Things to do in Devon in May and half term 2026

Art on Your Doorstep free outdoor art trail in Torquay – until 5 September 2026

Torre Abbey has been chosen as one of four partners to showcase The National Gallery: Art on Your Doorstep touring art trail. It brings iconic artworks from the National Gallery’s collection directly to communities across the UK.

From now until September life-sized reproductions of masterpieces by Monet, Turner, Rousseau and many more artists will be on show from Torre Abbey to Torquay Harbour.

This initiative offers residents and visitors a rare opportunity to experience world-class art in everyday settings. 

Find out more about the exhibition and its route in Torquay.

Age of the Dinosaurs at Kents Cavern in Torquay – daily until 31 October 2026

Have you heard what’s arrived in Kents Cavern? They’re 66 million years late to the party, but dinosaurs have finally found their way into the dramatic caves, which were formed a mere 2.5 million years ago.

Age of the Dinosaurs is a new exhibition showcasing skeleton models of 18 species of pre-historic monsters. They range from the equally loved and feared  T Rex to the super cute (according to my teen) 60cm long Aquilops Americanus.

Find out more about visiting the dinosaurs at Kents Cavern.

‘Voices of the garden’ immersive audio trail at Greenway near Galmpton – daily until 1 November 2026

Step back in time on this exciting trail as HistoryScapes, an immersive audio app, brings Greenway’s garden to life. 

Use your smartphone to unlock stories as you explore the riverside gardens of Agatha Christie’s South Devon holiday home.

This is a free activity. Normal National Trust admissions apply.

Find out more about what’s on at Greenway.

Room on the Broom activity trail at Haldon Forest near Exeter – open daily from 27 January 2027

The newest children’s activity trail in the partnership between Forestry England and Magic Light Pictures opens this week. Help Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s character the Witch as she embarks on a magical journey around Haldon Forest.

Find out mort about the Room on the Broom trail.

Tiny Tales at Theatre Royal Plymouth – every Thursday until 2 July 2026

Head to Theatre Royal for a magical, interactive theatre storytelling sessions held every week. Tiny Tales is designed for two to four-year-olds and their grown-ups to explore enchanting stories together.

Through songs, movement, and hands-on play, little ones will engage their imaginations while building language and social skills in a fun, welcoming environment.

Find out more on the Theatre Royal website.

Free storytelling at The Box, Plymouth – every Friday

Head to The Box in Plymouth every Friday until the end of June for its Tell Me A Story storytelling session for preschoolers.

There’s no need to book. You’ll find the half hour session held under the figureheads in the reception area at 10.30am.

Find out more on The Box website.

Toby’s Garden Festival – 1 to 2 May 2026

Toby’s Garden Festival 2026 promises visitors a range of hands-on workshops designed to inspire creativity and help you learn new skills to take home to your garden or craft table.

Whether you’d like to try traditional willow weaving, create a miniature plant landscape, or explore the delicate art of paper folding,the expert-led sessions offer something for everyone. Spaces are limited for each workshop, so early booking is recommended.

Find out more and buy tickets on the Toby’s Garden Festival website. 

Exmouth Art Weekend – 1 to 4 May 2026

Exmouth Art Weekend is launching this year, giving artists from the town and surrounding area a chance to share their work, meet new audiences, and shine a spotlight on the incredible creativity happening here every day.

Building on the popular art trails that have featured in past Exmouth Festivals, this new weekend gives art its own moment in the spotlight.

Find out more about what’s on at Exmouth Art Weekend.

Festival of Blossom at Knightshayes in Tiverton – 1 to 31 May 2026

Step into spring at Knightshayes and experience nature at its most spectacular. Follow the waymarkers to find the best blossom displays in the garden and enjoy the freshly cut flowers throughout the house. 

This event is free. Normal admission charges apply (National Trust members can visit for free).

Find out more about what’s on at Knightshayes.

Brixham Pirate Festival – 2 to 4 May 2026

There be pirates in Brixham and they’re having a knees up this early May bank Holiday weekend.

Brixham Pirate Festival is one of Britain’s largest gatherings of buccaneers making it a spectacle not to be missed. There will be parades, skirmishes and other swashbuckling entertainment throughout the weekend. Most of it is free to see.

Take a look at the the latest information on the festival’s Facebook page.

South Devon Railway Family Fun Weekend – 2 to 4 May 2026

Book tickets for South Devon Railway this weekend and not only experience a nostalgic ride through the South Hams countryside but you can also get free entry to Totnes Rare Breeds Farm and Dartmoor Otters and Buckfast Butterflies Sanctuary on the same day.

Find out more and buy tickets on the railway’s website.

Salcombe Crabfest – 3 May 2026

Crabfest is a vibrant showcase for local fishing, food and drink in the South Hams. And this year is it’s 10th anniversary!

Enjoy hands-on cookery demonstrations by award-winning chefs, crab picking masterclasses, crab pot making, live music and kids activities throughout the day.

Crabfest is organised by the Salcombe Rotary Club and free to attend. Money raised goes to local charities.

Find out more about what’s on at this year’s Salcombe Crabfest.

Blackawton International Festival of Wormcharming – 3 May 2026

This bonkers event in the South Hams is as fun as it sounds. Enter a worm charming team to see how many worms you can encourage out of the ground or simply come and spectate at this very Devonly event.

There’s also a fancy dress competition, live music and a beer festival at the George Inn as well as stalls cakes and a fun dog show at the Blackawton Village Hall.

Proceeds from the event are donated to Devon Air Ambulance and other local charities.

Find out more about the Blackawton International Festival of Wormcharming.

Yellow Welly Cobble Wobble at Clovelly near Hartland – 3 May 2026

Take part or come and support the runners in this a challenging 12 mile off-road run taking in the epic scenery and infamous hills of the Clovelly Estate.

This is the first year the cobble wobble has been run to raise funds for the RNLI since 2019.

Find out more on the Clovelly website.

May Day at Coldharbour Mill – 4 May 2026

Celebrate spring by seeing Coldharbour Mill in full steam! As well as seeing the steam powered complex and waterwheel in action demonstrations, family-friendly activities, and the vibrant atmosphere of spring.

Find out more and book on the Coldharbour Mill website.

Our Story with David Attenborough at Market Hall in Devonport – 8 May to 2 September 2026

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‘Our Story with David Attenborough’ is coming to Plymouth’s immersive dome – the first time it’s ever been shown outside of London’s National History Museum.

Step inside the dome and experience a cinematic journey through the story of our planet, surrounded by incredible visuals, sound and storytelling, narrated by Sir David Attenborough.

Plym Card holders can also get 10% off tickets.

Find out more and get tickets online.

Tree’s A Crowd in Victoria Park, Plymouth – 9 May 2026

Head to Snapdragons for live music, singing and drumming workshops, and bio-sonification where you can help make music from the electrical impulses from plants.

There will also be printing, willow bubble wand making, clay tree guardians, mini mallet making and smores.

This event is part of the Plymouth Urban Tree Festival which is laying on events all over the city. There’s plenty for families and lots of festival activities are free.

Find out more about what’s on between 9 and 17 May.

Free family art drop in day at Torre Abbey in Torquay – 9 May 2026

Joijn Cabbage Tree Studio CIC for a fun, drop-in day designed for families to come along and get creative. 

Sessions take place from 10am to 2pm and are guided by painter Claire Jo Harmer. With more than 20 years teaching experience Claire is on hand to give support and encouragement as you explore your art making. 

Find out more about this event at Torre Abbey.

Haldon Forest Bark, near Exeter – 9 May 2026

Head to Haldon Forest near Exeter with your four-legged family members to celebrate all things dog!

There will be stalls, activities, and a charity dog show (register your pup in advance).

This event is free to attend. The suggested donation for dog show entry is £1.

Find out more on the Haldon Forest website.

Ilfracombe Art Trail – 9 to 10 May 2026

More than 70 local artists will be exhibiting a wide range of work across 48 venues around Ilfracombe in North Devon this weekend.

Inspire your budding artists by touring the town with pit stops at local cafes for a treat.

Find out more on the Ilfracombe Art Trail website.

Plymouth Pirates Weekend – 9 to 10 May 2026

There will be plenty of swashbuckling fun in Plymouth this weekend as a hoard of buccaneers lands in the city.

Expect family entertainment, a fun run and pirate activity trail during this free event.

Find out what’s planned during Plymouth Pirates Weekend.

K Pop All Stars at Princess Theatre Torquay – 13 May 2026

Ride the global K-pop wave with K-POP All Stars – an explosive live celebration of the music, the artists, and the culture taking over the world. Feel the power of stadium-sized anthems, rright here in Torquay..

Find out more and book tickets online.

Dart Music Festival – 15 to 17 May 2026

This is one of our favourite free events in Devon. Dartmouth has a rhythm of its own for this three day music festival with indoor and outdoor venues across the town.

See more than 100 performances across the weekend, ranging from rock to opera and jazz. The festival is free to attend. Buy and programme or wristband in advance to show your support.

Find out more on the festival website.

Pigstock, Bideford – 16 May 2026

Billed as Devon’s most family-friendly festival Pigstock takes place in and around The Big Sheep theme park in North Devon.

This year’s headliners are Scouting for Girls.

Find out more on the The Big Sheep website.

Things to do in May half term

Here’s what’s on in Devon for families this May half term:

Magical Unicorn Festival at Pennywell Farm – 16 to 31 May 2026

Got a unicorn fan in your house? This event is for you!

But what can you expect from a Magical Unicorn Festival? Dressing up, competitions, prizes and, of course, lots of unicorn fun. All of this takes place alongside the usual farm attractions and activities.

Find out more on the Pennywell Farm website.

Princesshay Go Wild trail in Exeter – 19 May to 30 June 2026

Princesshay is going wild for six weeks with a spectacular animal trail to the heart of Exeter. Ten turfed animal sculptures are spread across the centre, each one inspired by some of the world’s most iconic wildlife

Every animal ‘enclosure’ offers something to discover and learn thanks to Paignton Zoo bringing each animal to life with fascinating facts. Each fact has also been BSL translated by Deaf Academy so you can learn the animal’s sign.

Look out for hidden letters and collect them all to reveal a word and a chance to win a Devon’s Top Attractions Golden Ticket.

Find out more about the Princesshay Go Wild trail.

Devon County Show, West Point, Exeter – 21 to 23 May 2026

This is Devon’s largest agricultural show with a full programme of activities and entertainment throughout the weekend. Marvel at monster trucks, sample local ales, and cheer on sheep dog displays. This year’s headline act is  Ben Atkinson and his world‑famous Action Horses.

Families with young children will enjoy the petting farm, fairground and countryside activities, like making bees wax candles.

The Family Fun Zone returns in 2026. It’s a child-focussed immersive wonderland where kids rule and parents can relax. There’s a climbing wall, sports skills, circus workshops and crafts.

To check out the full weekend programme on the County Show website.

May Half Term Trail at Knightshayes – 22 May to 1 June 2026

Step into spring at Knightshayes. Wander the blossom-filled gardens, collect stamps at seasonal highlights and take home a keepsake postcard. 

This activity is included in your entrance to Knightshayes. National Trust members can visit for free.

Find out more about what’s on at Knightshayes.

Devon Truck Show, Honiton – 22 to 25 May 2026

The South West’s latest truck show returns this year with two days packed full of stunt shows, amazing vehicle exhibits and monster truck rides. There’s also three evenings of live music and camping if you want to make a weekend of it.

Tickets are available for the day time, evenings and full weekend.

Find out more and buy tickets on the Devon Truck Show website.

Sidmouth International Jazz and Blues Festival – 22 to 25 May 2026

Sidmouth Jazz Festival offers a diverse and dynamic range of music genres from the absolute best in Jazz (Contemporary, Modern, Swing, New Orleans) Blues, to Roots, RnB, Soul, Funk, Latin, Cuban and Gospel.

Imagine the colour, vibrancy and fun of New Orleans in the beautiful coastal town of Sidmouth – what an explosion of the senses for any music-loving family. See free street music performances as well as free music taking place at pubs, wine bars and hotels within Sidmouth.

During the event there will be ticketed and free gigs.

Find out more about what’s on by looking at the festival website.

Global Geopark Festival at Torre Abbey in Torquay – 22 to 28 May 2026

Celebrate the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark at this festival featuring a programme of events led by Geopark partners across the bay. There will be everything from guided walks and talks to creative activities and experiences exploring our UNESCO‑recognised coastline.

You can also see Colouring the Bay – an exhibition inspired by the unique landscapes and stories of the English Riviera.

Find out more on the English Riviera Geopark website.

Turn the Tide Festival in Dawlish – 23 May 2026

This marine environment, seaside, waterways and well-being festival is now in its fifth year and returns with a day full of free fun and entertainment. This year’s theme is Keeping Dawlish Cool.

This volunteer-run festival in Dawlish usually includes family-friendly theatre and workshops, stry-telling and street entertainment.

Find out more on the Turn the Tide Festival website.

Seaton Pirate Festival – 23 May 2026

Raise your anchors, hoist your flag and set sail for an amazing full line up of shanties and activities from a pirate park run to live music and, of course, a bit of rum for the adults.

This family-friendly event is free to attend.

Find out more about Seaton Pirate Festival.

Gala Weekend at Pecorama in Beer – 23 to 24 May 2026

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Don’t miss the chance to visit Pecorama for the first of three gala events this summer. This two-day celebration of narrow gauge steam railways takes place in Pecorama Gardens above the village of Beer.

Please note: Pecorama is only open for its gala weekends in 2026.

Find out more about this special event and the other dates happening this summer.

Half term fun at Crealy Theme Park – 23 to 31 May 2026

In addition to being fully open with all rides ready to roll expect some extra entertainment and activities during May Half Term.

Cirque De Crealy will be bringing circus tricks, high-energy performances and stunts to the arena.

Find out more and book tickets for Crealy near Exeter.

Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trail at Saltram in Plymouth – 23 May to 4 September 2026

If your kids are into Pokémon they’re going to love the new TCG Mega Evolution Trail garden trail at Saltram National Trust this summer.

Search the gardens for each Mega Evolution Pokémon, discover their powers, and complete your own challenges.​ ​Trail sheets will be available to collect on the day. Normal admission also applies (free for National Trust members). ​

Find out more about what’s on at Saltram this summer.

Tavistock Country Garden Show – 24 to 25 May 2026

The annual Tavistock Country Garden Show brings together nurseries, nature inspired market stalls, food and entertainment including live music and birds of prey.

Entry is free and this is a dog-friendly event.

Find out more on the Tavistock Town Council website.

Seaweed Festival at Clovelly – 24 May 2026

Each year Devon’s car free village in North Devon holds a Seaweed Festival to promote this marine marvel’s immense health and nutritional benefits.

Enjoy live music, street entertainment and seaweed workshops during your visit.

Usual admission prices apply.

Find out or about what’s on at Clovelly near Hartland.

Sounds at the Mansion Festival in Totnes – 25 May 2026

The Mansion on Fore Street is hosting a free morning of family fun before an afternoon of ticketed live music. Visit between 10.30am and 1pm for free kids entertainment, face painting, bubbles  and storytelling.

Then pay-what-you feel in the evening with tickets ranging from £6 to £12. As well as live music there will be DJs a choir, bar and pop up food stalls.

Find out more about Sounds at the Mansion.

Craft at Miniature Garden at Overbecks in Salcombe – 25 May 2026

Make a miniature model of a garden with crafter Elaura and take your work home.

This activity is included in the normal entrance fee. National Trust members can visit for free.

Find out more about what’s on at Overbecks.

Three Little Pigs at Palace Theatre Paignton – 25 to 26 May 2026

Following the huge success of ‘The Three Billy Goats Gruff’, Lost The Plot Theatrical hit the road with another family classic.  It’s time to get blown away in this brand-new musical adventure of The Three Little Pigs!

Join Poppy, & Pat as they excitedly leave the family sty in search of new adventures! Will they make a pig’s ear out of it, or will they raise the roof? It’ll take brains, bravery and curly-tails to build bridges and forge friendships with each other and those they meet along the way.

Find out more and get tickets on the Palace Theatre website.

Jump into Spring at Dartmoor Zoo – 25 to 31 May 2026

Join Dartmoor Zoo for indoor play and activity sessions alongside your visit to meet the animals.

There will be a jungle themed bouncy castle, temporary tattoos and face painting, as well as somewhere for parents to take a breather. Simply visit the zoo’s fundraising suite over the Easter holidays.

Each 30-minute session costs £5 for 30 minutes with all proceeds going towards the running costs of the zoo.

Find out more about visiting Dartmoor Zoo this half term.

Utterly Revolting Science Show at Exeter Northcott Theatre – 26 May 2026

Brace yourselves for the Rude Science team’s hilarious, high-tech, highly-explosive new journey through the human body, packed with burp biology, fart physics and revolting edible chemistry.

Expect enormous bottoms, edible fireworks, burp machines and the world’s loudest fart in this riotous science spectacular.

Find out more and get tickets on the Exeter Northcott website.

Weaving Circles at RAMM in Exeter – 26 May 2026

Come along and weave a vibrant geometric pattern using a sturdy cardboard base, colourful wool, and heaps of imagination.

Find out more on the RAMM website.

2D animation workshop at Pavilion Teignmouth – 26 May 2026

Make your own 2D plasticine elephant character and then animate them enjoying a nice cup of tea and a bun – or maybe a messy one!

Find out more and book this workshop.

Craft workshops with Pom Stitch Tassel in Bovey Tracey – 26 to 28 May 2026

Join the craft experts at Pom Stitch Tassel this May half term for creative workshops designed to keep your little ones busy, entertained and inspired.

Eash sessions offer a mix of hands-on creative activities, perfect for children who enjoy making, learning new skills and trying something a little different in a relaxed and friendly setting.

All materials are provided in our craft workshops and each child will leave with something they’ve made themselves.

Find out what’s on and book your session online.

Colour exhibition at RAMM in Exeter – 26 May until 6 September 2026

This exhibition brings together over 150 objects spanning art, science, nature and cultural histories, and explores how we see it, how it’s made, how it’s used and how meaning can become attached to it.

This is a family-friendly exhibition where under 19s go free.

Find out more on the RAMM website.

Lorna Doone family fun day in North Devon – 27 May 2026

Enjoy a day of activities, from creative crafts to exciting nature discoveries. Try your hand at lawn games, get creative and explore the wild play area complete with climbing frames, tunnels and games. 

This event is free to attend.

Find out more about what’s on at Lorna Doone. 

Family Drumming with Drum Devon at Pavilions Teignmouth – 27 May 2026

Explore the joy of West African drumming together in this family-friendly workshop. This hands-on session promises fun, laughter, and plenty of beats to groove to.

Through rhythm games and call and response, we will develop the most infectious groove between us. No experience necessary – just bring your enthusiasm and get ready to make music memories with your loved ones.

For more information and tickets visit Pavilions Teignmouth.

Rabbits Out of the Hat at Exeter Phoenix Theatre – 27 May 2026

Vaudevillian duo Norvil & Josephine present a magical extravaganza for all ages. They’re a magician with a secret and an assistant with a mission in this whimsical comedy musical magic show.

Find out more and buy tickets on the Exeter Phoenix website.

Mask Making at RAMM in Exeter – 27 May 2026

Be inspired by RAMM’s fabulous collection of masks, then get creative with beads, feathers, sequins and bright colours to make your own.

Find out more on the RAMM website.

Nature explorers: Getting to know Barn Owls at Coleton Fishacre near Kingswear – 27 May 2026

From learning about Barn Owl habitats and conservation, to how the extreme weather and climate change can affect them join the team at Coleton Fishacre for a fascinating talk on all things Barn Owl. 

This event free. Normal National Trust admission charges apply.

Find out more about visiting Coleton Fishacre.

Dinotales at Queens Theatre Barnstaple – 28 May 2026

Put on your safari hats and get ready for some ranger danger and roarsome routines because a baby Ankylosaurus is lost in the forest and needs your help.

Flapping frills and dino thrills await in Dinotales – a wild rescue mission with state-of-the-art walking dinosaurs, some of which have never been seen on a stage before.

Find out more and get tickets from the Queens Theatre website.

Locals go FREE day at Al A Ronde in Exmouth – 28 May 2026

Residents of EX1–EX11 postcodes are invited to enjoy a free day out at National Trust A la Ronde during this day designed to welcome the community to this unique 16‑sided house and its beautiful grounds.

Perfect for families and first‑time visitors, the day will include family trails and hands‑on activities around the grounds, offering plenty to discover and enjoy together.

Find out more about A la Ronde.

Nature Adventure at Trinity Hill Nature Reserve – 28 May 2026

Join Wild East Devon’s Education Ranger Penny and Axe Valley and District Conservation Society for a fun-filled afternoon at Trinity Hill. Discover wildlife, enjoy hands-on activities and create nature-inspired crafts to take home.

This even is aimed at primary school ages children and costs £5 per child. Booking is essential.

Find out more and book your family’s nature adventure.

Dinosaur Safari Tram at Seaton Tramway – 28 May 2026

Want to become a dinosaur adventurer? Join a Dino Ranger on a daring safari through the Axe Valley, where dinosaurs have returned to roam once more.

Spot prehistoric creatures from your very own safari tram, tick them off your explorer’s map, and follow your Ranger deep into the world of Jurassic Discovery.

Book your ticket in advance as spaces are limited.

Find out more about Seaton’s Pirate Tram.

Pitter-patter: make a rain stick at RAMM in Exeter – 28 May 2026

Ever wanted to create the magic of a rainstorm right in your own hands? Used by cultures across the globe for thousands of years, a rain stick is a traditional percussion instrument.

With just a humble cardboard tube, a sprinkle of rice, and a dash of creativity, join RAMM to craft an enchanting rain stick of your own that sings with every shake.

Find out more on the RAMM website.

Free craft workshops with Studio Kind at Barnstaple Pannier Market – 28 to 29 May 2026

Studio Kind is running free school holiday workshops for children and families. Join Creative Crafting Devon for some relaxing spring crafts, suitable for all ages, to support wellbeing and social connection through creativity, play and getting messy.

The event is FREE and you can drop in any time.

Find out more on Instagram.

READER OFFER: All At Sea at the Soapbox Theatre in Devonport – 28 May to 14 June 2026

Stiltskin Theatre Company presents All At Sea – Stories of the sea from the strange and curious, to the beautiful.

Step into two immersive theatrical versions of this family show one for under fives and one for over fives – created for younger and older audiences alike.

READER OFFER: book online and get 10% off by using this discount code at the checkout: AAS-DWK26

Find out more and book tickets from the Soapbox Theatre box office.

Flavour Fest in Plymouth – 29 to 31 May 2026

The South West’s largest free food and drink festival returns to the city centre Piazza with plenty of activities to get your taste buds tingling.

See celebrity chef demos and sample some of the regions finest produce from more than 120 stalls.

Find out more about what’s on at Flavour Fest this year.

English Riviera Airshow, Torbay – 29 to 31 May 2026

This free two-day airshow takes place in the natural amphitheatre provided by Torbay.

As well as plenty of action in the skies there’s stalls, entertainment and children’s activities on Paignton Green. Don’t miss the opening night celebrations.

For the complete air display line up see the English Riviera Airshow website.

Skern Family Event in Appledore – 30 May 2026

Skern Advenutre Appledore is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a fun-filled afternoon of activities for all ages. There will be archery, high ropes, climbing and access to the heated outdoor pool, all included in the £5 admission charge.

The activity centre’s bar and tuckshop will also be open for snacks and refreshments.

Find out more and book online.

Bicton International Horse Trials & Country Fayre – 30 to 31 May

Horse trial teams from Europe, Australia, and New Zealand will be competing in this year’s competition which is packed with action, entertainment, and fun for all ages

Alongside the competition you can see the Knights of Middle England, pony races or take part in the dog show and children’s activities. There will also be food stalls, traders and a bar.

Find out more and get tickets from the Bicton Horse website.

Picnic in the Park at River Dart Country Park – 31 May 2026

This year’s picnic is an extra special 50th birthday celebration of River Dart Country Park. There will be live music, family-friendly activities and entertainment.

Find out more and buy tickets for the day.