Fun for all the family this half term

Wiltshire’s May half term will this year take place from 29 May until 2 June. If you are looking for things to do with the children over this week and the weekends either side then this handy guide will be able to help you:

1.    Join in with the family fun at the Ageas Salisbury International Arts Festival

The festival will be in full swing by the time the May half term begins. Look out for family-friendly events including:
 
•    Salisbury Live: Live at the Farm – featuring children’s entertainment, a BBQ and music at River Bourne Community Farm, 28 May.
•    City Encounters – free street entertainment on 28-29 May.
•    There and Back Again: An Odyssey – family performance at Salisbury Playhouse’s Salberg Studio on 30 May.
•    A Pub Quiz for Kids – taking place at Salisbury Arts Centre on 1 June.

Plus many other family events!

2.    See birds of prey soar in the sky 

The Hawk Conservancy Trust, just a couple of miles from the Wiltshire border will be running a Sky Hunters at Sunset evening on 27 May. This is a great opportunity for bird lovers to see a variety of birds of prey in flying demonstrations against the backdrop of the Savannah Arena. Ticket prices also include a hog roast and homemade chocolate brownie. 

3.    Stop off at a brush museum 

You may not think of a brush factory as being top of the list for some family fun however, this newly opened visitor centre at Visit Hillbrush, Mere offers an interactive museum for adults and children plus an on-site restaurant. Why not combine a visit with an explore of historic Mere and make the journey to the top of Castle Hill for some spectacular views of west Wiltshire’s countryside?

4.    Do a spot of bug hunting at a Wiltshire Wildlife Trust nature reserve

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust manages several nature reserves across the county offering your family a great opportunity to get close to our timeless nature and landscapes. Look out for events aimed for young children from an Earthworm Identification Weekend (27-28 May at Lower Moor Farm) to Compass Skills and Orienteering (30 May).

5.    Get arty at Salisbury Cathedral

Seek out the artwork in the Ana Maria Pacheco exhibition within Salisbury Cathedral and then use the paints supplied to create a portrait of yourself. These drop-in sessions take place on 31 May and are suitable for children aged 3-10. 

6.    Embark on a Treasure Trail of Pewsey

Join the Peasant Revolution on this self-guided Treasure Trail of Pewsey. Starting in Goddard Road, in the heart of the village, take a circular loop and uncover the clues. The trail is suitable for ages 6+ and costs just £6.99.

7.    Head to Bowood

The whole family will enjoy the beautiful grounds of Bowood House and Gardens. 

8.    Escape the rain (!) on a trip to STEAM

Ok so we can’t predict the weather here in this country but if the weather does take a turn for the worse then one of our indoor attractions will provide the perfect shelter. STEAM – Museum of the Great Western Railway, in Swindon offers a vast expanse of covered exhibition space and features a replica railway station, full scale steam trains and many hands-on activities for the younger visitor. 

9.    Indulge in an afternoon tea after a battle

We aren’t suggesting that your children should physically fight however make believe play is highly recommended on a trip to Old Wardour Castle. This ruined castle offers great opportunities for swash-buckling fun and wannabe Robin Hoods! Why not follow it up by a stop at Beatons Tearooms in the nearby village of Tisbury for an afternoon tea treat?

10.    Take to the saddle in the Pewsey Vale

With beginner’s lessons taking children on a walkout through the scenic village of Stanton St Bernard in the Pewsey Vale, children have the chance to learn how to ride with Pewsey Vale Riding Centre. 

Want to know more about what there is to see and do for families here in Wiltshire? Don’t forget to check out our family friendly page and look out for other events on our what’s on pages.