May Half-Term 2026 in Harrogate, Knaresborough and Ripon: Best Family Days Out and Activities
Families searching for the best May half-term activities in Harrogate, Knaresborough and Ripon will find plenty to enjoy across North Yorkshire this school holiday.
From magical woodland adventures and giant outdoor games to riverside walks, historic museums and nature trails, the Harrogate district is packed with family-friendly events between May 23 and May 31, 2026.
Here are some of the top things to do during May half-term across Harrogate, Knaresborough and Ripon.
Wizard of Oz Adventure Returns to Knaresborough
One of the biggest attractions this May half-term is the Emerald Adventure at Mother Shipton’s Cave.
The popular family attraction is transforming its ancient woodland into a Wizard of Oz-themed experience featuring interactive displays, hidden characters, themed activities and the famous petrifying well.
Children can follow the magical trail through the forest while families explore one of Yorkshire’s oldest tourist attractions.
The event is expected to attract thousands of visitors during the school holidays, particularly over the Bank Holiday weekend, with organisers encouraging families to book early online.
Knaresborough itself remains one of the most popular family destinations in North Yorkshire during half-term, thanks to its riverside setting, cafés and scenic walks along the River Nidd.
Families can also enjoy:
- Rowing boats on the river
- Riverside picnics beneath the viaduct
- Visits to local ice cream shops and cafés
- Playtime at Appleby Play Park, which features swings, slides, climbing equipment and trampolines
RHS Harlow Carr Launches Giant Garden Games
In Harrogate, RHS Garden Harlow Carr is hosting “The Great Garden Gameathon” throughout May half-term.
The family-friendly event includes giant outdoor games, activity stations, themed challenges and interactive trails designed to get children exploring nature outdoors.
Harlow Carr is expected to be one of the busiest attractions in the Harrogate area during half-term thanks to its combination of:
- Woodland walks
- Adventure spaces
- Family trails
- Spring flower displays
- Outdoor games and activities
The gardens are particularly popular with younger children and grandparents looking for a relaxed family day out in Harrogate.
Brimham Rocks Offers Outdoor Adventure
Families looking for free outdoor activities near Harrogate can also head to Brimham Rocks.
The dramatic rock formations create a natural adventure playground where children can climb, explore and run around safely in the open countryside.
The National Trust site remains one of the best outdoor family attractions in North Yorkshire and is ideal for picnics, photography and half-term walks.
Ripon Attractions Hosting Family Activities
In Ripon, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden is running family-friendly “Bug Bingo” and minibeast trail activities during half-term.
Children can use spotter sheets to identify insects and wildlife while exploring the historic estate and gardens.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site remains one of Yorkshire’s top attractions for families, combining history, nature and outdoor space in one location.
Meanwhile, Ripon Museums will host special themed experiences during the school holidays.
Activities include:
- “Pig on the Loose” storytelling trails
- Meeting the Victorian policeman at the Prison & Police Museum
- Interactive trails inside the Workhouse Museum
- Hands-on family activities throughout the week
The attractions are designed to make history fun and engaging for younger visitors.
Families can also enjoy a quieter afternoon at Ripon Walled Garden, where spring events, gardens and local produce stalls offer a more relaxed atmosphere.
More Family Days Out Near Harrogate
Other nearby May half-term attractions include:
- York Spring Fair & Food Festival with vintage funfair rides and food stalls
- Outdoor activities at Live For Today Adventures
- Family walks in Nidderdale and the Yorkshire countryside
- Bank Holiday shopping and cafés across Harrogate town centre
Book Early for May Half-Term 2026
Popular attractions across Harrogate, Knaresborough and Ripon are expected to be extremely busy during May half-term 2026.
Families planning to visit places such as Mother Shipton’s Cave, RHS Harlow Carr and Fountains Abbey are advised to book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
With outdoor events, nature trails, family games and historic attractions all taking place across the district, North Yorkshire is set for another busy and family-focused half-term holiday.
School holiday activities
Ready for an action-packed adventure in the great outdoors?
Looking for fun and adventure during the school holidays? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve got an exciting and inspiring range of experiences planned to get young people and their families active and in touch with nature. Our popular Adventure Club and skills courses are back for May half term.
Join us at either Bewerley Park in Pateley Bridge or East Barnby near Whitby. We can’t wait to see you there!
How to book
Adventure Club will keep your young people busy, active and away from screens during the school holidays. Making new friends, challenging themselves and learning a whole range of different skills. All while having lots of fun!
WHEN
Bewerley Park
Tuesday 26 May- mountain biking and orienteering
Wednesday 27 May- climbing and bouldering
Thursday 28 May- underground cave or mine and bushcraft
Friday 29 May- gorge scramble and high ropes
WHERE
Bewerley Park Outdoor Education Centre, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, HG3 5JB
WHO
Suitable for ages 8-13
TIMINGS
Drop off 8:30am, pick up by 4:15pm
HOW MUCH
£50 per young person per day with a 10% discount for siblings or booking more than one day.
WHAT TO BRING?
Young people attending our Adventure Club should bring a packed lunch and snacks, bottle of water, change of clothes and shoes (including swimwear and a towel depending on the activity) plus any personal medication. In the summer months please pack a hat and sunscreen. A plastic bag for wet and muddy items can be handy too as things might get dirty!
BOOK NOW
To book a place please contact our friendly team on 01609 797777 from Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. If lines are busy you can leave a voicemail and we’ll call you back. You can also email outdooreducation@northyorks.gov.uk letting us know the activity you’d like to book, date and location and we’ll get back to you.
Courses for young people
Sailing – RYA Stage 1 and Stage 2
We can help young people get the skills and experience to sail the seven seas on our accredited courses that include both practical and theoretical aspects.
WHEN
Our two-day RYA sailing course is running from Thursday 28 to Friday 29 May. Attendees can complete either Stage 1 or Stage 2.
WHERE
Our East Barnby team will meet you at Scaling Dam Sailing Club, Whitby Moor Road, Easington, Saltburn-by-the-Sea, TS13 4TP.
WHO
Suitable for ages 8-13
TIMINGS
Start time 09:30am, finish 4:40pm
HOW MUCH
Two-day course £110
ITINERARY
Young people will learn to sail and gain a RYA Youth Sailing qualification on this two day course for either Stage 1 or Stage 2. Stage 1 includes launching and recovery, sailing across the wind, turning, steering and basic parts of the boat – the perfect beginner’s course.
Stage 2 will develop the skills needed to sail around a course tacking, gybing and controlling boat speed.
WHAT TO BRING?
All specialist kit will be provided including waterproofs. All you need is a packed lunch and snacks, bottle of water, change of clothes and shoes plus any personal medication. In the summer months please pack a hat and sunscreen too.
BOOK NOW
To book a place please contact our friendly team on 01609 797777 from Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. If lines are busy you can leave a voicemail and we’ll call you back. You can also email outdooreducation@northyorks.gov.uk letting us know the activity you’d like to book, date and location and we’ll get back to you.
We deliver outdoor activities all year round. It’s what we do! Our highly qualified, professional and experienced instructors are passionate about delivering exciting programmes and bringing out the very best of real outdoor adventure. Each group will be looked after by one of our full-time, qualified, highly experienced, and enhanced DBS checked outdoor tutors.
EXPERIENCED TUTORS
Each group will be looked after by one of our full-time, qualified, highly experienced, and enhanced DBS checked outdoor tutors. Leading children and adults on outdoor adventures is what we do…all year!
SPECIALIST CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT
All specialist kit for activities will be provided including waterproofs and wellies when necessary. Ideally attendees should bring their own wellies, but we have plenty on hand to lend.
At Adventure Club will young people be with others the same age?
Will young people attending Adventure Club BE supervised at all times?
What happens if the weather is bad?
Can people come on specific days only?
Will people be able to take their mobile phone?
Are your activities inclusive?
