Peak District Activities May Half Term 2025

PEAK POSSIBILITIES THIS HALF TERM

Here at Longbow Venues, we’re proud to celebrate everything the Peak District has to offer. As the UK’s first national park, it continues to captivate over 13 million visitors a year and it’s easy to see why.

With the May 2025 bank holiday and half term lining up perfectly, it’s the ideal time to escape the routine and soak up the beauty of the Peak District. Whether you’re planning some family adventures or simply craving a change of scenery, we’ve got you covered.

EAT WELL, SLEEP SOUNDLY

Fuel up for the day with breakfast at The Maynard, grab a laid-back lunch in one of our garden spots, or wind down with a locally sourced dinner made by chefs who really know their stuff. And if you’re not quite ready to head home, we’ve got just the place to stay, whether it’s a romantic mini-break retreat or a family-friendly stay.

THE MAYNARD GARDEN PARTY – SAT 24TH MAY

Mark your calendars for Saturday, 24th May 2025, as we host our Annual Garden Party from 12 pm to 6 pm.

This family-friendly event promises a fun afternoon filled with live music, a sizzling BBQ, and bouncy castles to keep the little ones entertained. Entry is free, making it the perfect way to kick off the bank holiday weekend with friends and family in the heart of the Peak District.

To secure your spot, it's recommended to book your garden dining tables in advance.

For more details and to make a reservation, click here.

Chatsworth Family Friendly Fun

There's a host of half-term family-friendly activities in the house and gardens at Chatsworth. From free walks around the woodland to creative workshops to tours of the house and gardens.

At the end of half term there's the Family Festival, taking place on May 30th and June 1st. Enjoy circus shows and skills, mini Olympic races, musical adventures, magical storytime, and creative workshops with celebrated authors and illustrators including Lydia Monks and Bethan Woollvin.

Click here for more info.

A Bee-Themed Half Term at Thornbridge Hall

Thornbridge Hall is full of family-friendly fun this May half-term. Follow the Bee-Inspired Trail through the gardens, browse honey and bee-themed goodies, or pick up bee-friendly plants for your garden. There’s even an embroidery workshop for adults on 23rd May (booking required).

The Love Locker

Don’t miss the newly unveiled Love Locker at Thornbridge Hall. Home to the rescued Bakewell bridge love locks, now beautifully displayed for visitors to enjoy and add their own.

Thornbridge Hall is open daily 10am–4pm, with free parking, dog-friendly grounds, and discounted entry for pre-booked tickets. Click here for more info.

Sketch, Stroll and Discover Longshaw

This May half-term, Longshaw Estate offers the perfect opportunity for families to slow down, get creative, and reconnect with nature.

From 24th May to 1st June, children and adults alike can take part in self-led Nature Journalling. Simply pick up a journal from the Welcome Building (£3 per person) and explore at your own pace. Along the way, you’ll discover four Creative Stations stocked with art materials to help bring your nature-inspired sketches and stories to life.

For a more guided experience, join the free family-friendly walk on 29th May from 10:30am to 12:00pm. Aimed at children aged 5–10, this buggy-friendly walk includes fun, minibeast-themed activities.

Click here for more info.

A Hidden Hathersage Gem for Wild(ish) Swimmers

Hathersage Swimming Pool is a unique open-air, heated pool that has been delighting visitors since 1936. Maintained at a comfortable 28°C, it's perfect for family fun in any weather.

The pool offers public swim sessions, including family-friendly times where swim toys are welcome. Check out the pool times here.

Surrounded by stunning views of Stanage Edge and the rolling hills, it's a picturesque spot to relax and unwind. Pre-booking is recommended, especially during peak times. For more information and to plan your visit, check the official website: Hathersage Swimming Pool.