run every 20 minutes (except for a lunch break).

Steam Train Day

When: Sunday 1st June 2025.

Experience steam train rides along the 1/3rd mile of the ex-Great Western Railway Clifton Maybank branch. Passengers travel in historic brake van vehicles or coach. Trains run every 20 minutes, unlimited trips on the day as well as on the Miniature Railway.

Cities in and around Somerset:

Bath 

Explore the beautiful city of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the Roman Baths, Jane Austen Centre, Bath Abbey, Royal Crescent, Victoria Park, Bath Abbey and Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon.

READ MORE: Things to do in Bath with kids

Wells 

Visit The Bishop’s Palace and gardens, the magnificent Cathedral, Vicar’s Close, the market place and many shops. See our guide to A Day Out in Wells.

Bristol 

Head into the city of Bristol, explore the waterfront, SS Great Britain, shops, markets and museums. Discover the famous street art, Clifton Observatory and walk across Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Where To Go With Kids in May Half Term: Theme Parks in Somerset

Butlins, Minehead

During May half term visit Butlins for live shows from The Masked Singer, Stephen Mulhern and more. Book a day visit to Butlins in Minehead, or stay over. There’s lots to do including fairground rides, pool and restaurants. Now their new Skypark is open which the kids will love!

There’s a lot to do locally: Minehead beach is across the road and Dunster is less than a 10 minute drive away. Plus, the West Somerset Steam Railway is in Minehead.

Brean Splash Park

Brean Splash Waterpark, next door to the theme park, offers year-round indoor and outdoor swimming fun for all ages. Featuring indoor pools, water slides, and a toddler splash zone, plus a heated outdoor pool and sun terrace in summer, it’s a top destination for family-friendly water activities in Somerset. Ideal for rainy days or sunny getaways, Brean Splash is a must-visit for waterpark fun all year round.

READ MORE: The Best Water Parks and Outdoor Pools in Somerset – Somerset Family Adventures

Brean Theme Park

Brean Theme Park is one of the South West’s largest and most exciting amusement parks, located in Brean, Somerset. With over 40 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and funfair games, it’s the perfect day out for kids and thrill-seekers alike.

Whether you’re visiting during the summer holidays or a weekend break, Brean Theme Park is a top choice for family fun in Somerset and one of the best UK seaside attractions. 

Fun Fair at Salthouse Fields, Clevedon

Every year during Whitsun (Spring Bank Holiday week), a family fun fair comes to The Salthouse Fields in Clevedon. Enjoy the dodgems, hook a duck and all the other rides on offer.

On the water in Somerset:

Waverly Paddle Steamer (Somerset Summer Season)

​Experience the magic of the Waverley Paddle Steamer as it returns to the Bristol Channel from June 2 to June 25, 2025, celebrating its 50th anniversary of preservation. Departing from ports including Weston-super-Mare, Clevedon, Minehead, Ilfracombe, and Penarth, Waverley offers a variety of cruises—from scenic coastal voyages to special trips like the Pembrokeshire Islands Explorer Cruise and evening sailings around the Holm Islands.

Highlights include connections with historic steam railways such as the West Somerset Railway, providing a unique blend of maritime and rail heritage. With special offers available for seniors and children, it’s an ideal summer outing for families, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. Book your tickets now at waverleyexcursions.co.uk to secure your place aboard the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer.​

Hire a boat on the River Avon

The Bath Boating Station offers rowing, canoeing and punting, available for hire for 1 or 2 hours along a most beautiful stretch of the River Avon.

Clevedon’s Marine Lake

​Clevedon Marine Lake, located on the North Somerset coast, is a premier destination for wild swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing. As the UK’s largest seawater infinity pool, it offers a safe, tidal-free environment suitable for all ages and skill levels. The lake’s calm waters and picturesque setting make it ideal for both leisurely paddles and more vigorous water activities. Visitors can hire equipment or take lessons from local providers, ensuring a memorable experience for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike. Open year-round and free to access, Clevedon Marine Lake stands out as a top spot for water sports in Somerset.

Wimbleball Lake 

Enjoy an action-packed May half term activity programme at Wimbleball Lake, with the chance to try your hand at archery, paddleboarding, sailing, windsurfing, high ropes, canoeing and kayaking.

The Wave, Bristol

Looking for fun activities in May half term in Somerset and Bristol? The Wave in Bristol offers a unique inland surfing experience suitable for all ages and skill levels. From 24th May to 1st June 2025, families can enjoy a variety of water-based activities.

• Play in the Bay: Ideal for younger children, these sessions provide safe water play without surfboards, though bodyboards are welcome.

• Little Rippers Surf Lessons: Tailored for ages 4–9, introducing kids to the basics of surfing in a fun environment.

• Surfing and Bodyboarding Sessions: Available for ages 6 and up, catering to both beginners and seasoned surfers.​

Spectators can visit for free, enjoying the café, play area, table tennis, boules, and a skate ramp. It’s a perfect spot for a family day out during the school holidays.

Learn to surf or have some body boarding lessons at The Wave in Bristol. You can also be a spectator and enjoy a meal in the restaurant to the sound of the waves! You can now camp at the wave and stay on site in a safari tent.

What to do with kids in May Half Term: Cycling in Somerset

Strawberry Line Cycle Path 

The Strawberry Line is nine-miles of traffic-free riding through the Somerset countryside between Yatton and Cheddar. Don’t worry if you don’t have a bike, the not-for-profit cycle hire at Yatton station is situated right at the beginning of the Strawberry Line cycle route. 
Parking at Yatton Station

Read our Guide to cycling the Strawberry Line with kids

Things To Do In May Half term for Families: Mini Golf in Somerset

Cheddar Mini Golf

Visit this 18 Hole Mini Golf Course which is set back in the hills of Cheddar.

Pirate Adventure Land Mini Golf, Weston super Mare

Enter a land of pirates and delight in 18 holes of Adventure Golf.

Revo Glo Golf, Weston super Mare

Marine Parade, Weston-super-Mare BS23 1BE

A super-fun rainy day activity for all ages on the seafront in Weston super Mare. The old sea aquarium building has now been converted into a 9-hole, glow in the dark, indoor mini golf course, with a stylish kitchen and bar.  Current prices are £6/adults, £4/children and £5/concessions. Walk-ins only (no booking needed).

Tree Top Golf, Bristol

Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you explore two immersive indoor 18-hole mini golf courses in Cabot’s Circus, Bristol. Walk-ins only, no booking needed.

Lidos and Outdoor Water Parks in Somerset:

Greenbank Lido

In the heart of Street is Greenbank Lido, a heated outdoor swimming pool. There is a main pool and children’s pool and splash zone. Open between May and September.

Portishead Lido

A heated 33m outdoor pool with diving board, toddler pool, and sun terraces overlooking the Bristol Channel in Portishead. The community run Portishead Open Air Pool is a lovely family day out which is open between April and October.

Shepton Mallet Lido

Book a family swim session at Shepton Mallet Lido to enjoy the heated pools, the use of the children’s splash pad, outdoor tables, table tennis and small play area.

Wiveliscombe Lido

Wivey Pool is set in the heart of Wiveliscombe, in the beautiful Somerset countryside. A 27m outdoor heated pool is open for half term. Family swimming is between 1pm and 5pm on weekends and holidays. 

For more, read our guide to The Best Water Parks and Outdoor Pools in Somerset.

May Half Term Days Out: Historic Buildings in Somerset

Half Term at The Roman Baths

This May half term, the Roman Baths in Bath offer an engaging array of family-friendly activities that blend education with fun. Children can meet costumed Roman characters around the Great Bath, bringing ancient history to life through interactive storytelling.

Families can enjoy the “Luna the Globetrotter Activity Trail,” an interactive experience that guides children through the site with engaging tasks and challenges. With these immersive experiences, the Roman Baths provide an ideal destination for families seeking educational and entertaining activities during the school holidays.

Glastonbury Tor and Abbey

A visit to the National Trust’s Glastonbury Tor, is a great budget-friendly place to visit for the whole family. It’s one of the best free things to do in Somerset!

​May Half Term Family Activities at Glastonbury Abbey (2025)

This May half term, Glastonbury Abbey offers a range of engaging family activities that blend creativity, history, and hands-on fun.

• Tuesday 27 May – Paper Flower Headbands
   11am – 1pm, Abbey Museum
   Kids can craft colourful paper flower headbands—perfect for spring creativity and festival vibes.

• Thursday 29 May – Matchbox Miniatures
   11am – 1pm, Abbey Museum
   Create tiny 3D scenes inside matchboxes, inspiring imagination and storytelling.

• Friday 30 May – Plant Power! Herbal Medicine Workshop
   10am – 1pm, Abbey House
   A hands-on session introducing children and families to the power of plants and herbal remedies.

• Ongoing: Self-Guided Activity Packs
   Available daily from the ticket office
   Fun, interactive ways for children to explore the abbey’s rich history.

• Bonus: Kids Go Free!
   Up to 2 children under 16 go free per paying adult—making it a fun and affordable family day out.

READ MORE: Things to do in Glastonbury, Somerset

Hestercombe House and Gardens, near Taunton

​This May half term, Hestercombe Gardens in Somerset offers a delightful family day out amidst 50 acres of historic gardens, woodlands, and play areas. Children can explore the natural play zones, including a wild play area and a den-building space, perfect for imaginative outdoor fun.

The on-site café provides a variety of refreshments, making it easy to spend a full day enjoying the beautiful surroundings. With its blend of nature, history, and family-friendly facilities, Hestercombe Gardens is an ideal destination for a half-term adventure in Somerset.

Ford Abbey House and Gardens, Chard

Forde Abbey is a great destination for families during the half term. With its stunning 30-acre award-winning gardens, historic house, and tranquil setting, it’s perfect for a family day out. Children can enjoy exploring the grounds, with the ponds, great fountain and arboretum, and the whole family can relax in the on-site café.

Clevedon Pier

Walk the boards of this 19th Century Victorian Pier in the seaside town of Clevedon where you can buy an ice cream from the Pagoda Cafe at the end of the pier. With stunning views across the Bristol Channel, the fish and chips from the Glass Box café, and interactive displays, Clevedon Pier is the perfect place for a family day out in North Somerset.

Currently, admission to Clevedon Pier is £5.00/Adult and £3.00/Children and includes 12 months of free return visits.

Afterwards, visit Clevedon beach, Marine Lake, the seafront arcades and Salthouse Fields play park.

READ MORE: Things To Do In Clevedon

Weston Super Mare Grand Pier

Party Peeps on the Pier – Friday 31st May 2024

Join Party Peeps On The Pier two hours of non stop family fun and entertainment!

Live the moment at this interactive family rave including fun games and challenges that’s guaranteed to make the whole family smile.

Included in this event is an interactive family rave, family games and challenges, amazing lighting effects, foam, bubbles and confetti, live DJ’s and interactive hosts, prizes and giveaways, non stop entertainment, character appearances, photo opportunities, plus entry on the pier is included.

The Grand Pier on Weston seafront also has lots of undercover rides, attractions, arcades and places to eat. It’s open 7 days a week and costs £1 entry. You can buy an unlimited ride wristband when you get there or online beforehand. 

Where To Go May Half Term In Somerset: Outdoor Activity Centres in Somerset

Mendip Activity Centre, Churchill

Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities at Mendip Activity Centre in Churchill. You can try archery, axe throwing, climbing, air rifle, frisbee golf, skiing, kayaking, tobogganing and lots more. (Some activities have a minimum age).

Mendip Basecamp

Back to basics, off-grid, family adventure camp. Bring your own tent or campervan, book a ready-to-go tent or stay in a bunk rooms with breakfast included. Book your own activities or book the all-inclusive camp, Camp Bigfoot. 

Rock Outdoors

Try caving, climbing or abseiling with Rock Outdoors, based in Burrington Combe in North Somerset.

Channel Adventure

Hire a paddle board, kayak or canoe at Channel Adventure at the Centre for Outdoor Activity & Community Hub (COACH) based in French Weir Park, Taunton. Lessons are available too.

Also, located in Minehead – skateboard, bike, scooter bodyboard, SUP hire.

Laser Assault, Bruton

Fun for all ages, this is a fast-paced laser action outdoor activity at Laser Assault.

Wall Eden Adventure, Highbridge

The perfect place to visit for an action-packed day with your loved ones, with our wide range of adventure activities. Try archery, axe throwing, air rifle shooting, kayaking, canoeing or paddle boarding.

Inflatable Theme Park, Long Ashton

Inflatable Theme Park at Gatcombe Farm Shop, Long Ashton. With some of England’s biggest and best bouncy castles. £9/wristband for all day unlimited use.

Things To Do May Half Term In Somerset With Kids: Indoor Activity Centres in Somerset

Laser Combat, Avonmouth

Create some memories and enjoy an action-packed laser combat game with your friends and family. Kids aged 6+ will love the multi level arena where they can burn off some energy while they play out their favourite computer game. There’s a cafe on site and free parking.

Parks and Gardens in Somerset:

• The Walled Gardens of Cannington, Bridgwater
• Royal Victoria Park, Bath
• Salthouse Fields, Clevedon
• Hestercombe Gardens
• Ashton Court (edge of Bristol)
• Walled Garden, Mells
• Portishead Lake Grounds
• Yeovil County Park/Ninespring Lake
• Blaise Castle Estate

Ham Hill Country Park

There are lots of activities this May Half Term at Ham Hill Country Park.

Rampart Ramble – Tuesday 28th May 2024, 10.00 am – 12.00 pm

There’s fun and games for all the family. Ramble across the ramparts and hear some of the terrible tales from Ham Hill’s horrendous history. Have a go at clay modelling and create a coil pot to take home with you. 

Aimed at families with children aged 5 – 12. All children must be accompanied by an adult (accompanying adults free max 2 adult per child).

Cost £6.00 per child

Booking essential – To book please email countryside@somerset.gov.uk

Fossil Fun – Thursday 30th May 2024, 10.00 am to 11.30 am.

Step back in time and discover the amazing fossils that have been found at Ham Hill.  Make your own beautiful fossils from clay, try casting your own seashell fossil using plaster of Paris to remind you of your visit, learn about some of the prehistoric plants that still grow at Ham Hill today, and create beautiful pictures to take home with you.

Aimed at families with children aged 4-9. All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times, accompanying adult free (max 2 adults per child). Cost £6.00 per child.

Booking essential – To book please email countryside@somerset.gov.uk

Days Out With Kids In Somerset: Museums in Somerset

Fleet Air Arm Museum, Yeovilton

The Fleet Air Arm Museum is a must-see attraction with its wide range of helicopters and fixed wing aircraft exhibits, some of which date back over 100 years.  Visit during May Half Term for a birthday bash to celebrate The Fleet Air Arm Museum’s 60th Birthday.

Balloon Bonanza,  27th and 28th May

Join balloon artist David Croft underneath Concorde between 10:30 and 12:30, and 13:00-15:00 to see a giant balloon Concorde. Visitors can also take home their own balloon aircraft!

Build your own aircraft,  29th – 31st May

Join the team from Brick Ideas under Concorde all day, to make your own brick aircraft from the museum’s past, present or future. 

Weston Helicopter Museum, Weston super Mare

See the largest collection of helicopters and other rotar craft in the world, with over 80 military and civilian craft currently on show. All exhibits are on display in an all weather undercover hangar. See the website for prices, current opening days/times and special events. Check the website for Open Cockpit Days, usually held at least once a month, or book a helicopter flight.

Haynes Motor Museum, Yeovil

Big Kids Toys Week

From Monday 27th May to Sunday 2nd June, the British Motor Show will be at the Museum with a selection of fun family activities. Race with a super-sized Scalextric, try out the Sega Rally simulator and take a look at the iconic British Motor Show Mustang!

Outdoor Car Displays
The outdoor car displays are back for May Half Term! Marvel at some of the Museum’s motors as they come to life in a parade around the paddock. 

Watchet Boat Museum/Market House Museum/The Radio Museum, Watchet

There are three (free) museums in Watchet, all just a stones throw from each other. In the Market House Museum you will find an exhibition of the town’s history, including fossils, the Saxon Mint, sailing ships, mines, railways and industrial and social history. Watchet Boat Museum celebrates the history of Flatner boats, a local flat bottomed boat with no keel designed to navigate the Bristol Channel. There are interactive exhibits for children with a flatner play boat, ships wheel and navigation, pulleys and weights and children’s trails and activity sheets. The Radio Museum tells the story of radio and broadcasting in Britain since the 1920s. It houses an extensive collection of radios, televisions, broadcasting equipment.

Somerset Rural Life Museum, Glastonbury

Situated just below Glastonbury Tor, the Somerset Rural Life Museum is a unique heritage attraction on the site of the former Abbey Farm. Here you can explore rural life from the 1800s onwards and discover more about the county’s heritage. The farmhouse and former farm buildings are home to a series of galleries. There is also a farmyard and orchard to explore. The magnificent 14th-century Abbey Barn is one of the West Country’s finest buildings.

During May half term drop in to the museum for a week of creative fun inspired by their current exhibition, Somerset Printmakers. There’ll be printing activities designed for children using all sorts of techniques and materials to explore their creativity.

Wells and Mendip Museum, Wells

The Wells and Mendip Museum brings to life the natural history and heritage of Wells and the Mendip region.

READ MORE: A Guide to visiting Wells in Somerset

Somerset Brick and Tile Museum, Bridgwater 

Weston Museum, Weston super Mare

Visit Weston Museum (FREE) to discover the history of Weston super Mare and the surrounding area, from prehistoric times to the present day. There are four main galleries: geology, archaeology, art and social history. During school holidays there are children’s activities and workshops, plus there are visiting exhibitions throughout the year. Check out the up-coming events.

• Tuesday 28th and Wednesday 29th May 2024 – Nature Art Family Drop In Sessions
• Thursday 30th May 2024 – Beaded Keyring Workshop (£5)

Oakham Treasures

Oakham Farm, Portbury Lane, Portbury, Bristol BS20 7SP

Step back in time when you visit Oakham Treasures, and see the Aladdin’s Cave of memorabilia dedicated to the history of farming and retail. There are lots of artefacts from everyday household items, clothing, agriculture, vintage cars and motorbikes, shops and more. There is a cafe on site too. Check website for prices and opening times.  If you’re visiting on holiday, there is even a campsite here where you can stay.

The American Museum and Gardens, Bath

Best Beaches in Somerset

For a relatively cheap day out with the children, consider one of Somerset’s lovely beaches. If the sun is shining you can’t beat a day out at the seaside.

• Weston Beach, WsM

• Clevedon Beach or Ladye Bay

• Uphill Beach, Weston super Mare

• Burnham Beach, Burnham on Sea

• Berrow Beach

• Brean Beach or Brean Down (NT)

• Sand Bay, WsM

• Blue Anchor Bay, Minehead

• Kilve Beach  – great for fossil hunting

• St Audries Bay, Taunton

May Half Term rainy Day Activity: Indoor Soft Play in Somerset

If the British weather lets us down, the best option is to head to an indoor soft play centre. We’ve listed a few here.

• Ocean Adventurers, Cheddar

• Space Adventurers, Taunton

• Safari Tots, Somerton

• Hullabaloo Soft Play Centre, Shepton Mallet

• Brean Play, Brean

• Jungle Run Soft Play at Cadbury Garden Centre Congresbury

• Jump n Jackz, Weston super Mare

• Little Town Adventures, Weston super Mare