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Is it really May Half Term in the North East already? It feels like the Easter holidays were just yesterday for many families!
But here we are; the late May Bank Holiday signals another welcome week off school. Of course, that also means a fresh round of planning activities to keep everyone entertained, and if you’re feeling a little short on inspiration ahead of the long summer break on the horizon, that’s completely understandable. However, don't worry, we’re here to lend a hand!
After delving into event calendars and local listings from Darlington to Northumberland, we’ve gathered what we believe are 25 fantastic ideas to make the most of next week across the region (and one just a little further afield that’s too good to miss!). The selection is packed with variety – from exploring historic castles and uncovering museum treasures, to enjoying nature on beautiful trails, getting hands-on with creative workshops, or catching a captivating family show.
Many of these activities are free or come with a small entry fee, ensuring there are plenty of budget-friendly options. For those experiences that might have a slightly higher ticket price, they often promise a truly memorable day out or perhaps even a special keepsake for the family to cherish.
So, what are the 25 events that caught our eye for a brilliant May half-term in and around the North East? Read on to discover some inspiration!
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9. Deer Park Safari at Raby Castle (May 28 2025)
Attendees can enjoy a scenic tour of Raby Castle’s extensive Deer Park. The tour is guided by a knowledgeable ranger who will share fascinating insights about the deer and the park’s history. 📍 Raby Castle, Staindrop | Canva
10. Half Term Activities at Locomotion (until June 1 2025)
Locomotion hosts May Half Term activities, including "Trainsville" on Thursday 29 May, an exciting hands-on paper crafting workshop with Cabinet of Curiosity Studio using specially designed paper model kits to explore railway heritage (10.30–13.00 and 14.00–16.30, drop-in). On Wednesday 28 May, "Memory of a Journey" invites participation in a mass art project for S&DR 200 by decorating a peg doll to represent a favourite train journey for an exhibition in Autumn 2025 (drop-in). 📍 Locomotion, Dale Road, Shildon, County Durham, DL4 2R | Provided
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11. Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal May Half Term (until June 1 2025)
This May half term at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal is all about birds and nature. The 800-acre site is bursting with life, ready to welcome visitors for an exciting adventure. Attendees can head to the bird hide to discover different birds, look for papier mache birds in the canopies crafted by Henshaws, and match them to a spotter sheet. A craft activity with Henshaws to make a bird decoration is available on Wednesday 28 May (10am – 2.30pm) at Swanley Grange. 📍 Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal | Canva
12. Alnwick Garden – May Half Term (until June 1 2025)
Visitors can join the Squiffles at Alnwick Garden as they try to solve several mysterious happenings in Lilidorei. There’s Trouble Afoot, as Lilidorei has become a crime scene, and the Squiffles need help to solve several mysteries. 📍 The Alnwick Garden, Denwick Lane, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1YU | Getty Images