May Half Term in Exeter

Enjoy May half-term in Exeter, from 23rd – 31st May 2026, when our city comes alive with family-friendly events, hands-on activities and unforgettable days out.

Whether you’re discovering top attractions, exploring historic streets, or enjoying the great outdoors, there’s something for the whole family. Rain or shine, Exeter is packed with inspiring places to visit and plenty of opportunities to create magical May half-term memories together.

Free to visit, RAMM is the perfect family spot to explore and get creative over the school holidays. Be inspired by the stunning mask collection in the World Cultures gallery, then design your own using beads, feathers, and sequins (27th May). You can even craft a magical rainstick and create the soothing sound of a rainstorm in your hands (28th May). Perfect family fun, whatever the weather!

For a truly unique perspective of the city then take a guided tour of Exeter's Underground Passages. Venture beneath the city’s streets to explore medieval tunnels, discover fascinating stories and uncover hidden history. These are the only passages of this kind open to the public in Britain!

Press Start on 50 Years of Fun - a free retro gaming experience running 27th to 30th May at Guildhall Shopping Exeter.  Discover iconic consoles, arcade classics, family-friendly competitions, and exclusive offers, all while celebrating five decades of gaming nostalgia in the heart of Exeter.

May signals the start of Exeter Phoenix's Summer Performance Programme. Fun for all the family, enjoy circus arts, outrageous comedy, and the return of Theatre in the Park in Rougemont Gardens.

If you love the country life then the Devon County Show is the place to be, from 21st - 23rd May. Featuring animals, heavy horses, food, music, dog shows, funfairs, crafts, gardens, shopping, and more, it's a fantastic day out for all ages.

If your family is craving adventure this half term, head to the historic Quayside for some high-energy fun. Scale the walls at The Quay Climbing Centre or take to the water with kayak or canoe hire from Saddles and Paddles. With beautiful river views along Exeter Quay, it’s the perfect place to try something new and make a splash.

Be fascinated by the stories of Exeter's turbulent history on a Red Coat Guided Tour, free daily walking tours around our city. Don't forget to stop by our magnificent Exeter Cathedral, packed full of 900 years of history, this majestic building is one of the great cathedrals of England, and one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture to be found anywhere.

Why not try one of Exeter’s self-guided walks? Follow the City Wall Trail, Woollen Trail or Medieval Trail to learn about the city’s rich history while enjoying a walk around the beautiful city centre. All three trails even include puzzles and quizzes for the little ones, so be sure to bring a pen and paper.

For families who like escaping in the great outdoors then Haldon Forest Park invites you to explore their Room on the Broom trail, an interactive family trail featuring fascinating forest facts and plenty of hands-on fun. While visiting the forest then Go Ape Haldon is a must-visit attraction for thrill seekers. Boasting two high ropes activities above the forest floor, you'll make lots of memorable family moments here.

Families are challenged to swap screens for fresh air and friendly competition as RHS Garden Rosemoor throws open its gates for a week-long celebration of play: The Great Garden Game-a-thon. Running from Saturday 23 May to Sunday 31 May 2026, the popular event promises laughter, teamwork and plenty of energetic fun set against the stunning backdrop of one of the South West’s most loved gardens.

Check out our What's On guide for more events this May half-term.