WHAT’S ON May half term holidays Somerset
Looking for things to do this May half term in Somerset? Well, you’re in luck! The county’s got everything from dinosaur trails, crafty days out, circus shows in cider orchards, and more!
For general days out, rather than specific events, check out my guide to 42 amazing Somerset attractions. If there’s a last minute heatwave (!!), perhaps you could plan a family glamping adventure in the county, or failing that, this post covers all bases for rainy day inspiration. Or, take a trip to the North Somerset coast for a beach day and some yummy grub.
Keep an eye on the Down Somerset Way Facebook group and my Instagram for more what’s on ideas!
I’m keeping this post on May half term Somerset events updated as new events pop up, so bookmark it and check back often! If you know of any events taking places in Somerset May half term 2025 that aren’t listed here, please click on the button below to submit a listing.
May half term in Somerset: Outdoor days out
Dinosaur Sculpture Trail, Coates English Willow
- When? Until 10 October 2025.
Roam with raptors and hunt for Willowsauruses! Coates English Willow have used their legendary willow weaving skills to bring a dozen or so Jurassic giants to life. Grab a trail map from reception (£3.50) and track down the incredible dinosaur sculptures lurking among the woodlands, find them all and you’ll win a prize!
Extend your day out with a circular walk along the River Tone (perfect picnic spot), to the viewpoint on top of Windmill Hill for views across Hay Moor and Curry Moor.
Cider Press Saturday, Burrow Hill
Head to Burrow Hill Cider Farm on 24 May for a special Cider Bus Saturday, complete with tasty slices from The Munch and an unforgettable circus show, ELEVATEHER by Daughters Of The Dust. Expect fearless tightrope performances and an inclusive workshop.
Kick back in the orchards with a cider, grab a wood-fired pizza from The Firehouse on 31 May. Snap up tickets for Counterweight—a bold, brilliant circus show packed with jaw-dropping rigging, human counterweight stunts, live music, and plenty of laughs. It sold out last time, so grab your tickets while you can.
National Trust Montacute
- When? 28-31 May 2025
Meet the Taunton Garrison and learn about early military camp life when the building of Montacute House was just a grand idea in Edward Phelips’ mind.
Join in musket drills, watch pike drills, meet the blacksmith, camp cook and barber surgeon and learn about their crafts. Muskets will be on display but will not be fired. The camp will be in the Farmer’s Piece behind the two big cedar trees at the end of the cedar lawn.
Prior Park Landscape Garden endangered animal trail
- When? 24 May-1 June 2025
Head to the lower garden at Prior Park, where little adventurers can dive into fun, hands-on activities.
Grab an Explorer’s Backpack from Visitor Reception, packed with seasonal goodies and tools to help kids uncover the secrets of the great outdoors.
May half term at Stourhead
- When? 24 May-1 June 2025
Head to the historic Stableyard at Stourhead and get crafty, burn off some energy with games, play on ride-on tractors and complete an obstacle course.
Little explorers will love the spotter challenge activity sheet. And with the garden bursting into bloom, it’s the perfect time for a lakeside stroll and a picnic in the sunshine.
May half term, Lytes Cary Manor
- When? 24 May-1 June 2025
Round up the fam and kick things off with a game of croquet at National Trust’s Lytes Cary. You can take your pick from three fun-themed backpacks—each one packed with goodies like beanbags, a parachute, or even a super-long skipping rope!
Bee Trail, Dunster Castle
- When? 24 May-2 June 2025
Embark on a family-friendly adventure this May half-term at Dunster Castle and Watermill. Explore the castle grounds with a special bee trail (£3) designed for all ages.
Nature Explorer, Fyne Court
Get outside and explore Fyne Court – borrow a bag of activities, watch for wildlife, discover a bug and take on our sensory scavenger hunt. After your walk, decorate a paper pollinator in the Music hall.
Fluent in Flowers at Tyntesfield
- When? 22 May-3 June 2025
This May half term at Tyntesfield, take a wander through the gardens and discover the secret language of flowers. There are hidden 10 signs, each revealing the hidden meanings of plants. It’s a blooming lovely way to explore and learn something new.
Discover more gorgeous Somerset gardens this Spring
May half term at Wookey Hole
Explore the vast underground chambers of Wookey Hole and learn about their fascinating geology, history and the legends that have emerged over the millennia. Look out for the moon, shining bright in the heart of the caves, meet the infamous Witch and walk through the Enchanted Valley where you’ll encounter mythical beasts and legends. Plus soft play, circus shows and 4D cinema.
Book five days in advance to get 20% off tickets.
Hestercombe Gardens
Located just outside Taunton, Hestercombe’s magnificent grounds encompass three centuries of gardening history and are a great place to let kids run free. From landscaped Georgian gardens complete with waterfall, wooded valley walks and lake, to a Victorian shrubbery and Edwardian Arts and Crafts-influenced formal gardens. There’s also sweeping views of the Somerset countryside, a fab café and restaurant for post-stroll treats. Click here for more info.
American Museum & Gardens
- When? 24 May-1 June 2025
This May half term, the American Museum & Gardens in Bath invites families to a week of adventure and creativity. Don a pirate costume before you go and embark on a free treasure trail through the gardens, inspired by artistic maps in the gallery.
Other highlights include a Rainbow Family Community Day on 26 May, a pop-up planetarium show on 28 May (book tickets), and a lively Kids’ Rave with the Super Pirates on 30 May (book tickets).
Bishops Palace Gardens
Head to Bishops Palace Gardens this May half term to explore 14 acres of gardens, see swans and their cygnets, waterfalls and springs plus half term family activities such as The Time Travelling Carpenter (24 May 2025, 11am-12.30 and 1pm-3.30pm).
Ancient Animal Odyssey Illuminations, Cheddar Gorge
- When? 22 April-2 June 2025
This spring, deep inside Gough’s Cave, an illuminated Ancient Animal Odyssey will lead visitors on an underground trail of glowing prehistoric creatures. With explorer challenges, and badge-making fun, it’s the ultimate family day out.
Your day ticket also includes entry to Cheddar Gorge Cliff-Top Walk, Cox’s Cave multimedia journey, Museum of Prehistory, Beyond The View panoramic experience and Jacob’s Ladder & Lookout Tower. Longleat Members may also visit for free.
Indoor half term activities Somerset 2025
I’m hoping this lush sunny weather might stick around, but if you’re looking for what to do in Somerset when it’s raining, click here for numerous fun, indoor activities in Somerset for entertaining restless kids during inclement weather.
May half term fun at Haynes Motor Museum
- When? 24 May-1 June 2025
Haynes Motor Museum is the place to be for mini petrolheads and curious minds. From high-speed hisotry to the Williams F1 exhibition, there’s a garage-load of family-friendly action waiting.
The outdoor car displays are also back and feature classic and quirky vehicles from the museum’s collection. You’ll get the chance to get up close, and maybe even hop inside some legendary rides.
Follow the Go Go Go! Trail through the museum, go remote control car racing, let kids burn energy in the motoring-themed play zone, and try the Somerset-themed Scalextric track, where you’ll race past Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage, zip through Cheddar Gorge and whizz by some of Somerset’s best-loved landmarks. Book online to save 10%, tickets are valid for 12 months.
More Rainy day indoor activities in Somerset
Homefront Heroines, Somerset Rural Life Museum, Glastonbury
When? 24 May- 1 June 2025
Explore the ‘Home Front Heroines’ trail at Somerset Rural Life Museum, celebrating the vital roles of Somerset women during WWII. Interactive stations let children try their hand at being a Spitfire builder, map maker, codebreaker, or Land Army recruit. Younger visitors can enjoy rationing-themed roleplay. The trail is included with Museum Unlimited passes or standard admission.
Eye Spy, Museum of Somerset, Taunton
- When? 27-29 May 2025
Explore the world of 17th-century espionage with Museum of Somerset’s ‘Eye Spy’ event. Inspired by the Battle of Sedgemoor, children can craft their own extendable cardboard telescopes and embark on a museum-wide trail to spot historical artefacts. Activities cost £2 each, and the trail is £1. No booking required; just drop in and enjoy a hands-on history adventure.
Avalon Archaeology
Step into a world of Saxon intrigue with ‘The Curse of the Cynning’, an immersive escape room experience at Avalon Archaeology’s Saxon Longhall. Launching on 30 May 2025, this historically-themed adventure invites participants to unravel a tale of politics, mystery, and treasure from King Alfred’s era.
Set within a reconstructed timber longhall, it’s a unique blend of history and interactive fun. Booking is essential.
Glow Party with Party Peeps On The Pier Family Rave at The Grand Pier, Weston
- When? 29 May 2025
Get ready for a dazzling Family Glow Party at Weston-super-Mare’s Grand Pier! This interactive event features fun games and challenges. For more details and tickets, visit the official event page.
May half term animal days out
Somerset is brimming with delightful animal encounters that are perfect for families! Whether you’re a fan of fuzzy farm animals or majestic birds of prey, there’s no shortage of furry, feathered, and scaly friends to meet in the countryside, this guide highlights the best wildlife, bird experiences and animal days out in Somerset. I’ve also added some special May half term events taking place at animal attractions below.
Dinosaur Valley: LIVE! Avon Valley Wildlife & Adventure Park
Dinosaur Valley: LIVE! is stomping back to Avon Valley this May Half Term and it’s bigger and better than ever! From epic new additions like the Ride-On T-Rex to roaming dinosaurs, baby dinosaur show, and raptor encounters, fossil excavation digs, it’s roar-some fun for the whole family. Expect shows, dino digs, jeep safaris, foam parties, and Jurassic-sized excitement!
Wildlife Day and half term fun at Ferne Animal Sanctuary
- When? 26 May 2025, 10am-4pm
Pop into the Creative Corner at Ferne Animal Sanctuary, where kids can get stuck into making wildlife-themed creations and bingo. Outside, there’s pond dipping and a wildlife trail to explore. Special event pricing: £5 per adult, £1 per child.
Got a pooch? Meet at 11am on Bank Holiday Monday (26 May) at the bottom of the main car park at Ferne Animal Sanctuary for the Ferne Social Dog Walk, then head off on a scenic walk to The Cotley Inn and back. Tickets are £5, and include entry to the sanctuary. Book your spot here.
Crafty May half term days out
Half term crafts at Glastonbury Abbey
- When? 27 & 29 May 2025, (11am-1pm)
Head to Glastonbury Abbey Museum for two brilliant drop-in family craft sessions. Make your very own flower-inspired headband using paper and recycled craft materials (27 May).
Get crafty with a matchbox miniature masterpiece (29 May) – use drawing, collage and a mix of fun materials to create your own tiny 3D scene, inspired by the Abbey ruins and gardens. No need to book, just drop in. Included with admission (free for Abbey members). Save by booking tickets online in advance. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Wild Woodland necklaces at Ham Hill
- When? 30 May 2025, 12.30pm-3pm
Join the Ham Hill Rangers for ‘Wild Woodland Necklaces’—a hands-on adventure packed with woodland treks, safe tool use, and nature-inspired crafts. You’ll learn all about hazel and elder trees, then use traditional tools (and a bit of woodland magic!) to create your very own Hazel Cookie and Elder Bead necklace to take home.
Suitable for ages 7–14. Meet outside the Ham Hill Ranger’s Office. £6 per child – bring cash on the day. Adults go free, but must stay and supervise. Booking is essential.
Play with clay, Somerset Brick and Tile Museum
- When? 27 & 29 May 2025
Make a snail out of clay to be fired at Somerset Brick and Tile Museum (27 May), then build a bug hotel for your garden. Your clay crafts will be ready for collection 4 weeks later. Suitable for ages 3+ Booking is essential, £4.
Make a mini brick and experience life as a Victorian child (29 May) then dress up like a Victorian and be put to work! Ages 6+.
Archaeology Adventures & Family Crafts at Roman Baths
- When? 27-30 May 2025
Archaeology Adventures: Dig for roman artefacts, and learn how to identify, record, and uncover hidden treasures.
Red and Gold Family Crafts: Create your own Roman-style brooch using gold and red materials.
What’s on in Somerset May half term: Steam train days
Somerset and Dorset Railway: 25, 26 (Steam Gala Day), 28 May (Wickham Trolley Rides), 1 June 2025
Yeovil Railway: 24-25 May (Model Railway Weekend with optional Diesel Train Rides), May, 1 June 2025(Steam Train Day and Teddy Bear Express).
East Somerset Railway: 31 May-1 June 2025 (Steam Gala).
Somerset May half term Theatre days out
Taunton Brewhouse
- Dinosaur World Live (27-29 May 2025)
- Monsters in Jars (28 May 2025)
- Top Secret: The Magic of Science (31 May 2025)
Wardrobe Theatre Bristol
- Fail Fail Fail Fail Win (31 May) Ages 3-10
The Playhouse, Weston-super-Mare
- Wickedly Ariana (25 May 2025)
Blakeyhay Theatre, Weston-super-Mare
- Weston OPPITTS Presents; Seussical Jr (30-31 May 2025)
Other Somerset half term events
Royal Bath and West Show
- When? 29-31 May 2025
Attendees to The Royal Bath & West Show can enjoy livestock displays, sheep shearing, vintage vehicle parades, and show jumping events. The Great British Kitchen hosts live celebrity cooking demonstrations, while the Lakeside Farm and Safety Zone provide interactive experiences for children. Live music, artisan markets, and hands-on craft activities.
May Bank Holiday at Flourish Farleigh Road
- When? 26 May 2025
Celebrate Bank Holiday Monday at Flourish, Farleigh Road with live music, a dog show, BBQ, games, and family fun! Free entry, open 10am–3pm, raising funds for local charities.
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