1. Activities at Wakefield Libraries
WordFest runs for the whole of May and it’s all FREE!! From puppetry, storytelling, Makaton and music to AI digital workshops and author talks, there is so much to see, do and try.
See more details here
Cost? FREE
When? 1st – 31st May 2023
Where? Wakefield District Libraries
2. Wakefield’s Story Trail Walks
There four story trails around Wakefield are a wonderful way to get your little ones excited to walk. Encouraging your children to roam and explore!
My absolute favourite is the Gnome Roam, which is a 1.8 mile walk through the beautiful forest at Newmillerdam to find the Gnomes. At each gnome you have to do a little activity!
Another popular choice is the Room on the Broom Trail at Anglers, where sculptures and models are based on the popular story. To learn more about the other story trail walks click HERE.
See more details here
Cost? FREE
When? All day, every day
Where? Wakefield Parks & Country Parks
3. Reel Cinema
Take a trip to the Reel Cinema in The Ridings Shopping Centre. All ticket are only £3.50 for films starting before 1pm and from £4.00 for all film starting after 1pm.
Remember Free Parking when visiting cinema too.
See more details here
Cost? £3.50
When? Every day, Movie Madness tickets before 1pm
Where? Almshouse Lane, Wakefield WF1 1DS
4. Earnshaws Fairy Trail
We are still obsessed with the new fairy trail walk around Earnshaws Fencing Centre. Hunt for the fairys in the nature based trail. Learn about local wildlife, explore the play equipment as well as loads of summer houses and sheds for the kids to play in!
Grab a coffee and cake at Little Acorns too.
See more details here Cost? Free When? 8am – 5pm (double check Bank Holiday hours)Where? Earnshaws Fencing Centres, Stocksmoor Road, Midgley, WF4 4JG
5. Castleford Museum – Statues and Storytelling
Part of the WordFest happening across Wakefield . Discover the stories behind some of our wonderful Roman statues here in Castleford.
See more details here
Cost? Free
When? 30th May, 1st June, Plus more relaxed atmosphere just for SEND families on 2nd June, 10am – 3pm
Where? Carlton Street, Castleford, WF10 1BB
6. Half Term @ Pit
Encounter of the Trees. Explore the 12 acres of woodland and hunt for the new, beautifully crafted benches across the site to rest little tired feet and maybe eat a snack? Plus activities and crafts in the Caphouse Creators and Makers Shed.
NCM, Caphouse Colliery, New Road, Overton, WF4 4RH
See more details here
Cost? Free
When? 27th May – 4th June
Where? NCM, Caphouse Colliery, New Road, Overton, WF4 4RH
7. Nostell Priory – Blossom & Bee Trail
Great for National Trust Members. Explore the family trail and uncover some fun facts about the incredible honeybee as you buzz around the gardens and through the woodland play area, completing activities and games along the way
*Crafts will take place on the weekends and the Wednesday of half term week
See more details here
Cost? The trail is free, Normal National Trust Admission Prices apply.
When? 27th May – 4th June 2023, 11am – 4pm
Where? Doncaster Road, Nostell, Wakefield WF4 1QE
8. Author Workshop – Wakefield Libraries
Join Authors and Illustrators for a fun interactive workshop for children and their families. Pick up handy hints and tips to create your own stories with super beginnings, funny middles and fantastic ends.
This event is Part of WordFest 2023 – you can find more WordFest events and activities HERE
See more details here
Cost? Free, booking required.
When? 2nd June & 30th May
Where? Castleford and Hemsworth Libraries
9. Learn to ride a bike
May half term is the perfect time to learn to ride a bike. The weather is usually dry and not too cold so you’re not battling with big coats and chunky wellies.
Whether you are heading out on trikes, balance bikes, with stabilisers or without, heading somewhere with continuous, smooth pathways is essential.
Check out our favourite places to learn here
Cost? Parking costs may apply.
When? All the time
Where? Parks and Nature Parks across Wakefield
10. Marvellous Mini Beasts Week at Pontefract Castle
It’s all about minibeasts & bugs at Pontefract Castle this May half term! With a bug trail around the Castle and workshops about worms & bugs!
See more details here
Cost? Free, booking required.
When? 27th May – 4th June 2023
Where? Pontefract Castle, WF8 2JF
Our May Half Term Holiday Activity and Events Page has loads more ideas of one-off events and day trip ideas.
Why don’t you join the Wakefield Mumbler Chat Group where you can share reviews of days out/activities and get ideas from others.
Hopefully, some of these ideas will help you entertain the children without costing a fortune.
Hope you have a great half term!
Vicki x
* Information correct at time of publishing, please check all events/activities before travelling in case of last minute changes.
