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Durham Park, National Trust

Things to do with kids during May Half Term in Somerset

May half term nearly upon us. If you’re planning your family days out in and around Somerset and Bristol, here is what’s on in Somerset.

Having grown up in Somerset, and now with three children of my own, it’s been fun sharing my favourite places with them and discovering new places of our own to explore.

Somerset has so much to offer families, whether you live here and you’re looking for inspiration, or you’re visiting while on holiday, the possibilities are endless! With hopefully lots of sunny days ahead, we have plenty of outdoor activities and places to go. 

Famed for its rural villages, market towns, and historic cities, Somerset has so many day trip options. 

Here is our local’s guide to the best family day’s out and What’s On in Somerset for May half term.

Table of Contents - Tap to jump to a section

The best days out in Somerset

Caves in Somerset:

Wookey Hole 

Explore the vast underground chambers of Wookey Hole’s cave system and meet the legendary witch of Wookey Hole. Walk through the Enchanted Valley, have a game of Adventure Golf, visit the paper making museum, watch the Wookey Hole circus school and play the vintage penny machines. There’s soft play, 4D cinema and a cafe for lunch.

Cheddar Gorge and Show Caves

Wildlife Wonders – Spring has arrived in Cheddar Gorge, the flowers are blooming and the wildlife is thriving! This May half term, you’re invited to go wild for wildlife and join in the fun and informative week where you’ll learn about the wonderful wildlife in Cheddar that call the gorge their home. All included in the admission price. There’s daily talks and demonstrations on how to make a bird feeder from upcycled household items. Plus, arts and crafts and special pop up events:

  • Live Bee Hive Station courtesy of Burnham and Bee District Keepers – Wednesday 29th May 2024 and Saturday 1st June.
  • Owl Encounter courtesy of Owl Enlightment – Saturday 25th May.

Cheddar Gorge

READ MORE: Cheddar Gorge Circular Walk

What’s on in Somerset May Half Term: National Trust Properties:

Tyntesfield House and Estate, Wraxall

There is plenty for families around the estate at Tyntesfield. As well as the house, gardens and parkland there is the woodland adventure play, home farm play area, pavilion play area and sculpture trail. 

Craft a colourful bird this May Hal Term

Inspired by ‘Echoes from the Aviary’; a sound and collage installation filling Tyntesfield’s aviary this spring, have a go at creating your own colourful collaged birds in this free family drop in.

Dunster Castle, Dunster

May Half Term Trail – Saturday 25th May – Sunday 2nd June 2024

Step into the past and prepare for a great feast in the 1400s. Follow the trail, complete activities, answer questions and learn what food and festivities were like in the past!

£3 per trail, prize included.

 
Dunster Castle
Dunster Castle, Somerset

READ MORE: A Family Day Out in Dunster, Somerset 

 

Montacute House, Montacute

See and hear history come to life with the Taunton Garrison – Wednesday 29th May – Saturday 1st June 2024

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.

Barrington Court, Illminster

Falconry Displays – Wednesday 29th May 2024

Join Xtreme Falconry for two impressive flying displays on the South Lawn

  • 11:30 – 12:00
  • 14:30 – 15:00

Ranger Activities

Join the ranger team for their guided drop-in ‘visiteering’ activities. You could help to build benches for History Shed, or try your hand at making bird feeders and barn owl boxes. A great day out for the family, working together to build for Barrington’s future.

  • Tuesday 28th May 2024, 11:00 – 15:00
  • Thursday 30th May 2024, 11:00 – 15:00

Included in admission price.

Stourhead 

Half Term Heroes – Saturday 25th May – Sunday 2nd June 2024

Come along to the Stableyard this May half-term and learn how to become a climate superhero. Children can discover ways they can protect the planet, learn about what Stourhead does to tackle climate change and enjoy plenty of outdoor games and play.

  • Buzz-tastic bee balancing blundershow – a new, educational family-friendly musical designed to inspire young people to engage with environmental action – 1pm 2nd June 2024

Stourhead National Trust

Dyrham Park 

May Half Term Animal Antics – Friday 24th May to Sunday 2nd June 2024

Activities to get families out and active in the great outdoors – crawl like a caterpillar, wriggle like a worm, hop like a bunny and leap like a frog this May half term at Dyrham Park.

Dyrham Park, House (National Trust)

Prior Park, Bath

Endangered Animal Trail – Saturday 25th May until Sunday 2nd June 2024

Have fun this half term by finding the hidden animals and guessing which endangered species they are. Explore the gardens and find eight endangered species, read the clue and see if you can work out what they are. You’ll also be able to read a bit about the work that’s been happening at other National Trust locations to help reintroduce or protect the environment for these species.

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. We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Trail is also on!

Puxton Park

Visit Puxton Park for an unforgettable family adventure during May Half Term! There is a spectacular lineup of daily entertainment, designed to keep the entire family entertained. From captivating shows to interactive experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Court Farm

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 for PYO tulips, see the farm animals, straw pool, indoor soft play and play barn cafe.

Animal Farm Adventure Park

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

Avon Valley Adventure Wildlife Park

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. 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 and keeper talks. 

North Somerset Bird of Prey Centre, Congresbury

Visit the North Somerset Bird of Prey Centre during the Open Day on Sunday 2nd June 2024 and other dates throughout the year. See over 60 resident birds of prey, exotic mammals and reptiles.

Palette and Pasture, nr Frome 

Palette and Pasture Round 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 is also an ice cream parlour, inflatables (weather dependent), ride ons, some animals and sand play. Open every day during half term. 

Somerset Sheep Trekking

Visit a working farm for this truly unique, family friendly farm experience. Meet our 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.

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

May Celebration at Ferne – Monday 27th May 2024

This half term at Ferne Animal Sanctuary there is pond dipping, wildlife photography stands, spot the frog, den building and more. Discover the rescue animals, animal talks and a wildlife walk.

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

Tractor at Ferne Animal Sanctuary

RSPB Ham Wall – Half Term Events

Dragonfly and damselfly guided walk – Saturday 25th May 2024

Join a walk around RSPB Ham Wall as you see how many different dragonflies and damselflies you can spot, whilst learning more about their life cycle and behaviours.

Booking essential

Suitable for age 10+

Family Pond Dipping – Sunday 2nd June 2024

This is a fun activity aimed at exploring our pond habitat and the different creatures which live there.

This event is aimed at families with children aged between 5-12 years. Each time-slot booking is for 1 child and up to 1 adult (aged 18 years and over) to pond dip for 45 minutes. An adult can supervise a maximum of 2 children.

Somerset Wildlife Trust 

Taunton Wildlife Watch 2:00pm – 4:00pm

Pond dipping – You’ll be learning about the wonderful world of ponds and taking a look at what you can find in them! Ages 6-12 (with an accompanying adult). Donation of £2 per child. Booking is essential.

Burnham and Highbridge Eco Festival

Saturday 1st June 2024, 1.00 pm – 4.00 pm

Come along to Apex Park for this annual celebration of environmental and sustainability groups and actions in Highbridge and Burnham-on-Sea. A great event for all the family and all activities are free! Hosted by Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge Town Council, there will be stalls, activities and music!

Somerset Wildlife Trust will be running pond dipping, willow-weaving (limited spaces – book on arrival) and nature trails as well as launching the Community Climate Adaptation Plan for the towns. There will also be Gruffalo Walks, Tai Chi in the Park and more!

The Royal Bath and West Show

Thursday 30th May 2024 – Saturday 1st June 2024

Join the Royal Bath & West Showground this half term for a Great British family day out!

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND OTHER SOMERSET SHOWS, READ: The Best Agricultural Shows and Country Fairs in Somerset

Steam Trains and Heritage Railways in Somerset:

West Somerset Railway

Visit the longest heritage railway in England. Take a trip on the historic steam trains through the Somerset countryside between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead.

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.

Birds of Prey Day – 25th May 2024

Whistlestop Cream Team For Two (including unlimited train rides) – 25th, 29th, 1st, 2nd June

Somerset and Dorset Railway, Midsomer Norton

26th, 27th, 29th May 2024

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 on their standard service which runs from 10.00 am, with the last train at 3.00 pm. 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. You can stop for refreshments at the buffet carriage, check out their second-hand book shop and model railway.

Avon Valley Railway, Bitton 

On Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd June 2024, 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 half price this weekend too! They’re just £3.50 for anyone aged 4 – 15.

Yeovil Railway Centre

Steam Train Day on Sunday 26th May and 2nd June. 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.

Diesel Train Day on Tuesday 28th May

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.

The Royal Crescent in Bath

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.

The Bishop's Palace and Moat 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.

 

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 or stay over. There’s lots to do including fairground rides, pool and restaurants.

Brean Splash Park

Kids pools, indoor swimming & thrill rides at a family theme park with a lazy river & splash zones.

Brean Theme Park

Visit this seaside entertainment centre with fairground rides, water park, golf course and family restaurants. Experience over 40 attractions including indoor and outdoor Roller Coasters, Wild Water Log Flume, Dodgems, and Crazy Boats. From White Knuckle rides to more gentle Tots rides, there really is something for all ages.

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)

Waverley Paddle Steamer at Clevedon Pier - May Half Term, Somerset

Step aboard the world’s last sea-going paddle steamer. The Bristol Channel sailings run between Friday 31st May to Sunday 23rd June 2024.

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

Bring your own, or hire a paddle board on the Marine Lake in Clevedon. You’re also welcome to swim, bring your canoe, inflatables and model boats.

Paddle boarding on Marine Lake in Clevedon


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

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.

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

Crazy Golf in Somerset:

 

Cheddar Crazy Golf

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

Pirate Adventure Land Crazy 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 crazy golf course, with a stylish kitchen and bar.  Current prices are £6/adults, £4 children and £5/concessions. 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. 

Read our Guide to The Best Water Parks and Outdoor Pools in Somerset.

Historic Buildings in Somerset:

Half Term at The Roman Baths

A Roman Writing Tablet – Monday 27th May 2024 to 31st May 2024

As part of your visit to the Roman Baths this May half-term, make a Roman writing tablet from plasticine and card (included in your Roman Baths ticket or free to Discovery Card holders).

Closer to History Spring Event – Meet costumed characters, take part in fun trails around the Baths, children’s audio guide and pick up their new children’s activity book.

Glastonbury Tor and Abbey

Glastonbury Tor, a National Trust site, is free to visit for the whole family. It’s one of the best things to do in Somerset!

path up to Glastonbury Tor

Glastonbury Abbey Summer Open Day – Saturday 1st June 2024

The Glastonbury Abbey Summer Open Day is FREE entry from midday to 8pm featuring live music on the main stage, arts and crafts market, street food and more. 

READ MORE: Things to do in Glastonbury, Somerset

Hestercombe House and Gardens, near Taunton

Ugly Bug Ball Trail – 25th May  – 2nd June 2024

Can you name all of the critters in our ‘Ugly Bug Ball’ trail around Rook Wood? Complete the trail sheet and claim your prize! (Included with standard garden admission)

Discover interactive magnetic images of some of our favourite minibeasts – with a twist. Dress them up in some fun outfits and get them ready for the ball!

Ford Abbey House and Gardens, Chard

The gardens alone are worth a visit, with the ponds, great fountain and arboretum to explore. The Abbey interior is a wonderful mix of restored monastic rooms and elegant staterooms. Restoration work in 1991 revealed a wall painting dating to the period 1270-1320. This is thought to be one of the oldest Cistercian paintings in England. 

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 and look out over the Bristol Channel to Wales.

Clevedon Beach and Pier - Where to go in May Half Term in Somerset

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

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. 

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 Activity Centre - Things to do in May Half Term, Somerset

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.

Indoor Activity Centres:

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

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 MuseumBridgwater 

Play with Clay, Tuesday 28th May

Make a name plaque or free-standing initials out of clay.

Wetlands Activity Day, Thursday 30 May

Join in a series of fun activities exploring Somerset’s wonderful wetland habitats.  There will be lots of fun activities including a chance to design and make a wetlands-themed badge.

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

Kids’ Pottery Workshop, 28th May (1 hour slots)

Explore the wonderful world of pottery and experience using the potter’s wheel as well as hand-building with clay. Each child can make two pottery items in an hour-long creative session with Maisie from The Touring Potter. 

Kids’ Play in a Day Theatre Workshop, 29th May 9.30am – 4.30pm

Join The Last Baguette theatre company for an exciting, dynamic and fun theatre workshop all about American innovators! Kids between 6-11 years old can create their own scenes and stories, learn about important American innovations, and perform the play they co-create in front of an invited audience at the end of the day.

Drop-off for the workshop is at 9.30am and the workshop will finish at 3.30pm, when you are invited to watch the children’s performance in the Stables.

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)

Brean Down

  • Sand Bay, WsM
  • Blue Anchor Bay, Minehead
  • Kilve Beach  – great for fossil hunting

  • St Audries Bay, Taunton

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.

  • Hullabaloo Soft Play Centre, Shepton Mallet

 

Please note, every effort has been made to ensure that all information is correct at the time of publishing this post, but please check the venues website before travelling, as events may be amended or cancelled at short notice. Many of these events will need pre-booking.

 

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