If you are planning your Devon days out in May and are wondering what’s on and which Devon attractions you might visit, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s my guide to things to do in Devon in May and over the half term holiday.
Half term in Devon takes place from the week beginning 24 May to 1 June 2025. Keep scrolling for school holiday events and activities later in the month!
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What’s on in Devon in May 2025
Here’s more of the family-friendly events and activities happening in Devon this May:
The World of Peter Rabbit™ Storytime Trail at Torre Abbey, Torquay – Tuesday to Sunday until 18 May 2025
Hop into this walkthrough experience and immerse yourself in The Tale of Peter Rabbit. Your little bunnies can crawl under the garden gate, hide in a watering can, and see their reflection in a mirror pool, just like Peter Rabbit!
This interactive exhibition at Torre Abbey is packed full of photo opportunities and activities. Even better news is that it is included in the normal admission price for the Abbey.
Find out more about what’s on at Torre Abbey.
Tiny Tales at Theatre Royal Plymouth – every Thursday until 3 July 2025
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.
Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Pirates of Penzance in Brixham – 2 May 2025
Head to Brixham Theatre for a uniquely enthralling musical play of adventure, mystery and heroism with sword-fighting, story-telling and dance.
This play, presented by Opera Anywhere, is suitable for teens and their families.
Find out more and book tickets through the Brixham Theatre website.
Toby’s Garden Festival – 2 to 3 May 2025
Hosted by BBC Two Gardeners’ World presenter Toby Buckland, this family-friendly two day event is full of free gardening and food and drink talks, demonstrations, tastings and workshops, plus live music.
There will be 200 exhibitors including award-winning RHS Chelsea Flower Show plant nurseries, an ‘Artisan Barn’ showcasing local artists and heritage craft demonstrations including stave baskets and free flower crown making workshops .
Other attractions throughout the festival include taking a ride on the land train around Powderham Castle’s grounds, plus miniature steam engine rides, vintage tractors and Land Rovers.
Find out more and buy tickets on the Toby’s Garden Festival website.
Lustleigh May Day celebrations, South Devon – 3 May 2025
Lustleigh Village’s annual May Day celebration takes place this weekend including Maypole dancing, the crowning of the May Queen, live music, fairground games and cream teas.
The celebration in the village orchard is free to attend and starts at 1pm. There is a charge for parking if arriving by car and using the event car park.
Find out more about this event on the Lustleigh Village Hall website.
Paper Dragons: Secrets of The Sea at The Soapbox Children’s Theatre in Devonport – 3 to 4 May 2025
Dive into a magical underwater world the Stiltskin Theatre Company at The Soapbox Theatre. During this hands-on, immersive adventure you’ll help Sea Dragons and Mer People thrive.
Design sea creatures, write ocean spells, solve puzzles, and leave behind your creations for the dragons to discover. This event is perfect for curious young minds and their grown-ups.
Find out more and get tickets from the Box Office.
Brixham Pirate Festival – 3 to 5 May 2025
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 – 3 to 5 May 2025
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 – 4 May 2025
Crabfest is a vibrant showcase for local fishing, food and drink in the South Hams.
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.
Lambing Sunday at Martinsfield Farm, Broadclyst – 4 May 2025
Visit Martinsfield Farm to see this season’s Newley born lambs. There will be a chance to hold and touch the new arrivals as well as hot food stalls for hungry visitors.
Booking is essential and usually happens via Eventbrite.
Keep an eye on Facebook for details.
Blackawton International Festival of Wormcharming – 4 May 2025
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 – 4 May 2025
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.
Family mindfulness day at Sharpham in South Devon – 10 May 2025
Explore mindfulness as a family through meditation, play and other activities at Sharpham’s woodland campsite near Totnes.
Whether you and your family have a long term meditation practice or you are curious to develop one, you can join two retreat leaders (who are also parents) to learn and practice mindfulness together.
This event is for families with children aged 12 and under.
Find out more and book you places on the Sharpham website.
Ilfracombe Art Trail – 10 to 11 May 2025
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.
Haldon Forest Bark, near Exeter – 10 May 2025
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). You can even have a go at the Wallace & Gromit trail.
This event is free to attend. Dog show entry costs £1.
Find out more on the Haldon Forest website.
Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival, Plymouth – 11 May 2025
Plymouth’s running festival course takes in Plymouth’s famous landmarks with three distances to choose from – half marathon, 10k and 5k – as well as Team Challenges and Primary Schools Challenge.
For full details and to book your spot visit the Visit Plymouth website.
Devon County Show, West Point, Exeter – 15 to 17 May 2025
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.
Families with young children will enjoy the petting farm, fairground and countryside activities, like making bees wax candles.
New is 2025 is a Family Fun Zone – a child-focussed immersive wonderland where kids rule and parents can relax. There’s a climbing wall, sports skills, circus workshops and crafts.
You can even meet Patrick the Shetland Pony. The Mayor of Cockington himself will be making a celebrity appearance on Saturday only.
Read our top picks from this year’s news and returning activities for families at Devon County Show.
To check out the full weekend programme on the County Show website.
Dart Music Festival – 16 to 18 May 2025
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.
Magical Unicorn Festival at Pennywell Farm – 17 May to 1 June 2025
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.
Pigstock, Bideford – 17 May 2025
Billed as Devon’s most family-friendly festival Pigstock takes place in and around The Big Sheep theme park in North Devon.
Find out more on the The Big Sheep website.
Afternoon Tea at Made-Well CIC in Hatherleigh – 17 May 2025
Treat yourself and your family to a delicious Afternoon Tea at Made-Well’s Café!
Enjoy a wonderful selection of sweet and savoury handmade goodies including scotch eggs, scones and mini Victoria sandwiches. All served with your choice of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate!
Tables must be pre-booked by 3pm on 15 May.
Find out more and pre-book your table on the Made-Well website.
The Ugly Duckling at Pavilions Teignmouth – 17 May 2025
Float downstream with the Story Man in Sea Legs Puppet Theatre’s gentle, musical adaptation of Hans Christian Anderson’s classic tale of belonging and identity.
Set on the banks of a magical river, brilliant storytelling, fantastic puppets and a delightful new musical score make this a must see show for little ones and their families.
This show is recommended for families with children aged three and up.
Find out more and book tickets on the Teignmouth box office.
Plymouth Pirates Weekend – 17 to 18 May 2025
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.
Pipsqueak and The Bog Troll at The Soapbox Children’s Theatre in Plymouth 17 to 31 May 2025
Pipsqueak is back in a brand-new adventure! With Sam away and compost going missing, it’s up to Pipsqueak and Sally to save the royal garden.
This family show is packed with puppets, catchy tunes and plenty of mischief, as the Stiltskin Theatre Company shares a rhyming tale about friendship and growing is perfect for all the family.
If you’ve not been to The Soapbox before it is home to imaginative, family-friendly performances designed to inspire and delight children of all ages. If the weather is fine, the performance will be held in the enchanting outdoor setting of the Spellbound Wood. If not, audiences will enjoy the show in the cosy indoor auditorium.
READER OFFER: Use the code DEVONWITHKIDS to receive a 10% discount when booking for this show online.
Find out more and book tickets from The Box Office.
Needle felting woodland animals at The Wool Hub in Buckfastleigh – selected dates from 19 May to 23 June 2025
The Wool Hub on Fore Street in Buckfastleigh is offering free felting sessions for Devon children as a part of a creative commission by the Devon Wildlife Trust.
Children will learn the techniques of needle felting and some of their work might be chosen for a Pine Marten project play mat display. Craft your favourite woodlands animal using beautiful coloured wool.
No previous experience or booking is required
Find out more on The Wool Hub website.
Disney’s Frozen at St Cuthbert Mayne School in Torquay – 21 to 24 May 2025
In a coup for the South West, St Cuthbert Mayne School has won the chance to perform the full Westend version of Disney’s Frozen.
It is one of 11 schools in the UK to have the privilege to do it this year.
Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film, Disney’s Frozen includes all of the film’s beloved songs by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, along with new songs written exclusively for the stage.
Tickets are available on Ticket Source.
Things to do in May half term
Here’s what’s on in Devon for families this May half term:
Devon Truck Show, Honiton – 23 to 25 May 2025
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.
Evening acts include The Wurzels, Alice DJ, DJ SASH!, Dr & The Medics, Marvin Humes, Hermes House Band, Not the Cowboys, and Kevin & Perry. Tickets are available for the day time, evenings and full weekend.
Find out more and buy tickets on the Devon Truck Show website.
Tunes in the Castle at Powderham Castle – 23 to 25 May 2025
Tunes in the Castle is back for its second year at the stunning Powderham Castle. This year’s noughties lineup includes McFly, Dizzee Rascal and Blossoms headlining, plus the likes of Pixie Lott, Scouting for Girls, Chris Moyles, Groove Armada and Maximo Park.
There’s also medieval themed activities, jester school, a fun fair and cricus workshops as well as wellness sessions throughout the weekend. Kids under 5 go free.
Find out more and book tickets on the Tunes in the Castle website.
Sidmouth International Jazz and Blues Festival – 23 to 26 May 2025
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.
Family Firecraft in the Woods at Sharpham in South Devon – 24 May 2025
Join the Sharpham team for this fun outdoor event that kids can attend for free. Take a short nature walk around the woods to collect kindling and find out fascinating facts about our trees.
The children will then be taught how to make small fires safely with fire steels and tinder.There will be a small campfire treat as a finale.
There are ‘pay what you can’ prices for adults. Children must be seven or over to take part and must be accompanied by an adult.
Find out more and book your places on the Sharpham website.
Tavistock Country Garden Show – 24 to 25 May 2025
The annual Tavistock Country Garden Show brings4 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 Visit Tavistock website.
Half term fun at Crealy Theme Park – 24 May to 1 June 2025
In addition to being fully open with all rides ready to roll expect some extra entertainment and activities during May Half Term.
Find out more and book tickets for Crealy near Exeter.
Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventure for Kids at Exeter Phoenix – 25 May 2025
Following a sell-out UK tour in 2024, world record-breaking beatboxer SK Shlomo is coming to Exeter with their family show.
Shlomo, who makes mad music with their mouth, is setting out to create the next generation of superstar beatboxers. Expect amazing sounds and audience participation in this show designed for all ages.
Find out more and buy tickets on the Exeter Phoenix website.
Seaweed Festival at Clovelly – 25 May 2025
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.
Ususal admission prices apply.
Find out or about what’s on at Clovelly near Hartland.
Journey Through Art at Burton Gallery in Bideford – 25 May 2025
Sew felt to make an endangered creature during this art class for six to 13-year-olds this half term. Children aged eight and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Keep an eye out for more family-friendly events happening at Burton Gallery this half term. Some activities are free while others need to be booked in advance.
Find out more on the Burton Gallery website.
Seaton Tramway Dinosaur Tram Adventure – 25 May 2025
All aboard the Dinosaur Tram experience! Help Professor Percival the Palaeontologist uncover the secrets of a land that time forgot and fulfil a mission to make contact with some forgotten species.
As well as a ride on this super scenic tram through the East Devon countryside there will be music, stories, fossil dig, and a dinosaur activity area at Colyton Station.
Find out more and buy tickets on the Seaton Tramway website.
Bank Holiday pasties and cider at Made-Well CIC in Hatherleigh- 26 May 2025
Enjoy a relaxing Bank Holiday at Made-Well CIC which will be open for visitors to come meet the farm animals, enjoy the gardens and inclusive playground.
The cafe will also be open with pasties and cider being served including vegetarian and vegan options. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome and entry is free, although donations are always welcome.
Find out more on Facebook.
Spring Day at Coldharbour Mill – 26 May 2025
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.
Character meet and greets at Woodlands Family Theme Park, Dartmouth – 26 to 29 May 2025
The Gruffalo and Titan the Robot will be meeting and greeting visitors to Woodlands theme park this half term. You can also see dino displays on selected dates.
Find out more and book tickets on the Woodlands website.
Family drumming session at Teignmouth Pavilions – 27 May 2025
Join the Pavilions team for a rhythmic adventure to explore the joy of West African drumming. This hands-on session promises fun, laughter, and plenty of beats to groove to.
Find out more and book your family’s tickets on the Pavilions box office.
Deep sea crafts at The Box in Plymouth – 27 to 30 May 2025
There’s free, drop-in craft sessions happening at The Box this half term. Use clay to create sea creatures from the future inspired by the work of artist Sonya Dyer.
The Box is free to visit and a great place to go if the weather is wet or even too hot!
Find out more on The Box website.
Half term craft workshops with Pom Stitch Tassel in Bovey Tracey – 27 to 31 May 2025
Get creative this half term and book onto one of the workshops being laid on by craft experts, Pom Stitch Tassel.
There’s something for everyone with opportunities to sew a drawstring bag, design a T-shirt or simple drop in for crafting alongside a cuppa.
Find out more and book your places.
Make your own Snow White diorama workshop at Pavilions Teignmouth – 28 May 2025
Join Claire Evans from Small World Stories to make your own miniature scene and cut-out characters based on the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves.
Aprons will be provide but come dressed for (a little bit of) mess.
Find out more and book your family’s places on the box office.
Pirate Tram at Seaton Tramway – 28 May 2025
Set sail for a swashbuckling adventure onboard Seaton Tramway this week.
The Seaton Pearl will be voyaging along the Axe Estuary and requires a motley new to search for booty at Colyton Station.
This two hour family experience includes a pirate themed tram ride from Seaton to Colyton and activities and entertainment at Colyton Station.
There are more dates for this event in July and August.
Find out more and book tickets on the Seaton Tramway website.
Flavour Fest in Plymouth – 30 May to 1 June 2025
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 80 stalls.
Find out more about what’s on at Flavour Fest this year.
English Riviera Airshow, Torbay – 30 May to 1 June 2025
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.
For the complete air display line up see the English Riviera Airshow website.
Roar and Snore at Dartmoor Zoo – 31 May 2025
There’s a unique opportunity to camp overnight at Dartmoor Zoo this month.
Find out what life is like between dusk and dawn, when many residents come out to play. There will be an evening tour and a twilight tour when you’ll be able to meet all the diurnal and nocturnal animals.
A BBQ dinner and breakfast are also included, as well as a Roar n’ Snore t-shirt to remember the night.
There’s another chance to book in June.
Find out more and book on the Dartmoor Zoo website.
Do you know of an activity not on this list? Drop me a line.
More things to do in Devon in May
If you’re looking for more ideas for things to do in May then here’s some ideas for entertaining the kids:
- Best places to visit in Devon in Spring
- Beaches in South Devon
- Family-friendly beaches in East Devon
- Beaches in North Devon
- Theme parks
- Adventure playgrounds
- Easy walks to do on Dartmoor
- Things to do when it rains
Outdoor pools and splash parks
Devon’s outdoor pools and splash parks are usually open from May.
Check which have confirmed they will open this month in my post about outdoor pools in Devon.
What’s on next month in Devon
Thinking ahead to June? Here’s my guide to what’s on in Devon next month.
Got a while to stay? Check out my full guide to family holidays in Devon.
Planning your days out in Devon this Spring? Use Pinterest to save this post about things to do in Devon in May.
