This year, we’ve got a wealth of holidays in just a few weeks with Easter running into the Early May Bank Holiday just a couple weeks later on May 6th, 2024 and then followed by Spring Bank Holiday on May 27th. That’s a lot of time to entertain yourself and your kids in such a short space. So, we’ve compiled a list of indoor and outdoor activity ideas for the bank holidays that aren’t too dear and will put a smile on everyone’s face. So, from budget-friendly walks to slightly more spendy theme parks, here are some great family activities for the May bank holidays.
Trail holiday weekend
Bundle up the whole family and make a road trip of it. Take them to a scenic country house somewhere and take one of the country’s most picturesque walks. Whether you like high hills & moorland, beachfront strolls or rolling countryside; the UK has tonnes to offer. And tour companies provide complete end-to-end planning so all you need to do is show up. Take this Helmsley Short Break, it’s perfect for a bank holiday weekend. It’s ideal for older children and includes a visit to the National Centre for Birds of Prey, rambling walks in the woodland ravine of Riccal Dal, a 900-year-old castle, tea in the Walled Gardens and much more.
Diggerland
There’s probably a location near you with parks in Kent, Devon, Durham and Yorkshire. With 20 different rides and loads of activities, try your hand at real JCBs and Komatsu excavators, enjoy the views on the Skyshuttle or bump around on Go-Karts. It’s fun for everyone over 4 years old and also has all the park amenities you’d expect like food, drink and souvenirs. There are even experience days available for adults! If you like the idea of playing with construction tools, diggerland is a one-of-a-kind experience.
Royal site visit
From Windsor Castle to Buckingham Palace, there are interesting Royal Family properties to explore and enjoy throughout the year. Windsor Castle is probably the most iconic holding that’s open during bank holidays this Spring, but if you are in Edinburgh, the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the end of the Royal Mile is worth a look. You may find the food and drink inside these locations a bit overpriced, so why not pack a picnic and take it to a nearby site like Snow Hill in Windsor? Bring one of our big red wine hampers and make the most of the crisp spring air while still having treats everyone in the family can enjoy.
Make something together
Nothing brings families together like a bit of crafting. Get the paper, paints and scissors out and try some of these fun crafts. We love the pipe cleaner flowers and think they add a little homemade charm to any room. Crafting is one of those great family activities for the May bank holidays that can cost as little or as much as you like. Try foraging in nature to get the base supplies and then choose the most appropriate craft around what you find. That’s good for the mind and the body!
