How to spend half term in North Devon

Planning a trip to North Devon or Exmoor this May half term? Well, we aren’t called England’s Adventure Coast for nothing! You’ll find a host of activities and attractions suitable for the whole family here in North Devon. Not only that but there is the National Park where you’ll be able to indulge in several adventure activities and the coast forms part of the UK’s first surf reserve – so why not grab some boards and make a splash?

Need some more inspiration for your trip?

Here are some of our suggestions for things you can do this half term.

One of the region’s best-loved attractions is RHS Rosemoor, which has a host of fun planned for May half-term. Running every day is their Family Gardening Festival, which features family craft activities, garden trails, entertainment and storytime adventures. As part of the festivities, you can enjoy a puppet show – Flying with Strings as well as Gardener Lilly’s storytime adventures.

Another option for family fun this half term is the Milky Way Adventure Park. This multi-award winning, all-weather theme park is perfect for a family day out, whatever the weather decides to do. Plus, because it's half term, you can be sure of all the usual fun and games, as well as additional activities to keep you entertained. If you like the sound of rides, check out The Big Sheep, home to Devon’s largest family roller coaster and the world-famous sheep race. You’ll also be able to enjoy up to ten hilarious live shows and rides suitable for the whole family.

Image: Exmoor Zoo

Exmoor Zoo is located on the edge of the National Park and gives you a chance to discover rare and unusual animals that you won’t be able to see anywhere else. Stop by to meet their shoebills (Exmoor Zoo is one of the only places in Europe where you can see these birds!), red pandas, dingos and more! It’s a great way to round off a trip to Exmoor.

Want to enjoy more wildlife? Explore the wilds of Exmoor where you can spot the iconic Exmoor Ponies and the wild mountain goats that roam Valley of Rocks around Lynton and Lynmouth. Or for something a bit more marine in nature, visit Ilfracombe Aquarium which has over 75 species to see. Another option for seeing fantastic wildlife or indulging in some adventure activities is Lundy Island. Accessible via a ferry from Bideford or Ilfracombe, Lundy Island has plenty to keep you entertained and is even free of WiFi, so there won’t be anything to distract you! With everything from climbing to fishing on offer, there will be something from everything and that’s not even mentioning the wildlife you can spot!

Keypitts Offroad Adventures is a great option for anyone who loves being active. Based in Ilfracombe, there are several activities to choose from, including axe throwing, quad biking and more.

If you want a chance to get out in the fresh air and explore some truly stunning scenery, head to Hartland where you can spend some time at Hartland Abbey – a stately home that has been in the same family for generations. You might recognise it from a host of films and TV shows, including CBBC’s Malory Towers. It’s dog-friendly too, so even your four-legged friends can enjoy a day out. This part of North Devon is a haven for anyone who loves a coastal walk, so make sure to bring some sturdy shoes and enjoy the landscape!

Want to head out on the waves? Why not finesse your skill by booking a session at North Devon Wake Park first? Just 10 minutes from the coast, the Wake Park gives you a chance to try paddleboarding, wakeboarding and swimming in a controlled environment. If you’re already confident on the waves, you have several beautiful beaches to choose from, like Croyde, Saunton and Woolacombe all of which offer amazing surf opportunities. During the school holidays, you can also book tuition and equipment hire right on the seafront.

Image: North Devon Wake Park

Looking for some more inspiration? See events, find places to stay and book tickets for the region’s top attractions here.