Late spring and early summer can be less than predictable with sunshine and showers on constant rotation, but there’s no need to worry if you’re on holiday at Searles as there’s plenty to keep little ones occupied if the weather is less than stellar. Arm yourself with our handy guide, so you’re ready when they ask, ‘What are we doing today?’

Half term entertainment at Searles, Hunstanton

There’s no need to go far if the heavens have opened, as Searles has a ton of fun to fill the hours without leaving the resort. Tiny tots will love our Squad Sensory sessions at Sundowners, with plenty of interactive play to enjoy as they learn, while our SuperSkills Academy for 7+ is an opportunity to learn fun skills such as plate spinning and balloon modelling, or let them roll up their sleeves and get stuck into a craft session at La Piazza Creative Hub. Charges apply to some activities, so come and enjoy some family time together.

Don’t miss Our Animal World on Tuesday 28 May, when Sundowners will play host to an array of visiting familiar and exotic animals with the opportunity to get up close and hands-on (gently, of course!), learn about the species on show and how we can all do our bit to protect wildlife. Book ahead for this highly popular event.

Our own resident Searles SuperStars, Sidney the Sealion, Cherry the Chipmunk and Leo the Lion will be in La Piazza through half term, so be sure to come and say hello and enjoy a hug with the squad! 

Rainy weather activities in Hunstanton, Norfolk

When you do venture out, keep it local and within walking distance for little legs. Hunstanton’s arcades are legendary and family friendly with penny slots, grab machines and plenty of action video games to burn off some energy. Try Vegas Amusements, just along the road from Searles’ entrance, or walk the promenade to Hunstanton Pier where you’ll also find Bowlers, an indoor ten-pin alley on the first floor, where rain never stops play.

Also on the prom, you’ll discover the SeaLife Hunstanton Aquarium where you can spot turtles, rays and sharks in the water, and penguins and otters in the outdoor pools. The centre is home to the Seal Hospital, which rescues and rehabilitates baby seals found abandoned along the coastline, before releasing them back to the sea. There are also six resident seals and an opportunity to feed them as part of a VIP visit to the centre.

Heard of the Love on the Rocks movement? The arty phenomenon has arrived in Hunstanton, so head to the bandstand on The Green from 10.30am-3.20pm on Tuesday 28 May and get involved by painting a pebble to take away as a souvenir, or to hide for a lucky visitor to find. Organised by the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk, check out the full programme of half term activities here.

Indoor play nearby Hunstanton, Norfolk

When it’s wet and they’re bursting with energy, it’s time to head to an indoor fun park and let them run it off. No need to go far, as our own Sidney’s Indoor Play Zone, located just off La Piazza, is open daily with slides, climbing frames, ball pits and play equipment to explore and enjoy. Everyone is welcome and a 90-minute play slot costs just £3.50 per child, with a £1 charge for accompanying adults. Don’t forget a pair of socks – they’re required for entry!

Further afield at Fakenham, Pensthorpe Nature Park is a great day out and if the weather prevents exploration of the trails, you’ll find Hootz House, a brilliant, nature-themed indoor play area. The curly slide and rope bridge are always a hit, and this half term the park’s Power of Pollination event has lots of activities if the weather brightens up outside.

It’s show-time! Kid-friendly performances for May 2024

Nothing beats a good family film, so, popcorn at the ready, head to King’s Lynn’s Majestic, a great independent cinema which shows all the latest releases. Check online for the schedule and to purchase tickets, which are some of the cheapest you’ll find and certainly beat most multiplexes.

Also in King’s Lynn, The Corn Exchange on Tuesday Market Place has a fantastic programme of live shows this half term, with the Comedy Club 4 Kids on Sunday 26 May, Top Secret – The Magic of Science on Thursday 30 May and Pop Divas Live! on Friday 31 May – something for every taste!

Splash out! Indoor swimming in Hunstanton, Norfolk

Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean a dip is off the play list! Our own heated indoor pool is open from 9am to 7pm in the summer season and free to all Searles guests.

Or, just along the promenade towards Hunstanton, Alive Oasis has a fun water slide that little ones never tire of and is the perfect way to keep them active when it’s wet outside. The public pool runs fun activities including raft building, water volleyball, basketball and water polo, so check its schedule for times.

There’s definitely no need to let rain dampen the mood… and before you know it the sun will be shining again!