May Half Term and beyond in Devon

The summer is getting warmer and there is more and more to do for families in Devon.  Check out our details below of things to do this May half term and beyond.

Don’t forget that you can also see our frequently updated general listings here

 

 

Make a date to visit Occombe Farm this May half term.

All-weather family fun with unique indoor and outdoor play, animal encounters and an animal paddocks trail.  There’s a bunch of exciting bookable farm experiences too. Kids! Be a Farmer for a Day or get closer to their smaller animals on a Beaks & Squeaks adventure. Enjoy a family breakfast or meet friends for lunch in their Farm Café. Occombe Farm – where new adventures begin!

Find out more at www.occombe.co.uk #occombefarm

 

Swimming Lessons for everyone at Tarka Leisure Centre and Ilfracombe Gym and Swimming Pool

“Our Learn to Swim programme teaches everyone to be Safer, Smarter and Stronger in and around all bodies of water. Our swimmers don't just learn to swim, they become all round water safety heroes. We understand that swimming is a life skill and we want to educate everyone to make the right decisions around water.

Water Safety extends much further beyond the confines of a swimming pool, we understand the importance of ensuring that everyone can make sensible and smarter decisions in everyday life when concerned with water safety.”

Find out more at www.leisurecentre.com

 

Message from Torquay Girls Grammar School

“Torquay Girls’ Grammar School’s academic results place us among the top nationally for both attainment and progress, with our students going on to top universities, apprenticeships and employment opportunities. 

However, these facts do not convey the real essence of our school, which is more about a way of thinking; helping our pupils to believe they can achieve anything and giving them the skills and high self-esteem to do so.

As the only state, selective girls’ school in the area judged as Outstanding in every Ofsted category, Torquay Girls’ Grammar School is an exceptional choice for the education of your child.”

 

Something is stirring at the sanctuary this spring at The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth!
Explore the sanctuary and discover the spring wildlife that lives with the donkeys. Can you match the correct habitat to the right wildlife? The perfect excuse to get out with the family to explore the sanctuary and combine exercise and brainpower, just £5 per trail, including a treat on completion. Plus, play park, daily talks, scenic walks, engaging exhibits, a bat beacon and friendly donkeys, there’s so much to explore! Open daily from 9am, admission and parking are free. Dogs welcome on a lead.

Find out more at www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/events

 

Message from South Dartmoor Community College

“Parents overwhelmingly recommend it to others (Ofsted Sept 2024: Good in all categories). This is because our students feel safe, happy and make excellent progress. Our ambitious, academic curriculum is supported by an enriching extracurricular offer. We highly value the Arts, Performing Arts and Physical Education, as well as other creative, design and vocational subjects, recognising the importance these have in supporting students’ individuality, interests and wellbeing. Our strong student outcomes are achieved through providing high quality Teaching and Learning every day and by caring for our students as individuals.”

 

Summer at House of Marbles

Summer just got craftier! Keep children busy during the summer holidays with our fun-filled, budget-friendly craft workshops. From Quilling and Sand Art to Mosaics and Scratch Art, there’s something to spark every child’s imagination and creativity. Perfect for all skill levels, these hands-on sessions offer a great way to stay entertained, learn new skills, and create colourful keepsakes to take home. It’s the ideal mix of fun, creativity, and value this summer! Spaces are limited, so book now to avoid disappointment.

Find out more at www.houseofmarbles.com

 

Splashdown Quaywest, located along South Devon’s stunning coastline, is the UK’s largest outdoor waterpark, offering family-friendly fun and thrilling water adventures.

 With heated water, you can splash around whatever the weather. With 11 exciting flumes, including the heart-pumping Surf Lagoon, Raging Rapids, and the legendary Devil’s Drop—a near-vertical 15-metre plunge—it’s perfect for all thrill-seekers. Younger visitors can enjoy their new aqua play arena, Shipwreck Island, with 7 flumes and a GIANT tipping bucket. Relax on the sun terraces or sip a refreshing Costa Coffee delivered directly to the park. With breathtaking views over Goodrington Sands and attractions for all ages, Splashdown Quaywest promises the ultimate splash-tastic day out for everyone.

Find out more at www.splashdownwaterparks.co.uk/quaywest

 

Get ready for an exhilarating weekend at the English Riviera Airshow from Friday, 30th May to Sunday, 1st June 2025!

This spectacular event promises breathtaking aerial displays, featuring world-class pilots and stunning aircraft. Families can enjoy a variety of ground attractions, including live music, food stalls, a fun fair and entertainment for all ages. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Torbay's coastline, the airshow is a perfect way to kick off the summer. Mark your calendars and make a weekend of it with high-flying fun!

Find out more at https://englishrivieraairshow.co.uk/

 

Exmouth Festival – 11th to 13th July 2025

Exmouth Festival is a vibrant free arts festival with a relaxed and friendly feel. There’s lots to do for families; wind your way through music, theatre, circus, dance, fitness, art & craft, food & drink and sustainability too. You can join in with workshops and crafts around this year’s theme ‘Stories from The Sea’.

With music ranging from rap, choirs and dance music to folk, indie, soul and country, there really is something for everyone. And it’s all free! Confirmed acts include Samantics, The Old Time Sailors, Cable Street Collective, The Scribes, First Time Flyers, Souled and many more tba.

Find out more at www.exmouthfestival.co.uk

 

No Hassle, All Fun! Craft Parties with Pom Stitch Tassel

Looking for a creative twist on the classic birthday party?  Pom Stitch Tassel specialises in stress-free, mess-friendly craft parties your kids will LOVE!

Whether you're raising a mini-maker or a future fashion designer, they have got the perfect party packed with colour, creativity, and zero hassle for you.

 Visit https://pomstitchtassel.com/collections/craft-partiesto find out more & book today!

**Use code "BIRTHDAYCHILDGOESFREE" for up to £20 off your party booking. **

 

 

Unleash your creativity this half term with Bernaville Nurseries and paint a garden pot to win a gift voucher to spend in store!

 To enter, just collect a plain pot from their information desk, adorn it at home and return to the garden centre, where it will be displayed for one week whilst judging commences! Winners will be announced on June 10th 2025.

See the advert to find out more or visit www.bernaville.co.uk

 

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Affinity Devon on the 28th & 29th May!

Come face-to-face with life-sized dinosaurs and immerse yourself in the thrilling world of prehistoric creatures. Take part in exciting ranger training sessions, where you’ll learn how to care for these magnificent beasts. Whether you're a dinosaur enthusiast or looking for a fun family outing, this is an experience you won’t want to miss!

For more details, visit affinitydevon.com and mark your calendar for a roar-some day out!

 

Puppy Raisers with open hearts and homes needed across Devon

Guide Dogs, the charity which provides services for people with sight loss, is appealing for volunteer Puppy Raisers to help them raise the next generation of guide dogs. 

Puppy Raisers socialise pups and help them learn the vital foundations for their future as guide dogs. The puppy lives with the volunteer family for approximately 12 to 16 months and together they explore new environments and experiences. 

Puppy Raisers get support from a dedicated volunteer manager, invitations to puppy classes and all food and vet expenses covered. 

Find out more at www.guidedogs.org.uk/puppyraiser

 

Summer Term at Exeter Phoenix

Dive into the exciting world of film, theatre, music and creative workshops this summer term at Exeter Phoenix. They’ve got Bluey cooking up a storm in the cinema, characters from your favourite fairy tales causing mischief on stage, a beatbox superstar and even animation magic to keep you entertained.

Don't forget to join them on 6th July at Green Phoenix Festival for a whole host of FREE activities including music, art, film screenings, performance, poetry and so much more!

Find out more at www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/family

 

Images here for Northcott: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/88wjra3a825ods5xjdnnb/ACoVmMeSjThyEuq0n_hwRZU?rlkey=lpircmaeky1vdwmzlg1aecilj&e=1&st=y64p7tlf&dl=0 pl please credit the photographer Mark Douet

 

We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone’s dead!

Get ready for Horrible Histories live on stage! This summer half-term, two different shows are taking over Exeter Northcott Theatre: Terrible Tudors and Awful Egyptians. Both feature eye-popping special effects, guaranteed to thrill children aged 5+ and their grown-ups alike.

Whether you want to meet horrible Henry VIII and evil Elizabeth, or rumble with Ancient Egypt’s Ramesses the Great, historical figures will come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips!

Tickets from £22, with £2 off for children. Book now on exeternorthcott.co.uk.

 

Ditch the screens and head outdoors for the ultimate family adventure at Gone Wild Festival!

Join Bear Grylls & friends for an action-packed weekend at Holkham Hall, Norfolk (7-10 August) or Powderham Castle, Exeter (21-24 August).

Adventure by day and party by night with over 100 activities to choose from, family entertainment, interactive live shows, talks & workshops and huge live performances every evening, with this year’s lineups including Ministry of Sound Classical, Clean Bandit, Dick & Dom and more.

Do something different with your family this summer and embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Choose from Weekend tickets (camping included), Day tickets, or Evening tickets. Discover more at gonewildfestival.com.

 

GONE WILD FESTIVAL NORFOLK

Location: Holkham Hall, Norfolk

Event date: 7th - 10th August 2025

Event website: norfolk.gonewildfestival.com

Event contact email: norfolk@gonewildfestival.com

Facebook: Gone Wild Festival Norfolk

Instagram: @gonewildfestivalnorfolk

 

GONE WILD FESTIVAL DEVON

Location: Powderham Castle, Devon

Event date: 21st -24th August 2025

Event website: devon.gonewildfestival.com

Event contact email: devon@gonewildfestival.com

Facebook: Gone Wild Festival Devon

Instagram: @gonewildfestivaldevon

 

Family fun in Seaton!

Enjoy a fantastic family day out in Seaton! Start your adventure at Seaton Tramway, where heritage trams take you on a scenic ride through Seaton Wetlands to Colyton. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way! After your tram journey, step into the prehistoric world at Jurassic Discovery. Explore life-sized dinosaurs in the 'Last Day of the Dinosaurs Exhibition! With hands-on activities and a soft play area, there’s something for everyone. Whether you're riding the trams or meeting dinosaurs, Seaton is perfect for a family day out full of adventure, learning, and fun!

Find out more at www.tram.co.uk & www.jurassicdiscovery.co.uk

 

 

 

Get ready for an adventure-filled May Half Term at Crealy Theme Park & Resort.

From rollercoasters, water rides to live family shows and indoor rides & animals galore. Plus, with over 65,000 square feet of indoor play - there's fun guaranteed whatever the weather!

Because one day of fun is never enough, come back again for a FREE with their free return visit - that's 2 days out for the price of 1!

Book now at crealy.co.uk

 

Looking for an Adventure this Summer?

Whatever the weather, Clip ‘n Climb Exeter is the perfect place for a family day out! With over 25 exciting climbing challenges, there’s something for everyone —from first-time climbers to fearless adventurers.

No experience? No problem! Their auto-belay system means you can just clip in and climb, with no need for ropes or technical skills. It’s a fantastic way to get active, burn off some energy, and try something new together.

With sessions running all day, every day throughout the school holidays and every weekend plus youth clubs after school, it’s easy to fit in some climbing fun. What’s more, as a fully indoor centre, it’s the perfect activity for keeping the kids entertained—rain or shine!

Book your climbing adventure today!
Visit: www.quayclimbingcentre.co.uk or www.clipnclimbexeter.co.uk

 

Brixham College

“At Brixham College, we deliver a values curriculum to all students as part of their personal development, underpinned by our College Values: High Expectations, Continuous Improvement, Character, Knowledge, and Leadership.

Our upcoming open mornings offer Year 5 pupils and their families the chance to explore our school in action. You will experience lessons taking place across a range of subjects, showcasing how we nurture academic, social, and moral growth in every student.

Brixham College isn’t just about education; it’s a values-led college dedicated to shaping well-rounded individuals ready to thrive.”

Book your place today: https://brixhamcollege.co.uk/

 

This half term at RHS Garden Rosemoor

Get ready for a week of fun, laughter, and friendly competition as we celebrate the joys of spring at the Great Garden Game-A-Thon at RHS Garden Rosemoor, 24 May -01 June. Gather your family and friends for an unforgettable day of exhilarating games and activities in the great outdoors. Will you rise to the challenge?

Book in advance online and save - let the games begin!

Find out more at www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor

 

 

Relive the Best Day Out of the Year at Home Park!

Get ready, Plymouth — the event of the summer is almost here! On Sunday 26th May, Home Park Stadium transforms into a vibrant family festival for Relive at Argyle, a sensational day of music, entertainment, and unforgettable memories.

Organised by 0 Promotions and Home Park, Relive at Argyle is where nostalgia meets the perfect family day out. Expect a superstar lineup featuring Mel C, Jo and Jon from S Club 7, Blazin' Squad, Howard Donald,Marvin Humes, Tinchy Stryder, Livin' Joy, Ultrabeat, Ian Van Dahl, and an amazing ABBA tribute from Take a Chance on Us.

It’s not just for the grown-ups — the kids are in for a huge treat too! With appearances by Justin Fletcher (of children's TV fame), a Rave Kids Takeover, Bluey and Bingo meet-and-greets, bouncy castles, face painting, amusements, and more, there's non-stop excitement for the whole family.

Running from 12pm to 10pm right on the Home Park pitch, the day promises huge production, a silent disco, stunning decor, delicious food and drink, charity support, and plenty of surprises throughout the day.

🎟️ Tickets are selling fast!
Scan the QR code in the Primary Times magazine for an exclusive 50% discount.

Don’t miss the day everyone will be talking about — music, laughter, and pure joy await at Relive at Argyle!

 

Message from Red Rock Outdoor

Something for all the family. Come as a family group, birthday party. event or choose from our youth clubs. visitors can join us for a day 10am to 3pm or on the beach or Adventure club for two hours in the morning 10am to 12 noon. They also offer residential 2 day camps which are fun board and packed full of safe adventures. The camp has been offering activities and camping since 1920, so come and be a part of our new history. We teach watersports at Orcombe Point, the estuary centre and our Exmouth Camp is just above Orcombe Point looking out to sea with wonderful views of the bay.”We are listed with Ofsted.

Find out more at www.redrockoutdoor.co.uk

 

Veronique Mertes Hypnotherapy

“Veronique is a mother of two teens, a clinical hypnotherapist and a parenting coach.

In this webinar she guides you through the different stages from pre-teen into teenage years, allowing you to be well prepared for the changes ahead.

Parenting a teen is a completely different job description from parenting a child.

When our kids turning into teens, nature causes like a ‘riff’ between us, which explains the challenging behaviours. If parents understand what is happening, they can rebuild that connection, even stronger.

This webinar will help you feel well prepared and confident to handle whatever your teen throws at you!”

 

 

 

 

The Box in Plymouth

There are some great activities planned for families and younger visitors to The Box this May and June! Fun, sensory ‘I Wonder’ sessions for pre-school children are on offer on Tuesday mornings during term time, giving little ones and their adults a chance to experience and take inspiration from our galleries and exhibitions with different activities each week. Free, weekly ‘Tell Me a Story’ sessions also continue each Friday morning. During the half term break activities will be inspired by the ocean. Why not come along and create your own futuristic sea creature from clay from Tuesday 27-Friday 30 May? A ‘Super Sunday’ is also taking place earlier in the month on 4 May with family activities, live folk music, Morris Dance performances and a whole lot more.

 Visit the ‘What’s On’ section of theboxplymouth.com for all the details.

 

Ditch the screens and head outdoors for the ultimate family adventure at Gone Wild Festival!

Join Bear Grylls & friends for an action-packed weekend at Holkham Hall, Norfolk (7-10 August) or Powderham Castle, Exeter (21-24 August).

Adventure by day and party by night with over 100 activities to choose from, family entertainment, interactive live shows, talks & workshops and huge live performances every evening, with this year’s lineups including Ministry of Sound Classical, Clean Bandit, Dick & Dom and more.

Do something different with your family this summer and embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Choose from Weekend tickets (camping included), Day tickets, or Evening tickets. Discover more at gonewildfestival.com.

 

GONE WILD FESTIVAL NORFOLK

Location: Holkham Hall, Norfolk

Event date: 7th - 10th August 2025

Event website: norfolk.gonewildfestival.com

Event contact email: norfolk@gonewildfestival.com

Facebook: Gone Wild Festival Norfolk

Instagram: @gonewildfestivalnorfolk

 

GONE WILD FESTIVAL DEVON

Location: Powderham Castle, Devon

Event date: 21st -24th August 2025

Event website: devon.gonewildfestival.com

Event contact email: devon@gonewildfestival.com

Facebook: Gone Wild Festival Devon

Instagram: @gonewildfestivaldevon

 

Enjoy Cornwall's biggest family day out and visit the Royal Cornwall Show this June

With everything from live animals, breath-taking entertainment, fun learning and education, two music stages, and local food and drink, you'll find something for everyone to enjoy. For 2025 they are pleased to welcome back Ben Atkinson and his emotional performance with his Liberty Horses, and the breath-taking motorbike stunt team Bolddog FMX.

The Royal Cornwall Show takes place on the 5,6 & 7 June at the Royal Cornwall Events Centre just outside Wadebridge. Readers of Primary Times have the chance to win a VIP Family Ticket (see page 14), which gives access to one family (two adults and two children between 4-15 yrs old) for any one day of the Show, and Guest Badges for the day of your choice, so you can enjoy the amenities of the Royal Cornwall Members' Area during your visit.

Find out more at www.royalcornwallshow.org

 

Splashdown Quaywest, located along South Devon’s stunning coastline, is the UK’s largest outdoor waterpark, offering family-friendly fun and thrilling water adventures.

 With heated water, you can splash around whatever the weather. With 11 exciting flumes, including the heart-pumping Surf Lagoon, Raging Rapids, and the legendary Devil’s Drop—a near-vertical 15-metre plunge—it’s perfect for all thrill-seekers. Younger visitors can enjoy their new aqua play arena, Shipwreck Island, with 7 flumes and a GIANT tipping bucket. Relax on the sun terraces or sip a refreshing Costa Coffee delivered directly to the park. With breathtaking views over Goodrington Sands and attractions for all ages, Splashdown Quaywest promises the ultimate splash-tastic day out for everyone.

Find out more at www.splashdownwaterparks.co.uk/quaywest

 

Expand Your World at Plympton Academy

“Join us at one of our upcoming Open Events and discover how Plympton Academy encourages students to expand their world. Our core values – Community, Courage, Compassion, and Curiosity shape everything we do, creating a culture where young people are inspired to aim high, challenge themselves, and grow into confident, resilient learners.

Plympton Academy is a vibrant community where every student is encouraged to explore their potential and embrace new opportunities. Come and see what makes Plympton Academy the right choice for Year 7 and beyond.”

Book Your Visit Today at www.plympton.academy/our-school/visit-plympton-academy

 

Plymouth Karting - A Message from Our Director, Kate

“We’re thrilled to be featured in Primary Times! As a family-run business, it means so much to connect with local parents and guardians looking for exciting, safe, and memorable experiences for their children. At Plymouth Karting, we love seeing families having a blast—whether it's zooming around our indoor go kart track or teaming up in our multi-level laser tag arena. There’s something for everyone to enjoy! To celebrate, we’ve included an exclusive Primary Times voucher inside—our special treat just for you. We can’t wait to welcome you and your little thrill-seekers soon!”

Find out more at www.plymouthkarting.co.uk

 

Plymouth High School for Girls is a long-established and highly popular selective school in the heart of Plymouth.

“Since 1874, our motto 'For life not school we learn' has inspired generations of students to grow into confident, compassionate individuals.

Our open events are the perfect opportunity to experience our welcoming environment, meet passionate teachers, and see how we nurture both academic success and personal development.

Attend our open events and discover what makes Plymouth High truly exceptional.”

Find out more at www.phsg.org

 

Splashdown Quaywest, located along South Devon’s stunning coastline, is the UK’s largest outdoor waterpark, offering family-friendly fun and thrilling water adventures.

 With heated water, you can splash around whatever the weather. With 11 exciting flumes, including the heart-pumping Surf Lagoon, Raging Rapids, and the legendary Devil’s Drop—a near-vertical 15-metre plunge—it’s perfect for all thrill-seekers. Younger visitors can enjoy their new aqua play arena, Shipwreck Island, with 7 flumes and a GIANT tipping bucket. Relax on the sun terraces or sip a refreshing Costa Coffee delivered directly to the park. With breathtaking views over Goodrington Sands and attractions for all ages, Splashdown Quaywest promises the ultimate splash-tastic day out for everyone.

Find out more at www.splashdownwaterparks.co.uk/quaywest

 

Little Leander

Little Leander Swim School, operated by Plymouth Leander—one of Britain's premier swimming clubs—offers a comprehensive learn-to-swim programme for children aged three and above. With sessions held at Marjon University's 25-metre pool, the school provides a seamless progression from beginner to club-level swimming. Emphasising water safety and stroke development, Little Leander ensures each child advances at their own pace through small group or private lessons. The curriculum is structured into stages, each culminating in a certificate, fostering strong, capable swimmers.

For more details, visit their website at littleleander.co.uk.

 

 

Get ready for an adventure-filled May Half Term at Crealy Theme Park & Resort.

From rollercoasters, water rides to live family shows and indoor rides & animals galore. Plus, with over 65,000 square feet of indoor play - there's fun guaranteed whatever the weather!

Because one day of fun is never enough, come back again for a FREE with their free return visit - that's 2 days out for the price of 1!

Book now at crealy.co.uk

 

Message from Plymouth Active

Swimming is more than a skill—it’s a launchpad to confidence, adventure, and lifelong safety. At Plymouth Active, their children’s swimming lessons are designed to do more than teach technique; they inspire self-belief, courage, and joy.

For just £34.50 per month, your child will be guided by friendly, qualified instructors in a supportive, fun environment where progress happens naturally.

And the best part? Outside of lessons, your child can swim for free anytime at their centre—because confidence grows with freedom and play.

This isn’t just about swimming. It’s about giving your child the confidence to dive into life.

Contact: www.plymouthactive.co.uk or email: lifecentre.swimlessons@plymouthactive.co.uk or call Telephone: 01752 606 900 (Option 2)

 

Relive the Best Day Out of the Year at Home Park!

Get ready, Plymouth — the event of the summer is almost here! On Sunday 26th May, Home Park Stadium transforms into a vibrant family festival for Relive at Argyle, a sensational day of music, entertainment, and unforgettable memories.

Organised by 0 Promotions and Home Park, Relive at Argyle is where nostalgia meets the perfect family day out. Expect a superstar lineup featuring Mel C, Jo and Jon from S Club 7, Blazin' Squad, Howard Donald,Marvin Humes, Tinchy Stryder, Livin' Joy, Ultrabeat, Ian Van Dahl, and an amazing ABBA tribute from Take a Chance on Us.

It’s not just for the grown-ups — the kids are in for a huge treat too! With appearances by Justin Fletcher (of children's TV fame), a Rave Kids Takeover, Bluey and Bingo meet-and-greets, bouncy castles, face painting, amusements, and more, there's non-stop excitement for the whole family.

Running from 12pm to 10pm right on the Home Park pitch, the day promiseshuge production, a silent disco, stunning decor, delicious food and drink, charity support, and plenty of surprises throughout the day.

🎟️ Tickets are selling fast!
Scan the QR code in the Primary Times magazine for an exclusive 50% discount.

Don’t miss the day everyone will be talking about — music, laughter, and pure joy await at Relive at Argyle!

 

National Trust in Plymouth

Summer is on the way at National Trust places near you and there is plenty on offer to keep little ones entertained this half term. From places to run wild and gardens packed with colour, to lavish stately homes and cosy country houses, there’s a day out to suit everyone.

You’ll find activities for all the family and the all-important cafés stocked up with tempting treats. With family friendly walking and cycling routes, gardens and parklands perfect for a game of hide-and-seek and plenty of new activity trails and events to try, there’s plenty to do, whatever the weather.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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