With the promise of longer days and warmer weather, May Half Term is an ideal time to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and retreat to the peace and beauty of North Yorkshire in one of our UK breaks for families.
North Yorkshire is the perfect destination for a family holiday in the UK, packed with fun adventures, fresh air, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking for exciting days out, scenic walks, or simply looking to unwind in the comfort of your luxury holiday accommodation, our guide to May Half Term in North Yorkshire has everything you need to make the most of your May Half Term Break.
With so much happening across North Yorkshire, it’s easy to overlook its most natural asset — the glorious countryside that surrounds you. From scenic walking trails and National Trust sites to hidden coves waiting to be discovered, it’s the perfect setting to roam free and reconnect with nature.
But it’s not just about the great outdoors — there are also plenty of family-friendly attractions, hands-on experiences, and exciting activities to keep everyone entertained. And when it’s time to refuel, North Yorkshire’s cosy country pubs and charming eateries are always nearby. Of course you can also retreat to your Yorkshire Dales Accommodation to relax and recharge in the most beautiful settings with loved ones.
This exciting foodie festival taking place from the 24th-26th of May features some of the UK’s most celebrated chefs, including stars from MasterChef, Great British Menu, and The Great British Bake Off.
Expect live chef demos, incredible street food, local stalls, family-friendly fun, and a buzzing live music festival atmosphere — all with free entry!
Want to stay close to the action? Book a stay at large group accommodation Unbridled or Paddock View, just moments away from it all.
The Swaledale Festival is a renowned annual celebration of music, arts, and nature, held in the picturesque northern Yorkshire Dales.
Running from Saturday, 24 May to Saturday, 7 June 2025, the festival offers over 60 events across Swaledale, Wensleydale, and Arkengarthdale, featuring a diverse lineup of classical, folk, jazz, and world music performances, alongside theatre, film, comedy, talks, and puppetry. After a long day uncovering the culture of North Yorkshire retreat to your Yorkshire Dales accommodation in preparation to do it all over again tomorrow!
Featured Property: Greenbank Barns.
Enjoy a family adventure through the stunning ruins and landscaped gardens of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal during your May half term break in the UK
From 26th May to 3rd June Follow the themed trail, solve clues, and uncover fun facts about the site’s rich history and wildlife. A perfect day out for kids and grown-ups alike, surrounded by nature uncovering the heritage of North Yorkshire at Fountains Abbey.
If you haven’t already, take a trip to Forbidden Corner in Leyburn and uncover the mysteries that lie within ‘the strangest place in the world’. Forbidden Corner is a must-visit attraction and is very loved by both kids and adults!
Just a short drive from many of our Yorkshire Holiday Cottages, it’s an ideal addition to your itinerary for a fun and unforgettable day out during your May Half Term break UK.
Nearby properties: The Stables, Sun Hill Cottage, Sun Hill Farmhouse
Looking for large group accommodation in Yorkshire this May Half Term for you and the family? We still have a selection of holiday cottages in North Yorkshire available throughout the school holidays as well as holiday cottages with games rooms. Pick one of our perfect UK breaks for families from our handpicked selection of holiday accommodation Yorkshire available this May Half term.
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
12
6
5Large groups love Waterloo Lodge, which is a fantastic place for a multi-generational celebration with family and friends in beautiful North Yorkshire. Within easy reach...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
10
5
4
Dog FriendlySitting close to the cobbled market square in Richmond, the outlook from the windows and the large terraced garden is grand with stunning views of...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2
Dog FriendlyIsabella is an east-facing luxury lodge with an impressive view of both lakes, overlooking a small island and close to the River Swale. The open-plan...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
8
4
4
Dog FriendlyDragonfly is a rural retreat for up to 8 guests. Tucked away in the quiet Yorkshire countryside, it promises a unique opportunity to recharge your...
Masham, Yorkshire Dales
2
1
1This luxury cottage has been designed with exquisite attention to detail and is in a perfect location for exploring Ripon, Masham, Harrogate and the Yorkshire...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
4
2
1
Dog FriendlyThis restful retreat is nestled in the heart of the quintessential market town of Richmond, North Yorkshire. With carefully curated interiors and a cosy log-burning...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
2
1
1
Dog FriendlyA cosy cottage made for the two of you, close to Leyburn and the Yorkshire Dales. The perfect add-on for guests staying at Sun Hill...
Skipton, Yorkshire Dales
8
4
4
Dog FriendlyEscape the every day and go ‘off-grid’ for a while at Wesleyan Chapel, our latest luxury homestay for eight guests. Combine stylish interiors, stunning views...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
12
6
4
Dog FriendlyOld meets new at the stunning Aquarius Rising, which stands proud in breathtaking North Yorkshire countryside near Richmond. Once a chapel house, this commanding yet...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
1
Dog FriendlyBring together family or friends in a gorgeous townhouse in the heart of Richmond, North Yorkshire. A luxurious escape for up to six guests and...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2
Dog FriendlyPercy is a stunning lodge with a hot tub at Brompton Lakes, Yorkshire sleeping up to 6 guests. The open plan living area features a...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2
Dog FriendlyAn idyllic country cottage in North Yorkshire, complete with beautiful grounds and a bubbling hot tub. Georgia boasts spacious open plan living with a bold...
Skipton, Yorkshire Dales
6
3
3
Dog FriendlySet along a sweeping drive and boasting some of the most picturesque views across the far-reaching Yorkshire countryside, find Stank House Farm. This fabulous farmhouse...
Skipton, Yorkshire Dales
6
3
3
Dog FriendlyFor friends and family looking for a peaceful escape and an excellent location for exploring the Yorkshire Dales and nearby Ilkley, Skipton and Harrogate, settle...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
4
2
2
Dog FriendlyEscape to this charming two-bedroom Yorkshire Dales holiday cottage with a hot tub, luxury furnishings, and an award-winning village pub, perfectly located between Richmond and...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2
Dog FriendlyA luxury three-bedroom holiday home set over three floors by the River Swale in the market town Richmond. With a spacious design, No.1 Darcy Mews...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2With arguably some of the best views at Brompton Lakes, Jasper is a perennially popular lodge. Its large private lakefront decking is south-facing on the...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
12
5
3
Dog FriendlyThe perfect rural escape awaits at Hollins Farmhouse, a large holiday home ideal for multi-generational families or a group of friends. High-quality craftsmanship features throughout,...
We know first hand what it's like trying to entertain the kids for 6 weeks. Luckily, we have some great suggestions so that no two days are the same in our summer holiday cottages in the UK.
Discover our favourite family-friendly spots to stay in and explore from. There are plenty of activities in and around these North Yorkshire holiday homes, perfect for planning family breaks in the UK this year.
The sun has started to shine through those clouds and now is the perfect time to start planning your next getaway… This Summer, discover the beauty on your doorstep. Choosing […]
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To celebrate the launch of Sun Hill Lodges, we’re giving one lucky winner the chance to enjoy a relaxing Yorkshire escape.
Winner announced November 17th!
