The Ultimate Guide to May Half Term in Northamptonshire (Updated for 2026)
Here is your ultimate guide to places to go and things to do for the 2026 May Half Term in Northamptonshire complete with key dates and booking links.
Wicksteed Park – Classic Family Fun
23–31 May 2026 | 10:30am–5pm
Wicksteed Park is a fantastic all‑rounder for family days out. With rides, attractions, a petting zoo, and plenty of open space to explore, it’s ideal for children of all ages. Wristbands start from just £22 and there are great‑value family tickets from £56 for a family of three. Even better, children under 0.9m go free with a paying adult!
Canal Museum at Stoke Bruerne – History with a View
The Canal Museum is the first museum of its kind in the country offering three floors of fascinating waterway heritage, hands‑on exhibits, and stunning panoramic views. There’s lots happening over half term, including Music on the Green on 23 May and a water safety event for children on 27 May, making it both fun and educational for younger visitors.
Crick Boat Show – A Big Day Out by the Water
23 - 25 May
Crick Boat Show is a lively and welcoming family day out. Visitors can see over 30 new boats, enjoy free boat trips, and attend advice seminars and technical masterclasses. There’s also a fantastic festival atmosphere with live music, a real‑ale festival, and a wide range of food and drink stalls – plenty to keep both adults and children entertained all day long.
Santa Pod Raceway – High‑Octane Half Term Fun
22–24 May | FIA/FIM Main Event
For families who love excitement, Santa Pod Raceway delivers speed, power, and non‑stop action. Over the May half term weekend, the FIA/FIM Main Event offers three days of entertainment for all ages, including jet cars, monster trucks, stunt shows, live music, and great food.
Boughton House – Art, History & Gardens
23–25 May
Boughton House opens its house and gardens during half term. With grand interiors to explore and gardens to wander, it’s a relaxed experience for families. While you’re there, you can also enjoy artwork from five artists from NROS, showcasing landscapes, wildlife, still life pieces, narrative art, and vibrant botanical florals.
Royal & Derngate – Shows for Every Age
Royal & Derngate offers a packed programme of performances across half term. Kid‑friendly highlights include My First Concert (24 May) and K‑POP All Stars Live on Stage (27 May). And for parents looking to mark the end of half term in style, there’s a Disco for Grown Ups on 29 May.
Iron Pit Woods Adventure – Outdoor Family Fun
Iron Pit Woods is perfect for families. With axe throwing, an aerial assault course, adventure golf, disc golf, and foot golf, there’s something for every age and ability. Over half term, they’re also hosting a Woodland Teddy Workshop on 29 May, where children can enjoy a game of golf before creating their very own cuddly woodland companion.
Northampton Market Square – Shopping & Space
Northampton Market Square is home to a mix of friendly traders offering food and drink, clothing, accessories, and local artisan creations. From 29 May, families can also enjoy an immersive, family‑friendly experience called “Planetarium Go!”, featuring 360‑degree visuals of astronomy and space.
Lamport Hall – Imaginative Play in Beautiful Grounds
Whistle‑Tot Lane | 29 May
On 29 May, Lamport Hall will welcome Whistle‑Tot Lane, transforming a quiet lane into a charming mini play village designed especially for little ones. Children can wander down the Whistle‑Tot high street, encouraging creativity, role‑play, and confidence. There will also be ride‑on vehicles to help them travel from place to place!
Fun in Daventry – Free School Holiday Events!
26 - 29 May
Daventry Town Council hosts free school holiday activities throughout the year. These are drop-in sessions for families to enjoy. During May Half Term, activities include a “Makes in the Museum” craft workshop on 28th May, Forest School session on 27th May, Inflatable Swim Fun on 27th May, a “Football for All” free coaching session on 29th May, and an Epic Family Board Games session on 26th May.
