Top 10 memorable Mother’s Day activities and things to do in 2025

Tuesday 18th March 2025

Mother’s Day falls on the 30th of March this year in the UK, giving you just enough time to plan the perfect day of activities. Whether you’re looking for things to do with your mum or hoping to drop some hints to the kids, you’ll find an array of memorable ideas for Mother’s Day across the North of England and Scotland.

From indulging in afternoon tea to exploring the UK’s stunning National Parks, our network offers a wide range of Mother’s Day activities to suit any budget. Not sure where to begin? Here are 10 fantastic ideas for what to do for Mother’s Day in 2025.

  1. Enjoy afternoon tea in Liverpool

  2. Twinkling lights, sweet treats, cocktails… if this sounds like your mum’s idea of a perfect afternoon, we have the ideal Mother’s Day activity to treat her with.

    Culture-filled Liverpool is the ultimate setting for an indulgent afternoon tea. Enjoy finger sandwiches, fragrant loose-leaf teas and a glass of champagne (or two!) at Oh Me Oh My on the Mersey Riverfront. If you're lucky, you might even catch their sequined, disco-themed afternoon tea, complete with an in-house DJ and delicious bites to eat.

    Location: West Africa House, 25 Water Street, Liverpool, L2 0RG
    Opening times: Afternoon tea served Thurs-Fri: 12-3pm (selected weekend dates available)
    Cost: From £26.95 per person

  3. Treat your mum to a relaxing spa day in Newcastle

  4. What better way to show your appreciation than by treating your mum to a relaxing spa day? Newcastle boasts a variety of luxurious venues, all just a short walk from the train station.

    The Crowne Plaza Hotel at Stephenson Square offers several lavish spa packages. Our favourite is the ‘Pamper, Pizza & Prosecco’ package, which includes two hours of access to their spa facilities, two 25-minute treatments, and (most importantly) a glass of prosecco and 12-inch pizza of your choosing. Alternatively, you can opt for the ‘Relax & Revive’ package, complete with a cheese board, prosecco, and two hours of spa access. Whatever you choose, it’s the ultimate way to pamper your mum this Mother’s Day.

    Location: Stephenson Quarter, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 3SA
    Opening times: Mon: 11am-7pm, Tues-Sun: 10am-6pm
    Cost: Packages from £90 per person

  5. Discover delicious food and fun cookery classes in York

  6. If you’re looking to combine delicious food and drink with a fun, hands-on activity for Mother’s Day, York is the place to be. This historic walled city boasts a wealth of fantastic dining spots and artisan stores, many of which offer unique workshops and cookery classes.

    The Cookery School at the Grand Hotel, for example, offers courses to suit every taste and cuisine. Whether your mum wants to master the art of authentic Indian curry or create delicate desserts like macarons and tarte Tatin, there’s sure to be a class you'll both enjoy.

    Location: Station Rise, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 6GD
    Opening times: Full-day course: 10am-4pm, Half-day course: 10am-1pm
    Cost: From £70 per person

  7. Explore the natural beauty of Glasgow Botanical Gardens

  8. For a nature-filled Mother’s Day experience, take a trip to Glasgow and explore the stunning Botanical Gardens. Stroll through the serene Victorian greenhouses, wander the Heritage Trail that leads down to the Kelvin Walkway, and enjoy the picturesque Arboretum Tree Trail. If you’re visiting with younger children, there’s a fun and educational Minibeasts, Birds, and Trees of the Botanics trail to keep them entertained while learning about the local wildlife. Head to Glasgow for some quality time with your mum outdoors.

    Location: 730 Great Western Road, Glasgow, G12 0UE
    Opening times: Gardens: 7am-Sunset, glasshouses: 10am-6pm (4:15pm in winter)
    Cost: Free!

  9. Head to the Lake District for a scenic Mother’s Day adventure

  10. If you’re wondering where to go for a truly memorable Mother’s Day outing in Penrith, head to Aira Force waterfall and the surrounding natural beauty of Gowbarrow Park, just 10 minutes from Penrith train station. This 18th-century pleasure ground is home to a stunning 65-foot waterfall, dramatic woodland trails and champion trees. Gowbarrow Park also offers fantastic walking trails, including a hike to the summit of Gowbarrow Fell.

    After a refreshing stroll, relax at the tea room which serves hot drinks, snacks and ice cream, and has indoor and outdoor seating. The park also offers lakeshore access to Ullswater at Aira Green and Glencoyne Bay, which is ideal for a peaceful retreat by the water. Find more inspiration on what to do during a day trip from Penrith to Ullswater here.

    Location: Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0JS
    Opening times: Dusk-Dawn, tea room: 10am-4pm
    Cost: Free!

  11. Soak in the culture at the Scottish National Gallery in Edinburgh

  12. For the mums that love a cultural day out, head to Edinburgh. The city is home to a variety of museums, including the Scottish National Gallery, which hosts fascinating exhibitions and events. From live concerts to insightful talks and engaging workshops, there’s something to spark her interest at every turn. Whether she's a fan of Turner and Warhol, history or music, the museum offers a blend of creativity and learning, making it a wonderful thing to do for Mother's Day.

    Location: The Mound, Edinburgh, EH2 2EL
    Opening times: Open daily: 10am-5pm
    Cost: Free!

  13. Tuck into a carvery at Sheffield’s Wortley Hall

  14. This Mother’s Day, gift your mum the best Sunday with a relaxing three-course carvery lunch at Wortley Hall in Sheffield. Indulge in a delicious roast surrounded by the charming atmosphere of this historic venue. The menu caters to all tastes and requirements, including gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan. And for the cherry on top, all mums receive a special gift!

    After the meal, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful grounds and gardens, soaking in the peaceful surroundings. It’s the ideal way to treat your mum to a day of indulgence and relaxation.

    Location: Wortley, Sheffield, S35 7DB
    Opening times: Reserve a table from 12-3pm
    Cost: Adults: £35, Children under 12: £18

  15. Roll down the river on a musical Manchester river cruise

  16. For a fun and unique way to celebrate Mother's Day, why not hop on a river cruise in Manchester? Enjoy a lively and entertaining experience as you take in the scenic views along the water, while being serenaded by iconic tribute performances. Whether it’s the King of Rock and Roll, the soulful Adele, or the country charm of Dolly Parton, these themed cruises offer a delightful mix of music and relaxation. Ideal for mums who love a little music and a lot of fun, this river cruise is sure to make for a memorable and special day out.

    Location: Boarding point is under the Millenium Footbridge in front of the Lowry Outlet Mall, The Quays, Salford
    Opening times: Event times vary, check availability online
    Cost: From £30 per person

  17. Unleash mum’s creative side at The Bowery in Leeds

  18. If you're looking for a relaxed and creative way to spend Mother’s Day, head to The Bowery in Leeds: a vibrant and welcoming artistic space that offers a variety of fun and unique workshops. Whether you're interested in learning the art of coffee making or getting creative at a BYOB Drink and Draw event, there’s something for everyone.

    The workshops are designed to be enjoyable and stress-free, allowing you to tap into your artistic side in a laid-back setting. No prior experience is needed, so you can simply let your imagination flow! Plus, with the BYOB option, you can bring along your favourite drink to sip as you create. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a beginner, The Bowery is an ideal spot to spend quality time together.

    Location: 54 Otley Road, Headingley, Leeds, LS6 2AL
    Opening times: Open daily: 9am-5pm
    Cost: From £25 per person

  19. Star-gaze in Durham at Grassholme Observatory

  20. If you're looking for something truly special to do this Mother's Day, Durham is the destination for a one-of-a-kind experience.

    Head to Grassholme Observatory in the stunning Durham countryside, where you can enjoy breathtaking views over Grassholme Reservoir and, under truly dark skies, gaze at the stars. You’ll embark on an astronomical journey, using high-tech equipment to explore the wonders of planets, stars, galaxies and beyond. This unique visitor experience is educational and aweinspiring, offering an unforgettable way to connect with the cosmos while surrounded by the serene beauty of the North East. It’s the perfect outing for any mum fascinated by the mysteries of the universe!

    Location: Grassholme Reservoir, Mickleton, DL12 0PW
    Opening times: Open daily: times vary by event (stargazing between 8-11pm)
    Cost: £24 per person

With so many things to do for Mother’s Day across our network, you will be spoilt for choice when deciding what to do this year! Book your train now to any of our destinations to avoid disappointment.

For more inspiration on where to go and activities for Mother’s Day, check out our guides on the top brunch spots in York or our top independent florists across the North.

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