26 incredible ways to spend May half-term in Bristol: Plays, trails, workshops and more
Explore the best ways to enjoy May half-term in Bristol with 26 incredible activities including plays, trails, and workshops.
The next half-term break is due to take place from May 24 to June 1 in Bristol.
We have rounded up some of the best ways to spend the school holidays in the city, from plays, to trails, workshops and more!
Scroll through to learn about 26 incredible May half-term activities in Bristol:
Space Explorers 2D at We The Curious
Learn all about space and the Solar System at this fun interactive show! This show is specially designed for under 6s, but all are welcome. To book your tickets, click here.
Springfest at Bristol Zoo Project
Take part in giant lawn games, crafts, music making and more from May 24 to June 1 at the Bristol Zoo Project's Tower Meadow. There will also be free face painting, opportunities to take on the stage with various musical instruments and photo opportunities.
Micro Marvels at Bristol Aquarium
From May 24 to June 1, peer through the microscope and uncover the many fascinating secrets about the tiny creatures that inhabit the aquatic world at Bristol Aquarium. As part of the event, there will be Microscope Workshops, Jellyfish Talks, Arts and Crafts, a Trail and Conservation Connection sessions.
The Beautiful Future Is Coming at Bristol Old Vic
1856. New York. Eunice sits in what will become Central Park and wonders if her research into CO2 is telling her something is going horribly wrong. 2027. London. Claire falls in love as the heatwave breaks and the streets begin to flood. 2100. Svalbard. While an 86-day storm rages outside, Ana hears a baby crying in the seed vault. The world is ending, sure. But what happens in between? Tickets for the show, which runs from May 15 to June 7, can be booked here.
Looking Back While Moving Forward - Daniela Duggan at L'étoile Studio
Held on May 17, 18, 23, 24 and 25, Daniela Duggan's painting exhibition showcases her artistic journey since moving to Bristol in 2019. It features a blend of reimagined past works and new creations that delve into themes of colour, human connection, and the significance of quiet moments in life. Through abstract forms and figurative paintings, Duggan expresses her relationship with materials and the tension between reflection and progression, inviting viewers to engage with the present while acknowledging their memories and experiences.
Guided tours of Underfall Yard
Take a behind-the-scenes look at the harbour and its fascinating story at Underfall Yard on May 24, 25, 31 and June 1 from 11am to 12.30pm. An ideal day out for history buffs or engineering enthusiasts, this tour will bring the boatyard to life with storytelling, stunning views and live demonstrations of historic machinery from the 19th and early 20th century. Tickets can be booked here.
Remote Control Racers at Aerospace Bristol
Join Aerospace Bristol in celebrating 80 years of Bristol Cars from May 24 to June 1. Take the wheel of the remote control cars and race beneath the iconic Concorde in a thrilling test of speed and skill. See a replica Bristol 450 Le Mans winner, admire the stunning Aston Martin Wings Series, and dive into stories and archives from Bristol Cars' history. There will also be live model flying demonstrations by the British Model Flying Association on May 27 and 28.
Project Zulu
The hugely anticipated Project Zulu 2025 Choir is set to perform in Bristol on May 29, 30 and 31. Comprised of children from two schools in the Madadeni township, South Africa, this incredibly talented choir of young children are guaranteed to wow you with their traditional Zulu songs and dances. Performing across the South West for 3 weeks, the children aged 8 – 15 years are from Jobstown and Mntimande Primary Schools, where they currently face overcrowded classrooms with more than 60 pupils per class. 100% of profits from this tour will be sent directly back to their schools to build new classrooms. For more information and to book tickets, click here.
Bristol Walk Fest
Bristol Walk Fest is back until May 31 with inclusive walks taking place across the city for people of all ages, interests and abilities, many of which are free. The events range from self-guided tours like the Go Jauntly Self-Led Walks, to taster sessions like Try Nordic Walking in Eastville Park, and guided tours like Blackbeard To Banksy: The Ultimate Tour Of Bristol. To book your tickets, click here.
Women of the Waves at Brunel's SS Great Britain
Victorian passengers will take over the SS Great Britain, bringing the historic dockyard to life from May 24 to June 1. Discover lesser-known stories from the fearless women who travelled on board to pursue new lives across the waves. Meet those who were brave enough to voyage on Victorian steam ships from actresses to stewardesses, watch as dramas unfold between passengers and hear tales of Victorian life at sea as you explore in, under and around the ship.
Highlights Tour of Bristol Cathedral
Join one of Bristol Cathedral's dedicated tour guides on May 24 as they take you on a journey spanning 900 years of history, heritage, and architecture. From the tale of St Jordan of Bristol (yes, Bristol has a saint!) through to the ordination of the first women priests in 1994, joining a Bristol Cathedral Highlights Tour is the best and most fascinating way to get to know one of the grandest buildings in the city of Bristol! To book your tickets, click here.
Ashton Court Railway at Ashton Court Estate
The Ashton Court Miniature Railway returns on May 25 and 26 from noon to 5pm. Tickets will be available at the ticket office on each running day for £1.75 each, or 5 for £7.50.
The Douglas Cavalcade at Kingswood Heritage Museum
On May 25, Vintage Douglas motorcycles will fire up and follow their original test route from the museum around the area. It’s a unique opportunity to experience part of Bristol’s industrial legacy in action, right from the birthplace of these iconic bikes – which are on display in the dedicated Douglas Gallery at the museum.
May Half Term Cookery Classes for Children at Cooking It
From 27 to 30, children will gain an understanding of the importance of nutrition and hygiene in the kitchen whilst having fun at Cooking It's Cookery Classes on Gloucester Road. To book your place, click here.
Lovely Leaves – hammer printing workshop at Arnos Vale Cemetery
Discover the many wonderful plants that live in the cemetery and explore the landscape hunting beautiful leaves on May 27. Then have a go at making a printed leaf flag using a child-friendly hammer utilizing the Japanese technique of Hapa Zome. To book your tickets, click here.
Under the Sea Dance party with Ariel at Redcatch Community Garden
On May 27, join Magical Moon entertainment for a fun afternoon and enjoy enchanted dance performances, games, bubbles & lots of fun! Tickets include a Disney cupcake and drink and can be booked here.
The Farmer & The Clown at Trinity Centre
Held on May 26, the play follows the story of an old, hard-working farmer who lives alone. One day, a baby clown accidentally bounces off a passing circus train and is left in the middle of nowhere, separated from family and friends. A little reluctantly at first, the farmer takes the clown in. As time passes, they discover that by being with each other, they find something new in themselves. Tickets can be booked here.
Treasure Island Story Walk with Show of Strength
Starting at King Street, the May 24, 25 and 27 walks explore Bristol’s pirate past. Discover where Long John Silver ran his pub, The Spyglass. Find out where Squire Trelawney found and fitted out the good ship Hispaniola and where a young Jim Hawkins stepped off the coach from Devon to embark on his biggest ever adventure…his search for Captain Flint’s buried treasure. Tickets can be booked here.
Our House at Redgrave Theatre
Experience the electrifying energy of Our House: The Madness Musical, performed by the talented Bristol Amateur Operatic Society Youth from May 28 to 31. Follow the story of young Joe Casey as he faces a life-changing decision on the streets of London, all set to the unforgettable soundtrack of Madness hits like "It Must Be Love," "Baggy Trousers," and "House of Fun." With vibrant choreography, witty storytelling, and infectious tunes, this heartwarming and hilarious show promises a night of high-energy entertainment that captures the spirit of love, family, and the choices that shape our lives. Tickets can be booked here.
May Half Term Fun: Shadow Puppet Show & Workshop at John Wesley's New Room
Join the shadow puppet show and workshop at John Wesley's New Room, in collaboration with artist Tallulah Swirls, and unleash your creativity on May 28 from 10am to 3.30pm. With a fantastical mix of music, interactive shadow puppetry and colourful projections, Tallulah Swirls invites you to fall down the Rabbit Hole with Alice! Enjoy a puppet show which leads into a workshop session to make puppets who will join the Mad Hatter's Tea Party. Tickets can be booked here.
George's Spring Science workshop at Redcatch Community Garden
Step into a world of experimentation with George’s Spring Science Workshops at Redcatch Community Garden. Taking place on May 28, these exciting workshops invite young scientists to explore the realms of chemistry, physics, and art through hands-on activities. To book your tickets, click here.
Trygve Wakenshaw: Silly Little Things at The Wardrobe Theatre
In this new show, Trygve builds an experimental playground and lets his imagination run riot. Spinning ridiculous scenes out of the smallest funny ideas and conjuring up slapstick magic, Silly Little Things is a space of wonder and joy. It's about friendship and magic and what more could we want really? To book your tickets for the May 28 show, click here.
Hayao Miyazaki's Dreams by Mystery Ensemble at St George's Bristol
Miyazaki Dreams is a concert that offers a captivating immersion into the enchanting world of the legendary Japanese director and Oscar winner, Hayao Miyazaki. Performed by Mystery Ensemble, the programme features a selection of magical music from Miyazaki’s acclaimed anime films, as well as compositions inspired by his visionary creations. The evening will showcase iconic works by renowned composer Joe Hisaishi, including music from My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle, Laputa: Castle in the Sky, and more. The programme also features pieces by other composers whose work has been influenced by Miyazaki's artistic legacy. Tickets for the May 30 show can be booked here.
Bristol Bears v Harlequins at Ashton Gate Stadium
Watch Bristol Bears at Ashton Gate in the Gallagher Premiership this season on May 31. To book your tickets, click here.
Destination Old Market - A Medieval Fayre at Trinity Centre and A Medieval Promenade
Step into the streets of Old Market as characters from the height of the Renaissance appear before your eyes—plucked from the past and dropped into the present on May 31. The Trinity Gardens will also be transformed into a medieval playground where you can challenge friends to a spirited game of blind man's buff, test your strength in tug of war, or laugh at the antics of a comic. To book your tickets, click here for the Medieval Fayre, and here for the Medieval Promenade.
SteamFest at Steam
Get ready for an afternoon of sun-soaked entertainment as Steam hosts a vibrant summer celebration on May 31 from 2pm to 6pm. Each ticket includes a delicious meal with a choice between Nana's Caribbean Kitchen and Sliced NY Pizza, plus a refreshing drink selected from Jubel, Broadoak Ciders, or Wiper & True. Guests will also receive a wristband granting access to exclusive happy hour deals from 6pm to 10pm. The event features live music, lawn games, and a buzzing festival atmosphere in the heart of the city — perfect for unwinding and celebrating summer. To book your tickets, click here.