Discover our top National Lottery funded places to visit this spring
28th May 2026
Whether you're making the most of the warmer weather or looking for inspiration for a day out, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the last days of spring. From family fun trails and castle adventures to wildlife encounters and stargazing sessions, here are a few National Lottery funded days out to add to your list.
National Railway Museum York, York
Discover a free day out at the National Railway Museum York this spring with exciting activities on offer, like the fun new family trail, The Great Object Hunt. Or get up close to special objects from the museum’s collection and learn the fascinating stories behind the museum's curators’ favourite things, including drawings from the dawn of the railways and the tickets that are changing the way people travel.
Thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the museum has been able to continue providing various educational, heritage, and community projects for the public.
Find out more: https://www.railwaymuseum.org.uk/whats-on/may-half-term-fun
RHS Garden Bridgewater, Salford
This spring, don’t miss out on a visit to RHS Garden Bridgewater, and explore as the garden comes alive with family-friendly activities, including interactive trails, hands-on workshops and seasonal events.
Whether you're wandering the gardens, joining a guided activity or simply enjoying a relaxed picnic there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
With support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the RHS has been able to develop more accessible gardens and bring free gardening activities to local communities.
Plan your visit: https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater/whats-on/may-half-term-at-bridgewater
National Botanic Garden of Wales, Carmarthenshire
If you are looking for an outing surrounded by nature, the National Botanic Garden of Wales is a must visit. You can enjoy themed trails and special events while taking in one of the most scenic garden settings in Wales.
The gardens have received various grants from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, including funding to support the conservation of vulnerable plant species, as well as projects that focus on digitising and conserving their historic herbarium collections.
Learn more: https://botanicgarden.wales/visit/whats-on/event/spring-food-craft-festival-wales/
Edinburgh Zoo, Edinburgh
For the animal lovers, why not spend a day at Edinburgh Zoo’s spring market. Visitors can browse local traders at the Lemur Lodge picking up crafts, gifts and treats, and also make time to say hello to all the animal residents around the zoo.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, which operates Edinburgh Zoo, has received National Lottery support through The National Lottery Heritage Fund, which has helped the charity to continue their work protecting nature and conservation.
Find out more: https://www.edinburghzoo.org.uk/events-experiences/events/spring-market
Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Armagh
If you’re looking for something a little different to do this season, Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is a day out the whole family will enjoy.
Experience the immersive dome shows and don’t miss out on the guided telescope tours to learn more about the night sky. Current exhibitions include Our Night Sky a journey through dazzling constellations and other fascinating stories in the live, presenter-led show.
With support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the planetarium has been able to conduct world class research and learning experiences for the next generation.
Plan your visit: https://armagh.space/whats-on
