Things to do in Herefordshire May half term 2023
With May half term rapidly approaching, it’s time for a list of things to do in Herefordshire. Lots of attractions have events taking place this year and others are reopening for the summer. From family trails to fun days, there’s lots to see and do around Herefordshire. If you’re on a budget, check out my post about free things to do in Herefordshire as well.
This post covers the Herefordshire area only. If you are looking for May half term days out in nearby counties, please see below:
Berrington Hall National Trust
If you have little ones who are fascinated by plants, Berrington Hall National Trust is the place to be this May half term 2023. Their family trail runs from 27th May to 4th June and is aimed at budding botanists. Follow the trail around whilst exploring the gardens and taking part in fun activities and games. Children will learn about how to look after the natural world. Trails cost £3 each including a prize. They also have a natural play area and you can look around both the gardens and the mansion itself. Full details are available on the Berrington Hall website.
Courtyard Theatre Hereford
This May half term, the popular Matilda the musical is heading to Hereford’s Courtyard Theatre. Matilda Junior, performed by Ludwig Theatre Arts is a slightly shorter version than the standard musical, lasting around an hour and forty minutes including an interval. This, coupled with its upbeat songs and compelling story line make it an ideal theatre experience for young children or those who won’t manage to sit through a longer performance. Perfect for a May half term theatre trip! The show takes place on 1st, 2nd and 3rd June 2023 with two shows each day. I do need to point out that if the child playing Lavender is particularly cheeky…. she must take after her dad. Head to the Courtyard Theatre website for full information and to book.
Brockhampton Estate National Trust
Brockhampton, like other National Trust properties, will have a children’s half term trail available from 27th May to 4th June 2023. This year they’re celebrating the bees, butterflies and bugs that pollinate the fruit growing in their orchards. Complete games and puzzles as you follow the trail, learning about incredible insects along the way. The trail cost is £3 per child including a prize. Guests are also free to explore the medieval manor house and follow one of the way-marked walks in the grounds. Head to the Brockhampton website for full details.
Croft Castle
It’s all about apples on the Croft Castle family trail this May half term from Saturday 27th May 2023 to Sunday 4th June. Find out about the life of an apple from seed to fruit. Within the Croft walled garden is an orchard that houses various rare and traditional apple trees. Follow the trail winding around the gardens to complete activities and learn about this delicious fruit. The trail cost is £3 in addition to the entrance fee. Croft castle is a lovely place to visit with lots of walks around the grounds and woods. Children will enjoy the mini castle and natural play areas. Full information is available on their website and you can read our review of a dog friendly family day out at Croft Castle.
Eastnor Castle
A few different events take place at Eastnor Castle during May half term 2023. The action kicks off with Eastnor Steam and Vintage weekend on Sunday 28th and Monday 29th May. Visitors will see vintage vehicles and steam engines, live music and old fashioned dancing. Enjoy giant games in the garden and ride on a model steam engine, chair swing and vintage carousel. Runaround days take place from Tuesday 30th May to Thursday 1st June. Allow children to let off some steam in the grounds and enjoy the playground. There’s more family fun on Sunday 4th June with garden games and a zip wire on the valley lawn. Head to their ‘what’s on’ page for full details of each event and read our review of Eastnor Castle.
Goodrich Castle
There’s a belated celebration of King Charles III’s coronation at Goodrich Castle this May half term. They describe their Kids Rule event as “a right royal knees-up”. Visitors will enjoy family fun in the fresh air and interactive activities. The event is included in the attraction entry price and members go free. For more information and to book, head to the Goodrich website. You can also read my review of a dog friendly family day out at Goodrich Castle.
Newbridge Farm Park
Newbridge Farm Park is only open during school holidays now. They confirm on their website that they will be open during May Half Term 2023, although exact dates are not yet on there. Check the Newbridge website for further details of what’s on. Last year they had an air ambulance themed day to raise money for the charity. Pony rides often take place here too. It is worth bearing in mind that this is not an animal based attraction anymore. Instead, they have plenty of indoor and outdoor play equipment for children under 8 years old and there is a tractor ride for the whole family.
