Best places to stay for October half-term
Missed out on your first-choice summer spot? October half-term is your second chance
Posted on 04-09-25, updated on 05-09-25By: Lauren M. | 5 minute read
Crunching leaves, big laughs and cosy layers! October half-term fun is all about the simple moments that make the season magical.
Missed out on your first-choice summer spot? October half-term is the perfect chance to try again, without the crowds or the heat. We’ve pulled together a bite-sized guide to the best regions for an autumn break. We've crunched our numbers and these are the spots where you're most likely to secure the kind fo holiday you've been dreaming of. Packed with Halloween activities, off-peak adventures, and weather-proof activities, from seal spotting to last-chance boat trips, and pumpkin fun in every region, these under-the-radar gems give you the best shot at booking the break you really want.
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September and October savings at Whitemead Forest Park!
Tucked into the Forest of Dean’s rolling hills, Whitemead Forest Park offers a magical mix of woodland calm and heart‑pounding fun. Whether you're after zorbing, archery or spa time in the indoor pool, there's something for every mood. It's the perfect relax, laugh, play, or explore this autumn.
Looking out from Lincoln Castle, the Cathedral rises above the city and is one of England’s most breathtaking skyline views.
October half-term in Lincolnshire
October half-term in Lincolnshire is all about big skies, spooky sights and hands-on family fun. From castle trails and seal spotting to pumpkin crafts and cosy cinemas, there's loads to keep everyone busy, rain or shine. Whether you're out on the coast or exploring inland, it's a brilliant blend of fresh air, creativity and offbeat charm. Make sure to take a trip to Skegness, and discover why it ranked 1st on our list of The UK's Best Seaside Towns!
Spooky days out and creative fun in Lincolnshire
Lincoln Castle: Explore the Medieval Wall Walk, join in with creepy storytelling in the Victorian prison and follow the spooky activity trail.
Lincoln Cathedral: Free drop-in crafts in the Learning Centre, with a new theme each day—great for younger kids.
National Trust sites: Belton House has den-building and nature trails; Gunby Hall features a Halloween dress-up trail; Tattershall Castle hosts autumn crafts in a dramatic setting.
The BIG Lincoln Family Event: Free to enter with lots of hands-on fun—an easy win if you’re in the area.
Nature and wildlife escapes
Donna Nook Nature Reserve: See grey seals come ashore in one of the UK’s best wildlife spectacles.
Natureland Seal Sanctuary, Skegness: Indoor and outdoor animal fun with talks, feeding and exotic species.
Rand Farm Park: Tractor rides, soft play, and hands-on animal encounters,
Indoor fun and offbeat gems
Kinema in the Woods: Catch a film with live organ music in one of the UK's quirkiest cinemas.
Louth Museum: Packed with local legends and curious treasures.
Pumpkin fun
Pumpkin Bumpkins: Free entry, and enjoy crepes and wood-fired pizza, and a family-friendly vibe.
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Camper UK Leisure Park: Enjoy scenic lakeside walks, fishing, stargazing and dog-friendly stays in peaceful surroundings.
Top seasonal pick
Rand Farm Park: A solid all-rounder. Animals, indoor play and seasonal fun make this a great bet for families.
A marsh harrier glides low over the reeds at RSPB Titchwell. It's one of Norfolk’s best spots for peaceful wildlife watching.
October half-term in Norfolk
Norfolk comes into its own at October half term with crisp walks, glowing lantern trails and plenty to keep the kids busy. From spooky woodland adventures and pumpkin houses to seaside wildlife and crafty indoor days, it’s a brilliant spot for families after something fun, affordable and full of autumn magic. Needing more inspiration? Read our favourite things to do in Norfolk.
Spooky days out and creative fun
BeWILDerwood’s Lantern Parade: Lantern-lit treehouses, slides and forest storytelling—magical after dark.
Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse: Animals, hands-on history and seasonal stories in a gorgeous rural setting.
Monster Club, Norfolk Showground: High-energy Halloween party fun—great for older kids.
Nature and wildlife escapes
Holkham National Nature Reserve: Big skies, golden dunes and family-friendly trails.
Titchwell Marsh: Great for young birdwatchers and low-key nature spotting.
Museum of the Broads: Steam launches and waterways history—last chance to visit before the season ends.
Indoor fun and offbeat gems
Norwich Puppet Theatre: Creative workshops and shows in a medieval church.
Norwich Castle: Royal rooms, dungeon tours and interactive exhibits after a big refurbishment.
Pumpkin fun
The Pumpkin House, Thursford: A wooden house made of 1,000+ pumpkins, themed maze, café, and free entry.
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Anchor Park: Peaceful family park under sand dunes, with direct beach access, panoramic sea views and access to the Broads.
Top seasonal pick
BeWILDerwood’s Lantern Parade: A truly unique Halloween experience that little ones won’t forget.
Winding paths, hidden sculptures and a touch of mystery to the Lost Gardens of Heligan.
October half-term in Cornwall
Cornwall is full of autumn charm come October half term, think spooky steam trains, magical gardens and windswept beach walks. With indoor attractions, Halloween events and seasonal adventures from coast to countryside, it’s the perfect place to mix cosy downtime with proper family fun. Wrap up warm if you're planning to enjoy the region's golden beaches!
Spooky days out and creative fun
Halloweden at the Eden Project: Potion making, wand crafting, storytelling—and the ice rink returns.
Camp Cornwall at Paradise Park: Halloween-themed puzzle quests for kids 8–14.
Bodmin Steam Railway’s Wizard Day: Travel in costume and join in magical games and trails.
Lost Gardens of Heligan: Corn dolly crafts, Halloween trails and autumn celebration.
Royal Cornwall Museum, Truro: Indoor crafts, dress-up, and theatre for rainy days.
Nature and wildlife escapes
Hidden Valley Discovery Park: Mazes, treasure hunts and a mysterious Victorian-style mansion.
Gwithian Towans: A peaceful, three-mile beach perfect for walks and wildlife.
National Maritime Museum, Falmouth: Indoor exhibitions on boats, the sea and Cornish life.
Indoor fun and offbeat gems
Rainy day classics include the Maritime Museum and Truro’s family-friendly galleries.
Pumpkin fun
Trevaskis Farm: Pick your pumpkin, then cosy up with cake or a hot lunch in the farm café.
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Notter Bridge Holiday Park: A riverside hideaway tucked in woodland with hot tubs, glamping pods, wildlife trails, and kayaking on the river.
Top seasonal pick
Halloweden at the Eden Project: Packed with activities and indoor cover if the weather turns.
A flurry of feathers at feeding time. Abbotsbury Swannery’s resident flock putting on a show in the heart of Dorset.
October half-term in Devon and Dorset
Devon and Dorset serve up the best of both worlds this October half term, wild coastal walks and plenty of all-weather attractions. From Halloween festivals at theme parks to hands-on farm fun and peaceful nature trails, there’s loads to keep families entertained come rain or shine. Four-legged friends will jump at the chance to explore Devon's many dog-friendly beaches. Make sure to stop for a hot coffee afterwards to warm up!
Spooky days out and creative fun
Crealy Theme Park: Rides, soft play, zoo and live shows, rain or shine.
Woodlands Theme Park: Halloween "Halloscream Week", indoor and outdoor fun.
Pennywell Farm: Farm animals, daily shows, and October festivities with music and marshmallows.
Seasonal extras: Trails and Halloween fun at Babbacombe Model Village and Kents Cavern.
Nature and wildlife escapes
Abbotsbury Swannery: A tranquil walk among hundreds of elegant swans.
Indoor fun and offbeat gems
The Tank Museum: Tanks, soft play and movie-themed exhibits.
Pumpkin fun
Pennywell Farm: Combines classic farm fun with seasonal sparkle and is great for under 10s.
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Wood Farm: Set in the Char Valley, enjoy lakeside walks, heated indoor pool, play area and pet-friendly stays with laid‑back charm.
Top seasonal pick
Woodlands Family Theme Park: Home to rides, indoor zones, a zoo farm and Halloscream Week. Great for mixed-age groups and perfect if the weather’s hit and miss.
Step into legend at Mother Shipton’s Cave where folklore, forest trails and a touch of magic make for a truly enchanting family day out.
October half-term in Yorkshire
Yorkshire does autumn properly with its bold landscapes, brilliant attractions and just the right amount of spooky. This October half term, families can dive into hands-on history, get lost in pumpkin patches, or explore eerie abbeys and enchanted trails. With cosy cafés, creature encounters and indoor escapes, it’s built for half-term adventure, whatever the skies are doing. On rainy days, why not don your waterproofs and head to some of Yorkshire's best waterfalls?
Spooky days out and creative fun
Spilmans Farm: Huge patch, live shows, twilight picking and fire-lit magic.
Farmer Copley’s: Hundreds of pumpkins, archery, rides and dog parades.
Humble Bee Farm: A gentle, low-key option for younger kids.
Whitby Abbey Illuminations: Dramatic Gothic storytelling under the stars.
Forbidden Corner: Puzzle paths and surprises around every corner.
Mother Shipton’s: Interactive stories and gentle Halloween fun.
Nature and wildlife escapes
Bolton Abbey Pumpkin Trail: Pushchair-friendly woodland walk with autumn colour and quiz stations.
Indoor fun and offbeat gems
PGL Halloween Camps: Trick-or-treat trails, discos and crafty challenges.
Eureka! Museum, Halifax: Interactive, educational fun.
Cannon Hall Farm: Soft play, reptiles, animals and more.
Yorkshire Museum of Farming: Viking villages and hands-on history.
Pumpkin fun
Spilmans Farm: A massive patch with 125,000 pumpkins, live shows and a fire-lit fairy-tale vibe.
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Home Farm: Scandi‑style lodges on a working farm, overlooking peaceful river meadows with fishing nearby and countryside charm.
Top seasonal pick
Farmer Copley’s: Packed with variety and atmosphere, perfect for a full family day out.
Golden leaves, wellies on, and off they go! October half-term was made for moments like this.
Pack your bags with plenty of warm layers
Whatever your idea of the perfect October half-term is pumpkin patches, crisp coast walks or spooky trails, there’s something out there to match. With fewer crowds, plenty of seasonal events and breaks to suit all budgets, it’s the ideal time to squeeze in some quality family time before the year’s end. Warm your toes in our hot tub lodges, and make the most of being together with a dog-friendly stay. Wrap up warm, pack the snacks, and make some autumn memories while you can this October half-term.
Inspiration for your next break
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