May half term is here, and for parents that means once again having to find ways to keep the kids busy!
The good news is that, with lockdown restrictions having eased, there are actually fun events, things to do and places to visit!
We're talking everything from going in search of the Gruffalo in a new adventure, hitting the theme parks' brand new lands for 2021, activity trails, fun indoor events (for when the British weather lets you down) and plenty more adventures.
To give you a helping hand, we've put together a guide with heaps of ideas for fun things to do with the kids, as well as some of the events we think are worth having on your radar.
Check out our suggestions below...
Take on an activity trail
Activity trails are often free or just a couple of pounds, making them a budget-friendly option that also keeps the whole family busy for a few hours. There are some brilliant ones on offer this May half term too.
For example, Forestry England is offering up Gruffalo Spotting where kids can use the Gruffalo Spotter 2 app to follow a trail in their local forest, and learn about the story's famous characters - all brought to life thanks to some clever Augmented Reality tricks! You can find your local site here and download the app, not to mention there's an activity pack for £3.50 for some extra fun.
Meanwhile, Warwick Castle offers up a new 3D interactive trail starring Zog, the lovable dragon. Kids can join Zog as he masters essential dragon arts from flying to breathing fire, and pick up stamps along the way. (There's also a meet and greet with the dragon at the end). The activity trail is included in the price of an entry ticket to the castle, prices from £26. You can find out more on the Warwick Castle website.
Looking to explore somewhere new? Treasure Trails offers fun self-guided tours with themes ranging from spies to detectives, where you follow clues to solve a mystery, and get to see an area's best landmarks in the process.
Check out UK theme parks' brand new rides and lands
There are heaps of brilliant new theme park rides and lands for 2021, whether you've got little ones who want to explore the news lands at Legoland, Alton Towers or Paulton's Park, or thrill-seekers who want to take on Chessington's terrifying new drop ride.
The best part is that you don't need to break the bank for a fun day out at a theme park - to give you a helping hand, we've rounded up all the best theme park deals to be found at the moment, from cheaper day tickets to discounted short breaks.
If you don't live near a theme park, there are plenty of cheap stays nearby - Legoland, Thorpe Park and Alton Towers offer short stays including on-site hotels and glamping. We've also listed where you can find cheap hotels near the theme parks below.
- Cheap hotels near Legoland on Booking.com
- Cheap hotels near Thorpe Park on Tripadvisor
- Cheap hotels near Alton Towers on Expedia
- Cheap hotels near Chessington on Booking.com
- Cheap hotels near Paulton's Park on Tripadvisor
- Cheap hotels near Drayton Manor on Trivago
- Cheap hotels near Blackpool Pleasure Beach with Lastminute.com
Special events and fun days out
As attractions around the UK have started reopening their doors, plenty are pulling out all of the stops for the half term holidays, whether that's with special events, deals and even plenty of entertainment.
For example, both National Trust and English Heritage sites are set to host a wide array of fun events and trails (both indoors and outdoors.
Here we take a look at some of the fun things to do if you're stuck for ideas...
See dinosaurs
Camel Creek in Cornwall is celebrating all things dinosaur with a special DinoWeek event complete with fun trails, daily shows and educational stands.
Go to the cinema for the first time in months
Cinemas have also reopened their doors, and there are plenty of family-friendly films currently on offer including Disney's live-action Cruella, Tom & Jerry the Movie, Peter Rabbit 2 and Maya the Bee. Cineworld and Odeon have both reopened sites across the UK. (For Cruella fans in London, you may also want to check out the Lanesborough's themed afternoon tea).
The Manchester Flower Show
The Manchester Flower Show is back for 2021 complete with heaps of colourful floral displays dotted around the city, themed events at restaurants and bars, and plenty more surprises.
Wizarding World fans
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter has reopened, and it's one for Slytherin fans as the sets have been transformed to celebrate the Hogwarts house, complete with a chance to explore the Slytherin Common Room, get up close to Voldemort's costumes and props, and learn plenty more behind-the-scenes secrets in the thrilling exhibition.
Meanwhile, London's Natural History Museum currently has a Fantastic Beasts inspired exhibition, taking a look at the real-life weird and wonderful creatures that intertwine with the beasts in the beloved Wizarding World films.
Take a trip to Legoland - but not the Windsor park
Legoland Discovery Centres have reopened in Birmingham and Manchester with ample opportunity for kids to get creative as they build their own Lego creations, enjoy the soft play area, and catch a dazzling show in the 4D cinema.
Cadbury World
There's heaps of fun to be had over the coming weeks at Cadbury World with special events including 'Adventures with Freddo' storytelling, Freddo's new Circus Stage Show, and of course all of the usual chocolate-inspired attractions and treats!
Book a last-minute getaway
Yes, UK holidays are incredibly popular at the moment with the ongoing uncertainty around travelling abroad - but that doesn't mean you can't bag a last-minute deal.
Holiday parks like Haven and Parkdean Resorts still have some availability for the May half term dates, while both Travelodge and Premier Inn currently have sales with rooms from £29 - that's approximately £7.25pp for a family of four sharing a room - in case you're thinking of booking in a last-minute trip.
You may also want to keep an eye on our Staycation page which we regularly update with the latest deals, accommodation ideas and more updates that we think you'll love for your next getaway.
- Pre-booking may be required and restrictions may be in place during the pandemic. Check with your chosen attraction before booking or travelling, and always follow the latest government guidance.
Have you got any fun ideas for keeping the kids busy during half term? Share your tips for other parents in the comments below.
