May Half Term Family Holidays: Best Destinations & Planning Tips

May half term family holidays are a popular choice for UK families travelling during the late spring school break. With warmer temperatures, longer daylight hours, and destinations fully opening for the season, the May school holidays are an ideal time to enjoy a family getaway before the busy summer period.

Whether you’re planning a UK staycation or travelling abroad for sunshine, beaches, or theme parks, May half term family holidays offer a wide range of family-friendly destinations. As this is still a busy school holiday period, planning ahead, and making sure you have the right family travel cover in place can help ensure a smooth and stress-free break.

Why May Half Term Is Perfect for a Family Holiday

May half term sits at the ideal point between spring and summer, making it one of the best times of year to travel with children. Weather conditions are more settled, outdoor attractions are fully open, and crowds are generally lighter than during peak summer holidays.

Key benefits of May half term family holidays include:

• Warmer weather across the UK and Europe

• Fewer crowds compared to the summer school holidays

• Ideal conditions for outdoor and beach activities

• Better availability and value before peak season

With fewer pressures than the main summer break, May half term family holidays allow families to travel at a more relaxed pace. If you’re travelling earlier in the year, our guides to February half term family holiday destinations and Easter half term family holidays also highlight great options for families planning school holiday trips.

Best UK Destinations for May Half Term Family Holidays

Staying in the UK during May half term is a popular option, offering flexibility, shorter travel times, and destinations that really come into their own in late spring.

Cornwall

Cornwall is ideal in May, with longer days, milder temperatures, and quieter beaches than in summer. Coastal walks, seaside towns, and family attractions make it perfect for a spring escape. For inspiration and events, visit Visit Cornwall.

Norfolk Broads

The Norfolk Broads are at their best in late spring, offering boat hire, cycling routes, and wildlife spotting that children love. It’s a peaceful yet activity-filled destination for families. Find out more at Visit Norfolk.

Peak District

May is an excellent time to explore the Peak District, with blooming landscapes and family-friendly walking and cycling trails. Outdoor adventures and charming villages make it ideal for active families. Plan your visit via Visit Peak District.

Isle of Wight

With its warmer microclimate, beaches, and family attractions, the Isle of Wight is a brilliant May half term destination. Easy travel from the mainland and plenty of outdoor activities make it especially popular with families. See Visit Isle of Wight.

Popular May Half Term Family Holidays Abroad

For families looking to travel overseas, May half term offers excellent weather and value before peak summer travel begins.

Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris remains one of the most popular May half term family holidays abroad. Pleasant weather, seasonal events, and shorter queues than summer make it an ideal time to visit. Official information is available at: https://www.disneylandparis.com

Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands, including Mallorca and Menorca, are perfect for May half term. Warm weather, calm seas, and family-friendly resorts are fully open, without the summer crowds. Explore options via Visit Mallorca.

Crete and Rhodes

Late spring is an excellent time to visit the Greek Islands, with warm temperatures and quieter resorts. Crete and Rhodes offer beaches, family-friendly hotels, and cultural attractions. Visit Discover Greece.

Antalya

Antalya is a top choice for families in May, offering warm weather, large all-inclusive resorts, and excellent facilities for children. It’s ideal for families seeking a relaxed, resort-based holiday. See Go Türkiye.

Family-Friendly Activities During the May Half Term Holidays

May half term family holidays suit a wide range of travel styles, whether your family prefers outdoor adventures or relaxed sightseeing.

Outdoor adventures
Late spring is ideal for hiking, cycling, beach days, and nature trails, especially for younger children.

Cultural experiences
Historic attractions, museums, guided tours, and seasonal events provide fun and educational experiences without peak-season crowds.

Relaxation and leisure
May half term is also perfect for resort stays, countryside retreats, and laid-back beach holidays before summer begins.

Tips for Planning May Half Term Family Holidays

Book early
May half term is a popular travel period, particularly for family-sized accommodation and flights.

Pack for variable weather
Although temperatures are warmer, spring weather can still change, so pack layers and comfortable footwear.

Plan flexibly
Allow room for rest days and spontaneous activities when travelling with children.

Before travelling abroad, families should also check official foreign travel advice for entry requirements, healthcare guidance, and passport validity: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

Final Thoughts

May half term family holidays offer an excellent balance of warm weather, exciting destinations, and a more relaxed atmosphere than peak summer travel. Whether you’re staying in the UK or heading overseas, planning ahead can help you make the most of this well-timed school holiday.

As May half term is a busy travel period, having the right family travel cover in place can help protect against unexpected disruptions and give you peace of mind throughout your trip.

Wherever you’re heading this May half term, make sure your family is fully prepared for the journey ahead.

👉 Get a quote for family travel cover today and enjoy your May half term family holidays with confidence.