Devon’s Top Attractions are looking forward to welcoming visitors back for the half term break so don’t let the winter weather stop you going out and having fun. Whether you’re a lover of nature, the arts, or unique family activities, Devon’s winter calendar is packed with something for everyone to enjoy. You’ll find lots of indoor fun, too, to keep all family members active and entertained during the first holiday of the year. The unique blend of attractions means there is an activity for everyone including creative craft sessions, wonderful workshops, super steam train rides, brilliant boat trips or put on your wellies and a warm coat and head to one of the parks or gardens for a winter walk to enjoy some fresh air.
Anne Blackham, Devon’s Top Attractions Marketing Manager said ‘We are delighted to welcome three top class new members to our group for 2025: the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth, the House of Marbles in Bovey Tracey and Jurassic Discovery in Seaton. These new members will all be open for the February Half Term holiday. Many of our award-winning attractions are offering some great discounted early season rates and are geared up for keeping their visitors happy when the weather is wintry outside.’
WHAT’S ON IN EXETER & EAST DEVON
From now through until 14 March enjoy a guided bird watching cruise with Stuart Line Cruises in Exmouth A perfect event for nature lovers to observe estuary birds in their natural habitats, led by expert guides. Or book a winter River Exe cruise along the tranquil water of the river, the indoor heated lower decks mean you can view the wildlife through the large windows in comfort!
At RAMM in Exeter see the exhibition ‘I Cling to the Sky’ where, until 23 March, you can explore the photographic works of local artist Netti Habel, capturing landscapes and the environment. Or why not join local artist Scotty Gillespie on 22 February? Unleash your imagination in an engaging free workshop for all ages as Scotty guides you to explore your inner warrior and delve into the world of fiction to craft your own personal shrine. 10.30-1.30pm. See website to book.
Head to Diggerland this February half term for a day out packed with fun and adventure! Both kids and adults can ride, drive, and operate real JCB and Komatsu construction machinery, all within a safe and family-friendly environment. Take a thrilling spin on Spindizzy, enjoy a bumpy journey on the Groundshuttle or try your luck at Dippy Ducks. Plus, this half term, kids can enjoy exploring Little Tikes Wheelz Play Zone – perfect for smaller adventurers!
Can you find a squirrel’s favourite food, the seed of the largest living thing on earth, a palm leaf from far off lands or the spikey armour of a tasty nut? Use your best detective skills to find these and other challenges in the Hidden Garden challenge at Killerton, NT. The trail is approx. 1km on surfaced paths.
Join Crealy for a jam-packed week of pop-tacular live tribute performances in the Crealy Big Top Arena from 15 to 21 February. Each show will include backing dancers with choreography, screen visuals and audience interaction for the ultimate live music event like no other. In between shows, race around the outdoor rides, burn off some energy in the indoor adventure play areas and say hello to all of Crealy’s zoo & farm animal residents.
It’s all aboard the Story Tram on 21 February at Seaton Tramway! Every month you can take a tram ride from Seaton to Colyton with your little ones and inspire big imaginations with themed stories and action songs along the way. There will be an exciting new theme every month, with a themed storybook and music on the tram, followed by another story and activities at Colyton Station just right for pre-school children.
The Story Tram at Seaton Tramway
Discover the prehistoric wonders at Jurassic Discovery. This family-friendly attraction brings history to life with its immersive exhibition, featuring stunning, lifelike animatronic dinosaurs. Dive into the era of giants and experience ‘The Last Day of the Dinosaurs’. Plus don’t forget the soft play area for children age 2+ who can enjoy up to two hours of fun on slides and climbing frames while parents can relax in the café. Book online.
Welcome to the Big Sanctuary Search at The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth! Get ready for an exciting adventure as you explore the Sanctuary and take part in their newest fun-filled trail activity. Follow the clues and discover hidden surprises along the way. For just £5 per trail, challenge yourself, get active, and enjoy quality family time, complete the trail to claim your prize! Pick up your trail sheet from the Gift Shop, until 31 March.
WHAT’S ON IN SOUTH DEVON
At Haldon Forest Park see the stunning outdoor photographic exhibition ‘Earth Photo’ showcasing the beauty and diversity of our planet, until 19 March. Over half term can you help Stick Man find his way back to the family tree? This interactive family trail follows Stick Man on his journey as he tries to get back to the family tree. Enjoy the wonderful world of Stick Man as you complete lots of fun, stick-based activities, discover tree-mendous facts and learn about forest wildlife!
From now until 4 April enjoy special daily winter rates of only £3 per person at River Dart Country Park, ideal for adventure-seekers of all ages. Plus, on 16 February there’s an exciting family-friendly event, the River Dart Rumble which combines outdoor challenges and activities set in their beautiful park land – see ticket prices and details online.
Becky Falls re-opens on 13th February! Step back into an Ice Age carved landscape where the 70ft high Becky Falls cascades through a granite boulder strewn valley. Take in the natural beauty exploring three nature trails, including free children’s activity trail with prize. Enjoy friendly animals like goats, ponies, meerkats, and reptiles. Their passionate Animal Keepers offer hourly talks – you can even help them feed the meerkats at 1pm for just £1!
Discover a Year-Round Adventure at House of Marbles. Explore their dynamic range of attractions and events, changing throughout the year. See hidden gems in their quirky museums, watch skilled artisans at work in the glassworks studio and enjoy browsing in their shop, there’s always something new to discover. There’s no admission charge and complimentary parking, so it’s the perfect destination come rain or shine.
Join Kent’s Cavern for an exciting half-term adventure! Explore their prehistoric caves and discover the wonders of ancient history through fun and educational activities. Step back in time and uncover incredible stories hidden beneath the surface through almost 400 million years of history. It’s where ancient rock formations, early human stories, and Victorian discoveries come to life on a guided journey through the caves.
Babbacombe Model Village is open for half term so come along and explore 4 acres of award-winning gardens showcasing hundreds of uniquely hand-crafted model scenes, vehicles & people. See some well-known landmarks with the many hidden puns, fun scenes and lots of humour. Plus, the new INDOOR Mythical Kingdom is a land of miniature animated legendary creatures set in a colourfully illuminated world. Open 10am-4pm (last entry 2.30pm).
Visit Bygones this holiday and take part in the Children’s Coin Hunt. Search for the coins hidden in the shops and rooms to claim your sweet treat at reception on your way out. No extra costs – included with Admission Fee. Open daily from 10am to 4pm (last entry 3pm).
This holiday visit over 2,000 animals and countless amazing plants across 80 acres of beautiful, spacious grounds at Paignton Zoo! One of the South West’s most exciting visitor attractions it’s a place to roam, discover, explore and get in touch with nature. Come rain or shine, Paignton Zoo is a great place to visit for all the family, and you’ll need a full day to see it all!
Join Pennywell as they kick off the 2025 season this February Half-Term and embark on a fantastic adventure with this VERY SPECIAL offer… When you purchase a day ticket for any date during the February half term, they’re gifting you a return ticket, valid for Unlimited Visits until 4pm February 23rd. That’s up to 9 days for the price of 1! Say goodbye to boredom this half term with the daily chance of a full day of farmyard fun!
There’s winter fun at Woodlands Family Theme Park so prepare for family fun no matter what the weather! They’re open from 10.30am to 4.30pm for action-packed days out! The Sea Monster Zone, a giant soft play centre, the Circus Drome Zone, Action Zone and more are all open.
The perfect day out this half term is a visit to the National Marine Aquarium. The Aquarium is made up of 4 main zones, with lots of different exhibits and animals found in each. The Atlantic Ocean Exhibit is the deepest holding a massive 2.5 million litres. Be amazed when you see all the animals from the biggest Sand Tiger Sharks to the tiniest Angelfish. Plus, from 1 Feb you can book tickets for Sleeping with Sharks at the Aquarium on 21 Feb – see website for details.
Brighten up your half term making colourful bird puppets and masks at The Box from 18-21 Feb. Take inspiration from the owls and ‘jumbie birds’ in the ‘John Lyons: Carnivalesque’ exhibition, as well as some of the wonderful birds that are more local to Plymouth. Last entries at 12.15pm and 3.15pm and sessions are particularly ideal for children aged 4 to 11 years old and their adults.
WHAT’S ON IN NORTH DEVON
At Dartington Crystal enjoy 50% off the Factory Experience until 28 March! Plus, KIDS GO FREE and FREE PARKING. Experience their fascinating factory experience and witness the artistry behind their exquisite crystal creations up close. In the Visitor Centre, unleash your creativity with hands-on activities like glass painting and watch the master engraver craft stunning works of art.
Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare are hopping over to RHS Garden Rosemoor. In February half term enjoy discovering an interactive garden trail and activities based on the well-loved children’s book Guess How Much I Love You™. With storytelling, a guided welly walk*, planting and craft workshops too, there’s plenty to keep all the family busy this holiday. Book a performance of the puppet show ‘Along came a Magpie’ *. All details on the website.
Experience exhilarating fun at The Big Sheep this February Half Term, where you can witness adorable lambs being born. Visit the Animal Barn to feed and connect with baby goats, sheep, piglets, chicks, calves, donkeys, alpacas, and more. Enjoy hilarious live shows, lamb feeding, thrilling rides, and explore Ewetopia Indoor Play Zone. Lambing Live – bottle feed the newborn lambs, you may even get the chance to watch one being born!
Head to the Milky Way for some real half term fun. With plenty of indoor fun including Planet Play Adventure play area and slides, Ninja Stars, Little Stars for 0–6-year-olds, Droid Destroyer Dodgems, Ziggy’s Blast Quest, the Milky Way Railway and Pottery Painting all guaranteed to keep you entertained whatever the weather.
Visit Quince Honey Farm this half term and enjoy activities and fun for all the family. Honey Factory Tour & Tasting, Beeswax & Candle Rolling, plant a bee-friendly seed to take home with you in the Seed Bar, All About the Honeybee – watch a virtual opening of a hive and learn all about honeybees and Curious Creatures – meet their collection of critters. Your ticket also includes the indoor Play Hive and more.
To find more information and ideas for a day out this half term holiday check out the DEVON’S TOP ATTRACTIONS website and their What’s on pages here devonstopattractions.co.uk/events/february-half-term To find attractions and book tickets see devonstopattractions.co.uk
