Best things to do on Mother’s Day in the UK

With Mother's Day just around the corner, it's time to consider things to do on Mother's Day. Whether you're planning a fun day out or are simply looking forward to spending quality time together, we've listed a few ideas to inspire you.

When is Mother’s Day in the UK?

Mother's Day is on the 30th of March. Exactly three weeks before Easter Sunday and usually falls in the second half of March or early April.

Enjoy a Mother's Day breakfast in Thirsk

The charming town of Thirsk is one of North Yorkshire's gems, with cobbled streets and quirky independent shops to admire. Nestled between the North York Moors and the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales, you'll receive a warm and friendly welcome if you're looking at places to go for Mother’s Day.

Yorks of Thirsk cafe

If you need an idea of where it is good to enjoy a breakfast with mum, take a trip to Yorks of Thirsk. This family-friendly café serves delicious, homemade food using local ingredients. You can also browse their tasty selection of cakes, which change daily.

Travel through history together

Originally Roman, Peterborough Cathedral became a monastic community before the Great Heathen army destroyed it under Ivar the Boneless. It was rebuilt after the Norman conquest, and two queens have been buried there since.

Crowland Abbey & Trinity Bridge 

After learning about this rich history, you and your mum can visit Crowland Abbey, which has picturesque ruins and the unique medieval Trinity Bridge.

Does your mum enjoy all things history-based? Learn about the rich history of York in our article Viking Capital: English History of York.

Crowland Abbey & Trinity Bridge 

After learning about this rich history, you and your mum can visit Crowland Abbey, which has picturesque ruins and the unique medieval Trinity Bridge. 

Get pampered at the spa

Treat your mum to a relaxing spa day at The Grand in York. The hotel's secluded and tranquil spa offers a calming escape for you both.

Mother's Day spa at The Grand Hotel in York

The spa's skilled therapists are well-equipped to provide you with the ultimate day of serenity. With massages ttailored to remove every bit of tension and facials to reward your skin with long-lasting benefits, what are you waiting for?

From beauty treatments to a steam room and a 14-metre swimming pool, prepare to indulge in self-care on Mother's Day.

Mother's Day afternoon tea at Betty's

Betty's Café and Tearooms in York is infamous for its afternoon tea offering. Book a table in the historic and beautiful Belmont Room for Mother's Day.

What food will be available at Betty’s tearoom in York?

Enjoy a lavish selection of small sandwiches, miniature cakes and speciality teas. A pianist will serenade you and your tea and sandwiches will be replenished throughout. You'll leave feeling full!

Creative craft classes in London

Get your mum to tap into her creative side with a fun crafting workshop.

London candle-making class by Class Bento 

One option is a candle-making class from ClassBento set in London. Here, you will learn how to make your dream candle with guidance from professional candle makers.

The best thing about classes like this is that they’re beginner-friendly. They also allow you to take your candle home at the end of the session.

York also has some excellent art workshop classes. View them here. 

Take a stroll at the beach

Why not head up to Sunderland for a steady stroll at the beach? Twin beaches, Roker and Seaburn, offer miles of stunning coastline to wander along, allowing you and your mum the perfect opportunity to unwind.

Roker’s Pier Point

There's an open promenade with glorious seafront views – perfect for enjoying a peaceful stroll in the sea air. Feel free to stop for refreshments at Roker's Pier Point – there are plenty of cafés and restaurants for you to grab a bite to eat (including an ice cream if the sun's out!)

Discover some other free activities in our article ‘Things to do in Sunderland for free’.

Go out for a fancy Mother’s Day meal 

Iris is a contemporary British restaurant in Wakefield city and is a local favourite. Chef Liam Duffy opened the restaurant in 2012 and refurbished it to create a modern dining experience - perfect for Mother's Day.

Iris restaurant in Wakefield 

After working in some of the country’s top Michelin-starred establishments, Liam created his fine-dining brand. This resulted in a relaxed dining experience, using modern cooking techniques and sourcing the highest-quality local, seasonal produce to create a unique menu.

Book a Mother's Day mini break in Doncaster

Why not pull out all the stops by booking a hotel to spoil your mum this year? The Hilton Garden Inn in Doncaster overlooks the racecourse and offers an excellent location if you want to go out for dinner and drinks in the city. The Lakeside Village outlet is just 10 minutes away if you want to enjoy a little retail therapy.

London West End theatre shows 

Treat your mum to something unique this Mother's Day with a London Theatre show. The show could be a hit musical, comedy, opera, traditional dance, or new production.

Mamma Mia! is celebrating its 25th year in the West End. This irresistible musical features ABBA’s timeless hits, including “Dancing Queen,” “Waterloo,” and the title song, “Mamma Mia.”

Catch up over a cocktail or two

For a cocktail bar at a home away from home, visit Mum’s House Cocktail Bar in Halifax.

Here, you will always find a warm welcome whilst enjoying a couple of Mother's Day drinks next to the cosy fire with your favourite drink.

Cocktail class in Halifax

Cocktail masterclasses are also hosted here if you and your mum are up for a challenge. For more classic pub vibes, York is a great city full of culture. Check out a local guide to the best pub crawl in York. 

Choose Grand Central to get you there

Wherever you're heading to celebrate Mother's Day this year, choose Grand Central to get you there. Secure the best fares by booking your Advance tickets and you can save up to 80%.

If you want to make the most of your day with mum, why not choose our Anytime tickets? That way, you won't have to stick to a schedule and can return home at your leisure.