30 Top New Family Adventures for Half-Term Across the UK

As half-term swiftly approaches, fear not if you haven't yet organized anything. The United Kingdom offers these exciting new day-out options that promise to engage the entire family (while hopefully tiring out the younger members).

Get ready for an abundance of enjoyment with exciting new amusement park attractions, a planetarium, and even a small treetop adventure!

MIDLANDS

Close Encounters at Twycross Zoo, Leicestershire

Experience some of the planet's most threatened and amazing animals up close in a new indoor attraction at Twycross Zoo. Featuring over 13 uncommon species, encounter stunning creatures like an electric-blue tarantula, panther chameleons, and a Chinese crocodile lizard, all while gaining knowledge about crucial preservation efforts such as international breeding programs and animal reintroduction initiatives. Admission for adults costs £26.95; for children, it’s £19.75, which also grants you one year of entry. twycrosszoo.org

The Toxicator at Alton Towers, Staffordshire

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Introducing The Toxicator, the newest adrenaline-pumping attraction to join Alton Towers' iconic roster of rides. theme park Rides here feature heart-stopping plunges, intense twists, and high-speed barrel rolls, propelling passengers through a maelstrom of velocity and excitement. Those not keen on inverted thrills can still find plenty to enjoy throughout the park—whether it's laid-back attractions suitable for families or water-soaked escapades. Entry starts at £29 per adult when booked online, with kids under 90cm admitted for free. altontowers.com

The Planetarium at Sherwood Observatory, Nottinghamshire

A newly unveiled £6.8 million planetarium has been inaugurated at Sherwood Observatory located in Sutton-in-Ashfield. This facility provides an enthralling voyage across the universe with lifelike panoramic displays of the nighttime sky, exploration of far-off Milky Way systems, and insights into our methods of observing space. Equipped with state-of-the-art tech and live updates, stargazing , it’s a thrilling celebration of space, science and discovery. Adults £7.50, children £6, U3s free, sherwood-observatory.org.uk

Summer of Music, Shropshire

The Quarry, Shrewsbury's stunning 29-acre park surrounded by the grand curve of the River Severn, will come alive this summer with an array of musical genres including brass, folk, jazz, classical, and oompah-pah as part of their inaugural weekly bandstand concert series. Visitors can relish these Sunday afternoons by bringing along a picnic, soaking up live tunes, and exploring the riverside surroundings and gardens. The event runs until August 31st and admission is free. visitshropshire.co.uk/summer-in-quarry-park-your-ultimate-guide-to-whats-on-in-shrewsbury

EAST

Summer Evenings at Hertfordshire Zoo, Hertfordshire

Join us for an after-dark adventure at the zoo each Saturday night in June where you can witness lions, reptiles, and exotic birds under the enchanting light of dusk. These special nights will offer Indian street cuisine, refreshing summer beverages, performances by stilt walkers, fun face-painting activities, as well as lively music and dancing. Additionally, more than 40 lifelike animatronic dinosaurs will be brought to life during these events. Tickets start at £16; children under two years old enter for free until the end of June. hertfordshirezoo.com

Leo’s Adventure in the Jungle at Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach, Norfolk

Set right on Great Yarmouth Located in the picturesque South Beach, this iconic amusement park has been providing family entertainment for more than a century. It features vintage attractions and thrilling roller coasters for those seeking excitement, along with the newest addition: Leo’s Jungle Journey—a captivating safari-themed ride modeled after the park’s cherished mascot. This adventure includes a bouncy jungle bus designed specifically for young adventurers. Admission prices are $26 for adults, $19 for children aged three to six years, and $10 for kids under three years old. pleasure-beach.co.uk

NORTHWEST

Tales – Breathe Into Existence, Manchester

Dive into an innovative immersive art encounter modeled after the National Portrait Gallery, where you can uncover the remarkable tales of some of the UK’s most distinguished personalities. Meet monarchs and cultural legends, as well as pioneers and national idols—including David Bowie , Jane Austen, Queen Elizabeth II, and Ncuti Gatwa – explore how these individuals helped shape the nation’s history and culture, all within a bespoke 10,000 sq ft purpose-built digital gallery. Until 31 August then touring the UK, adults from £26.95, children from £16.95, npgunframed.com

Samlesbury Hall Food & Drink Festival, Lancashire

Two days of cooking classes, tasting sessions and live entertainment await at the inaugural food and drink festival at the 700-year-old Samlesbury Hall in Preston. As well as showcasing Lancashire’s finest food and drink producers, the estate will open its manor, gardens and playgrounds – and reveal the stories that earned the property its reputation as one of England’s most haunted houses. There will also be a special ‘Dinner with Dickens ’ event on 6 June, featuring live performances of his writings that may have been inspired by his stay at the hall in 1867. 7-8 June, free entry, samlesburyhall.co.uk

NORTHEAST

Unicorn Splash Park at North Yorkshire Water Park, located in North Yorkshire

Beat the heat this summer with an enchanting new attraction showcasing three massive inflatable unicorns – home to the globe’s tallest one. Enjoy bouncing, sliding, or make a daring 5-meter splash into the lake at this location in Scarborough. Want to keep things dry? Test your skills with axe throwing, archery, bushcraft activities, or try out their latest addition: laser tag. Admission costs £16. northyorkshirewaterpark.co.uk

Miffy’s 70th Anniversary Celebration at Leeds City Museum, Yorkshire

Esteemed children’s icon Miffy celebrates her 70th birthday this year, and to commemorate the event, Leeds City Museum has initiated an enchanting interactive exhibit open to visitors of every age. The display includes seldom-seen artworks by Miffy’s Creator Dick Bruna’s exhibition combines nostalgic exhibits with interactive experiences to honor seventy years of the beloved small rabbit character. Additionally, on Saturday, June 28th, there will be a special family fun day featuring face painting and an opportunity to meet Miffy. The event runs until September 7th and admission is free. museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk

Hull as Maritime City, East Yorkshire

The historical maritime area of Hull is set to undergo significant renovations, with staged unveilings scheduled across 2025. Key attractions will feature the reintroduction of the Spurn Lightship, an essential beacon that assisted ships navigating the treacherous waters of the River Humber for almost fifty years, along with the Arctic Corsair—a renowned deep-sea fishing vessel frequently referred to as "Hull's" own. Cutty Sark Additionally, Queens Gardens, a key verdant area in the heart of the city which is presently getting an extensive makeover, plans to reopen soon. Throughout the spring and summer seasons, numerous guided tours and discussions will also take place. maritimehull.co.uk

The National Science and Media Museum, Bradford

Designed to inspire future scientists and innovators, the newly refurbished museum features two new permanent galleries that showcase world-renowned collections in photography, film, and television, as well as three cinema screens and interactive exhibits. Free, scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk

S&DR200, County Durham

In conjunction with Railway 200 — an illustrious event commemorating 200 years since the advent of the contemporary railway era — the Stockton and Darlington Railway is presenting S&DR200, a lively festival celebrating the inception as well as the upcoming developments in rail transport. Spanning throughout the Tees Valley region, this festivity will showcase exhibits, musical performances, and engaging art pieces, vividly illustrating the narrative of railways through innovative and surprising methods. Visitors will get the opportunity to explore the heritage of the famous 26-mile route from Shildon to Stockton on 27 September 1825 — an event that revolutionized transportation worldwide. This exhibit will be available for free until November 2025. sdr200.co.uk

WALES

Small Adventure at Zip World, Conwy

Here’s a fresh take on your description: This introduces a compact tree-top challenge specifically tailored for young children between ages two and five. The aim is to boost their self-assurance and motor skills within an enjoyable yet secure environment. Hanging only 1.4 meters off the ground, Tiny Trek comprises 17 components such as tubes, pathways, and small ziplines. Caregivers have the option to accompany them throughout, providing assistance and cheerleading from beside. Costing £10, zipworld.co.uk

Summer Evenings at Caldicot Castle and Country Park, Monmouthshire

Experience an unparalleled weekend of live performances inside the ancient confines of Caldicot Castle as they launch their new concert series. Summer Nights In its first year, the stage will kick off with Razorlight , Levellers, and Squeeze, alongside rising Welsh talent for an incredible summer session. 1-3 Aug, adults £60.75, myticket.co.uk/artists/caldicot-summer-nights

LONDON

V&A East Storehouse, Stratford

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Purpose-built to house over 1,000 archives and more than 250,000 objects from the museum’s vast collection, the V&A East Storehouse promises a new kind of museum experience. Visitors will gain rare insight into the inner workings of a major institution, exploring how objects are acquired, curated, and cared for behind the scenes. Come September it will also be home to the David Bowie Centre, a remarkable archive of more than 80,000 items celebrating the life and legacy of the music icon. From 31 May, free, vam.ac.uk

The Peter Rabbit Adventure at Hampton Court Palace, Richmond

Peter Rabbit is hopping over to Hampton Court Palace for a family trail that combines the sweeping gardens with the mischievous tales of Beatrix Potter’s fictional characters. Help Peter and friends solve puzzles, mend the Tailor of Gloucester’s coat, and sneak into Mr. McGregor’s garden, all while exploring the stunning grounds of the Tudor palace. 25 July-7 Sep, adults from £28, child from £14, U5s free, hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace

Spyscape, Covent Garden

Channel your inner James Bond in this high-stakes immersion into the world of espionage. Created with real insiders, including the Head of Training at British Intelligence, the museum and experience in Covent Garden combine psychological profiling, high-tech missions, and physical challenges to test whether you’d survive in the field. From 30 May, £23, spyscape.com/london

Elvis Evolution, Newham

Following closely on the success of the revolutionary ABBA Voyage, Elvis Evolution has made its debut as a new musical experience at Immerse LDN. ExCeL Waterfront , celebrating the one-and-only King of Rock 'n' Roll. This event merges advanced digital techniques, live performers, and engaging multimedia elements to immerse you in Elvis Presley’s universe, allowing you to revisit his legendary performances on stage and delve deeper into how he rocketed to stardom. Starting in July, priced at £75. elvisevolution.com

SOUTHEAST

Enchanted Matilda: A Magical Summer at the Roald Dahl Museum, Buckinghamshire

Enter the imagination of Roald Dahl And mark one of the author’s most celebrated creations with a Magical Matilda Summer, happening every day from Tuesday through Sunday during the school break. Families have the opportunity to engage in various Matilda-inspired activities such as molding clay Bogtrotter cakes and participating in Crunchem Hall-like courtyard games, along with enjoying a cake smash and listening to stories. The event runs from July 24th to August 31st; tickets cost £11.95 for adults and £9.95 for children when booked online ahead of time, with those under five admitted free of charge. roalddahlmuseum.org

Ghosts' Mansion at Paultons Park, Hampshire

Substituting the old 4D theatre, Ghostly Manor is a new attraction where visitors can accompany renowned ghost investigator Dr Kinley on a quest to reclaim mischievous specters. Passengers equipped with "ghost blasters" will navigate through a spooky mansion during this engaging journey filled with impressive visual effects and unexpected twists. After your adventure, you might want to visit Peppa Pig World for a lighter moment. The ticket prices are set at £45 for adults and children below 1 meter tall enter for free. paultonspark.co.uk

Audley End Miniature Railway Summer Festival, Essex

Experience a thrilling summer celebration all season long at the Audley End Miniature Railway. Climb onto the train for a trip into enchanting forests where you'll encounter Cristabelle the Wishing Fairy and Twig the Elf as they unveil wish-making wonders before you craft your very own. At Woodland Station, revel in additional fun such as face-painting sessions, lively shows, enormous mural areas, and parades featuring fairies and elves—held two times each day. The event runs from 19th July until 31st August; details about tickets will be announced shortly. audley-end-railway.co.uk

Found Festival, Buckinghamshire

A new festival for those seeking a more intimate, alternative escape from the bustle of large-scale events. With a vibrant programme catering to families and thrill-seekers alike, it offers everything from cabaret and circus performances to woodland crafts, axe-throwing, dance sessions, and comedy for all ages. Hosted on the Claydon Estate, those in need of a slower pace, the wellness area provides a space to unwind, with yoga classes, sound baths, and even an on-site sauna. 22-24 Aug, adults from £215, 5-17s from £115, U5s free, foundfestival.uk

SOUTHWEST

Homecoming Festival, Cornwall

A 10-day celebration of literature, food, music, and nature that brings together bold voices and curious minds comes to the Lost Gardens of Heligan. From Dawn French to Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, this festival features a vibrant line-up of creative, inspiring talent. Expect live performances, readings, and immersive experiences that explore the themes of home and belonging, alongside beaver tours, wildflower walks, morning yoga, family foraging and art classes. 13-22 June, adults from £25, child from £23,85, includes access to Heligan Gardens, heliganhomecoming.co.uk

Jurassic Immersive, Bristol

Step back in time to explore the prehistoric world with incredible virtual reality rides and life-sized dinosaur encounters (including coming face-to-face with the mighty T-Rex and the gentle Brachiosaurus), immersive prehistoric environments and hands-on activities. Designed to educate, engage, and entertain, the interactive journey begins when a hidden dinosaur sanctuary is uncovered after a powerful earthquake. From 7 June, adults £17.95, children £15.95, U4s free, jurassicimmersive.co.uk

Corfe Castle, Dorset

Built for King Henry I, Corfe Castle in Dorset has recently opened to the public for the first time since the English Civil War in 1646. Thanks to a National Trust conservation project, visitors can enjoy a new viewing platform to take a peek at the former royal living quarters, as well as unrivalled views of the Purbeck countryside. Tours of the King’s Tower are also running, as well as family events and talks. Adults from £14, age five to 17 £7, U5s free, nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/corfe-castle

SCOTLAND

The Inverness Castle Experience, Highlands

Enlivening Scotland's rich heritage, this fresh tourist destination honors the essence of the Highlands with narratives spanning across time—past, present, and beyond. Led by a seanchaidh—a term meaning storyteller in Gaelic—guests traverse an array of captivating chambers showcasing over 100 stories, folklores, and fables native to the area. Nestled beside the River Ness, the edifice—the amalgamation of two impressive structures dating back to the 1800s—sets a regal scene for these timeless tales inside. Scheduled to open in late summertime, invernesscastle.scot

Alpine Coaster Experience, Midlothian

Scotland's inaugural alpine coaster has debuted at Midlothian Snowsports Centre. Spanning 980 meters, it stands as the country's longest, capable of hitting speeds of up to 28 miles per hour with a dramatic 170-meter vertical descent. Participants can adjust their velocity while hurtling through curves, bends, and downward spirals for an exhilarating experience. The ride costs £7. midlothian.gov.uk

VARIOUS

Raver Tots Summer Festival

Spend the whole day dancing with your little one at Raver Tots, an exciting event featuring discos, live performances, and various games. This season, the festival will take place in several locations such as Prospect Park in Kent, Bristol’s Amphitheatre and Waterfront Square, and Brighton Beach. There'll be fairground attractions, large inflatable structures, arts and crafts stations, face-painting booths, a dedicated dance area, gourmet foods from local vendors, and even a drinks section exclusively for adults—transforming this into the perfect family rave adventure. Tickets cost £25 for adults, £20 for kids, and £5 for infants. ravertots.co.uk/festival

WWT Dragonfly Festival

An all-summer event dedicated to dragonflies is happening at various Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust locations nationwide. Immerse yourself in the enchanting realm of dragonflies via engaging, nature-rich activities such as led tours, pond exploration sessions, creative arts workshops, large-scale outdoor games, along with puppetry performances, stilts walking demonstrations, close-up photography displays, and dragonfly viewing excursions by vessel. The festivities run from June 21st to September 22nd; admission prices include £16.29 for adults and £10.58 for children aged between three and seventeen years old. wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/whats-on/dragonfly-festival