Budget Friendly Half Term Ideas in Hampshire – May 2026

Looking for cheap things to do in Hampshire this May half term? You’re definitely not alone. With the school holidays here, lots of families are searching for budget-friendly days out, free events and affordable activities to keep the kids entertained without spending a fortune.

The good news is Hampshire is packed with brilliant low-cost family fun. From outdoor adventures and trails to festivals, creative workshops, community events and cheap places to eat, there’s loads happening across the county this May half term.

Here are some of the best budget-friendly half term ideas in Hampshire for 2026.

Affordable Family Days Out in Hampshire

May Half Term at Mottisfont

Mottisfont

Mottisfont is always a fantastic value family day out during school holidays. Expect outdoor activities, trails, open spaces and loads of room for kids to run around.

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt at The Vyne

The Vyne

A brilliant interactive family trail inspired by the much-loved children’s story. Great fun for younger children and ideal for a lower-cost outdoor adventure.

May Half Term at Hurst Castle

Hurst Castle

History, sea views and family exploring all rolled into one affordable day out near the coast.

Galactic Furzey at Furzey Gardens

Furzey Gardens

A themed woodland trail packed with fun for families who love nature and outdoor exploring.

Cheap Activities for Kids This Half Term

Bluey Mini Jump at Atmosphere Trampoline Park

A lower-cost trampoline session perfect for younger children wanting to burn off energy.

Roller Tots at Pitt St Skatepark

Affordable skating fun for under 5s and a brilliant rainy-day activity.

Meet Ingo the Mermaid at Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth

A magical half term event without the price tag of a major attraction day.

Trainmaster at The Brickworks Museum

A fantastic budget-friendly activity for train-loving little ones.

Free Things To Do in Hampshire This Half Term

You don’t always need tickets or expensive attractions to have a great day out.

Explore The New Forest

New Forest

Pack a picnic, go for a family walk, spot ponies and enjoy one of the best free days out in Hampshire.

Visit Southampton Common

Southampton Common

Perfect for bike rides, playgrounds, walks and family picnics.

Africa Day & Fashion Show

Africa Day and Fashion Show

A vibrant free community event full of entertainment, culture and atmosphere.

Explore Hampshire Beaches

Try:

• Southsea
• Milford on Sea
• Hayling Island
• Lee-on-the-Solent

A beach day with a packed lunch is still one of the best cheap family days out.

Budget Friendly Food Deals

Eating out with the kids can quickly add up, but there are some great offers around Hampshire this half term.

Kid’s Eat FREE Bill’s Southampton & Chichester Restaurant

A brilliant affordable family breakfast or lunch option.

Fish & Chips Deals at J-Henry’s Fish and Chips

£6.99 for Fish and chips all day every day

Kid’s Eat FREE The Broadway, Winchester

Affordable Creative Activities

Beginner Crochet Workshop at The Crafters Collective

Perfect for older kids and teens wanting to try something new.

Pottery Throwing at Grayshott Pottery

Hands-on creative fun and a lovely half term activity.

Paint & Sip at Dark Arts Bar

Ideal for older teens or parents looking for something different.

Budget-Friendly Festivals & Entertainment

The Big Eat Festival 2026

The Big Eat Festival 2026

A fantastic family-friendly food festival with entertainment, street food and plenty of atmosphere.

Playing The Field Festival 2026

Playing The Field Festival 2026

A fun local festival option for music and entertainment lovers.

Sister Act at Theatre Royal Winchester

A brilliant theatre option during half term week.

Make The Most of Half Term Without Overspending

There are so many cheap things to do in Hampshire this May half term, whether you’re after free family days out, affordable activities, outdoor adventures or budget-friendly places to eat.

Sometimes the best half term memories come from simple days out, local events and trying something new together.

Keep checking What’s On Hampshire for even more family events, budget activities and school holiday inspiration across Hampshire.