Looking for what’s on in May across Wakefield and the Five Towns? You’ve landed in the right place. With two bank holidays and the spring half-term on the horizon, the district is officially shifting into high gear. From scouting out the best pub gardens for a sun-soaked pint to a jam-packed list of things to do with kids during the school holidays, our definitive guide to May events covers it all. Whether you are looking for high-energy festivals, live comedy, mindful retreats, or outdoor adventures, here is your ultimate Edit for May 2026.
Day Sessions
May is officially “day session” season. With two bank holidays on the horizon and a calendar bursting with outdoor festivals, brewery takeovers, and family-run farm parties, the district is waking up for summer. From bottomless craft brews at Tileyard North to boyband anthems at the racecourse, we’ve rounded up the best ways to soak up the sun (fingers crossed) and the vibes across Wakefield and the Five Towns this month.
Bank Holiday at Horncastle Farm | 3 – 4 May
Horncastle Farm is throwing open its gates for two days of fresh air and good vibes this May Bank Holiday. Sunday kicks off with live music from 12:30pm and a proper country hog roast, while Monday keeps the party going with a BBQ and more live sets. With cocktails for the adults and ice cream for the kids, it’s the perfect no-entry-fee farm day.
Forever Funky | Thursday 7 May
The ultimate daytime disco for the over-60s crew is taking over WX. Expect a DJ spinning classic tunes from the 60s, 70s, and beyond, alongside an onsite bar and street food. It’s all about letting loose and dancing like nobody’s watching in a high-energy, inclusive space.
West End Day Party: Live! | Saturday 16 May
Raise the curtain for a feel-good afternoon packed with live West End vocalists and a DJ spinning iconic show tunes and movie musical anthems. From Mamma Mia! to Wicked and The Greatest Showman, expect mass singalongs, confetti moments, and full Saturday night energy – all in the daytime. Dress-up is highly encouraged, so break out the sequins and theatre glam.
V23 Festival | Saturday 16 May
The ‘V23 FESTIVAL’ returns to Ossett Utd with a massive lineup of live bands and acts starting from midday. It’s a full family day out with plenty of stalls to browse, local catering, and dedicated children’s activities to keep the little ones entertained.
Wakefield Craft Brew Festival | Saturday 23 May
This isn’t your standard beer festival, it’s five hours of all-in party madness at Tileyard North. Your ticket covers bottomless craft beer, cider, wine, and prosecco, accompanied by live bands and games. There will also be local street food traders and opportunities to meet the brewers.
Heath Fest | Saturday 23 May
The inaugural Heath Fest is landing at The Kings Arms for a day packed with outdoor entertainment. Grab a drink from the outdoor bar and enjoy live performances from local talent while browsing craft stalls. There’s street food and an ice cream van on hand to keep everyone fueled throughout the day.
Throwback Party at The Three Houses | Sunday 24 May
Take a trip down memory lane with DJ Carl spinning Motown and throwback classics all evening. It’s a proper community session with a BBQ and a bouncy castle for the kids, starting in the afternoon and running until late.
Out Out
From soulful spoken word and experimental theatre takeovers to high-energy mod anthems and a lively disco at the Lot, Wakefield’s evening scene is firing on all cylinders this May. Whether you’re looking to support emerging local talent at WX or you’re ready to dive into a nostalgic R&B brunch, here is your definitive guide to the best late-night hours and live music in the city.
Soul Shed at WX | Saturday 2 May
Soul Shed returns to WX for another massive showcase of words and music. Hosted by Tim Brookes, the night features headline sets from poet Jack Collins, Zara Sehar, Harry Sanderson, and the band Moongate. There are also showcase slots for six fresh poets, with food and drink available from local favorites like The Exchange Tap and La Chingada. Entry is free, as always.
Country Lovers at Qubana | Thursday 7 May
Qubana is bringing a slice of Nashville to Wood Street with their Country Lovers night. Grab a table and enjoy live music from Sarah Watson and her band for a Thursday night session with a distinct country-rock edge.
Launch Pad Music | Friday 8 May
WX hosts an emerging artist showcase featuring Molly Rymer and her six-piece band. Blending classic-rock roots with vulnerability, Rymer is supported by soulful alt-pop artist Romy Taylor and folk-pop singer Lola Simms. It’s a free night dedicated to the best new talent in the Yorkshire region.
Foundations Scratch Night | Friday 15 May
Foundations returns for Volume 5, offering a raw and high-energy night of comedy, theatre, and poetry. It’s a space for local creatives to test out new material and for audiences to catch fresh, experimental performances before they hit the big stages.
Little Britain at The Black Horse | Saturday 16 May
Get down early to The Black Horse as Little Britain returns for a night of Mod and Ska classics. Expect high-energy New Wave anthems and a packed dance floor from 8pm. It’s free entry at one of Wakefield’s most historic pubs.
Pontefract Races: May Music Night | Friday 22 May
Combine a thrilling evening of racing with big crowd energy as Boyzlife takes to the stage after the final race. Featuring Keith Duffy (Boyzone) and Brian McFadden (Westlife), expect a setlist packed with boyband anthems and feel-good hits. The evening includes six races before the live music begins around 9:15pm.
Disco at the Lot | Saturday 30 May
RBT Video is taking over the lot for a massive Saturday session dedicated to funky house and soulful beats. It’s all about summer fun and feel-good energy, starting from 3pm and running late into the night. Best of all, it’s free entry all day. 3pm – Late.
R&B Bottomless Brunch | Saturday 30 May
The Establishment is wrapping up the month with a dedicated R&B Bottomless Brunch. Expect two hours of bottomless drinks paired with a classic brunch menu and a soundtrack of throwback R&B bangers to get the Saturday evening started.
Family Friendly
Whether you’re looking to entertain the kids in the Wakefield district over the May half-term or searching for a unique way to spend the bank holidays, the district is officially the playground of the mini-explorer, with great days out with the kids. From Jedi training and wrestling rings to dinosaur discos and tulip fields, here is what’s on for the family this month.
Megaslam: 2026 Mega Tour | Saturday 2 May
The #1 live experience for families is back with its biggest tour to date. Team Megaslam will battle it out with Team Nasty in a series of action-packed matches designed to get the whole family out of their seats and cheering. It’s high-energy entertainment for all ages.
May the Fourth Star Wars Event | Monday 4 May
Celebrate Star Wars Day at the Masonic Hall with the Phoenix Squad. Kids can take part in actual Jedi training, enjoy photo opportunities with their favorite characters, and explore the Masonic Temple. The day also features face painting, a BBQ, craft stalls, and fresh pizza. Dressing up is highly encouraged!
Dragons in Training Messy Play | Tuesday 5 May
A relaxed, child-led sensory experience designed by an early years teacher. Inspired by the story of Zog, this session features sensory trays, edible messy play items, and non-toxic paints. It’s perfect for little ones to explore creativity and textures in a welcoming environment.
Ilbert’s Dragon Tales | Wednesday 6 May
Join the castle’s favorite dragon, Ilbert, for a session of storytelling and play. This interactive session is designed specifically for toddlers and young children aged 2 to 5 to engage with the history of the castle through fun and games.
Family Clubbercise | Saturday 9 May
Glow, dance, and have fun together at this family edition of the popular fitness class. It’s a great way to get the kids moving in a high-energy, neon-filled environment. Entry is £10 for one adult and one child, with extra children welcome for £4.
Amazing Animals | 9th May
A menagerie of creatures comes to the stage for this educational and fun live show at the Theatre Royal. It’s an interactive experience where kids can learn all about different species in a high-energy stage environment.
Sculpture Baby: LR Vandy | Wednesday 20 May
A sensory-rich play session at Yorkshire Sculpture Park designed for babies and their grown-ups. These sessions are inspired by the textures and shapes of LR Vandy’s sculptures, encouraging early exploration through touch.
Medieval Beekeeping | Tuesday 19 May
A specialized session for children aged 5 and up. Discover the fascinating history of beekeeping in the medieval period and learn about the importance of bees in the castle’s past.
Annual Tractor Run & Big Farming Sunday | 24th May
A huge day for any mini and maxi farming fans. This annual event sees the tractors take to the road, with plenty of opportunities to see the machinery up close and with a 30 mile route. With food, children’s entertainers, and a tractor slide.
The Strawberry Experience | Opening May
The sweetest part of spring arrives this month as the strawberry fields open for picking. It’s a great outdoor activity for families, just grab a punnet and head into the rows to find the best of the early-season crop.
Spring Bank Holiday Football Camp | 26 – 29 May
Keep the kids active during the school break with this four-day camp at the A1 Football Factory. The sessions focus on skills and drills, fun games, and a tournament to wrap up the week.
Top Secret: The Magic of Science | 26th May
Science meets sleight of hand in this high-energy show. Blending laboratory experiments with mind-blowing illusions, it’s designed to inspire and entertain kids of all ages.
Stretch it Like a T-Rex | Wednesday 27 May
A fun and playful Pilates session specifically for kids. Stretch those tiny arms and get active in this dinosaur-themed movement class, a perfect way to burn off some half-term energy.
Eco Arts | Friday 29 May
Designed for ages 6 to 11, this creative session at the museum is all about getting creative with nature. Kids can experiment with using plants and flowers to print, sketch, and paint, turning their designs into gift cards or stationery.
Dino Disco Day | Friday 29 May
WX is ending the half-term with a prehistoric party. Don your best dinosaur suits and get ready to shake your tail feathers at the Dino Disco, a full day of music and fun for mini-paleontologists.
Tulip Patch & Little Farmers Trail | Opens May
Stroll through rows of bright, colorful blooms at Blacker Hall’s first-ever tulip patch. For £4 per person, you get access to the patch for the perfect photo op, plus entry to the Little Farmers Trail.
Half-Term at the National Coal Mining Museum | Throughout May
The NCM has a packed schedule for the school holidays, including a site-wide Scavenger Hunt, Muddy Boots gardening sessions, and Kite Making workshops. It’s a brilliant way to explore the outdoors while learning about the district’s mining heritage.
Thursdays in the Hidden Forest | Every Thursday in May
Under-5s can get back to nature in the Hidden Forest at YSP. These nature-based play sessions encourage little ones to explore the woodland, hunt for bugs, and get creative with the natural world in a safe, guided environment.
Garden Play | Every Saturday and Some Mondays in May
Let the kids explore the award-winning Hepworth garden in these free, open-ended play sessions. Using loose parts and natural materials, children are encouraged to build, create, and imagine in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Junior parkrun | Every Sunday
Designed specifically for younger movers (ages 4–14), these 2k events are all about fun, fitness, and building confidence. These Sunday morning sessions are fully marshalled and encourage children to run, walk, or jog at their own pace in a safe and supportive environment.
Music & Comedy
From Fleetwood Mac in candlelit cathedrals to heavy metal in Jasper’s, the district’s entertainment scene is hitting its stride this May. Whether you’re a Eurovision superfan, a soul seeker, or just need a good laugh, here’s where to catch the best acts this month.
Live Comedy Launch at The Establishment | Friday 1 May
Live comedy returns to The Establishment with a heavy-hitting launch night lineup. Award-winning Manchester comic Ryan Kenny closes the show with his unique blend of poetry and props, while Teesside’s Fran Garrity (who has supported Jason Manford on tour) takes the opening slot. With sets from rising stars Liesl Soards and Fil Milton, the night is hosted by local favorite Graeme Rayner.
Motown on the Terrace | Sunday 3 May
Bank Holiday Sunday at The Pledwick is all about soul. Chicago Joe & The Soul Divas take to the stage from 5pm for a Terrace Party packed with classic Motown hits. It’s a free event with a guaranteed feel good atmosphere, get down early to claim your spot on the terrace.
Murder She Didn’t Write | Tuesday 5 May
The classic whodunnit gets a chaotic makeover in this improvised comedy masterclass. The audience chooses the setting, the murder weapon, and even the victim, while the cast tries to solve the crime in real-time. It’s sharp, funny, and never the same show twice.
Chuckl. Wakefield | Thursday 14 May
Theatre Royal’s dedicated comedy night returns with a massive headliner: Simon Brodkin (the man behind Lee Nelson). Expect a night of top-tier stand-up from one of the UK’s most famous pranksters turned critically acclaimed comic.
Eurovision Viewing Party | Saturday 16 May
Avoid the living room clutter and head to WX for the ultimate Eurovision session. Expect the full spectacle on the big screen, themed vibes, and plenty of space to argue over the “nil” points.
Fleetwood Mac By Candlelight | Saturday 23 May
Experience the hits of Fleetwood Mac like never before as a cast of West End singers and a live band perform inside the stunning Wakefield Cathedral. Bathed in candlelight, this “Concert of Dreams” features everything from The Chain to Rhiannon.
The West End Tenors | Friday 29 May
Direct from London’s West End, this powerhouse trio brings a night of soaring vocals and theatrical flair to the Matcham Auditorium. Expect a mix of classic musical theatre hits and operatic favorites delivered with impeccable harmony.
J-ROCK Fest | Saturday 30 May
For those who like it loud, Jasper’s is the place to be. This double-header tribute night features Guns N Yorkshire Roses and Ay Up Maiden. It’s a full-throttle celebration of rock and metal legends right in the heart of Pontefract.
The Dazzling Diamonds Comedy Drag Show | Saturday 30 May
Fresh from the West End, this high-energy comedy variety show features outrageous routines, sensational live vocals, and plenty of sequins. It’s a laugh-out-loud spectacle that gives iconic hits from Gaga and Adele a very different kind of twist.
May Comedy Night | Saturday 30 May
WX wraps up the month with its resident comedy night. Featuring a curated lineup of circuit favorites, it’s a great way to catch under-the-radar talent in a relaxed setting. Grab an early bird ticket before May 11 to save a few quid.
Culture & Creativity
From astronomical deep-dives to open-deck DJ takeovers, May is the month to learn a new skill or soak up some local heritage. Whether you’re a sci-fi fan heading to the Galactic Gathering or looking to get your hands dirty in a pottery workshop, the district’s creative calendar is officially overflowing.
House of Remakers | 2-4 May
A major collaborative exhibition at The Hepworth that celebrates the power of community making. This project brings together artists and local groups to explore craftsmanship, repair, and the joy of creating something by hand.
Community Gathering with Open Mic | Friday 1 May
Join the Coxley Engine House Café for a relaxed, sober evening of music, poetry, and connection. Whether you’re sharing a poem for the first time or you’re a seasoned performer, the atmosphere is designed to be supportive and inclusive.
Introduction to Illustration | Saturday 2 May
Explore the playful world of illustration on this one-day introductory workshop at The Art House. You’ll be guided through key skillsets like character anatomy, fashion illustration, and still life using a range of media from pencils to pastels.
Watercolour Alchemy | Sunday 3 May
Artist and Holistic Practitioner Shannon S. leads this experimental workshop focused on the basics of watercolour using visual themes of serpents, flowers, and sun symbolism. Designed for beginners looking to explore the medium in a guiding environment.
The Galactic Gathering Sci-Fi Comic-Con | Sunday 3 May
The hunt is on at WX for an out-of-this-world experience featuring Star Wars guests, professional props, and a lightsaber Jedi training class. Browse stalls packed with collectibles while meeting professional cosplayers.
Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty | 11 – 12 May
The world’s most famous consulting detective returns to the stage in a gripping world premiere. In a race against time through 1901 London, Holmes and Watson must thwart a shadowy figure threatening the British Empire.
Open Deck Night | Wednesday 6 May
The Distillery Bar is handing over the spotlight to emerging DJs and music creators. Whether you’re looking to make your mark or simply love the thrill of the decks, this open-access night is the perfect stage for your sound.
Silver Clay Jewellery: Layered Heart Pendant | Saturday 9 May
Learn the basics of silversmithing at this hands-on workshop where you will design and create your own layered heart pendant using silver clay, which is fired and polished into fine silver.
With Banners Held High | Saturday 9 May
Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the 1926 General Strike, this event starts with a parade from Smyth Street followed by an afternoon at WX featuring live music and powerful speakers from the trade union movement.
Wensleydale Whey: The Grate Cheese Quest | Saturday 9 May
Mikron Theatre Company brings their signature brand of hilarious storytelling to Horbury with a musical quest to revive a lost cheese recipe. Expect a performance featuring ghosts, grievances, and plenty of drama.
Craft & Gift Fair | Sunday 10 May
The Factory at WX will be filled with over 30 independent artisans for this curated craft fair. Browse handmade candles, crochet, plants, and pet accessories from the district’s best makers.
Paint, Patterns, and People Workshop | Sunday 10 May
Work with craftsman Sean Barry at the National Coal Mining Museum to create your own wooden relief carving using traditional woodworking tools, drawing inspiration from the museum’s art collection.
A Stitch in Time Exhibition | 12 – 31 May
Artist Helen Riddle presents a textile exhibition inspired by the historic wall of Charles Waterton’s estate. Using felt and stitch, the work explores themes of decay and repair as part of the “Wallfest” program.
Have a Dabble: Lino Printed Tray | Tuesday 12 May
Get hands-on with a creative workshop at the castle. In this session, you’ll learn the basics of lino printing to design and create your very own decorative tray to take home.
Jesmonite Funky Mix and Match | Thursday 14 May
Get creative with Jesmonite (the trendy eco-resin) to make four unique items for your home. You’ll learn how to mix pigments and create terrazzo effects in this funky evening session.
Pocket Pet Needle Felting | Friday 15 May
Learn the art of needle felting to create your own miniature animal brooch. This cozy workshop provides all the materials and guidance needed to turn loose wool into a pocket-sized felted friend.
Screen Print Your Own Tote Bag | Saturday 16 May
Join textile designer Sophie Amelia to explore screen printing. You’ll learn how to expose imagery onto screens and print your own custom design onto a washable tote bag.
Pottery Throwing Taster Day | Saturday 16 May
Have a go at throwing your own pots on the wheel in a professional ceramics studio. This five-hour session with Hannah Way is limited to just four participants to ensure focused guidance.
Craft & Flea Makers Market | Sunday 17 May
Bringing together the best independent collectors, designers, and creatives, Craft & Flea is a vibrant gathering of artisans. Discover unique homeware, vintage finds, and handmade gifts.
Beginners Botanical Painting | Tuesday 19 May
Sharpen your observation skills in this botanical painting class. You’ll be guided through the techniques of capturing intricate details of plants, focusing on accuracy and colour mixing.
Colours of the Universe | Tuesday 19 May
Dr Emma Alexander joins the Wakefield Astronomy Society for a guest talk diving into the physics of galactic filaments and the vibrant colours hidden across the cosmos.
Come From Away | 20 – 23 May
This Olivier Award-winning musical tells the true story of 7,000 air passengers grounded in a small Canadian town following 9/11. A celebration of human connection and resilience.
Handmade Ceramics: Charcuterie Board | Friday 22 May
In this exclusive workshop, you’ll learn to hand-build a large stoneware charcuterie board from scratch. Places are limited to ensure plenty of room for this large-scale project.
The Hepworth Wakefield’s 15th Birthday Party | Saturday 23 May
The gallery is turning 15 with a massive party featuring live music, creative workshops, performance, and free access to all exhibitions. A huge “thank you” to the city for over a decade of support.
The Hepworth Makefield Market | 24 – 25 May
This curated weekend market returns for the bank holiday, filling the gallery with the best independent makers from across the UK selling ceramics, jewelry, textiles, and prints.
Family Workshop: Soap Carving | 10th May
Inspired by Barbara Hepworth’s methods, this half-term workshop invites families to try their hand at soap carving. Use soft materials to learn the techniques of subtraction to reveal a unique sculpture.
Artwalk Wakefield | Wednesday 27 May
The city’s bi-monthly creative celebration returns, turning independent venues into galleries. Follow the trail to discover new exhibitions, live art demonstrations, and meet local makers.
Paint, Patterns, and People: Half-Term Workshop | Wednesday 27 May
A creative family session at the National Coal Mining Museum where kids can explore heritage through art, using materials to create patterns inspired by mine machinery.
National Coal Mining Museum, Caphouse Colliery
Dungeons & Donuts: Age of Sigmar RTT | Saturday 30 May
Tabletop enthusiasts can enter the arena for the Age of Sigmar RTT. A competitive but friendly tournament environment for fans of the Warhammer universe.
Get Active
Whether you’re training for a PB or just want to blow away the bank holiday cobwebs with some fresh air, May is the perfect month to get moving. From 4am woodland symphonies to social 5ks and lakeside hikes, here is how to stay active this month.
Guided Dawn Chorus Walk | 2, 9 & 16 May
Set the alarm for a truly magical experience at Nostell Priory. Join expert guides for an early morning walk through ancient woodland to hear the spring birdsong at its absolute peak. The route takes you down to the lake to experience the “morning symphony” in silence before heading back for a well-earned hot sandwich and drink.
Wonderful World of Wildflowers | Friday 8 May
Step into the hidden corners of RSPB Fairburn Ings for an exclusive guided walk. You’ll discover hidden gems of British wildflowers, learn about their ancient folklore and medicinal uses, and gain access to non-public areas of the reserve carefully nurtured for maximum biodiversity.
Run Club X Pilates | Saturday 2 May
Start your morning with movement, coffee, and community. Meeting at Karft Coffee for a relaxed 5k social run guided by Half Full Run Club, the pace is welcoming for everyone from beginners to regulars. After a post-run coffee and chat, head over to Willow Method for a 45-minute Pilates session to stretch, strengthen, and reset.
Laps for Loneliness | Saturday 16 May
Head down to the Thornes Park track for a fun family event supporting Age UK Wakefield District. Whether you walk, jog, or run, you can complete as many laps as you like to help fund befriending services for local older people. Fancy dress, skipping, and hopping are all highly encouraged!
Pontefract 10k | Sunday 17 May
The district’s premier road race returns for its 2026 outing. Starting and finishing in the historic grounds of Pontefract Park, this chip-timed race is a favorite for those chasing a PB or just looking for a fantastic community atmosphere. Every finisher takes home a medal and a well-earned sense of achievement.
Heritage Walk | Thursday 21 May
Combine a morning stroll with a history lesson at the National Coal Mining Museum. This two-hour circular walk explores the “shadows of the industry” left on the landscape, uncovering the stories of the people and places that defined the local mining community.
Tileyard Yogalates Special | Monday 25 May
Take a break from the studio or the office for this exclusive bank holiday flow at Tileyard North. Tailored for the creative community, the class blends yoga and pilates to de-stress the nervous system, improve posture, and sharpen your focus for the week ahead.
The Social Hike Collective | Sunday 31 May
Wrap up the month with a refreshing morning hike at Newmillerdam. This beginner-friendly walk is designed for a relaxed pace and good conversation, making it the perfect way to meet new people. Dogs and children are welcome, and there’s a cafe stop included for that essential hike coffee.
Parkrun 5k | Every Saturday
Kick off your weekend with a free, timed 5k community run. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or looking for a social walk, these weekly events are open to everyone, just register once and bring your barcode to get a time. It’s the perfect way to explore some of the district’s best green spaces while getting your steps in.
Nostell, Pontefract Racecourse, Frickley Country Park, & Thornes Park
Mindful
As the energy of May shifts from the high fire of Beltane into a softer, more grounded phase, it is the perfect time to find a moment of stillness. Whether you are looking to melt away stress in a floating hammock or connect with nature on a deeper level, these mindful sessions are designed to help you reset.
Drumming Down the Beltane Sun | Friday 1 May
Celebrate the arrival of summer and the fire of Beltane with a powerful community drumming circle. This gathering is all about rhythm and connection, bring along a drum, a rattle, or any percussive instrument to help “drum down the sun” as it sets. It’s a grounding, mindful way to mark the changing of the seasons and connect with the ancient energy of the landscape.
Yoga and Sound Bath Relaxation | Saturday 23rd May
Join Nicola Turner at Yorkshire Sculpture Park for a restorative session that blends gentle yoga with the immersive power of a sound bath. Set against the backdrop of the park, it’s an invitation to slow down, breathe, and find deep relaxation through movement and resonant frequency.
May Sister Circle | Friday 8 May
A dedicated space for when everything feels like it’s shifting. Led by Jo Stevenson, this circle is designed to help you navigate the “middle ground” between old ways and new. Expect guided practice, shared reflection, and a quiet space to land back in your body and find connection without needing all the answers.
Almost The Dawn Chorus at Fairburn Ings | 17th May
Set the alarm for a truly magical experience at Fairburn Ings. Join expert guides for an early morning walk to hear the spring birdsong at its absolute peak as the sun rises over the reserve.
Floating Sound Bath | 29th May
Melt your stress away in a silk cocoon. This unique session at Sanctuary allows you to suspend in a hammock for a weightless sound bath experience. If you’re apprehensive about the hammocks, you can still join in by grabbing a mat and getting cozy on the ground for the same immersive benefits.
Reyt Sauna | Throughout May
The authentic wood-fired sauna experience returns to the farm. Boost your wellbeing and sweat out the tension in a traditional outdoor sauna setting. It’s a “reyt” good way to reset your nervous system and enjoy some restorative heat after a busy week.
Places for May
May is the month we finally reclaim our outdoor spaces. There’s something for you, whether you’re hunting for the perfect rooftop cocktail, a hidden beer garden by the water, or a local beach for the kids to run wild, these are the spots to pin on your map this month.
Qubana Terrace
When the sun hits Wood Street, there is no better place to be than the Qubana terrace. Elevated above the city, it’s the elite spot for tapas, cocktails, and soaking up the afternoon rays. With a Mediterranean vibe right in the heart of Wakefield, it’s the perfect setting for a long-overdue catch-up.
The Rustic
True to its name, this is a top-tier spot for a chilled pint in a relaxed setting. Their beer garden is a hidden gem for anyone looking to enjoy the May weather without the city-centre rush. It’s laid-back, welcoming, and exactly where you want to be on a Saturday afternoon.
The Steampacket Inn
If you’re looking for a proper beer garden with a view, head to The Steampacket. Situated right by the water, it offers a tranquil spot to watch the world go by with a drink in hand. It’s a favorite for locals and walkers alike, offering a classic pub experience with one of the best outdoor setups in the Five Towns.
Hemsworth Water Park
You don’t need a flight to find a beach this May. Hemsworth Water Park offers sandcastles, pedalos, and plenty of space for a family picnic. Little ones can tackle the outdoor adventure playground or the indoor soft play at the Boathouse Café, while those looking for a quieter pace can wander around the smaller lake to spot local wildlife.
Newmillerdam Boathouse
For the ultimate lakeside view, grab a table at the Boathouse. Whether you’re stopping for a coffee after a lap of the lake or settling in for some lunch, the perspective over the water is unmatched. It’s one of the most picturesque spots in the district to watch the spring scenery transition into summer.
Nostell Priory
May is peak season for Nostell’s park and gardens. The lakeside paths and sprawling meadows are at their most vibrant, making it the ideal spot for a long Sunday stroll. With an off lead dog walking area, huge playground for kids, cafe, shaded woods with a woodland play area, and sprawling land with accessible paths, there’s something for everyone.
The Ropergate Run | Pontefract
If you’re looking for the ultimate group session this May, head to Pontefract’s most iconic street for the definitive 12-stop circuit. The Ropergate Run isn’t just a pub crawl; it’s a rite of passage that takes you through a diverse mix of historic real ale snugs, chic cocktail lounges, and even the UK’s only dedicated moonshine bar. In the warmer May weather, the street has a bustling, social atmosphere that makes it the perfect spot for a bank holiday celebration or a long-overdue night out with the crew.
Looking for more ways to make the most of the spring weather without spending a penny? If you’ve got a little one in tow or require flatter routes, check out our guide to the 7 Best Accessible Walks for Prams and Wheelchairs in the district.
For those craving some deep-woodland quiet to escape the bank holiday crowds, don’t miss our breakdown of the 7 Rejuvenating Forest Walks in Wakefield & the Five Towns, the perfect free way to spend a May afternoon.
