10 Family Things to Do for Less This May Half-term
You can enjoy discounted entry to a host of family-friendly events and attractions across Britain when you travel by train this May half-term
As the Spring Bank Holiday and half-term break approach, families across the country will be gearing up for a week of fun, exploration, brighter evenings and (hopefully) some sunshine. Whether you’re looking for last-minute ideas to keep the kids busy, or planning a great British day out, let National Rail’s Days Out Guide(external link, opens in a new tab) inspire your week of adventure for less.
From iconic landmarks to great gardens and marvellous museums, there are many fun and affordable days out to be discovered when you travel by train. Check out our 10 top picks below.
You can also save 1/3 off your rail fare with a Family & Friends Railcard(external link, opens in a new tab), which can be used for up to 4 adults, and gives you 60% off for up to 4 kids aged 5 to 15 years when travelling together. Big savings means more opportunities for half-term fun!
Family Days Out in London
1. Join the biggest paint-by-numbers ever, at London Zoo
23 May - 31 May: London Zoo is transforming into a vibrant creative hub this may-half term with celebrations of its 200th anniversary continuing all year long. Visit London Zoo this May half-term and be part of their world record attempt for most contributions to a paint-by-numbers. Inspired by nature, wildlife and the remarkable people who shaped the Zoo's story, this is your chance to be part of smashing an official Guinness World Record® title!
Nearest Station: London Euston
2. Take a scenic tour of London with Big Bus Tours
See London at its best from above on an open-top, double-decker Big Bus hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour. With spring in bloom, there's no better time to explore the capital's beautiful parks - perfect for a picnic or outdoor activities - before hopping back on board to soak up sweeping views of London's most iconic landmarks and attractions.
Nearest Station: London Victoria
3. Moco Modern & Contemporary Art Museum: Voice of the street - Keith Haring's Subway Drawings
Budding creatives will love London Moco museum's new Keith Haring exhibition this Spring. Step into an immersive recreation of the 1980s New York City Subway, where Haring famously transformed blank advertising panels into bold, expressive graffiti artworks. While there, explore iconic works from art-world legends including Basquiat, Banksy, Warhol, and more.
Nearest Station: London Paddington
4. Hampton Court Palace: The Big Bahooey
23-25 May: This half-term, enjoy a day of serious nonsense for all the family as the gardens of Hampton Court Palace transform into a family friendly festival of live-music, acrobats, and high energy physical theatre.
Nearest Station: Hampton Court
5. Tower Bridge Family Fun
You’ll uncover unforgettable experiences for everyone at Tower Bridge. Whether spotting buses and boats through a Glass Floor 42 metres above the Thames, or marvelling at Victorian steam engines, there is so much to explore this May half-term.
Nearest station: London Bridge
Family Days Out in Great Britain
6. Epsom and Heath: Capybara Discovery Week at Hobbledown
23-31 May: Capybara Discovery Week at Hobbledown is a fun-filled celebration of these calm and curious creatures. Enjoy a range of special activities including a Capybara Adventure Quest, engaging keeper talks, a lively Capybara Bubble Disco and interactive storytelling sessions.
Nearest Station: Hounslow, Epsom-Surrey
7. Newcastle: Rogues & Vagabonds at Newcastle Castle
Until 1 June: This Spring, Newcastle Castle becomes the home of rogues, rule-breakers and colourful characters of the castle's past. Uncover extraordinary stories, meet notorious characters, and experience the castle as it has never been seen before.
Nearest Station: Newcastle
8. Oxford: Elmer the Elephant at The Story Museum
23 May: Celebrate Elmer Day with a splash of colour and a sprinkle of storytelling this May half-term! There will be plenty of fun with joyful tales and crafts inspired by everyone's favourite patchwork friend.
Nearest Station: Oxford
9. Brighton: DRAGONS at the Royal Pavillion Brighton
Until 1 November: Step into a world of flight, fantasy and magic at the Palace of Dragons, exploring the power, beauty and mystery of the world’s most iconic mythical creatures.
Go on a dragon quest, find dragon eggs and help the baby dragons find their way home. Step into the dragon’s mouth, search for dragons in the mirrors, listen to roaring dragons in the palace halls, relax with a story, and become a Royal Pavilion Dragon Detective for an afternoon.
Nearest Station: Brighton
10. Birmingham: International Garden Photographer of the Year at Birmingham Botanical Garden
Until 29 June: After exploring the natural beauty housed within the garden's 4 magnificent glasshouses, take in award winning garden, plant, flower and botanical photography from the International Garden Photographer of the Year exhibition, one of the world’s most respected garden photography competitions and exhibitions.
Nearest Stations: Birmingham New Street, Birmingham Five Ways
Family & Friends Railcard
For up to 4 adults travelling together with up to 4 kids
Just £35 for 1 year or £80 for 3 years
1/3 off rail travel for adults and 60% off for kids
Offers are correct at time of publication but subject to change.
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