Share:

May half term in Norfolk 2025

The summer is getting warmer and there is more and more to do for families in Norfolk.  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

 

 

 

Your Perfect Family Day Out at Redwings!

Looking for a fun, free, and family-friendly adventure?

You’re invited to visit Redwings Horse Sanctuary at the Aylsham and Caldecott visitor centres in Norfolk. Open every weekend, Friday to Monday, from 10am until 4pm.

Meet adorable rescued horses and donkeys, take a peaceful paddock walk, and treat yourself to a delicious slice of cake in the café. You can even sponsor a gorgeous resident for as little as £2 a month. Or before you leave, why not browse the gift shop? Every purchase helps care for our residents.

Entry is completely free but, as a registered charity, donations are always appreciated. Well-behaved dogs on leads are more than welcome too!

Visit redwings.org.uk, email info@redwings.co.uk, call 01508 505246 or follow us on socials for all the latest from Redwings.

 

Take the stress out of May Half Term with Park & Ride

Planning days out with the kids this May half term? Make getting into Norwich one less thing to worry about by using Park & Ride. It’s the easy, great‑value way for families to travel together without the stress of city‑centre traffic or parking.

Services run from five easy to access sites every 10–20 minutes, with late buses available – ideal for everything from shopping trips and museum visits to lunches out and cinema trips.

Even better, it’s just £5 for up to five people all day, making it a budget‑friendly choice for families.

Find out more at norwichparkandride.co.uk

 

Hold On Tight: A new ride is coming to ROARR!

Just when it seemed the prehistoric thrills couldn’t get any bigger, a new adventure is being unearthed! Fossil Falls is the newest attraction coming to ROARR! Designed for intrepid explorers, mini-adventurers or fully-grown fossil hunters, this ride is set to be a massive hit for the whole family.

Due to open in the Summer, Fossil Falls will join family favourites such as Dippy’s Splash Zone, Predator High Ropes and Dinomite - the region’s largest indoor play area. Keep an eye on ROARR!’s social media for more details and to be among the first to try the ROARR-SOME new ride!

Find out more at www.roarr.co.uk

 

May half term at Norfolk Museums

Head to Norfolk Museums for outdoor Spring Fling activities at Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse, swashbuckling pirate fun at Time and Tide, and find out why Norwich Castle has made the shortlist for the Art Fund Museum of the year with the recently completed Keep refurbishment, and a safari around the Natural History collections.

Visit the website to find out about all the Norfolk Museums across the county, and access all eras with a Norfolk Museums Pass - pay once to visit all ten museums as often as you like.

Visit www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk for more information.

 

Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens offers families a truly memorable day out, and there’s an exciting new reason to visit. Say hello to Lotte, their beautiful female Sumatran tiger, who has recently arrived to join resident male Raja.

Lotte represents one of the rarest tiger subspecies in the world, making her an incredibly special addition to the park. Her arrival is an important step in supporting the conservation of these magnificent big cats, and visitors can now enjoy the chance to see both Lotte and Raja as they settle into their surroundings.

Watching Lotte explore her habitat—and catching a glimpse of Raja nearby—is a fascinating experience for children and adults alike. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with wildlife and learn more about global conservation efforts in an engaging and memorable way.

A visit to Thrigby Hall is far more than just a day out—it’s an adventure. With raised walkways bringing you face-to-face with incredible animals, from playful primates to elusive big cats, every corner of the gardens invites discovery.

Whether you’re planning a family day trip or a spontaneous outing, Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens delivers exceptional value and unforgettable encounters. Come and meet Lotte and Raja, explore the gardens, and create lasting memories together.

Find out more at www.thrigbyhall.co.uk

 

 Who’s ready for another half term?

With SATs now being done and another half term on its way. Now is the time we start to reflect on how the academic year is going. If your child has struggled, the underlying cause could be dyslexia. Screening is straightforward. You can get professional results in a single appointment, often on the same day. The Indigo Dyslexia Centre is staying open throughout the half term. Book early to avoid disappointment via their website.

Find out more and make an appointment at: www.4dyslexics.com

 

 

NEW BUTTERFLY HOUSE IS OPEN

The Bug Parc is a great day out for all the family, from toddlers to grandparents, everyone has a great day, but now it’s just got EVEN better with the recent opening of our tropical butterfly house, adding to our three large tropical houses, in all, showing over 250 amazing minibeast species. We have a large outside play area with a jumping pillow, covered sandpit, pedal cars, swings and slides for lots of outdoor fun. Limited daily insect handling experiences sell out fast so book early to avoid disappointment. BOOK NOW !

Find out more at www.thebugparc.com

 

Thetford Garden Centre

Rooted in family values and driven by a commitment to sustainability, Thetford Garden Centre offers more than plants. As a proud B-Corporation, it balances people, planet and purpose, creating a space where both gardeners and nature thrive. Visitors can enjoy freshly prepared meals in the welcoming Lime Kiln Kitchen, bring along their dogs, and take part in a calendar of events that run throughout the year. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just discovering the joy of gardening, Thetford Garden centre is a true destination, authentic and dedicated to making a difference.

Find out more at www.thetfordgardencentre.co.uk

 

Wild about Mannington: Sunday 24th May, 10:00–16:00.

A family-friendly nature day packed with hands-on activities. Set within Mannington Estate, families can explore immersive stations including pond dipping, crafts, foraging, and wildlife discovery. Children can identify trees, listen for birdsong, and uncover hidden creatures, guided by expert partners like the National Trust and Norfolk Wildlife Trust. Standard admission applies; season pass holders enter free. The event runs rain or shine, so dress for the outdoors. Maps are provided, the café is open, and the natural playground offers even more space to explore and play.

Find out more at www.mannington.co.uk
 

 

BeWILDerwood Norfolk

This May, get outdoors and enjoy a day out at BeWILDerwood Norfolk, where adventures and stories meet. With something for the whole family it’s the perfect place to enjoy some fresh air, get active and explore imaginative play as you become part of the BeWILDerwood story. From thrilling zip wires and towering treehouses to storytelling shows and curious characters, it’s a full day of family fun! Step away from screens, embrace the outdoors, and create truly wonderful memories together this spring. Book your tickets online today or turn up and pay on arrival.

Find out more at www.bewilderwood.co.uk

 

Whitlingham Adventure

Whitlingham Adventure is based in the beautiful Whitlingham Country Park, on the edge of Norwich and within the Broads National Park.  With school holiday courses for ages 8 to 16 years, birthday parties, family craft hire and private launch available, there is something for everyone throughout the summer. A range of water activities is available including sailing, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding and more, with nationally qualified instructors to ensure a high-quality adventure afloat and on the land. School activity days and group bookings available for youth organisations.

 Find out more at www.whitlinghamadventure.org.uk, email whitlingham@norfolk.gov.uk. Tel: 01603 632307.

 

Explore 700 Acres of Adventure at Pensthorpe This May

Discover a full day of family adventure at Pensthorpe Natural Park this May Half Term

With 700 acres of nature reserve and gardens to explore, you can get up close to flamingos and cranes, wander scenic trails, and enjoy peaceful moments in bird hides. Little ones can burn off energy in award-winning indoor and outdoor play areas, whatever the weather.

Plus, from 23rd–31st May, don’t miss the return of the popular Poo Trail - an interactive experience where curious explorers can follow clues and discover what animal droppings reveal about the natural world, including new prehistoric poo boards for 2026!

 

Make the Most of Summer at Pensthorpe

Step into summer at Pensthorpe Natural Park, where 700 acres of nature and gardens are ready to explore.

Enjoy close-up encounters with flamingos and cranes, stroll through beautiful landscapes, and relax in peaceful bird hides. Families can make the most of award-winning indoor and outdoor play, while the newly refreshed café offers the perfect spot to refuel.

With seasonal trails, sculptures, and plenty of space to roam, Pensthorpe is the ideal destination for a memorable day out in nature.

Find out at www.pensthorpe.com

 

Holiday Club Adventures at the Horstead Centre this summer

This Summer, the Horstead Centre team will be running their popular holiday club, for 8-14s.

Each day comprises two or more adventurous outdoor activity sessions, led by their qualified team, as well as time to enjoy games in their walled garden, games room and indoor lounges.

Attendees also enjoy a home-cooked, healthy lunch each day, in our comfortable dining room.

Situated near Norwich, their exclusive site includes a large house and enclosed grounds within which children can feel safe and comfortable. All guests receive a warm welcome and are treated with patience, kindness, and respect.

Email office@horsteadcentre.org.uk for more info.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Learn to swim with Norwich Penguins

Norwich Penguins have over 90 years experience teaching children to swim with a long  legacy and high standard of teaching.  They pride themselves on being great value for money.  With a wide range of swimming locations in and around Norwich this makes finding a pool near you easier than ever.  Prioritise the safety of our children this summer and build their water safety knowledge by quoting ‘Primary Times 10’ when booking any Splashdown course for 10% discount #becomeyourbest #norwichpenguins

Find out more at www.norwichpenguins.co.uk

 

 

Roll up Roll up! at Holkham for some circus-themed fun this May Half Term: Sunday 24th - Saturday 30th May, 10am – 3pm

Pop along to Holkham Walled Garden for some circus-themed fun! There’ll be a range of activities for you to try your hand at, from juggling balls and spinning plates to diablo, poi and learner stilts. You can also make your own mini big top and get competitive with family garden games. £7 per adult and £5 per child (2s and under free).

The fun doesn’t stop there, throughout half term you can enjoy the woodland play area, ropes course, cycle hire, trailer tours and attractions too.

Find out more at www.holkham.co.uk

 

Whitsun at Adventure Farm

Make the most of May Half Term at Wroxham Barns Adventure Farm with a great family day out. Discover their brand-new adventure play area, alongside hands-on animal encounters and daily animal handling sessions. There’s plenty of outdoor fun too, from 18-hole mini golf and jumping pillows to their train ride and Field of Fun games. With so much to do included in your visit, it’s great value for money and perfect for all ages this Whitsun at Wroxham Barns.

Find out more at www.wroxhambarns.co.uk

 

Experience the wonders of the Miniature Worlds

Celebrate the one year anniversary of their largest collection with Wroxham Miniature Worlds this May half term at Wroxham Miniature Worlds. The Mike Pearce Matchbox Collection features 18,000 original Matchbox diecast vehicles and memorabilia. A truly awe inspiring collection displayed in a double decker bus that immerses you in the collection. Great for the entire family from kids to grandparents, mums and dads there is something here for everyone. From their model railways, and little brick world to dolls houses and pelham puppets and even an old penny vintage amusement, taking you back to the fun of the fairground from yesteryear.

 

Find out more at www.wroxhamminiatureworlds.co.uk

 

Coming to Blickling Estate

This May half term, Blickling Estate is bursting with activities – step into a world of adventure the whole family will love. From 23 May, Pokémon fans can unleash their energy on the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trail, searching the gardens for Mega Evolution Pokémon, completing challenges, and getting active outdoors together. Inside the House, Journeys: Global Textiles from the Karun Thakar Collection invites you to travel the world through beautiful objects, hands-on activities and sensory experiences. Make a full day of it exploring gardens, cycling the parkland, and refuelling at the cafés.

Head to the website to plan your visit: nationaltrust.org.uk/Blickling

 

Coming soon to Bure Valley Railway

Everything Goes! Spring Bank Holiday Weekend – 23rd to 25th May

All available engines, coaches and rolling stock will be in operation, featuring a special intensive timetable throughout the weekend.  This will give visitors the chance to see and travel behind as many different locomotives as possible hard at work over the nine miles between Aylsham and Wroxham. To keep younger visitors engaged there will also be an activity trail.

The workshop at Aylsham will be open all weekend, displaying a live steam 16mm layout, with staff available to answer any questions.

Discounted family tickets available and Under 4’s travel free.

North Norfolk Railway

Enjoy unlimited hop on hop off travel on both historic steam and heritage diesel trains at the North Norfolk Railway!

 

Open almost every day April - October there’s lots to see and do, from model railways and bookshops to our 1930s Railway Cottage and interactive Play Coach.

Running between Sheringham and Holt the Poppy Line runs through some of Norfolk’s most beautiful countryside, giving spectacular views on-board!

 

Join in the fun during half term and take a special trip on our unique Victorian Train (May 23 – 25) or hop off for hands-on activities at Half Term S.T.E.A.M (May 26 – 29).

 

Find out more at www.nnrailway.co.uk

 

Dad Goes Free Weekend: 20th and 21st June

To celebrate Dad, one Dad travels FREE with each full fare-paying adult. A lovely way to spend quality time together and celebrate Dad in style.
As an additional treat, they also have a pre-bookable traditional Afternoon Tea in the Whistlestop Cafe at Aylsham Station.
Pre-booking essential for this offer.

For both events trains running from both Aylsham and Wroxham Station with unlimited travel all day. Under 4’s travel free.

Find out more at www.burevalleyrailway.co.uk  

 

Shows for the whole family at Norwich Theatre

Whether you’re looking for magical adventures or high-energy comedy, the upcoming season at Norwich Theatre is packed with shows for all the family to enjoy together.

The fun kicks off at the Playhouse with There’s a Monster in Your Show (1 – 2 May), where Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures leap from the page to the stage in a delightful musical format. For those seeking a modern, heartfelt story, Sisters360 (6 Jun) at Stage Two follows two skateboarding sisters in a high-energy play about family bonds.

If your family loves a laugh, don’t miss Olaf Falafel’s Stupidest Super Stupid Show (20 Jun). Expect an hour of pure silliness, featuring "truth-telling cheese" and live drawalongs. The magic continues in July with the stunning stage adaptation of The Tiger Who Came to Tea (2 – 5 Jul), filled with oodles of magic and sing-along songs.

Finally, get ready for some prehistoric mayhem at the Royal with The Dinosaur that Pooped (12 Jul). This brand-new story follows Danny and Dino on a quest for concert tickets, promising a "poopy good time" for every generation.

For more information or to book, visit norwichtheatre.org or call the Box Office on 01603 630 000.

 

Norfolk Deaf Festival: a joyful celebration of culture and community

After a little break, Norfolk Deaf Festival (NDF) is back and now part of The Forum’s family of festivals!

Whether you, your child, or other family members or friends are D/deaf, or you’re just curious – they’d love to welcome you to The Forum, in Norwich, on Friday 26 and Saturday 27 June 2026.

They will bring you talks., comedy, inclusive circus skills and BSL storytelling. Try your hand at DJing, or film production. Your little ones can bring their teddies to get their very own hearing devices.

The festival is free to attend, but some activities must be pre-booked.

NDF is supported by Norwich Freemen’s Charity and Anguish’s Educational Foundation.

Find out more at www.Theforumnorwich.co.uk/NDF

 

 

Big Adventures for Little Explorers!

Hello explorers! Are you ready for a holiday filled with adventure, discovery, and lots of fun? Then visit Kelling Heath and Woodhill Park in North Norfolk– two amazing places where big adventures begin!

At Kelling Heath, you can explore the huge woodland and open heathland where exciting trails twist and turn through nature. Look out for birds, bugs, and other wildlife as you explore! There are four fun play areas to climb, slide, and zoom around, plus an indoor pool (and an outdoor pool for summer) to splash around in.
During school holidays, the park is full of activities for families. You can try pond dipping, learn circus skills, go on nature walks, or even have a go at archery! Don’t miss brilliant events like Nuts About Nature and Wild Sky, where you can learn all about nature and the night sky - get a free night’s stay on touring and camping pitches during these events.

At Woodhill Park, the adventure continues by the sea! Go rock pooling, build sandcastles, hunt for fossils, and try crabbing at Cromer Pier. Back on the park, enjoy the playpark, fun activity sheets, and tasty food from pop up food vendors in selected weeks.

Get 10% off with code: 2026PrimaryTimes10

 

 

Get Kids Into Fishing – NEW Saturday Coaching Sessions!

Looking for a fun, outdoor activity for your child?
Their 6-week Saturday coaching course at Billingford Lakes is the perfect way to get kids into fishing in a safe, friendly and supportive environment!

Suitable for beginners & those with a little experience
All tackle & bait provided – just turn up and fish!

•  Learn water safety & fishing skills
•  Build confidence outdoors
•  Make new friends
• Have fun while learning something new!

Spaces are limited – booking essential!

Message us or visit www.billingfordlakes.co.uk

 

“Psst… we’ve got something just for you! Kids Go Free this May half-term at Banham Zoo!

Join us for Ranger Week and step into the boots of a zookeeper! Take on exciting challenges, try real keeper tasks, and get stuck into interactive activities across the zoo. From diet prep and health checks to tracking animals and exploring habitats, you’ll learn by doing — just like the experts.

 

New for May half-term: RANGER WEEK! Take on the Ranger Training Trail, discover what lurks beneath the Tiger Pond, get hands-on with keeper tools and so much more — all included in your ticket! And don’t miss a visit to our brand-new penguin habitat!

Kids Go Free this May Half-term: Use code PRIMARYTIMES when booking online. Get up to three kids free with every paying adult.
Valid for visits from Saturday 23rd May to Sunday 31st May, including Bank Holiday Monday.

Find out more at www.banhamzoo.co.uk

 

 

Tubing = Happy Days!

Looking for an exciting way to keep the kids active this May half term and beyond? Tubing at Norfolk Snowsports Club is fast, fun, and perfect for all ages. With no experience needed, it’s a great way for children to try something new while enjoying the outdoors.

From racing friends down the slope to laughing all the way to the bottom, it’s guaranteed fun whatever the weather. Alongside tubing, we also offer ski and snowboard lessons for all abilities. Sessions run throughout May and the summer holidays - book online now and make the most of the school break!

Find out more at www.norfolksnowsports.com

 

Cook Stars Norwich North

Bring out your child’s inner chef with Cook Stars! Their fun, hands-on cooking classes are designed for children of all abilities, building confidence, creativity, and essential life skills in the kitchen. From tasty treats to healthy meals, every session is packed with learning and laughter. They also run exciting workshops, birthday parties, and school clubs across Norfolk. No experience needed—just enthusiasm! All ingredients and equipment are provided, so your child can simply enjoy the experience. Spaces fill quickly, so book now and let your little one discover the joy of cooking with Cook Stars!

Find out more at https://www.cookstars.co.uk/cooking-classes/norwich-north