May Half-Term Family Fun at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House

Shekina Rose, Families Editor
Girl with craft bonnet Half-term at Elizabeth Gaskell's House
Elizabeth Gaskell's House

May Half-Term Family Fun at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House, Manchester 26 May — 2 June 2024 Tickets from £0.00 — Book now

Family fun and discovery awaits this May half-term at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House in Manchester. Step back in time to a 19th century world of creativity and exploration, where kids can enjoy all sorts of activities, including arts, crafts, games and adventure trails in a historic house and museum that celebrates the life and literature of renowned Victorian writer, Elizabeth Gaskell.

From dressing up in outfits from the Victorian times, to creative arts and crafts, as well as fun and games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this May half-term at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House. Take part in the popular Cranford the Cat trail, an exciting adventure which takes place in both the house and garden. The trail is great for adults and kids alike, filled with fun facts, games, and ways to support wildlife while reducing your carbon footprint at home.

While in the garden, you’ll also discover beautiful summer flowers in bloom, many of the plants you’ll see are referenced in Elizabeth’s letters and novels, as well as from Victorian garden history.

Food options at the house include tasty treats like cakes and soup which you can purchase from the special 19th-century tea room, or you’re welcome to bring a picnic to eat outside on those warmer, sunnier days.

Kids go free with every paying adult to Elizabeth Gaskell’s house, so it’s a great option if you’re feeling a bit strapped for cash and just fancy a lovely, wholesome day out with the kids.

May Half-Term Family Fun at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House, Manchester 26 May — 2 June 2024 Tickets from £0.00 Book now

Where to go near May Half-Term Family Fun at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House

hotel2
Hotel
Hilton Liverpool

The riverside location of Hilton Liverpool makes it one of the most centrally placed hotels in the city, close to the all attractions, big and small.

hotel
Baltic Triangle
Hotel
Maldron Hotel

The Maldron Hotel is perfectly located on the edge of the Baltic Triangle and offers comfortable stays and luxurious breakfasts.

hotel4
Liverpool
Hotel
The Halyard

The Halyard is one of Liverpool’s newest hotels, with top floor suites offering sweeping views of the city and delicious treats in the restaurant.

shop
Liverpool
Shop
COW Liverpool

Cow Liverpool is one of the city’s favourite vintage shops, with clothing, accessories and homeware in a spacious shop on Bold Street.

Liverpool
Shop
Pop Boutique Liverpool

Pop Boutique houses Vintage, clothing, homeware and vinyl. This bold street shop is in the centre of the ropewalks area of Liverpool which is fast becoming the indie centre of Liverpool.

cafe
Lark Lane
Café or Coffee Shop
Press Bros

Press Bros is one of Lark Lane’s best coffee spots, with coffee made from locally roasted beans and delicious breakfasts.

iStock.com/SimoneN
Deansgate
Hotel
Malmaison Manchester Deansgate

The building’s striking architecture combines classic brickwork with sleek, modern design elements, creating an inviting atmosphere that captures the essence of Manchester’s vibrant energy.

Manchester
Restaurant
Exhibition

Exhibition is an elegant dining hall on Peter Street, home to Jaan and other high-level independent kitchens.

An image of a large man made pool with fountains in front of a historic building with a clock tower
Bradford
Park
City Park

City park is Bradford’s brilliant multi-award winning outdoor public space, one of its highlights being The Mirror Pool — the largest urban water feature in the UK.

What's on: Activity

Craft Beer Tour Around Manchester
Until
ActivityManchester
Craft Beer Tour Manchester

Join Craft Beer Tour Manchester for a journey through some of the cities best local breweries and artisanal beer serving bars. Discover the personality of Manchester’s beer through a diverse range of pints.

from £35
Until
ActivityManchester
Floating Art Workshops

Join expert teacher Ula for relaxed painting workshops that will have you creating work you can be proud of, no matter your level of artistic experience.

from £24.30
Until
ActivityLiverpool
Old Dock Tours, Liverpool

The Old Dock tour is a treat for younger and older visitors alike, fans of Liverpool’s maritime past, and anybody curious about local history.

£8.50 with concessions

Culture Guides

Theatre in Manchester and the North
Theatre in the North

Documentary performance, groundbreaking dance, world premieres and fresh takes on classic works - check out our early theatre highlights for 2025.

Family things to do in the North

We might be past the holiday season, but Manchester and the North's arts and cultural calendar is still packed with brilliant events and activities for families

A man and a woman stood in front of a window at night look into each others' eyes
Cinema in the North

Hollywood greats and early bird film fest tickets are on our horizon as we start the New Year.

Music in the North

Warm, intimate storytelling is the thread connecting our new picks, which include a number of brilliant folk artists.

A sculpture of a dark brown dog looks to the right, hanging out of its middle and the back are what appears to be its insides (in cream) spilling out.
Exhibitions in the North

From genre-defying art film to vibrant embroidery and Surrealist sculpture, check out the best winter exhibitions to see right now.