If you’re in need of inspiration for things to do with children this half-term, keep them entertained with these fun days out.
May half-term is just a few weeks away and there’s no need for down days; there are plenty of fun things to do with kids throughout the month – and beyond. Including new musicals, immersive experiences, exciting outdoor challenges and a family-friendly festival, these are some of the best ways to keep kids entertained this spring.
STAY Elderflower Fields Family Festival
Escape the city with your little ones this May half-term. Elderflower Fields is a small, friendly, family festival, designed for those with young children. Set in the beautiful Pippingford Park, in the rolling Sussex countryside just 30 miles south of London, expect a huge variety of performances, from jazz to house, plus family rave company Big Fish Little Fish offering club classics and dancing fun for all ages. Added to the musical line up are activities such as storytelling, paddle-boarding, tree climbing, a sports camp and arts and crafts sessions; this is a weekend packed with entertainment for all ages. Stay onsite in their dedicated glamping arena with plentiful dining options, and make the most of Mortimer Nannies’ childcare sessions while you nip off to woodland spa for some pampering.
LISTEN The Pied Piper
Pied Piper is a musical experience for older children, created by the Battersea Arts Centre’s mighty Beatbox Academy. This raucous musical adaptation of the cautionary folk tale has been updated for a modern audience, and is relatable and funny. In this lively new version, performed at London’s Southbank Centre, the kids of Hamelin are up in arms over the misgivings of the town’s mayor, who has banned music. Thankfully, the charismatic piper lends a hand with hip hop beats. Suitable for kids aged six and over, this energetic musical is like nothing you will have seen before.
ENJOY The Ladurée Cafe
For a special treat, take the kids to Ladurée’s brand new concept café in the heart of Notting Hill. With pastel-coloured interiors and chic, green-gingham finishes it’s a little slice of Parisian style in London. The iconic French patisserie is loved for its delectable macarons, but Notting Hill’s new eatery also has a fantastic menu of pastries. Pop in with little ones for a hot chocolate and something sweet.
SEE Chitty Chitty Bang Bang The Musical
A firm family favourite, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang the musical is touring the UK. Based on Ian Fleming’s timeless children’s story that was made into the classic 1968 film, this brand new theatre production is sure to be a hit. Kids will love the absent-minded inventor, Caractacus Potts, who restores a broken-down racing car with the help of his children, Jemima and Jeremy, only to discover it has magical powers – leading them all on marvellous adventures in far flung lands. Starring famous names such as Adam Garcia and Charlie Brooks, the show takes place at the New Wimbledon Theatre from 21 to 26 May, before it sets off for theatres around the country.
VISIT The Paddington Bear Experience
The much-anticipated Paddington Bear Experience opens its doors in London this May. A multi-room, immersive experience, visitors can step inside the famous bear’s world, exploring lots of well-known locations from the wonderful stories, including the Brown’s house at No. 32 Windsor Gardens and Mr Gruber’s shop. Throughout their journey children will enjoy an interactive adventure full of gameplay as they help Paddington and the Brown family prepare for a very special occasion, The Marmalade Day Festival. Suitable for all ages, the whole experience lasts about 70 minutes – and there’s a cute gift shop on site.
PLAY Swingers Crazy Golf
Swingers, the famous crazy golf club, has opened its doors to children for the first time: every Sunday throughout May is dedicated to family-fun at their West End venue. Book a round of crazy golf followed by food from Patty&Bun, Breddos Tacos and Pizza Pilgrims. There are three, nine-hole golf courses to choose from; test your skills on The Big Wheel with all the fun of the fairground, or Meteorite, where your golf balls will be sent into orbit! With a live DJ on site, expect a fun vibe, that older kids, teens – and parents –will love.
TRY Turf Nutterz
Burn off some energy at Turf Nutterz, the UK’s largest inflatable obstacle course, where kids can bounce, jump and play to their heart’s content. Measuring 300 metres, this supersize inflatable maze is packed with 30 fun and challenging obstacles to complete, including huge slides, climbing walls, and hanging rails. It travels around the country and arrives at the Surrey Sports Park in Guildford from 25 May to 2 June, just in time for half term. If you miss it then, book for August when it sets up home at Tooting Common in London (from 10 to 18 August). Sessions last roughly two hours and are suitable for all ages, but under-fives must be accompanied by an adult.
We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.
Any Questions or Tips to add?