May half-term activities Manchester 2026
This school term has been a very short one. Find all the best May half-term activities in Manchester 2026 here. There are lots of great kids’ events happening across Greater Manchester. This post is part of a series of posts on May half term activities North West. If you are close to one of the borders of the region click through to see what else is on in the surrounding areas.
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Please ensure you click through to the event organisers’ website and check if the event is still running before travelling to your chosen event. Occasionally events do get cancelled due to severe weather etc and I can’t guarantee I will be aware.
I will be continuing to update this post right up until the holidays. If you know of an event I’m unaware of, please email me at info@northwestforkids.co.uk
RHS and National Trust properties with May half term events
RHS Bridgewater, Salford
When – 23rd – 31st May 2026.
The great garden game-a-thon with giant games and meadow maze available daily. The Wind in the Willows: A garden adventure is also on daily.
There are different kids activities on daily too.
Circus skills – 25th, 26th and 27th May, drop in (times vary)
Family board game – 28th & 29th May (1-3pm, drop-in)
Cost – Free for members, admission costs apply to everyone else.
Full schedule here – May Half Term 2026 | RHS Bridgewater
Find out more about family days out here – Visiting RHS Bridgewater with kids.
Self-led blossom walk. Lyme Park. 1st – 31st May 2026. Full details here – Self-led Blossom walk
Events in museums across Manchester May half term
Free Manchester museum celebrate Africa day
When – 23rd May 2026.
Experience African music, dance, fashion and food, while learning about Africa’s story through talks, workshops and opportunities to engage with African items cared for by the Museum.
Full details here – Manchester Museum Celebrates Africa Day
Free Manchester museum RSPB pop-up stall
When – 23rd, 30th & 31st May 2026.
Pop along to their pop-up stall to get involved in fun activities, while discovering more about their work and how you can get involved with the charity.
Full details here – 23rd May – Manchester Museum
Full details here – 30th & 31st May – RSPB pop-up Stall
Free Reuse and recycle crafts, Manchester Museum
When – 26th – 29th May 2026.
Share your inventive ideas for upcycling on our ideas tree and drop in to discover some examples.
Sessions run 11am-1pm and 2-4pm on Tuesday 26, Wednesday 27, Thursday 28 and Friday 29 May. They’re suitable for children aged 7 plus, together with parents or carers.
Book here – Reuse and recycle crafts
Free Right to a health environment activities, Manchester Museum
When – 26th – 28th May 2026.
Get involved in fun, family-friendly activities and find out more about Friends of the Earth’s Right to a Heathy Environment campaign at their pop-up stall throughout May half term.
Book here – Right to a health environment
Free Manchester Museum Celebrates Vesak
When – 30th May 2026.
Discover one of the most important festivals in the Buddhist calendar and join the celebrations during Vesak at your Museum.
Vesak is the time when Southern Buddhist schools celebrate the birth, enlightenment and final passing away of the Buddha. We’re marking the occasion with activities throughout the day, following the Thai tradition.
Full details here – Manchester Museum Celebrates Vesak
Free Family-friendly Chinese Ink Painting, Manchester Museum
When – 31st May 2026.
Try your hand at Chinese ink painting in one of our family-friendly sessions.
We’re joining forces with Chinese Art Zone Manchester for a day-long celebration of this traditional artform, which will be perfect for families, art lovers and curious creatives of all ages.
Full details here – Family-friendly Chinese Ink Painting
May half term at Science and industry museum
When – 23 May – 7 June 2026
Mini steam railway – 23 May – 7 June (not 30th–31st)
Take a ride on the mini railway and journey among the newly landscaped planters in our historic Upper Yard (tickets £4).
Drumroots music session – 23–31 May, 10.45, 11.45, 12.45, 14.15
Free, drop in, Get inspired by the thumps, bumps and rhythms of industry in interactive music sessions and performances from drumming collective Drumroots.
Power Hall: The Andrew Law Gallery
Meet mighty machines that powered Manchester and beyond in Power Hall
Balancing machines
Free, drop in. Tinker, test and explore the mechanics of motions through engineering challenges and playful activities with our expert Explainers.
Planting stories garden
Free, drop in. Pull up a deckchair or get stuck in with traditional garden games including Quoits, Connect 4 and Cornhole. Discover stories of our historic site nestled within carefully selected plants, trees and flowers.
Traction engines 5–7 June, 10.30–16.00
Free, pop-up display. Snap a selfie with a pop-up display of early 20th century traction engines.
Join members of Urmston & District Model Engineering Society who will be rolling into the Upper Yard with an early 20th century Fowler Showman’s traction engine and Foden steam wagon, which will be in steam across the weekend.
Full details here – May half term | Science and Industry Museum
Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos, Science and Industry Museum
When – 13th February 2026 – 3rd January 2027.
Blast off into the solar system and embark on a cosmic adventure guided by familiar characters from the brand-new BBC Horrible Science TV series.
Walk in the shoes of astronauts and discover far-off worlds, dance on an alien disco planet and journey through the depths of space to uncover the secrets of our universe.
Book here – Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos
May half term at Salford Museum
When – 26th May – 5th June 2026
Decorate a tile – 26th May 2026, £3 per child, booking required
Pick & mix playtime – 27th May 2026, free, drop in
Patterns and printing – 28th May 2026, £3 per child, booking required
Toys through time – 29th May 2026, free, drop in
Clay Play – 2nd June 2026, £3 per child, booking required
Storytelling and craft – 3rd June 2026, free, drop in
The Victorian washday – 4th June 2026, free, drop in
Make your mark – 5th June 2026, £1 per child, booking required
Full details here – Whit Half Term 2026 at Salford Museum & Art Gallery – Salford Museum & Art Gallery
May half term at Ordsall Hall
When – 27th May – 4th June 2026.
Pop-Up Performances and Family Dance Workshop – 27th May, free, drop in
Clay Play – 28th May, £3 per child, booking required
Decorate our Cardboard Tudor House – 1st June, free, drop in
Meet the Servant: Tudor Writing – 2nd June, £3 per child, booking required
Tudor Outdoor Fun and Games – 3rd June, free, drop in
Meet the Servant: Make a Beeswax Candle, 4th June, £1.50 per child, booking required
Full details here – May Half Term
Free The joy of colour, The Whitworth
When – 28th & 29th May 2026.
This May half term celebrate the joy of colour through playful dance and making activities inspired by the pattern-filled worlds in Michaela Yearwood-Dan’s exhibition. Led by Afrocats artists, families can move together through African and Caribbean-inspired dance and rhythm and create their own vibrant artworks inspired by nature.
Full details here – The joy of colour
Look for a book, People’s History Museum
When – 25th May – 1st June 2026.
Hidden around the museum galleries will be copies of the book ‘Put Your Records On’ written by singer-songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae, illustrated by Gillian Eilidh O’Mara.
Inspired by Corinne’s hit song, the story follows a young girl named Bea discovering emotions through music by exploring her great aunt’s vinyl collection.
Enjoy more beats and books at our juke box, and drop in to the new Storytelling Zone.
Family Friendly activity, suitable for ages 5-12 (under 18s must have an accompanying adult).
Full details here – Look for a book
Free, Look for a book, People’s History Museum
When – 29th – 31st May 2026.
Step into our Strike Den, where you’ll find creative activities inspired by the history of strikes and solidarity.
- Dress up as a Protest Hero from the past or present, take your position on the soapbox and strike a pose for a photo!
- Explore the Reading Corner to discover the stories of protest, courage, and change.
- Get Creative and make your mark by designing your own artwork inspired by some of the protest art you’ll find throughout the museum.
Full details here – Strike den
Z-Arts events this May half term
These are the events at Z-arts this May half term (not including theatre shows as these are further down in the family theatre section).
Alice in Wonderland, Z-arts
When – 26th, 27th, 28th May 2026
Created by Z-arts in partnership with Macmillan Children’s Books, step into Alice’s shoes and have your very own magical Adventure in Wonderland, celebrating 160 years of Alice. This interactive world of play and storytelling has something for everyone aged 1-8 and their families.
Book here – Adventures in Wonderland – Z-arts
Find out more about Z-Arts Manchester in our guide here.
The library of enchantment – family escape room at Z-Arts
When – 23rd, 24th, 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th, 30th May 2026
The Library of Enchantment is a fun-filled thrilling family-friendly escape room, full of seafaring adventures, time travelling tricks and a pesky old bookworm who’s always up to meddlesome mischief!
Book here – Family-friendly escape room – The Library of Enchantment – Z-arts
Read our review here – Z-Arts family escape room
Mission Mad Hatter – family escape room at Z-Arts
When – 23rd, 24th, 29th, 30th May 2026
Mission: Mad Hatter is designed especially for children aged 9+ and their grown-ups. You’ll step into Wonderland for a quest that’s part scavenger hunt, part escape room, and part computer game.
Working in teams of up to six, you’ll use the provided digital tablet to navigate the twists and turns of Wonderland. It’s a race against time to uncover curious clues, solve mind-mangling puzzles, and rescue the Mad Hatter’s missing guests – just in time for tea!
Book here – Mission Mad Hatter
May half term events on farms
Circus at the farm, Cockfields farm
When – 23rd – 25th May 2026.
Circus show 3 times per day and all the usual fun on the farm.
Book here – Cockfields
Dino Farm, Reddish Vale Farm
When – 23rd – 25th May 2026.
Full day event including roaming dinosaurs, baby dinosaur meet-ups, fossil digging, ranger training, Hourly Golden Dino Egg Hunt, Free dinosaur mask for every child and Build-a-Dino Teddy available (additional charge). As well as all the usual fun of the farm.
Book here – Reddish Vale Farm
New life down on the farm, Cockfields farm
When – 26th – 31st May 2026.
Their gorgeous Highland cow is due to give birth this May, and they’re marking the moment with this New Life on the Farm event. You might even witness the birth of a calf or meet one of our adorable newborns if they’ve already arrived.
Book here – Cockfields
Other outdoor events this May half term
Manchester flower festival
When – 23rd – 25th May 2026.
Full details to follow. Includes a trail of flower displays across Manchester city centre.
Find out more here – The Manchester Flower festival
May half term at Heaton park
Self-Led Orienteering – 23rd to 31st May 2026
Use the free “MapRun” app to Find Your Way and explore orienteering routes in the park!
Radio Orienteering – 23rd May, 10:30am-4pm
Join Bury Radio Society in the park to explore the fascinating world of Radio Direction Finding. Find out how spies and the military locate hidden radio transmitters, get hands-on with the gear and have a go yourself. At the same time, visit their radio station as they link the park to other stations around the world and learn more about this remarkable hobby.
Balsam Bashing Disco – 26th May, 11am-12:30pm
Help tackle the spread of invasive plant species Himalayan balsam at Heaton Park with a hands‑on plant pulling activity! Himalayan balsam spreads quickly and pushes out native plants, by bashing it, you’re giving nature space to survive and thrive. While we bash the balsam, we’ll play fun games with a disco twist – helping protect the park and having a lot of fun doing it!
Join us outside Reception (near the Stables Café) at 11am.
Guided Orienteering for Absolute Beginners (Families) – 27th May, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm
Learn how to read an orienteering map, navigate a course and then put those skills together to follow a beginner friendly 1.2km course (route is on paths with a small hill).
Meet on the path leading up toward the Stables and Heaton Hall (what3words location: ///patrol.short.transmitted). Guided walks of the course will set off on the hour, every hour 10am-2pm.
British Orienteering Stall: Self Led Orienteering using Find Your Way app – 28th May, 11am-3pm
Chat to British Orienteering about their self-guided MapRun walks and their Find Your Way app!
British Mountaineering Council Social Walk – 30th May, 9:45am-1pm
As part of the BMC Big Walking Weekend, BMC Staff Member, Piper Cusmano and BMC volunteers will explore Europe’s largest municipal park. The pace will be easy, to allow for lots of chat and exploring. The route is well-paved and is therefore perfect for wheelchair users and families with small children. We’re excited to welcome you for a memorable day in the outdoors!
Social Walk (British Mountaineering Council’s Big Walking Weekend) – 30th May, 10am to 1pm
As part of the British Mountaineering Council’s Big Walking Weekend, come and explore Europe’s largest municipal park with a three-hour guided walk. The pace will be easy, to allow for lots of chat and exploring. The route is well-paved and is therefore perfect for wheelchair users and families.
Eid Cycle Fest – 31st May, 11am-3pm
Join Bike It Walk It and partners for a day of celebration, cycling, community and fun at Heaton Park! The event will take place outside Heaton Hall.
Bring your bike for a free check or pedal yourself a smoothie! Check out the pre-loved bike sale and enjoy free activities including face painting, crafts, E-bike/trikes try-outs (over 16) and more!
There are prizes to be won, including 2 vouchers for a Heaton Park boat ride.
Forest tubing, Zip World, Heaton Park
When – new attraction opening 22nd May 2026
The UK’s longest outdoor tubing slide. There are 2 slides, Slide 1 – 77 metres, Slide 2 – 88 metres.
Everyone from age 4+ (and 1m height) can gram a donut ring and get sliding!
Enjoy unlimited rides for an hour, from £17 (£20 in half term)
Book here – Forest Tubing
Fletcher Moss – Broadoak hearts trail
When – 22nd May – 7th June 2026.
This time it is around the world themed.
Full details here – Broad Oaks hearts trail
Everywhere’s a Beach, Haigh Woodland Park
When – 23rd May 2026.
Everywhere’s a Beach is a charmingly ridiculous performance taking place on a giant revolving beach parasol!
This dynamic, dizzying and downright daft show will leave you dancing with delight!
You’ll be swept away as this show embraces everything we love about the beach. Our spinning parasol creates the perfect setting for our eccentric beach loving characters. Watch as their world collides with yours, as sophistication turns to chaos in this aerial circus performance.
Full details here – Everywhere’s a Beach
Family theatre during May half term
Bluey’s big play, The Lowry
When – 22nd – 31st May 2026.
Back by popular demand Bingo, Bandit and Chilli are returning to Lowry in the Olivier award-nominated live stage show, Bluey’s Big Play. Featuring brilliantly created puppets, this theatrical adaptation of the Emmy® award-winning children’s television series is packed with music, laughter, and fun for the whole family.
Book here – Bluey’s big play
Take flight, Z-arts
When – 23rd & 24th May 2026.
This multi-sensory, interactive show ignites the imagination and curiosity of babies who are then invited into the space with the performers to explore the baby safe set and props, including having a swing in the silks.
Suitable for children aged 0-2 years.
Book here – Take flight
The Singing Mermaid, HOME
When – 23rd – 24th May 2026.
3 – 8 year olds and their families will love this adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monk’s hugely popular book, brought to life with beautiful puppetry and performance and music and songs by Barb Jungr (We’re All Going On A Bear Hunt)
Book here – The Singing Mermaid
The utterly revolting science show, Waterside
When – 24th May 2026.
Brace yourselves for the Rude Science team’s hilarious, high-tech, highly-explosive new journey through the human body, packed with burp biology, fart physics and revolting edible chemistry. Expect enormous bottoms, edible fireworks, burp machines and the world’s loudest fart in this riotous science spectacular.
Book here – The utterly revolting science show
The Sooty Show, Stockport Plaza
When – 24th May 2026.
Join Sooty, Sweep, Soo and friends in their spectacular new show. There’s guaranteed giggles for the whole family!
Joining the fun will be the Greatest Showman – Michael Jordan, Singer – Miss Kazia and Mr Brown the Magical Caretaker. Expect jaw dropping juggling, singalong favourites and amazing magic. Plus the return of international blacklight speciality act “Fantasie De La Nuit”.
Book here – The Sooty Show
Olaf Falafel’s stupidest super stupid show, The Lowry
When – 28th May 2026.
Join Olaf Falafel (if that is his real name) for an hour of kid’s comedy which will be the stupidest he has ever let trickle from his brain. Expect jokes, poos on pogo sticks, more jokes and truth-telling cheese. There will definitely be a time-travelling portal to the future and a live drawalong!
Book here – Olaf Falafel’s stupidest super stupid show
The Jungle Book, Stockport Plaza
When – 30th May 2026.
Swing into the jungle this spring and join Mowgli and friends Baloo the bear, Bagheera the panther, a gang of mischievous monkeys lead by King Louie in this enchanting new musical adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s much-loved classic.
This funny, exciting, and wildly entertaining new musical adaptation will be filled with catchy songs that will leave you howling with laughter. The Jungle Book will captivate the whole family and leave you jumping for joy.
Book here – The Jungle Book
All other family events this May half term
Bubble Planet. Depot Mayfield
When – Until 28th August 2026.
Bubble Planet is an incredible adventure that immerses you in the magical world of bubbles. Explore a crazy planet that pushes the limits of your imagination, featuring virtual reality, themed rooms, and breathtaking landscapes. Travel from one fascinating space to another and engage all your senses!
Book here – Bubble Planet
The Mystery of Banksy. Depot Mayfield
When – Until 28th June 2026.
Dive into Banksy’s mysterious and provocative universe with The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind, making its highly anticipated UK debut in Manchester. Featuring around 200 recreated works (from bold graffiti and striking photographs to clever sculptures, video installations, and vibrant prints) this exhibition offers a rare look into the creativity of the world’s most enigmatic street artist.
A dynamic video highlights key moments of his extraordinary career, all presented in an unofficial tribute true to his rebellious spirit. With over 3.5 million visitors worldwide, this acclaimed showcase is a must-see journey into one of contemporary art’s most intriguing minds.
Book here – The Mystery of Banksy
Luminesce Manchester Cathedral
When – until 5th June 2026.
LUMINISCENCE arrives in the UK for the first time, transforming Manchester Cathedral into a fully immersive world of sound and light. Featuring new choral arrangements of iconic Manchester songs performed by Collectives Gospel Choir, a specially commissioned script by BAFTA and Olivier Award winner Tim Whitnall, and narration by legendary Manchester actor Christopher Eccleston, this 360° video projection experience brings the Cathedral to life in breathtaking ways.
Book here – Luminesce
Machu Picchu: Journey to the Lost City, Transmission House
When – Until 28th June 2026.
Step into Machu Picchu: Journey to the Lost City and experience the legendary Inca citadel like never before. Traverse the majestic mountain site, explore the agricultural terraces, the Temple of the Sun, and other iconic ruins as you witness the beauty of the Andes all around you.
Developed with leading archaeological experts, this immersive virtual reality experience offers a rare chance to connect with the rich history and mysteries of Machu Picchu. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or seeking a breathtaking adventure, secure your tickets today and journey through time to the heart of the ancient Andes.
Book here – Machu Picchu
, Legoland discovery centre
When –
No details yet for 2026
Animal Crossing, Sea life Manchester
When – 11th May – 14th June 2026.
Immerse yourself in a unique universe with Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Manchester! The renowned life simulation game, developed by Nintendo, offers an immersive experience into a world where you can you can create your own paradise on a deserted island and interact with its residents.
Book here – Animal Crossing
May half term at Oxygen Wilmslow
When – 23rd May – 1st June 2026
May half term pass, 5 x 60-minute Open Play sessions for just £30. Full details here – Oxygen Activeplay May Half-Term | Book Now
Outdoor paddling pools
Fancy a trip to an outdoor paddling pool or splash pad this May half-term? We have lots in Greater Manchester and Cheshire and many are free. Some of them do require pre-booking though.
Full details of them all here – Outdoor paddling pools and splash parks in the North West
Enjoy family walks? Join the Family Walks North West Facebook group to be part of a community sharing the best walks for families across the region. Join here.
More things to do in Manchester
- If you’re happy to drive a little bit might you might like to see my post on May half-term activities in Cheshire.
- There’s also plenty going on not farm away in Lancashire. Find out more here – May half-term activities in Lancashire.
- How about taking a family walk? I have lots of ideas here pram-friendly walks Manchester
- Don’t forget to join the Facebook group if you enjoy family walks across the region – Family Walks North West England
- Have you visited Manchester Museum since it reopened yet? Now’s your chance. Find out more here – Visiting the Manchester Museum with kids
- Have you visited the new family escape room in Manchester yet? Find out more here – Z-Arts family escape room.
- Fancy a game of crazy golf? Find the best places to go here – Where to play crazy golf in Manchester
- Find loads of free things to do in Manchester with kids here.
