May Half Term in Dorset

The 2026 May half term school holiday is coming around fast - get ready for long spring days, stunning coastlines and exciting adventures. As nature bursts into life and the sunshine returns, Dorset is the perfect place to explore beautiful countryside, wander through pretty towns and villages, or dive into a huge range of fun-filled activities for all ages. There really is no better place to spend your valuable time off than right here!

Whether you’re craving sandy-toe beach days, magical wildlife encounters, hands‑on attractions or vibrant local festivals, Dorset has everything you need to make this half term truly special. From cygnets hatching at Abbotsbury Swannery to high‑energy days out at our award‑winning family attractions, your week will be packed with moments you’ll remember long after the school holidays end.

So why not swap the routine for rock pools, rolling countryside, fresh sea air and big family smiles? Start planning your May half term adventure today.

May half term events in Dorset

Enjoy all the fun of the fair at the Sherborne Castle Country Fair on Monday 25 May. Held in the grounds of the historic Sherborne Castle, enjoy an action packed day of activities and displays.

There are a number of family-friendly festivals taking place across the county during half term and most of them are free. For tasty treats head over to Christchurch Food Festival. Little ones will love dressing up as a pirate at Swanage's annual Pirate Festival - watch the Pirate Parade, visit the living history village and see live re-enactments.

If your family loves music festivals, there's 3 taking place during the half term week, all welcoming families and offering weekend family tickets or reduced price day tickets for children. You can even camp overnight at Cursus Music Festival and Family Fest. And don't forget the free Wessex Folk Festival, where they'll be dancing on Weymouth harbourside during the 2 day event.

Family friendly Dorset attractions

Many of Dorset’s attractions offer some wonderful days out during the school holidays to keep your gang entertained.

During May and June, cygnets will be hatching at Abbotsbury Swannery which is always popular with our youngest visitors.

At Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, older kids will love testing out their skills at archery, throwing angels or the Go Ape high ropes course. And for the little ones, explore the new Room On The Broom Trail or outdoor adventure play areas.

For farm animals and foam parties, head to Farmer Palmers Farm Park - feed sheep and goats, have a go at pony grooming, hold a guinea pig, or jump on the Wet the Western Tractor Trailer ride!

The Tank Museum always offers a gigantic day out during May half term. Experience the biggest day out in history and see tanks roll into action with realistic life-like explosions accompanied by expert commentary.

With such a great variation of days out and events you really will find something to entertain everyone here in Dorset.

May half term on a budget

Offering great value for a family day out, check out our blog to find 30 days out costing less than £30.

For some great low-cost or no-cost days out in Dorset read our low-cost holidays blog or check out our top ten ideas for free days out. Explore castles, go on a nature trail or ride your bike for a cycling adventure in our beautiful countryside.

Dorset also has over 50 attractions offering free tickets for children, making your day out that little bit more affordable.

There are also museums, country parks, hill forts and more which offer free admission. See the full list of over 200 free things to do in our wonderful county.

And don't forget to look at our Special Offers page to see what deals and discounts are available to save some money during your break.

Explore all Dorset has to offer

Don’t forget that Dorset also has lots of stunning countryside, breath-taking beaches and gorgeous towns and villages to discover.

Sample our county’s world famous food and drink at our wonderful restaurants, pubs, inns and tearooms. With the quality of produce on offer, spending some time here is a must for anyone serious about top quality food and drink.

If you’re looking for further inspiration in planning your break in Dorset, make sure you check our Visit Dorset blog. You’ll find some great articles, including guest blogs, about what to see and do during your get-away.