Fun Activities and Things to Do with Kids in school holidays
Half-term school holidays are perfect for families to create new memories. It’s a chance to spend quality time together, whether you embark on a UK day trip, visit local children’s attractions or enjoy creative adventures at home.
Looking for things to do with family and places to take the kids during the half-term or school holidays break? Delve into our guides below for your region and discover a range of family-friendly activities across various UK cities, all easily accessible by hopping on an Arriva bus.
UK half-term dates for 2024
So, when is it half term in 2024? It all depends on where in the UK you live, with Scotland and Wales half-terms often different to those in England. Find a full list of spring, summer and autumn half-term dates below:
England half term dates 2024
• February half-term 2024 – Monday 12 February - Friday 16 February / Monday 19th February to Friday 23rd February
• May half-term 2024 – Monday 27th May to Friday 31st May
• October half-term 2024 – Monday 28th October to Friday 1st November
Some local school holiday dates may vary. Please check your local council website for further information.
Scotland half term dates 2024
• February half-term 2024 – Monday 12th February to Friday 16th February
• October half-term 2024 – Monday 14th October to Friday 18th October
Wales half term dates 2024
• February half-term 2024 – Monday 12th February to Friday 16th February
• May half-term 2024 – Monday 27th May to Friday 31st May
What are the best things to do during school holidays?
Finding the best things to do during school holidays can be tricky. There are many school holiday options, from day trips in fantastic UK cities to fun places for kids, like museums, beaches and parks near home. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Plan days out with the kids
Organising a day out with the kids is always a winner during a half-term break. If the sun is shining, find the best outdoor days near you, whether hitting the rides in a theme park, exploring an adventure playground or playing games on a local beach.
2. Know your go-to rainy-day activities
Of course, you can never rely on the Great British weather, especially during the October and February half-terms. That means having activities in mind for a rainy day is vital. Thankfully, there are loads of indoor activities for kids wherever you are in the UK, from museums and cinemas to bowling and mini golf.
3. Make fun at home
Another alternative is making fun at home during school holidays. There are many things to do with family without leaving the house. Bake tasty treats like cakes or cookies, get creative with arts and crafts or grow vegetables in the garden.
4. Book family breaks
Maybe you fancy getting away during the mid-term school holidays? There are many fun places to go with family during half-term, from beautiful coastal towns with sandy beaches to city breaks with various activities for kids.
Ideas on where to go during the school holidays...
Watford
One of the best places to visit with kids during the school holidays is the Warner Bros Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter. Located in Watford, it’s a magical day out for all the family as you wander through iconic sets like the Great Hall, Forbidden Forest and Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter film series. Hop on service 20 or service 328 to get to Leavesden Studios.
Llandudno
Fancy a trip to the seaside? Head to Llandudno! The North Welsh coastal town is excellent for a fun family day out. Walk along the promenade, see the famous Punch and Judy show, swim in the sea or hit the arcades. Jump on the 5, 5D, 12, 13, or 14, 15, or 25 at Llandudno Junction, get off at North Western Gardens, and be within walking distance of the Llandudno promenade, North Shore Beach, and the Llandudno pier.
More Llandudno attractions you can visit by bus.
Liverpool
If you’re in the North West, visit Liverpool. Discover a wide range of activities in Merseyside to keep the family occupied during the school holidays. If your kids are football crazy, hop on service 26 or service 27 towards Stanley Park and visit the home of Liverpool FC, Anfield, or Everton’s Goodison Park. Alternatively, catch services 80, 82, or 82A to Upper Duke Street and head to Quirky Quarter, a unique attraction filled with interactive experiences, brain teasers, and puzzles.