Half term is here, time to get out and explore with the family – and what better way to do it then travelling by Stagecoach bus?

It’s the easy, affordable and stress-free option to enjoy days out together.

Whether it’s a full day trip or a last-minute afternoon outing, these 30 ideas are designed to help families make the most of the half-term break while leaving the driving to Stagecoach – with no parking stress either.

With single fares capped at just £3 per person for a single journey, and up to three children under five travelling free with a fare-paying adult, enjoying a family day out doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

And don’t forget to download the Stagecoach app here for journey planning, real-time tracking and mobile tickets.

Tullie, Carlisle

Bus route: Multiple services into Carlisle

Get busy with their family craft sessions as Tullie digs deeper into Roman Carlisle this May half term.

All sessions are drop-in 1pm-4pm unless otherwise stated.

Included with adult admission/annual ticket, children go free.

Thursday, May 28, – Lunulas

Friday, May 29, – Paper Mosaic Titles

More info here

Décopatch, Rheged, Penrith

Bus route:  X4 & X5

This creative Décopatch workshop invites children and families to design their own unique masterpiece.

With a wide selection of items to choose from, including farm animals, unicorns, masks, letters and more, participants can use beautifully designed paper, glue and brushes to decorate their chosen creation.

Runs until 31 May, suitable for ages two and over, booking essential.

More info here

Military Festival, Carlisle Castle

Bus route: Multiple services into Carlisle 

The fifth military festival includes a 12th-century combat tournament and 18th-century drill, a First World War medic and Second World War Burma display plus a selection of military vehicles and  more, plus the KidsZone with activities for children.

Organised by Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life, it takes place in the castle grounds on Saturday, May 30, and Sunday 31, between 10am and 4pm.

More info here

Border 7s Festival, Carlisle Rugby Club

Bus route: 685 

The festival is back for another weekend of rugby, music, dance and family fun on Friday, May 29, and Saturday 30.

Enjoy thrilling rugby action and live music with special performances from Carlisle Dance Academy and a range of family-friendly activities.

More info here

Let’s Get Mucky, Wigton Bowling Club

Bus route: 300 & 554

A baby, toddler and infant sensory messy play class which aims to stimulate all senses through exploration, curiosity and play.

Spark little ones’ curiosity and allow their imaginations to soar in messy trays all designed to aid development and create special bonding time without you having to clean up.

Thursday, May 28, 11.30am-12.30pm, four years and under, sibling welcome.

More info here 

Theatre by the Lake, Keswick

Bus route: Multiple services into Keswick 

On Thursday, May 28, and Friday 29, enjoy Once Upon a Fairytale – Goldilocks is missing and needs your help to find her.

More info here

A cruise on Ullswater

Bus route: 104 or X5 to Penrith, then 508 to Ullswater

Ulswater ‘Steamers’ have been operating cruises on one of the Lake District’s most iconic lakes for more than 160 years.

With one of the largest heritage boat fleets in the world, they connect to some of the most famous and iconic walks in the National Park.

You can sail one way from Pooley Bridge to Glenridding, then catch the bus back.

More info here