> Blog: How to Make the Most of May Half-Term as a Family

The half-term holidays are just around the corner, and after a busy period of studies and exams, your kids are no doubt ready for some much-deserved rest and relaxation. But what are the best ways to spend it?

While extracurricular activities can keep your children busy for a few hours, nothing beats a full day, weekend, or an even longer adventure, making memories that will last a lifetime. 

To help you plan that perfect family escape this May half-term, we’ve put together a list of 6 activities for families to do, from splashing around on the water to exploring nature or getting creative indoors! 

6 May half-term activities for families 

Whether you’re staying local or planning something a little more adventurous, there are plenty of ways to keep kids (and adults) entertained during the half-term holidays. The key is to strike a balance between fun, fresh air, and a bit of learning along the way! 

1. Dive into watersports

Love to make a splash? Then why not try your hand at watersports! May half-term is the ideal time to make use of the UK’s breathtaking lakes, seas, and rivers. Families can paddle along on a canoe together, join a dragon boating team for some rhythmic racing, or test your balance on a giant standup paddleboard. For those who prefer being in the water rather than on it, there are swimming pools and aqua parks with inflatable obstacle courses.

Watersports are brilliant for building confidence, teamwork, and resilience, especially for kids who may be trying something new for the first time. Canoeing, for example, encourages coordination and communication; paddleboarding improves balance and core strength; and swimming teaches essential water safety skills. Luckily, PGL family adventures include a fantastic range of watersports, guided by our qualified instructors.

Tips: 

• Pack essentials like towels, spare clothes, sun cream, and snacks. 
• Wetsuits are often provided, but it’s worth checking with venues in advance. 
• If you have younger children, look for venues that offer "taster" sessions for beginners.

2. Head down to the beach

A classic trip to the beach is perfect for when the weather warms up! Think of it as a vast open playground for fun, relaxation, and exploration, where kids can enjoy building sandcastles, flying kites, collecting shells, or paddling at the shoreline. If you’re curious about wildlife, rockpooling is a great way to discover marine life, including crabs and starfish. 

The beach offers something for everyone. For instance, did you know that the negative ions in the sea air are connected to better mood and sleep? For toddlers, it's a huge sensory experience with the sand and water, while teenagers will undoubtedly love the sense of freedom. 

Tips: 

• Bring layers (as coastal weather can be unpredictable), along with food, water, a picnic blanket and a windbreaker for the breeze. 
• Don’t forget buckets and spades for younger children, and maybe a frisbee or football for older ones. 
• Make sure to check the tide times, escpeilly if you plan on exploring rock pools or walking a distance along the shore. 

3. Explore a nature trail 

Grab a map and head outdoors this May half-term. With flowers in full bloom and the sun shining, exploring a nature trail is a simple yet rewarding way to spend an afternoon. Many parks, forests, and countryside areas across the UK offer designated trails that are perfect for families, often with signposts, activity boards, or themed routes to keep children engaged.

Away from the distractions of screens, it provides a great opportunity for conversation and bonding between parents and children. Meanwhile, the fresh air and vitamin D intake will also do wonders for your energy levels and mood. Plus, as a gentle form of exercise, nature walks are suitable for all fitness levels, and you can easily tailor the distance for younger children. 

Tips: 

• Wear comfortable, practical shoes (e.g., trainers or walking boots). 
• Bring water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing such as a raincoat for Spring’s ever-changing weather. 
• Look out for trails with picnic areas or play zones, adding extra value to your family day out.

4. Visit a museum or art gallery

On rainy days, museums and art galleries are brilliant half-term activities that blend entertainment with education — also known as “edutainment”. These institutions can spark a child’s curiosity about history, science, and culture through interactive exhibits, storytelling events and workshops. Best of all, most museums and galleries are free to enter or you can make a small donation to support the Arts.

You could be exploring ancient artefacts, learning about space, or stepping inside a recreated historical setting; there’s something to capture every child’s imagination. At an art gallery or show, children can observe colours and shapes through a variety of paintings and sculptures, while also finding the freedom to express their own creativity. 

Tips: 

• Check ahead for family-friendly guides or downloadable activities. 
• Keep the visit relaxed and flexible to prevent younger children from becoming overwhelmed or too tired. 
• Take a camera or phone for photos - paying attention to signage throughout the museum - and researching information. 

5. Gather flowers in the garden or park

Flower gathering is a centuries-old May Day activity that honours the arrival of spring. Traditionally, people would gather boughs of flowers and greenery to decorate their doorsteps, windows, and public spaces. Go for a walk in a "pick-your-own" flower farm (many open in late May for tulips and early peonies) or simply gather common wildflowers like daisies, buttercups, and clover from your own garden. 

Once back at home, children can create their own bouquets, press flowers for crafts, or use them in artwork. Out of all the activities to do on May half-term family holidays, this one is particularly meaningful, as it connects children with nature and encourages respect for the little things in life. It also teaches children to identify different plant species and understand the importance of pollinators like bees.

Tips: 

• Only pick flowers where it’s allowed (especially protected lands) and leave plenty behind for wildlife.
• Bring a small basket or bag to keep your finds safe during your walk.
• If you’re pressing flowers, use parchment paper to protect your book pages from moisture. 
   

6. Book a PGL family adventure holiday at May Half Term! 

If you’re looking to make the most of your family’s time together this May half-term, join us for a PGL family adventure! With activity days, 2, 3 and 4 night breaks available in Devonor Lincolnshire and a full programme of daytime and evening activities planned for you, enjoy a break with us this half term.

Here’s an example of activities you and your family could enjoy this May half-term on a short break or weekend escape : 

• Zip Wire: Soar through the air and feel the rush of excitement as you zip across the forest — perfect for thrill-seekers!
• Stand Up Paddleboarding: Glide across the water on a giant paddleboard — just be careful not to fall in! 

• High Ropes: Challenge yourself and reach new heights on our multi-level ropes course. 

• Archery Tag: This is archery with a twist! In this game of skill and teamwork, you are equipped with foam-tipped arrows to battle it out in action-packed games.

Enquire today to arrange your family adventure at May Half Term orcontact us if you’d like to find out more!