Five Perfect May Half Term Days Out
May half term is the perfect time to escape to the Norfolk coast, with longer days, warmer weather, and plenty of family adventures waiting to be discovered. From seal spotting at Horsey Gap to boating on the Norfolk Broads, here are five of the very best things to do on the Norfolk Coast this May Half Term.
1. Spend a Day on the Norfolk Broads 🚤
May half term is perfect boating weather, and the Northern Broads are right on your doorstep. Hire a day boat from Wroxham, Stalham, or Potter Heigham and cruise through pretty riverside villages like Horning and Ludham.
Great family-friendly hire companies include:
- Norfolk Broads Direct (Wroxham)
- Herbert Woods (Potter Heigham)
- Richardsons (Stalham)
Top pub stops:
Perfect for picnics, wildlife spotting, and relaxing in the sunshine.
2. Visit the Seal Colony at Horsey Gap 🦭
One of the area’s most famous attractions. While winter is pup season, seals are still around all year and May is brilliant for peaceful beach walks without the crowds.
You can walk the dunes between:
- Winterton-on-Sea
- Horsey Gap
- Sea Palling
Bring binoculars and look out for:
- Grey seals
- Little terns
- Marsh harriers
Ideal for families, dog walkers, and photographers.
3. Explore Happisburgh & Climb the Lighthouse ⚓
Happisburgh is one of Norfolk’s prettiest coastal villages and its iconic red-and-white striped lighthouse is a must-see. During selected dates, the lighthouse opens for guided climbs with amazing sea views. Even if it’s closed, the village is lovely for:
- Beach walks
- Rock pooling
- Visiting the old coastguard cottages
- Coffee and cake at Smallsticks Café
Don’t miss the historic church overlooking the sea.
4. Family Day Out at Wroxham Barns 🐑
Perfect for May half term with younger children. Wroxham Barns usually hosts seasonal activities during school holidays including:
- Animal feeding
- Indoor play
- Craft sessions
- Mini rides
- Farm experiences
There are also lovely independent shops and cafés for adults.
It’s about 30 minutes from Winterton and works well if the weather turns mixed.
5. Discover National Trust Estates & Gardens 🌸
May is when Norfolk’s gardens really come alive. Best nearby options:
- Blickling Estate – huge grounds, woodland walks, cafés, and family trails
- Felbrigg Hall – quieter and beautiful for picnics
- Hoveton Hall Gardens – famous for rhododendrons and spring colour
Many estates run special half-term trails and activities for children. Perfect for:
- Spring flowers
- Bike rides
- Woodland adventures
- Cream teas
Bonus Idea: Fish & Chips at Sunset 🍟🌅
No Norfolk coast holiday is complete without fish & chips by the sea. Local favourites:
- Winterton Fish & Chips
- Hemsby Fish & Chips
- Poppylands at Horsey (great 1940s-style café too)
Take them onto the dunes and watch the sunset over the beach — classic Norfolk half-term magic.