30 Top Family Adventures for Half-Term Across the UK

Approaching half-term swiftly, yet no concrete plans as of now? No worries! The United Kingdom offers these exciting new day trips that promise to engage the entire family (while hopefully tiring out the younger members too).

Get ready for an abundance of enjoyment with exciting new amusement park attractions, along with a visit to the planetarium and a miniature treetop adventure.

MIDLANDS

Close Encounters at Twycross Zoo, Leicestershire

Get up close with some of the world’s most endangered and extraordinary creatures in a brand-new indoor experience at Twycross Zoo. Home to more than 13 rare species, come face-to-face with an electric-blue tarantula, panther chameleons and a Chinese crocodile lizard, while learning about vital conservation work, from global breeding programmes to species reintroductions. Adults £26.95, children £19.75, includes one year of access, twycrosszoo.org

The Toxicator at Alton Towers, Staffordshire

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Introducing The Toxicator, the newest adrenaline-pumping attraction at Alton Towers' renowned list of rides. theme park The thrilling ride features heart-stopping drops, intense twists, and high-speed somersaults, making it an adrenaline-packed experience for all daring enough to take on its challenges. However, fear not thrill-seekers; visitors can choose from a variety of attractions suitable for different ages and levels of courage throughout the park—from leisurely family-friendly options to water-soaked escapades. Admission starts at £29 per adult when booked online, with children below 90cm admitted for free. altontowers.com

The planetarium located at Sherwood Observatory in Nottinghamshire

A newly unveiled £6.8 million planetarium has been inaugurated at Sherwood Observatory in Sutton-in-Ashfield, providing visitors with an enthralling voyage into space. Immerse yourself in breathtaking panoramic displays of the nighttime sky, delve into far-off galactic realms, and learn about our methods for observing the universe. Featuring state-of-the-art technology and live-updating presentations, stargazing It's an exhilarating tribute to space, science, and exploration. Adults pay £7.50, children £6, and those under 3 go for free. sherwood-observatory.org.uk

Summer of Music, Shropshire

Shrewsbury's stunning 29-acre parkland known as The Quarry, surrounded by the grand curve of the River Severn, will come alive this summer with an array of musical genres including brass, folk, jazz, classical, and oompah-pah for free through the city's inaugural series of regular bandstand concerts. Visitors can relish picnics during Sunday afternoons while enjoying live tunes and exploring the riverside area and gardens. These events run until August 31st at no cost. visitshropshire.co.uk/summer-in-quarry-park-your-ultimate-guide-to-whats-on-in-shrewsbury

EAST

Summertime Evenings at Hertfordshire Zoo, Hertfordshire

Join us for an exclusive after-hour visit at the zoo to witness lions, reptiles, and exotic birds bathed in the enchanting light of dusk each Saturday night throughout June. These special nights will offer you a taste of authentic Indian street cuisine, refreshing summertime beverages, performances by stilt walkers, fun-filled face-painting activities, as well as lively musical and dancing acts. Additionally, more than forty lifelike animatronic dinosaurs will be brought to life during these events. Tickets start at £16; children under two years old enter for free until the end of June. hertfordshirezoo.com

Leo’s Adventure in the Jungle at Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach, Norfolk

Set right on Great Yarmouth Located in Miami's picturesque South Beach, this iconic amusement park has been providing family entertainment for more than a century. It features vintage attractions and heart-pounding roller coasters for those craving excitement, along with the newly introduced Leo’s Jungle Journey—a thrilling safari-themed attraction inspired by the park’s cherished mascot. This includes a bouncy jungle bus designed specifically for young adventurers. Admission prices are $26 for adults, $19 for children aged three to six years, and $10 for kids under three years old. pleasure-beach.co.uk

NORTHWEST

Stories – Brought to Life, Manchester

Enter an innovative immersive art exhibition inspired by the National Portrait Gallery, where you can uncover the remarkable tales of some of the UK's most distinguished personalities. This includes royals, cultural legends, pioneers, and national idols. David Bowie , Jane Austen, Queen Elizabeth II, and Ncuti Gatwa – explore how these individuals helped shape the nation’s history and culture, all within a bespoke 10,000 sq ft purpose-built digital gallery. Until 31 August then touring the UK, adults from £26.95, children from £16.95, npgunframed.com

Samlesbury Hall Food & Drink Festival, Lancashire

Two days of cooking classes, tasting sessions and live entertainment await at the inaugural food and drink festival at the 700-year-old Samlesbury Hall in Preston. As well as showcasing Lancashire’s finest food and drink producers, the estate will open its manor, gardens and playgrounds – and reveal the stories that earned the property its reputation as one of England’s most haunted houses. There will also be a special ‘Dinner with Dickens ’ event on 6 June, featuring live performances of his writings that may have been inspired by his stay at the hall in 1867. 7-8 June, free entry, samlesburyhall.co.uk

NORTHEAST

Unicorn Splash Park at the North Yorkshire Water Park, located in North Yorkshire

Beat the heat this summer with an enchanting new attraction showcasing three massive inflatable unicorns—the world's tallest included. Enjoy bouncing, sliding, or make a thrilling 5-meter splash into the lake at this Scarborough location. For those who want to avoid getting wet, try activities like axe throwing, archery, bushcraft, or check out their latest addition: laser tag. Entry starts from £16. northyorkshirewaterpark.co.uk

Miffy's 70th Anniversary Celebration at Leeds City Museum, Yorkshire

The beloved children's character Miffy celebrates her 70th anniversary this year, and to commemorate the event, Leeds City Museum has introduced an enchanting interactive exhibit open to visitors of all ages. The display includes artwork that is seldom exhibited. Miffy’s The creator, Dick Bruna, presents an exhibit that merges nostalgic showcases with interactive experiences to honor seven decades of this beloved small rabbit character. Additionally, on Saturday, June 28th, there will be a special family fun day featuring face painting and opportunities to meet Miffy. The event runs until September 7th and admission is free. museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk

Hull Maritime City, East Yorkshire

The historic maritime district of Hull is set to undergo significant renovations, with staged unveilings scheduled across 2025. Key attractions will feature the reinstatement of the Spurn Lightship, an essential beacon that assisted ships navigating the treacherous waters of the River Humber for almost fifty years, as well as the Arctic Corsair—a renowned deep-sea fishing vessel frequently referred to as "Hull's" own. Cutty Sark Additionally, Queens Gardens, a key green area in the center that is presently getting an extensive makeover, plans to reopen soon. Throughout the spring and summer seasons, numerous guided tours and discussions will also take place. maritimehull.co.uk

The National Science and Media Museum located in Bradford

Created to motivate aspiring scientists and inventors, the recently renovated museum now includes two new permanent exhibitions highlighting esteemed collections in photography, film, and television. It also boasts three cinema screens along with interactive displays. Admission is free. scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk

S&DR200, County Durham

In honor of Railway 200 — an illustrious event commemorating 200 years since the advent of the contemporary railway era — the Stockton and Darlington Railway is organizing S&DR200, a lively festival celebrating the roots and prospects of train transportation. Spanning throughout the Tees Valley, this festivity will showcase exhibits, musical performances, and engaging art installations, vividly recounting the railroad’s narrative through innovative and surprising presentations. Visitors will also get the opportunity to explore the heritage of the famous 26-mile route from Shildon to Stockton on September 27, 1825—a turning point that revolutionized transportation worldwide. This will be available for free until November 2025. sdr200.co.uk

WALES

Small Voyage at Zip World, Conwy

Introducing a miniature tree-top adventure course tailored for toddlers between two and five years old, aimed at boosting their self-assurance and motor skills within an enjoyable and secure environment. Located merely 1.4 meters off the ground, Tiny Trek comprises 17 components such as tunnels, pathways, and small ziplines. Caregivers have the option to accompany them throughout the experience, providing assistance and motivation. The cost is £10. zipworld.co.uk

Summertime Evenings at Caldicot Castle and Country Park, Monmouthshire

Experience a memorable weekend of live performances inside the ancient walls of Caldicot Castle as part of the new concert series. Summer Nights In its first year, the stage will kick off with Razorlight , The Levellers, and Squeeze, along with emerging Welsh talents, will be featured in an amazing summer performance from August 1st to 3rd. Adult tickets cost £60.75. myticket.co.uk/artists/caldicot-summer-nights

LONDON

V&A East Storehouse, Stratford

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Designed specifically to accommodate over 1,000 exhibits and an impressive collection exceeding 250,000 artifacts, the V&A East Storehouse offers a novel type of visitor experience. Patrons will have exclusive access to understand the internal operations of this significant cultural entity, delving into processes like acquisitions, curation, and preservation backstage. Starting in September, it will further serve as the location for the David Bowie Centre, which houses over 80,000 pieces honoring the career and impact of the legendary musician. Admission is complimentary beginning from May 31st. vam.ac.uk

The Peter Rabbit Adventure at Hampton Court Palace in Richmond

Peter Rabbit is heading over to Hampton Court Palace for a family adventure that merges the vast gardens with the whimsical stories of Beatrix Potter’s imaginary creatures. Join forces with Peter and his buddies as they tackle riddles, fix the Tailor of Gloucester’s jacket, and slip into Mr. McGregor’s vegetable patch—all while wandering through the magnificent surroundings of the Tudor palace. From 25 July to 7 September, adult tickets start at £28, children’s tickets begin at £14, and those under five go free. hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace

Spyscape, Covent Garden

Embrace your inner James Bond as you dive into the thrilling realm of espionage. Developed with insights from actual intelligence experts, such as the Head of Training at British Intelligence, this museum and interactive experience in Covent Garden offers an intense mix of psychological assessments, cutting-edge missions, and physically demanding tasks designed to see if you have what it takes to thrive in covert operations. Starting from May 30th, tickets cost £23. spyscape.com/london

Elvis Evolution, Newham

Following the success of ABBA Voyage, Elvis Evolution has now arrived as a new musical experience at Immerse LDN. ExCeL Waterfront , honoring the one-and-only King of Rock 'n' Roll. This event combines advanced digital techniques, live performers, and engaging multimedia elements to immerse you in Elvis Presley’s universe, allowing you to revisit his legendary performances and learn more about his rapid ascent to stardom. Starting in July, priced at £75. elvisevolution.com

SOUTHEAST

Enchanted Matilda: A Magical Summer at the Roald Dahl Museum, Buckinghamshire

Enter the imagination of Roald Dahl Join in celebrating one of the author's most acclaimed creations through a Magical Matilda Summer, happening every day from Tuesday to Sunday during the school break. This event offers families an array of Matilda-inspired activities such as making clay Bogtrotter cakes and engaging in Crunchem Hall-like courtyard games, along with a cake-smash session and storytelling events. The festivities run from July 24th to August 31st; admission prices include £11.95 for adults and £9.95 for children when booked online ahead of time, while those under five years old enter for free. roalddahlmuseum.org

Spooky Mansion at Paultons Park, Hampshire

In place of the previous 4D cinema, Ghostly Manor offers a new attraction where visitors can accompany renowned ghost hunter Dr Kinley on a quest to capture mischievous specters. Passengers equipped with "ghost blasters" will navigate through a spooky mansion during this engaging journey filled with special effects and unexpected twists. If you fancy something lighter afterward, consider visiting Peppa Pig World. Admission prices: adults £45, children under 1 meter tall get in for free. paultonspark.co.uk

Audley End Miniature Railway Summer Festival, Essex

Experience a thrilling summer celebration at Audley End Miniature Railway. Climb aboard the train for a trip through enchanting forests where you'll encounter Cristabelle the Wishing Fairy and Twig the Elf as they reveal the power of wishing, allowing you to craft your own desires. At Woodland Station, revel in additional activities like face painting, live shows, enormous mural walls, and parades featuring fairies and elves, which occur two times each day. The event runs from 19 July to 31 August; details about tickets will be announced shortly. audley-end-railway.co.uk

Found Festival, Buckinghamshire

A fresh festival designed for individuals looking for a closer, unconventional retreat away from big event crowds. Featuring a lively schedule suitable for both families and adrenaline seekers, this gathering includes various activities such as cabaret shows, circus acts, woodland crafting, axe-throwing, dancing workshops, and age-appropriate comedies. Set against the backdrop of the Claydon Estate, attendees who prefer a relaxed atmosphere can find solace in the wellness zone, which hosts yoga sessions, sound bath experiences, and an on-site sauna. The dates are August 22nd through 24th; adult tickets start at £215, youth aged 5-17 pay £115 each, and children under five enter for free. foundfestival.uk

SOUTHWEST

Homecoming Festival, Cornwall

A 10-day extravaganza celebrating literature, cuisine, music, and nature will take place at the Lost Gardens of Heligan. The event gathers dynamic speakers and eager attendees, featuring renowned figures such as Dawn French, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, and Poet Laureate Simon Armitage among others. Attendees can look forward to lively performances, book readings, and engaging activities that delve into concepts like home and identity. Additional offerings include guided beaver tours, wildflower hikes, early-morning yoga sessions, family-friendly foraging adventures, and art workshops. Taking place from June 13th through June 22nd, tickets cost £25 for adults and £23.85 for children, which also grants entry to the Heligan Gardens. heliganhomecoming.co.uk

Jurassic Immersive, Bristol

Travel back in time to delve into the ancient world through amazing VR experiences and lifelike interactions with dinosaurs (such as meeting the fearsome Tyrannosaurus Rex and the docile Brachiosaurus up close). Engage in immersive settings from prehistory along with various participatory activities. Created for education, engagement, and fun, your interactive adventure starts once an unseen dinosaur haven is revealed following a significant seismic event. Starting June 7th, admission prices will be £17.95 for adults, £15.95 for kids, and free of charge for those under four years old. jurassicimmersive.co.uk

Corfe Castle, Dorset

Constructed for King Henry I, Corfe Castle in Dorset has been reopened to the public for the first time since the end of the English Civil War in 1646. A recent restoration effort led by the National Trust now allows guests to experience a brand-new observation deck offering glimpses into the castle's erstwhile regal chambers along with panoramic vistas of the picturesque Purbeck landscape. Visitors can also explore tours of the Royal Tower and participate in various family activities and lectures. Admission prices start at £14 for adults, £7 for children aged between five and seventeen, and those under five enter for free. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/corfe-castle

SCOTLAND

The Inverness Castle Experience, Highlands

Vividly bringing Scotland's rich heritage into focus, this newly opened attraction honors the essence of the Highlands with narratives spanning across time—past, present, and beyond. Led by a seanchaidh—a term meaning "storyteller" in Gaelic—guests explore several engaging chambers, each sharing over 100 stories, folktales, and fables native to the area. Nestled beside the River Ness, the site comprises two impressive structures dating back to the 1800s, offering an appropriately grand setting for these captivating tales inside. The venue will welcome guests later in the summertime. invernesscastle.scot

Alpine Coaster Experience, Midlothian

Scotland's inaugural alpine coaster has opened at Midlothian Snowsports Centre. Spanning 980 meters, it stands as the country's longest, capable of hitting speeds up to 28 miles per hour with a dramatic 170-meter vertical descent. Participants can adjust their velocity while navigating through sharp curves, bends, and steep drops for an exhilarating experience. The ride costs £7. midlothian.gov.uk

VARIOUS

Raver Tots Summer Festival

Spend the entire day dancing with your toddler at Raver Tots, an exciting event featuring discos, live performances, and various games. This season, the festival will take place in several new locations such as Prospect Park in Kent, Bristol’s Amphitheatre and Waterfront Square, and Brighton Beach. The festivities include thrilling fairground attractions, enormous inflatable structures, crafting activities, face-painting sessions, a dedicated dance area, delicious street foods, and even a fully-stocked bar for adults—creating the perfect family-friendly rave atmosphere. Tickets cost £25 for adults, £20 for kids, and £5 for infants. ravertots.co.uk/festival

WWT Dragonfly Festival

Throughout the summertime, a captivating dragonfly festival is being held at various Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust locations nationwide. Immerse yourself in the enchanting realm of dragonflies with an array of engaging activities such as guided tours, pond-dipping sessions, artistic endeavors, large-scale outdoor games, puppetry performances, stilts walking demonstrations, close-up photography showcases, and dragonfly expeditions via boat rides. The event runs from June 21st to September 22nd; admission fees include £16.29 for adults and £10.58 for children aged between three and seventeen years old. wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/whats-on/dragonfly-festival