Things to do with kids during May Half Term in Somerset

Barrington Court, Illminster

Falconry Display – Friday 29th May 2026

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!

• Tuesday 26th May 2026, 11:00 – 15:00
• Wednesday 27th May 2026, 11:00 – 15:00

Included in admission price.

Stourhead 

Half Term Scavenger Hunt

When: Monday 11th May – Sunday 31st May 2026

Pick up a spring scavenger hunt sheet at Visitor Reception on your way in and see what you can discover as you explore the garden (the route is fully accessible for walkers, wheelchair users and tramper users).

May Play Days

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.

Don’t miss out on the 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.

Fyne Court, Bridgwater

Broomfield, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA5 2EQ

When: Tuesday 26th May 2026, 10.00am – 2.00pm.

Doggy Drop In – Family Session with the RSPCA

Bring the whole family (and your canine companions!) along to the Doggy Drop In at Fyne Court for a relaxed, welcoming day celebrating dogs and responsible pet care.

Meet Gemma from the RSPCA’s outreach team, find out more about dog welfare, local walks and enjoy fun, family friendly craft activities. Take on our doggy sensory trail in the beautiful surroundings of Fyne Court.

There are several family-friendly walking trails at Fyne Court – the Woodland Hill Circular Walk (1.8 miles), the Fyne Court Wildlife Walk (1.5 miles) and the Fyne Court Pink Trail (1 mile).

Free to enter but paid parking for non NT members.

Where to see Animals: May Half Term in Somerset

Wild Place Project

Join in this May half-term for Shaun the Sheep Wildlife Mission – save wildlife and protect our natural world while you play, explore and discover!

• Solve the challenges

• Collect your stamps

• Scan your Conservation Kit

• Complete the Mission

As part of Aardman’s 50th Anniversary celebrations, join Shaun on a NEW trail.

Find REAL wildlife conservation challenges with Wallace & Gromit, Feathers McGraw, Timmy and friends.

When: Saturday 23rd May – Sunday 31st May 2026

Puxton Park – Unicorns and Creepy Crawlies

Visit Puxton Park for an unforgettable family adventure during May Half Term! 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.

• Unicorn Meet & Greets
• Creepy Crawlies Encounters
• Daily Entertainment
• Fun Attractions for Everyone – from outdoor adventures to indoor play areas

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 23rd May – Sunday 31st May 2026.

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.

• Enjoy their animated show
• Follow the interactive dinosaur trail

• 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.

NEW for May Half Term – Animal Barn & Digger Depot.

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 7th June 2026 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 except Tuesday. 

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.

Early Bird Discount: Get 10% off gate prices when you  book five full days in advance.

Ferne Animal Santuary, Chard

Wildlife Day at Ferne 

When: Monday 25th May 2026, 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.

Reduced entry fee.(They are a charity so please support them if you can).

RSPB Ham Wall – Half Term Events

Spring Guided Walks at RSPB Ham Wall

When:

Friday 22nd May 2026, 10am – 12.30pm

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

Booking is essential – these are ticket only events.
Advance booking only. 

Somerset Wildlife Trust 

Nettlecombe Family Fun Day

When: Sunday 31st May 2026, 10:00am – 4:00pm

Location: Nettlecombe Court, Nettlecombe Court, The Leonard Wills Field Centre, Williton, Taunton, TA4 4HT

Families can enjoy a river dipping session which will be a drop-in activity alongside the other workshops, speakers and crafts. Activities are aimed at children aged 3-11.

The Royal Bath and West Show

Thursday 28th May – Saturday 30th May 2026

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.

27th, 30th, 31st May – Steam Train 

Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton

Dinosaur Day

When: Sunday 24th May 2026

Queen Mary Brake Van Rides

When: Monday 25th May 2026

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 30th May and Sunday 31st May 2026.

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!

Price: A table of 4 is £40. Pair of seats £20.

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: Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th May 2026.

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 with Cedric the Dragon

When: Sunday 7th June 2026.

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. For a full guide, read our post Things to do in Bristol with kids, for the best family attractions and day out ideas.

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. 

• Brean Down is also featured in our guide to the best family walks in Weston-super-Mare, where we share more easy and scenic routes nearby.

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 Tuesday 26th May to Wednesday 17th June 2026. 

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 pensioners 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.

For our experience of the Waverley, read our post​ A Trip on the Waverley Paddle Steamer, which will give you a good idea of what to expect.

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.

Now, there is a new sauna by the lake, book here.

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 23rd May to 31st May 2026, 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 – Mission Floralia

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 a brand-new family trail (included in your ticket). Take part in interactive challenges to help the Romans get ready for the ancient festival of Floralia, in honour of the goddess Flora. Make paper flower crowns and sunflowers, try your hand at ancient games and even meet Flora as she prepares for her festival, Floralia.

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 (2026)

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

• Monday 25th May and Wednesday 27th May – Discover Glastonbury Stories, from 1pm–4pm, families are invited to step into the shoes of a medieval pilgrim using the Glastonbury Stories App accompanied by a hands‑on outdoor activity.

• Tuesday 26th May 2026 – Butterfly Strings, 11am – 1pm, Abbey Museum. Have fun designing beautiful paper butterfly strings using colourful paper, twine, and a variety of craft decorations.

• Thursday 28th May 2026 – Wildflower Seed Balls. 11am to 1pm. Get creative and help support local wildlife by making your own bee-friendly seed balls using compost and wildflower seeds. Take them home to plant in your garden or flowerpots, then watch as your flowers bloom and attract busy bees collecting nectar.

• 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

Saturday 23rd May – Sunday 31st May 2026

Butterfly Trail & Creative Crafts

​This May half term, explore Hestercombe Gardens with a fun and family-friendly activity trail inspired by butterflies and the beauty of nature in spring.

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.

Crafts will be available in Hestercombe House throughout the half term week.

Price:

• Butterfly Trail £1 per person
• Children: Free entry to the gardens
• Adults: Standard garden admission applies

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 £6.50/Adult; £4.00/Children amd £17/Family (up to 3 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

Grand Pier K-Pop Week

When: Saturday 23rd May – Sunday 31st May 2026

Come along to The Grand Pier for the school holidays for all your favourite rides and arcade games PLUS a bit of K-Pop magic!

• FREE face painting
• FREE K-Pop Pier Hunters game to play and win a free treat
• Party Peeps bring their high energy, interactive sing along sessions for all ages with games, demon hunter challenges, dance offs and k-pop karaoke games. Find them every day – between 12.30pm-1.30pm and 2pm-3pm
• Meet our Dino and K-pop characters
• Unlimited Ride Wristbands from just £15

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 on Friarn Avenue, Bridgwater. 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. £10/wristband for all day unlimited use. Foe Children age 2-14 only.

Open 10am to 5pm daily.

Open every weekend in May and every day during half term.

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.

Axe Throwing

Saturday 23rd May, 10:00-16:00

your hand at Axe-Throwing with the experts from Adventure Bound.

No booking required, just show up and pay at the till. £3 per person. Adults and Children Welcome. Children under 9 can also join in, with plastic axes provided. 9 and older can use real axes! All children must be supervised by an adult. Located right by the Ham Hill Visitor’s Centre.

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. 

Step into the Boots of a Second World War Corsair Pilot This May Half Term! (26th to 30th May 2025)

Join Martin from Martin’s Heritage World for an unforgettable, immersive journey back to the Second World War. Dressed in full pilot uniform, Martin brings history to life as he guides you through the daring world of a Corsair fighter pilot. 

Through captivating storytelling, you’ll experience what it was truly like to fly into history during one of the world’s most pivotal moments. 

Performances take place Monday – Friday at 11:00, 12:30, and 14:00, with opportunities between shows to get hands on with equipment and dive deeper into the life and legacy of these incredible Fleet Air Arm aviators.

This event is free with a valid museum ticket. 

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.

Saturday 24th May – Clevedon Cars and Copters Mega Transport Event

Sunday 1st June – Heli-Kids Day: The day the kids take over the Museum!! Enjoy an interactive day for our younger visitors including a character hunt, touch and feel exhibit tables, colouring stations, children’s bespoke tours, open cockpits, heli-craft tables and the chance to try on pilots helmets.

Haynes Motor Museum, Yeovil

Monday 26th May to Sunday 1st June 2025

• 10am – 5:30pm
• Brand New Family Trail

Details to follow.

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.

Home Front Heroines

Saturday 24th May 2025 – Sunday 1st June 2025

During May half term drop in to the museum for their Home Front Heroine trail which will transport you back to wartime Britain.

This May half term is inspired by their exhibition ‘Strength and Resilience: Somerset Women in the Second World War‘. Take part in the special trail and explore our activity stations where you will find out about the remarkable roles women in Somerset had during the Second World War. 

Will you be a Spitfire builder, map maker, courageous codebreaker or land army recruit?

Find out which role you are most suited to and then join for the activity stations in May Half Term to test your skills for real.

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 

Play with Clay

• Tuesday 27th May – Bugs

  Make a snail out of clay to be fired in the kiln, then build a bug hotel for your garden. Suitable for ages 3+ Booking is essential, £4

• Thursday 29th May – Victorian Worker’s Day 

  Make a mini brick and experience life as a Victorian child. Dress up like a Victorian and we’ll put you to work. Suitable for ages 6+ Booking is essential, £4

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.

• Saturday 24th May 2025 @ 10:00 am -1.00pm
  

  Mini Beasts Bathbomb Workshop

• Saturday May 24th, Tuesday 27th – Saturday 31st, 2025 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Designing Terry Pratchett’s Discworld – 30 Years of Paul Kidby’s Illustrations
• Saturday May 31st @ 10:00 am – 2.30pm
  

  Circus Skills Workshop

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

• Brean Play, Brean

• Jungle Run Soft Play at Cadbury Garden Centre Congresbury

• Jump n Jackz, Weston super Mare

• Little Town Adventures, Weston super Mare