Ideas for family days out, activities and events for May Half Term school holiday 2019 in and around Leeds. Including outdoor, indoor and rainy day ideas suitable for all ages.
27th May – 2nd June 2019. Sessions 10am -12pm & 2pm-4pm
Normal admission applies.
Drop-in event, no booking required.
*Closed Mondays, open Bank Holiday Monday*
Abbey Walk, Leeds LS5 3EH. Tel: 0113 378 4079
25th May – 2nd June 2019
Fiddlers Green, Brimham Rocks Road, Hartwith, Harrogate, HG3 3HB. Tel: 01423 779759
26th & 27th May 2019, 12pm-5pm
25th May – 2nd June 2019
Get your best superhero costume on and show us your super powers! By dressing up you get yourself 25% off your booking. (*This offer is only available for walk in bookings.)
25th May – 2nd June 2019, 9.30am-5pm
‘Get Set, Grow’ May Half Term Family Fun including the Children’s Gardening Weekend
Families are being encouraged to get, set, grow at RHS Garden Harlow Carr in Harrogate during May half term. Enjoy a daily garden trail, storytelling with the Garden Detectives, indoor crafts and outdoor workshops. On Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May, a range of fun activities for children will run from 11am to 4pm during the Children’s Gardening Weekend.
Kids of all ages can make their own birdfeeders, plant tomato seedlings and watch beekeeping demonstrations under the expert guidance of the Harrogate & Ripon Beekeepers Association. The zany Garden Detectives will also put on family-friendly stage shows throughout the day.
Activities vary daily so make sure you check the website for full details.
For more information visit: www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/harlow-carr
25th -27th May 2019, 10am-5pm
The Great British Food Festival returns to Harewood House from Saturday 25th May – Monday 27th May 2019 (over the Bank Holiday Weekend).
More than ‘just another food festival’, The Great British Food Festival combines the nation’s love of great food and drink with some of the country’s most treasured locations, providing a unique opportunity to explore new flavours and beautiful venues, all at the same time!
Taking some of the finest local and regional artisan producers, hot food, real ale and wine bars, craft and gift stalls, children’s entertainment, foraging walks and amazing scenery, top chef demos, cake competitions and the popular Men vs Food, all accompanied by excellent live music – it’s a fabulous, foodie day out for the whole family!
For more details on activities at the Great British Food Festival click here.
Booking required.
Harewood House
We’re jumping into May half term at Leeds Museums & Galleries with exciting activities for outdoor adventurers and indoor explorers alike.
Join us to celebrate Queen Victoria’s 200th birthday at Abbey House Museum with fun crafts in the Victorian streets, and there’s a mystery to be solved on 30 May! Head over to Lotherton to discover a magical fairy tale trail in the grounds and house, along with animal antics at Wildlife World. Green-fingered visitors should take a trip to Temple Newsam to plant your very own tomatoes and don’t miss our beastly trail around the house, inspired by the Fantastical Beasts exhibition.
If you’re holidaying in the city, Leeds City Museum will have activities which explore the incredible history of the remarkable Romans. Make a mosaic, design & play a Roman board game and craft yourself a Roman good luck charm. Around the corner at Leeds Art Gallery, we take Artspace ‘on the move’ to discover the wonder of wood as a material for creating sculpture and practical everyday items.
On 29 May you can have a whale of a time at Leeds Discovery Centre as we start conservation work on our Pilot Whale skeleton. Come along to help us to get it ready for its new home on display at Leeds City Museum.
Kirkstall Abbey’s scenic deli market will be open Saturday 25 – Monday 27 May, 12-3pm with over 40 local suppliers selling a range of products and food. A host of gnome-tastic activities are taking place in the ruins of Kirkstall Abbey throughout the holidays, including a family trail. Just up the road at Leeds Industrial Museum visitors can take part in a traditional felting workshop, learn a new technique and take home your handmade creation.
The delightful setting of Thwaite Watermill has sprung into life once again and we’d recommend a trip to explore the surroundings along with getting stuck into crafty activities on Tuesday and Thursday.
25th May – 2nd June 2019
Bring your little nature explorer for a scavenger hunt around the estate this half term holiday. Stick your nature finds to your paper as you go around – we can’t wait to see your masterpiece! Zoom through the play area on the zip wire and swing as high as you can on the swings. Paint with nature, make your own fluffy spring lamb decoration and see all the colourful wool in Swanley Grange. Make sure to say hello to the chickens and see what’s growing in the medieval vegetable garden there, too.
Be sure to pack a picnic to make the most of a full day out exploring the bluebell dappled pathways through the estate. Play hide and seek in every corner of the abbey and spot nesting birds in the cellarium. Follow the river all the way down to the water garden and see if you can spot coots nesting and the new ducklings and cygnets swimming around on the moon ponds.
There are wildlife walks to join, too. Have a go at pond dipping to see what lurks beneath the water’s surface. Come to see if you can spot the deer on a guided walk through Studley Royal park and become a true wildlife detective on the Minibeasts to Mammals guided family walk.
Round it all off with a lakeside ice cream and cup of tea overlooking the deer park. Every penny you spend on your day out goes back into looking after the estate for future families to enjoy, too!
25th May – 2nd June 2019
If you’re looking for somewhere local to burn some energy off the kids Harewood House has so much to offer for children of all ages.
Younger children will love the penguins, farm experience and bird garden whilst older children always find themselves drawn to the Adventure Playground and stepping stones in the Himalayan Garden! A Ferry launched last summer so if little legs can’t walk all the way around the lake there is now a way to get across to the picnic area and pop-up Horsebox café.
New for 2019 is Curosity Cabin a place where younger children can have some ‘chill’ time and there is a chance to do some creating!
The Useful/Beautiful exhibition in the house has a child-friendly trail to accompany it and the ‘handling baskets’ mean children can handle materials from different makers and physically touch what is on display!
Daily activities include:
Find out more at www.harewood.org
www.harewood.org/www.harewood.org/www.harewood.org @HarewoodHouse
Open 10am-6pm
Harewood House, Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LG. Tel: 0113 218 1010. (Accessible by the No 36 bus from Leeds)
24th – 31st May 2019
24th, 27th, 28th May 2019 – Ryders New Recruits. Sessions at 10am and 1pm
The pups are away and Adventure Bay is in trouble! Can you be Ryder’s new Paw Patrol recruits?
Take on Marshall’s role and help put the fire’s out in the town, race to collect and clear all the litter for Rocky, traipse through the messy play and find the stolen diamonds to help Chase and create a new flying machine for Skye!
Activities Include:
A race to pick up and organise the mess through a fun game.
Target practice throwing the ‘water bombs’ to put out the fire’s in the town.
Search through messy play for the stolen diamonds
Craft a flying machine and test it out!
Recommended for ages 2-6yrs
29th, 30th & 31st May 2019 – Video Game Breakout. Sessions at 10am & 1pm
Join in Melvin the Mad Scientist’s science experiment and be transported into a video game, unfortunately it doesn’t go to plan… Help Mario beat Bowser’s obstacle course and save Princess Peach, complete a building challenge in Minecraft and create your own clay Pokeball to catch Pikachu in the hopes to escape from the game!
Activities Include:
Meet Mario and help him beat Bowser’s obstacle course.
Jump into Minecraft and complete the building challenge.
Head to the Kanto Region to help the Pokemon trainers make new poke-balls out of clay to catch pikachu!
Recommended for ages 4+
For more details visit www.rainbowfactorykids.com/may
Springfield Commercial Centre Bagley Lane, Farsley, Pudsey LS28 5LY
Library events at North Leeds libraries during May half term, some may require booking.
Other events include:
FREE Events, some require booking.
25th May – 2nd June 2019, 10am-12pm & 1pm- 3pm
FREE Events, No booking required.
* The museum is closed on Mondays, except bank holidays.
Millenium Square, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8BH
25th May – 2nd June 2019. 10am to 5.30 pm (Last admission 4.30pm).
This Half Term trot to Mother Shipton’s for a day of Unicorn magic and have a roarsome time searching for Dinosaur footprints. Unicorns and Dinosaurs are in the park, follow the adventure trail and you never know what you might find!
The park will be transformed, creating an engaging May Half Term event for all the family. 25th May to 2nd June, 10am to 5.30pm (last admission 4.30pm).
See the Petrifying Well and Mother Shipton’s Cave. The park has scenic picnic areas alongside the popular River Nidd, an adventure playground, gift shop and museum.
For discounted tickets book online www.mothershipton.co.uk
No booking required.
Normal admission applies.
Prophecy Lodge, Harrogate Rd, High Bridge, Knaresborough HG5 8DD
25th May – 2nd June 2019, 10am – 5.30pm
Come one come all to Piglets crazy May-Hem Circus this May half term.
With death defying stunts, upside down juggling and amazing acrobatics, all in the big top tent, it’s unmissable fun for the entire family!
Step right up as the fun just keeps getting better! Take a tractor ride to the amazing Bale Play Baaarn with giant drop slides, straw bale mountain, junior tractor drivers’ area, rope swing and dig’n’play. If you’re feeling peckish, there’s even a heated seating area with delicious food from the Piggy Pizza Parlour or try a tasty treat in Truffle’s Trough.
You can also enjoy a refreshing drink and delicious snacks in the Piglets Coffee House with small soft play are or try a piggy poo ice-cream in the Ice-Cream Parlour!
Plus, don’t miss all the usual adventure farm fun, including Truffles Farmhouse & Barn, giant sandpit, bouncing pillows, crazy golf, barrel rides, magical fairy tale trail and go karts too. And that’s all before you see the cute animals! You’ll find lots out in the paddocks and in the animal barn. See adorable rabbits, goats and ponies plus get up close to little piglets in the Piglet Maternity Ward and if you are lucky see piglets being born, such a memorable experience.
Tumble on down to Piglets Adventure Farm this May Half Term and enjoy an amazing family day out. Get your discounted tickets online today here.
Piglets Adventure Farm is located 15 minutes from the centre of York, on Towthorpe Moor Lane, between Strensall Road and the A64, North of York.
Tel: 01904 499183
WEBSITE
If you’re looking for indoor activities during the school holidays we have lots on the website here.
Jurassic Week at Stockeld Park!
25th May – 2nd June 2019, 10am-6pm
**See below for Mumbler offer on pre-booked tickets**
Did you think the age of dinosaurs was well and truly over? Think again! Enter through our Jurassic gates this Spring and prepare yourselves for a MONSTER day out because something ROAR-some is happening at Stockeld Park during May half term!
Take a walk through the Enchanted Forest but watch out… somewhere deep inside, dinosaurs are on the loose and we need your help to find them!
You can dig for fossils at our dig site and take part in our dino craft sessions with the Stockeld Rangers too!
Keep your wits about you during your visit because you never know when you might come face to face with our Raptor who will be roaming the park every day! He’s a curious creature and is looking forward to meeting you, so grab a selfie if you dare!
Our adventure playgrounds, boats, maze, skating rink and more will all be open for fun too!
The Jurassic week event is included free with your day pass. Pre-book online for 10% discount off your day passes, and use the Mumbler code MUMNLEEDS for an additional 10% off!! Click here to book http://bit.ly/2UKbNrH
Stockeld Park, off the A661 Wetherby Road, LS22 4AN. Tel: 01937 586333
25th May to 2nd June 2019. Open daily 10am – 6pm (last entry 5pm).
Dive in and learn more about super shark senses this May half term! It’s sure to be sense-ational! Join us in the Endless Oceans Gallery at 11am and 3pm for our interactive shark senses work shop and discover the amazing senses that sharks have used to survive for over 450 million years. You can even try your hand at hunting for prey just like a shark too!
Visit Craft Corner from 10am to 4pm to make you own finger puppet, choose from a shark, stingray or sawfish and don’t forget to follow the sense-ational shark trail as you go round the aquarium to be in with the chance of winning a prize. Find out more about the Shark Trust #Move4Makos campaign and show your support for ending uncontrolled shark fishing by moving 1 mile. Our guides can give you some great ideas on how to do this when you get home.
The Deep offers FREE return visits for 12 months with the Day Plus Pass. Simply complete your details at reception and retain your tickets to make use of this offer. Full terms and conditions can be found on The Deep’s website.
Tower Street, Hull, HU1 4DP (Sat Nav HU9 1TU).
29th May 2019, 10.30am
Come along to Crag House Farm during half term for an Adventure Bandits bushcraft course! The course includes:
There are very limited spaces available.
Booking required.
Crag House Farm. Tel: 07772 987651
Large lake with canoes, pedalos, stand up paddleboards and boats to hire, circular walk around the lake and a shallow area of the lake roped off that you can paddle in.
The Aqua Park (Re-opens 11th May 2019), an inflatable obstacle course on the lake, which includes a variety of challenging elements for families to enjoy. NEW for 2019 Thunderdome and Gravity Corners!
Open water swimming and fishing available. Also a good playpark, sandpit, animals to see and cafe with children’s menu. £5 for a family to go in for the day.
Open Tuesday – Sunday 9.00am – 5.00pm. Open Mondays during school holidays. Dog friendly.
25th -26th May 2019
Back for its 5th year, Waterlane Boathouse’s Bank Holiday Boathouse Feast will be bringing the best Bank Hol vibes to Leeds once again, featuring the best street food in the North, as well as live music, DJs, tap takeovers, a gin bar, and an Aperol bar for the grown ups. Kids and dogs are both welcome.
Water Lane Boathouse.
26th May – 2nd June 2019, 10.30am-5.30pm
Just on the outskirts of York with its leafy wilderness play area and magical walled garden, Beningbrough’s extensive gardens and parkland are packed with hidden corners waiting to be explored and you can discover its delights with the National Trust’s essential 50 things play list. They also have a host of free, organised events running during May half term.
Drop-in events, No booking required.
Beningbrough, York YO30 1DD. Tel: 01904 472027
23th May -2nd June 2019 June, 10am – 4pm
Celebrate National Gardening Week down on the farm! Children will get chance to plant their own peas, cress, or lettuce to take home.
Other activities include building a “bug hotel “ and a woodland trail with spotters guide,
There will also be lamb and goat feeding and lots of newborn animals to see around the farmyard.
The cafe is open as usual.
Drop-in event, no booking required.
Oakmount, Harrogate HG3 4JS. Tel: 01423 781792
Open 4th May – 29th September 2019
The Family Cycle Zone is a safe area for children to cycle, away from the hazards of traffic and pedestrians. With “paths” cut through the grass and road signs to mark the way, children can enjoy endless fun manoeuvring the roundabout and junctions! Own bikes required.
This is a free activity, the normal estate admission fee applies.
Bolton Abbey Estate
25th May – 3rd November 2019
The woodland adventure trail leads you from the stepping stones to the Cavendish Pavilion. Little ones can navigate balance beams, wobbly stirrups, tunnels, scramble nets, the maze and much more. (New surprises for 2019!)
Some obstacles are not suitable for all age groups. Children must be supervised at all times. The path is steep in places, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
This is a free event. The Estate’s usual admission fee will apply.
No booking required.
Bolton Abbey, BD23 6AL. Tel: 01756 718000
29th & 30th May 2019, 10am -4pm
Set up camp and spend your day in the woods! Past Bushcraft events have included: shelter building, fire lighting, campfire cooking, field games, hammock making, wild food walks, wood work crafts, string making, bows and arrows, stalking and tracking, pyro-carving, and charcoal making.
Suitable for children 8-13 years.
Booking required.
Skelton Grange Environment Centre Skelton Grange Road, Leeds, LS101RS. Tel: 0113 243 0815
25th – 27th May 2019: Traction Engine Rally
There will be a full programme of steam fair attractions including tractor pulling, steam engines, classic cars, vintage tractors, classic motorcycles, fairground organs, miniature steam engines and lots more!
Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA.
25th May 2019, 11am-5pm
An exhibition of sustainable art created during the #LIF (Leeds Indie Food) festival.
Grumpy’s wood-fired pizza (and local gins for the grown ups!) will be on sale. You’ll also have the opportunity to create a mosaic at this event too, and take your mosaic home afterwards.
Drop-in event.
Seagulls, Kirkstall Road
1st June 2019, 3-4pm
Join us for an amazing yoga class on the farm! This fun afternoon at None Go Bye Farm includes an hour-long outdoor yoga class followed by the opportunity to see and feed the animals. Suitable from 3-8 years old, tickets £10 per child including farm entry and animal feed. (Entry to play area additional)
Booking essential
None Go Bye Farm, Horsforth. Contact Helen 07764963312
25th -26th May 2019, 12pm – 10pm
Leeds weekly street food fair #EatNorth is open over two full days for the final weekend of Leeds Indie Food Festival. The #EatNorth Bank Holiday Extravaganza brings the street food celebration all weekend long! Craft Beer, DJs, Games, Indoor and outdoor space, Kids and Dogs actively encouraged
Free Entry.
North Brewing Co. taproom in Sheepscar, LS7 1AH
25th May – 2nd June 2019, 10am-5pm
Follow the trail through the Enchanted wood, home to fairies, pixies and a host of other magical creatures. Fancy dress, wings and magic wands are encouraged.
Visit on Sunday 2nd June when Fairy Peaseblossom and Mr Gnome will be visiting with some fairy magic shows and join-in fun for all ages.
Trail sheet £1 per child. (Standard entry charges apply)
Drop-in event.
Thorp Perrow Arboretum, Thorp Perrow, Bedale, DL8 2PS. Tel: 01677 425323
25th May – 2nd June 2019, 10am – 5pm
Join in with the fairy tale themed fun this May half term at Lotherton. Can you find all of the fairy tale characters hidden around the house, grounds and throughout Wildlife World with the help of the Traditional Tales Trail? Dress up as your favourite fairy tale character, or have a go at magical crafts in the house and activities in Wildlife World. On Thursday 30th May, there’ll be a Fairy Tale Picnic, with storytelling, garden games, face painting, and a visit from a fairy.
Normal admission into the estate applies.
Drop-in event, no booking required. Suitable for toddlers.
Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds LS25 3EB. Tel: 0113 378 2959
31st May 2019, 11.30am-3.30pm
Families are invited down to Chapel FM Arts Centre for a range of fun and creative activities including storytime, arts & craft activities, Ukulele Jam Session, Live Radio Broadcast, Virtual Reality Experience, Drama Games and more! (Timings vary for activities check Breeze website for more details)
Refreshments available throughout the day & light healthy snacks for the little ones.
Prices : £1 per child for familieswith postcodes LS9, 14 and 15 and £3 for everyone else.
Chapel FM, Old Seacroft Chapel, York Road, Seacroft ,LS14 6JB
2nd June 2019, 11.30am-12.15pm
Family yoga is an incredible way to de-stress and create that bond between family members. Yoga for children with additional needs includes the classical yoga practices of movement, breathing, deep relaxation combined with sound, rhythm, massage and sensory integration techniques. Family yoga is an incredible way to de-stress and create that bond between family members.
Main Street, Shadwell. Tel: 0113 265 3773
There are a variety of junior and family rides with 8 themed areas.
You can explore the Peter Rabbit Adventure playground and meet Peter Rabbit himself.
PLUS there will be the following guest appearances:
1st June 2019 – Paw Patrol
20th July 2019 – PJ Masks
17th August 2019 – Peppa Pig & George
Enjoy a tot’s party celebration that includes singing, dancing and face-painting.
Tel: 0800 40 888 40
28th May – 2nd June 2019, 10am – 3pm
Find all the mischievous gnomes who have escaped to explore and are hiding in the abbey ruins. Follow the trail around the abbey to find them.
28th May 2019, 10 -11am – The usual under 5’s session gets a makeover for half term with lots of gnome based crafts and fun. Older siblings welcome.
30th May 2019, 2 -2.30pm – Plant a mini garden and add some mini gnomes to look after your flowers.
Free events, no booking required. Suitable for toddlers.
Abbey Rd, Leeds LS5 3EH. Tel: 0113 378 4079
25th May -2nd June 2019, 10am-5pm
Over half term Swithens farm will be alive with Fairies, Unicorns & Superheroes.
There will be a selection of mischievous Fairies, Unicorns & Superheroes dotted around the farm for children to find as well as a craft & messy play station where children can make fairy wands, superhero masks & Unicorn wooden plaques.
On 25th May and 26th May, there will be a fancy dress competition.
Drop-in event. Suitable for toddlers.
Swithens Farm, Swithens Lane, Rothwell, LS26 0BT. Tel: 0113 282 8828
25th May 2019, 2.30pm-4.30pm
A 2hour workshop providing a mixture of activities to ensure your child has a fantastic afternoon:
*Fun games e.g pin the horn on the unicorn!
*Glitter slime making workshop
*Unicorn face paint with glitter
*Unicorn fridge magnet painting
*Unicorn book mark making
* Indoor afternoon tea
*Chart music and red carpet to finish
The workshop is suitable for girls aged 5-10.
Booking Required, Drop-Off Event.
Roundhay Scout and Brownie Hut behind St. Edmunds Church. Email: Heaven-leighpamperparties@hotmail.com
TBC Summer 2019
A fun range of activities for children over the Sumemr holiday.
27th-31st May 2019
27th May, 10.30am- 1.30pm – Sewing Workshop
28th & 29th May, 10am-12pm – Slime Making Workshop
30th May, 10am -12pm – Clay Making Workshop
31st May, 10am-12pm – Linoprint Workshop
Booking required.
Craft sessions and workshops for children:
25th May 2019: Face painting. £3. Drop-in
28th May 2019: Make your own Dreamcatcher. £6. Drop-in
30th May 2019: Slime making. £6. Book online
31st May 2019: Make your own bird feeder. £5. Drop-in
1st June 2019: Make your own pirate pouch. £10. Book online
Please note; Joon is closed 26th and 27th May for the Bank Holiday. For more information on the newly launch children’s creative hub, check out our review here.
Joon, 164 High Street, Boston Spa, LS23 6BW.
Join Harrogate Climbing Centre for a full day of bouldering, climbing and abseiling under the watchful eyes of qualified instructors. Perfect for children aged 7+. No previous experience needed and all equipment will be provided.
Booking required.
Bromham Rocks. Tel: 01423 815024
25th May 2019 – Aladdin
Free activity
Events Space, Leeds Kirkgate Market.
30th May 2019, 10am -11am
Baby Boogie – Nursery rhymes, music, disco lights and soft play.
For children 4 months – 2 years.
Booking required. Suitable for babies and toddlers.
Kirkstall Leisure Centre, Kirkstall Ln, Leeds LS5 3BE. Tel: 0113 378 2086
TBC Summer 2019
Summer holiday activities at Kirkstall Leisure Centre
Tel: 0113 378 2086 to book
29th May 2019, 10am-12pm
Help lay out the Pilot Whale skeleton – soon to be hung from the ceiling at the City Museum. Learn about whales and their marine home. Bring your beach-finds with you to be identified and join in with some sea creature crafts.
Normal admission applies.
Drop-in event.
Leeds Discovery Centre, Carlisle Road, LS10 1LB. Tel: 0113 378 2100
Call for more information 0113 2656662 or email hello@leedsgymnastics.com
Leeds Gymnastics Club, Limewood Business Park, Limewood Road, Seacroft. LS14 1AB
1st June 2019, 10am -5pm
Back for a fifth year, this year’s Leeds Wool Festival brings together a jam packed programme of textile workshops, talks, special performances, a pop up cafe, livestock, weaving demonstrations and more. Something for all the family to enjoy!
Booking required.
Leeds Industrial Museum – Armley Mills
25th May – 2nd June 2019
Bubble Max, the master bubbleologist will be at Lightwater Valley from 25th -31st May with shows at 1.30pm, 3pm and 4.30pm. Plus be dazzled by the brand new UV Magic Lights ‘Outer Space’ puppet show in the Show Barn throughout the week.
With over 35 rides and attractions, suitable for all ages, Lightwater Valley offers fantastic adventures for all the family
Pre-booking advised.
Water Ln, North Stainley, Ripon HG4 3HT. Tel: 01765 635321
30th May 2019, 2pm
Explore Michael Morpurgo’s book ‘Kensuke’s Kingdom’ like never before and follow in Michael and Stella’s footsteps as they discover the island’s secrets. Join us on this adventure around the island completing tasks, sending Morse Code messages using Micro:bits, turning Spheros into the island’s turtles and exploring the jungle using VR.
Free event. Booking required.
Leeds Central Library. Tel: 0113 378 5005
25th May – 2nd June 2019, 10am-5pm – Moon Mission
Celebrate 50 years since humans first landed on the moon by seeing a NEW space show and take part in astronaut training in a human gyroscope as well as other space related activities.
Drop-In event, no booking required.
Normal admission applies.
Discovery Road, HX1 2NE Halifax. Tel: 01422 330069
25th May -2nd June 2019 – Meet Peggy Thorpe
Delve into the history of a working colliery at the National Coal Mining Museum this May half term!
Meet Peggy in the back yard reconstruction and learn about her life as a miner’s wife in the 1940’s and the Bevin Boy who boarded with her.
There will also be special horsey crafts running from 25th -31st May as well as experiencing the underground mine and adventure playground!
Caphouse Colliery, Overton, Wakefield, WF4 4RH. Tel: 01924 848 806
25th May – 2nd June 2019, 10am -6.30pm
Alongside the new lambs and daily sheep talks, there will be doing shearing demonstrations every day in the Roundhouse.
Admission ticket to the Shearing Festival includes all day farm admission, including the soft play, plus a packed agenda of races, farm talks, reptile handling sessions and the tractor trailer ride.
Pre-booking advised.
Bark House Lane, Cawthorne, S75 4AT Barnsley. Tel:01226 790427
29th May 2019. 10.30am-12pm – Pony Pampering
Meet the ponies and spend time pampering/brushing them. £5 donation per person/child to pamper a pony and receive a rosette. The visitor centre will be open for refreshments.
To book your 15 minute grooming session email office@hopepastures.org.
30th May 2019. 10am – 3pm – Pony Day
Children learn how to care for ponies under expert supervision. The emphasis is on fun and on building confidence and skills. The day includes activities such as leading and grooming the ponies, feeding and mucking out, as well as quizzes, games and pony puzzles.
£30 donation per child.
Booking required
Email office@hopepastures.org to book.
Hope Pastures, Weetwood Lane, LS16 5PH. Tel: 0113 261 4344
28th May 2019 – Crafty Tuesday, 1–5pm
30th May 2019, Experimental Thursday, 1-5pm
This May half term join us for a creative session on Crafty Tuesday as we design and make traditional bunting in the mill for you to take home and use as decoration. We will be dancing the night away on Experimental Thursday as we construct our very own Jitterbugs!
Normal admission applies.
Drop-in event.
Thwaite Lane, Stourton, LS10 1RP. Tel: 0113 378 2983
25th May – 2nd June 2019
Get a little closer to nature this May holiday at Nunnington Hall with bug hunting and bird watching, to bird box or feeder making. On the 25th and 26th May local animal encounters will make a visit with some special friends!
Normal admission applies.
Nunnington Hall, York
29th May 2019, 1.3o-3.30pm – 5- 8 year olds
30th May 2019, 1.30-3.30pm – 9-12 year olds
A fun filled Yoga experience for children, allowing them the time and space to explore what we do at Shadwell Studio!
Join Debs for a Yoga pop up for children aged 5-8 years old & 9-12 years old.
Yoga – breath work – relaxation- games – arts & crafts.
No yoga experience necessary. All materials provided.
Main Street, Shadwell. Tel: 0113 265 3773
The family-orientated Superheroes Swim are open to all ages and include small superhero inflatables set to a booming soundtrack of superhero blockbuster movie.
Running:
Admission by booking only by calling into reception or by ringing 0113 256 0949.
They also have a Pirate Treasure Hunts for the adventurous swashbucklers, as well as favourites such as Family Fun Swims, and an Inflatable Swim.
Bramley Baths. Tel: 0113 256 0949
25th May -2nd June 2019
Saturday 25th May: Florence and Jem guided walk @ Oates Memorial from 10.30am
For families with little ones aged 4+, a guided walk through the woodland of the Hollies and Meanwood Grove to discover the enchanting and curious features that inspired the Florence and Jem illustrated children’s books. Please bring weather appropriate footwear (boots would be best) and a packed lunch. Walk will commence from Oates Memorial, Meanwood Park, LS6 4LT. FREE EVENT
Sunday 26th May: Birdsong in Meanwood Valley
Meet at Green Road Car Park, One walk will be from 9am-11am, and a second will be held 2pm-4pm.
Find out about the bird species that live in the Meanwood Valley and learn some birdsong with local birdwatching guide, Linda Jenkinson. You’ll also find out how you can improve your birdsong identification from home.
Booking essential. Contact linda@startbirding.co.uk to secure your place.FREE EVENT
Wednesday 29th May: Decorate your own buns @ The Community Cafe, 11.30am-1.30pm
Come along to your local community cafe, buy a bun and decorate it for free. Lots of yummy toppings on offer! Holy Trinity Community Hall, LS6 4LF. FREE EVENT- just buy a bun
Wednesday 29th May: Teddy Bears Picnic @ Ivy Cottage, 2pm-4pm
Bring your favourite Teddy & a picnic for a fun time. For under 8s. Ivy cottage, on Green Road next to Meanwood Park or at Meanwood school if it’s wet). FREE EVENT
Wednesday 29th May: Harry Potter Story Time @ Tandem, 6pm-7pm
An interactive sensory drama for children and families. Join project 52 as we journey to Hogwarts and experience a day in the life of Harry Potter and his friends. Kids hot drink and snack provided by Tandem. Tandem, 574 Meanwood Road, LS6 4AT
Limited spaces available, please email tandemstore@outlook.com
PAY AS YOU FEEL
Thursday 30th May: Decorate your own buns @ Stainbeck Community Cafe, 11am-2pm
Come along to your local community cafe, buy a bun and decorate it for free. Lots of yummy toppings on offer! Stainbeck Church, LS7 2PP. FREE – just buy a bun
Thursday 30th May: Wilderness on your doorstep @ Meanwood Park, 12pm-4pm
Get involved in the nature and environment around you. All ages welcome. Meet at Meanwood Park Car Park. FREE EVENT
Thursday 30th May: Timbre Music & Science Workshop @ Three Cottages Cafe, 1pm-3pm
An afternoon of experimenting with science, to create your very own musical instruments. You will be using a variety of recycled materials to make your own percussion instrument and will get to perform on it at the end of the session! It’s outdoors, so please wrap up warm and wear suitable clothing as you’re bound to get a bit grubby! For ages 7-14. Three Cottages Cafe at Meanwood Park, LS6 4LT. FREE EVENT
Thursday 30th May: Love Trees @ Meanwood Park, 2pm-3pm
An hour teaching children about the trees in Meanwood Park. All children to be accompanied by an adult at all times, maximum 2 children per adult. Meet at The Rangers Hut, Meanwood Park, LS6 4LT
Booking essential at freindsofmeanwoodpark@gmail.com. FREE EVENT
Friday 31st May: Pre-School Ballet & Musical Theatre Class @ The Community Hall, 9.15am-10am
A ballet and musical theatre class suitable for ages 2.5- 4 years old. Learning the basic ballet techniques in a fun and engaging environment as well as singing and dancing to well known nursery rhymes and musicals. Holy Trinity Community Hall, LS6 4LF. FREE EVENT
Friday 31st May: Tots Pretend @ Holy Trinity Community Hall, 10.45am-11.30am
Little drama for big imaginations. Bring your preschooler and their wonderful imagination along to the world of Tots Pretend. Ages walking to 4 years old. Holy Trinity Community Hall, LS6 4LF. FREE EVENT
Sunday 2nd June: Picnic in the Park @ Meanwood Park, 12pm-2pm
Come to Meanwood park with your own food, blanket and outdoor games and enjoy a community picnic. A fantastic opportunity to meet new friends and neighbours. Meanwood Park, LS6 4LT. FREE EVENT
28th May 2019, 10.30am
25th May – 2nd June 2019, 10am – 4pm
Enter the world of speed and streamlining and find out why we’re always wanting to move faster this May half term. Discover the challenges of moving faster as you experiment with shapes, materials and magnets in our hands-on workshops and live shows which will get you using the science of streamlining to move and think in unexpected ways.
Free entry. Drop in event, no booking required.
National Railway Museum, Leeman Road, York YO26 4XJ
25th May – 2nd June 2019
There is endless fun to be had with lots of activities to try! Challenge your friends on our inflatable AquaPark and bounce your way to victory on the trampolines and blast bags! Try kayaking around the lake, put your balance skills to the test on the stand-up paddle boards or take a cruise on one of the mini ports or pedalos. There is something for everyone!
Booking required.
Wykeham Lakes, Long Causeway Road, Wykeham YO13 9QU. Tel: 01723 865052
27th May 2019, 11am -3pm – Kick off your May half-term with den building in Joiner’s Wood.
28th May 2019, 11am-3pm – Bug Hunting. Learn a little about looking after the Nostell’s wildlife and explore the parkland this May half-term with a wild day outdoors.
29th May 2019, 10am-12.30pm – Mirror, Mosaic, Make: Family Workshop. (Booking required)
30th May 2019, 12pm-3pm – Dovetail, Biscuit, Splat. Roll up your sleeves this holiday and get creating at Nostell with crafts and activities inspired by the arts, furniture and history of the house.
31st May 2019, 10am -1pm – Calling all budding bushcrafters! Soak up nature’s scents and sounds as you carve your own wooden creation and get cooking on the campfire, in partnership with MC Woodcraft. (Booking required)
Drop-in events. Normal admission applies.
Doncaster Road, Nostell, Wakefield WF4 1QE. Tel: 01924 863892
28th May 2019, Sessions at 11am & 1.30pm
Work and play together to build sculptures inspired by artists in the park this May Half Term. Stack, balance, join, arrange. Always outdoors, Come Rain, Come Shine is about playful making in the fresh air.
All materials provided – including branches, stones, pipes and other found materials.
Booking required.
Tickets for this event can be booked via the Yorkshire Sculpture Park website.
West Bretton, Wakefield, WF4 4LG Tel: 01924 832631
28th – 31st May 2019, 11am – 2pm
FREE, rock painting at Leeds market during May half term 11am till 2pm.
Hide your rock post on @leedsrock see how far your rock will go! All materials provided you just need your imagination.
FREE Event.
Leeds Kirkgate Market, City Centre.
27th May 2019, Performances at 11am and 2pm
Pirate Pearl lives aboard the good ship Mirabel with her crusty old shipmate – Grandpa Bert. There’s trouble ahead for Pirate Pearl though!
With songs, puppets and live music this family show will have you all singing along.
Suitable for ages 3-11 years.
Booking required.
Carriageworks Theatre, Millennium Square, Leeds. Tel: 0113 376 0318
30th May 2019, 10.30am – 12pm
A pop up sensory room with bubble tube, dark tents and tactile toys, for a calmer moment on your museum trip in the holidays.
FREE Event, booking essential on Eventbrite.
Leeds City Museum, Millennium Square, Leeds LS2 8BH. Tel: 0113 3787122
24th May – 2nd June 2019
Scott Pullen and Sons bring the May Half Term fun fair to Roundhay Park.
Special character appearances Saturday and Sunday afternoon.
Open 12pm – late
Soldiers Field, Roundhay Park, Leeds
28th May -2nd June 2019
Half-term week will be packed with Royal-themed activities for all ages including live combat displays, storytelling, dramatic performances, have-a-goes, crafts and much more.
Explore the museum with a regal prize draw puzzle trail and discover fascinating objects like King Henry VIII’s magnificent armours, jewel-encrusted swords and royally decorated sporting guns.
FREE Event, no booking required.
Royal Armouries Museum, Armouries Drive, Leeds, LS10 1LT. Tel: 0113 220 1999
25th May – 2nd June 2019
Every day during the holidays enjoy a themed Storytime from 11am. FREE, Drop-in event, Suitable for all ages.
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays at 2pm, Slime Workshop. Booking required, Ages 5-10.
Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2pm, Craft Club, Crafting workshop with drink and snack included. £3.50. Drop-in event. Open to all ages.
Booking required.
47 Harrogate Rd, Leeds LS7 3PD. Book via The Little Bookshop website.
25th May – 2nd June 2019, 10am-5pm
Pick up your pack from the Visitor Centre shop and take a spring time adventure around Oakwell Hall Country Park. £1.50 per pack.
Drop-in activity
Oakwell Hall Country Park, Nutter Lane, Birstall, WF17 9LG
24th May – 2nd June 2019, 10am-5.30pm
Go on a beastly trail and be inspired by our exhibition, Fantastical Beasts, then make your own mystical creature using recycled materials. Plus take a look at nature’s truly fantastical creatures — the bugs and beasties that can be found around Temple Newsam’s amazing country estate. On 29 May you can join us at the Walled Garden Show House to plant your very own tomato plant, then take it home and watch it grow.
Clutter Critters – 24th May–2nd June 2019
Tomato planting – 29th May 2019, 1–3pm
Normal admission applies.
Drop-in event.
Temple Newsam Road, Leeds, LS15 0AE.
26th May 2019, 10am-4.30pm – Dino World at Thornton Hall Country Park
Meet REX, RAPTOR (new for 2019!) and some newborn baby dinosaurs. Activities include Dinosaur Meet & Greets, live shows, dinosaur fact trail, fossil hunting and more! (Pre-booking required)
27th May 2019, 10am-4.30pm – Pony World at Thornton Hall Country Park
One for the pony mad fans! Pony World activities include grooming, demonstrations, pony rides,
Leopald Equestrian Displays and more! (Pre-booking required)
28th May 2019, Circus Workshops with the Rapide Brothers
29th May 2019, Special Guests Iron Man & War Machine (11am – 3pm)
30th May 2019, Move with Peppa: 20 minutes sessions (the official Peppa Pig movement, dance & physical activity programme that helps children be happy and healthy!). DOES NOT include an appearance from Peppa.
31st May 2019, Special Guests Critters 2 You!
There will also be all the usual farm activities available.
Normal admission applies.
Thornton-in-Craven, near Skipton North Yorkshire, BD23 3TS. Tel: 01282 841148
25th May – 2nd June 2019, 10am-5pm
Bring your child’s favourite toy along for a ride on the railway and enjoy HALF PRICE fares for the children! That’s a children’s rover ticket, valid ALL DAY on ALL TRAINS and playgrounds for just £2.75!
No booking required.
Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield HD8 9XJ. Tel: 01484 865727
25th May – 2nd June 2019
Join the keepers for expert talks and find out about your favourite animals. Not only does the week-long event ensure a fun-filled day out with lots of extra activities for all ages, it also promotes the important work Tropical Word does with regards to conservation, education and research.
Under 5’s are free.
No booking required. Suitable for toddlers.
Tropical World, Roundhay. Tel: 0113 3367553
TBC Summer 2019
A fun range of activities for children during the Summer holidays at Wetherby Leisure Centre.
Lodge Lane, Leeds, Wetherby LS22 5FN. Tel: 0113 378 1265
25th May – 2nd June 2019, 10am – 5pm: Marvellous Mud and Bugs!
With indoor den play and outdoor den adventures, there’s the extra excitement of the mud and bugs with themed daily activities the whole family will enjoy. Brew up magnificent mud pies, create brilliant bug masks and play Bug Bingo! There is also a mini bug puppet show for younger children.
Normal admission applies.
Pre-booking advised. Suitable for toddlers.
William’s Den, North Cave, East Riding Of Yorkshire, HU15 2LS. Tel: 01430 472230
31st May-2nd June 2019
The Legions of Rome return to invade the ancient city of York for the annual Eboracum Roman Festival.
From 1 – 2 June, Roman Eboracum comes to life in the beautiful York Museum Gardens with a Roman Living History camp, Kids Army, demonstrations, lectures and activities for all ages.
Drop-in event, no booking required.
Yorkshire Museum, Museum Gardens, York, YO1 7FR. Tel: 01904 687687
25th – 27th May 2019, 10am – 4.30pm: Cowboys and Vikings
Take a step back in time over the bank holiday weekend to see what it was like living in the Wild West and as Viking!
1st – 2nd June 2019, 10am – 4.30pm: Join the Roman Army
Find out what it takes to be part of the Roman Army.
The Derwent Valley Light Railway will be running passenger trains on the ¼ mile of track. (May 25th, 26th, 27th and June 2nd 2019)
Normal admission applies.
No booking required.
Yorkshire Museum of Farming, Murton Park, York, YO19 5UF Tel: 01904 489966
