Things to do in Staffordshire May half term 2023
With May half term 2023 rapidly approaching, it’s time for a list of things to do in Staffordshire. 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 Staffordshire. If your dog would like to join you for some half term fun, check out my post about dog friendly days out in the West Midlands, which includes Staffordshire.
This post covers the Staffordshire area only. If you are looking for May half term days out in nearby counties, please see below:
Theme parks and days out in Staffordshire May half term 2023
Looking for something fun to do with the kids during the May half term school holidays? Look no further than these fantastic attractions in Staffordshire. Each of these is a full day out with both indoor and outdoor areas to enjoy.
Alton Towers
It’s time for a mardi gras at Alton Towers this May half term. From 20th May right through to 18th June, there will be a carnival atmosphere every day with street performers, music and colour. Street food from around the world will accompany the carnival and each area of the theme park will be represented with its own static carnival float. For full details, head to the Alton Towers website. You can also read my review of a trip to Alton Towers theme park, water park and cBeebies hotel with little ones.
National Forest Adventure Farm
With a range of indoor and outdoor activities, the National Forest Adventure Farm is a great place to visit with the whole family. May half term 2023 is dino week at the National Forest Adventure Farm from 27th May to 4th June. They have a brand new raptor ranch where a velociraptor, triceratops, spinosaurus and even a t-rex are waiting to meet you! Learn how to tame your dinosaur at dino training camp, have a one to one dino encounter and take on the raptor run, evading the velociraptor with the aim of collecting all the dinosaur eggs. Visitors can also take part in fossil panning, tractor rides and all the other attractions are open too. You can book online in advance on the National Forest Adventure Farm website. You can also read my review of Halloween Half Term at the National Forest Adventure Farm.
Drayton Manor
It’a all about vibrant colours, circus performers and Samba at Drayton Manor for May half term 2023, thanks to their Fiestaval celebration. Look out for the Samba band and Roy’s Fiesta Finale. Their new ride for the season is the submarine splash in Thomas Land. The event takes place from 27th May to 4th June 2023. Find out more on their website and you can also read our Drayton Manor review.
Statfold Country Park
Statfold Barn is open this Whitsun week from 27th May to 4th June 2023. Enjoy a ride on the narrow gauge train and explore the railway museum. Younger visitors will appreciate Toby’s Barn play and climb, a soft play area and children’s indoor climbing wall. There’s an outdoor play area full of diggers as well as a children’s play park. This May half term, Statfold is celebrating the opening of the Felumpa Village. Learn the story of the fun Felumpas in their story book and pick up a soft toy from the gift shop. Full information is available on the Statfold website. You can also read my review of a family day out at Statfold Barn.
Outdoor activities in Staffordshire May half term 2023
If you’re looking to make the most of the great outdoors this May half term, then Staffordshire is the perfect destination. With plenty of attractions and events on offer, you and your family are sure to have an unforgettable time.
Here are just a few of the outdoor attractions in Staffordshire that you could visit during May half term 2023.
National Memorial Arboretum
The National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire is a beautiful place to visit any time of year, but during the May half term they have some fun family-friendly activities planned. Storytelling yoga, outdoor painting and making seed balls and dream catchers will keep the kids entertained as you stroll around the beautiful landscape. Entry to the National Memorial Arboretum is free, but they do advise booking your parking in advance. Find out more on the NMA website.
Trentham Estate
A stunning landscaped garden and parkland, the Trentham Estate is home to a wide range of outdoor activities. From boat rides on the lake to adventure playgrounds, there’s something for everyone. Stroll around the gardens, ride the miniature train, hunt for fairies or go on a wildlife cruise. There don’t appear to be any special events on for May half term, but you can find out more about the attraction on the Trentham website.
Trentham Monkey Forest
Monkey forest is a great day out, especially for animal loving children. Walk through the monkey enclosure where 140 Barbary macaques stroll around freely. There’s even a primate-themed play area for little ones to enjoy. Whilst this isn’t a full day out, it’s well worth a visit and can be combined with a trip to Trentham Estate. Head to the Monkey Forest website to find out more.
Cannock Chase
This Forestry England site in Staffordshire is a brilliant day out for all the family, including the dog! Take bikes and enjoy the bike tracks for all ages and abilities. Follow the Gruffalo sculpture trail or Zog activity trail and treat your dog to a run around the dog agility course. There’s a great children’s play area and you can even book in to do Go Ape. This can be a full day out with a café, bike hire and toilet facilities available. Better still, it’s free to visit and you only have to pay for parking. Head to the Forestry England website for more information and you can also read my review of a dog friendly family day out at Cannock Chase.
Rudyard Lake
Located in the Staffordshire Moorlands, Rudyard Lake is a stunning reservoir surrounded by woodland and hills. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and cycling. During May half term, visitors can enjoy water sports, ride the steam train and make the most of the great food and drink options at Rudyard Lake. The lake is owned and managed by the Canal and River Trust and you can find out more about visiting on their website.
Events in Staffordshire May half term 2023
May half term in Staffordshire is the perfect time to experience the area’s rich culture and diverse entertainment offerings. Here are some of the best events taking place in Staffordshire during May half term 2023:
Staffordshire County Show
Taking place on 31st May and 1st June 2023, this show is an iconic Staffordshire event, bringing together all the best elements of rural life and celebrating the very best of Staffordshire’s farming heritage. With plenty of activities and entertainment options, including agricultural displays and livestock shows, this is a great event for the whole family. Further information about the show is available from Stafford Borough Council.
Colours of the Moorlands: Luminarium in Leek
Head to Leek hockey club from 26th to 29th May 2023 to see stories and places in the Staffordshire Moorlands brought to life in vibrant colour. The Luminarium is a huge, walk-in sculpture with soaring domes and winding paths. Be amazed by the use of light and colour to create a unique sensory experience. This is free to visit but you’ll need to book a ticket in advance via Outside Arts.
