Hopefully the sun continues to shine during May half term week, which in East Sussex runs from Saturday, 24 May to Sunday, 1 June.

There are lots of fabulous family events and child friendly activities taking place across the county during the week. Here’s a few of our favourites to tempt you to head out and about and see what’s happening near you.

Kids Go Half-Price, Drusillas Park, Alfriston, all week

Keep the kids half term happy with a zooper day out at Drusillas.

Visit the interactive zoo, get wet in the super splash pad, and go wild in the indoor and outdoor playgrounds.

Enjoy a-MAY-zing savings too, with 50% off kids’ tickets.

During half-term children aged 2 to 15 years old get half-price entry when accompanied by a full paying adult or Annual Member.

‍But be quick! This is a strictly limited offer, with a maximum number of offer tickets available each day and you must book in advance.

Pesky Pests trail at Bateman’s, Burwash, all week

Explore the intriguing world of pesky pests at Bateman’s through fun activities along this family friendly trail.

Have you ever heard the mysterious tapping of the death-watch beetle? Or wondered what delicious fabrics moths love to eat? Encounter a variety of pests along the way and learn about critters such as woodlice, ladybirds, and silverfish.

How to Train Your Dragon trail, Bodiam Castle, Bodiam, all week and through to 7 September

Channel your inner Viking and step into the enchanting world of How to Train Your Dragon.

Join Hiccup, his trusty dragon Toothless, and lots of other familiar friends on a brand-new family trail at Bodiam Castle.

Set off on an epic journey packed with exciting games and activities. Discover different dragon species, learn the forgotten language of Dragonese, find out gruesome facts about Vikings and so much more!

Half Term Fun at Knockhatch Adventure Park, Hailsham, all week

Keep children of all ages entertained at Knockhatch over half term.

From the Big Top Circus Show, featuring acrobatics, aerials, and juggling, to daily zoo feeds and the Jungle Splash water play area, there is something for everyone.

Indoor attractions such as the Magical Wood Immersive Play Area, Lost World Playbarn, and Cannon Arena provide entertainment if the weather isn’t kind. Outdoor fun includes rides like Dino Drop, Honey Pot Bears, and the Quadapillar Barrel Train Ride.

Willow Way, Sharnfold Farm, Eastbourne, all week

Be among the first to explore the new willow structures along the Willow Way at Sharnfold Farm.

These stunning, natural additions to the farm trail are made from over 800 planted willow rods, creating a magical space for everyone to enjoy. Every young adventurer will receive a free activity pack and a bag of sunflower seeds to take home and grow.

With themed play areas that encourage imaginative exploration, a variety of friendly farm animals, plus an onsite cafe Sharnfold Farm is a great day out for the whole family.

Spring Bee Walk, Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, Rye, 24 May

Join the Sussex Wildlife team to learn about the fascinating world of bees at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve.

Find out about a bee’s life cycle, how important bees are, how to identify different species and what we can do to help them. Then, using your own home-made bumblebee identification chart, explore the nature reserve looking for bees on a two-mile circular walk.

Suitable for children aged 5 to 11 years, who must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Wild Wednesday, Ashdown Forest, 28 May

A snake themed Wild Wednesday takes place mid-way through half term week.

Find out about the Ashdown Forest’s resident reptiles and try your hand at printing snake-inspired mono prints. Walk on the heathland and discover some of the snakes’ favourite habitats. If the sun is out and you’re lucky, you may even see some.

Please remember long trousers and wear old clothes as this could be a messy day. Suitable for children aged 5 to 12 years accompanied by an adult.

The Dinosaur That Pooped: A Rock Show!, White Rock Theatre, Hastings, 29 May

Adapted from the number one best-selling books by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter, the whole family will have a poopy good time enjoying this brand new story for the stage.

When Danny and Dino’s favourite rock band are playing their last ever concert, they go on a quest to get the last two tickets. But with a villainous band manager lurking, nothing goes to plan.

Open Days with The Story Collector, Barn Theatre and Museum, Rodgers Farm, Stonestile Lane, Hastings, 29 to 31 May

The Barn Theatre and Museum are holding their annual Summer Open Days during May half term.

Across the grounds and museum there will be lots to explore:

  • get dressed up in the Wardrobe in the Woods
  • be creative in the Making Marquee
  • build a den in the Play Space and Maze
  • have a picnic on a cloud, and lots more!

Plus, The Story Collector from Out of the Bag Theatre will be gathering ideas from visiting children for a story to be told every afternoon at 2pm.

World of Wizardry at the Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park, 28 to 31 May

Immerse yourself in the world of wizardry, as the railway opens its doors to the magical realm of enchantment and wonder!

Board the Express for a trip to Horsted Keynes Station, where young witches and wizards gather. With their robes swishing and wands at the ready, they prepare to discover new skills in a variety of workshops and challenges.

Plus, the heritage railway’s popular Kids for a Quid travel offer will be available.

 

East Sussex is playing host to a wealth of entertainment over the coming months. From funky festival vibes and child friendly activities to art exhibitions and sporting events, check out our things to do section for inspiration on the best ways to celebrate summer.

Image – Alice Denny © The Bright Foundation