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October half-term events and activities

Family enjoying a walk through the Acer Glade during autumn
Enjoy autumn colour together this autumn, Bodnant Garden, Conwy | © National Trust/Paul Harris

There are lots of family-friendly things to do at the places we care for this October half term. Follow a Halloween trail or discover a historical story, you'll find activities near you to suit the whole family.

October 2026 half-term events

There are plenty of things to keep the family busy this October half term. Pull on your wellies for a stomp around the Scarecrow Trail at Arlington Court in Devon, discover Diwali celebrations at Stowe in Buckinghamshire or uncover Welsh myths and mysteries at Dinefwr in Carmarthenshire. Brush up on your broomstick skills with a race at Stourhead in Wiltshire or take on a codebreaker challenge at Beningborough near York. 

You could also go on a family-friendly walk or get creative at a craft session. On rainy days, why not soak up indoor exhibitions showcasing unique treasures and art?

Find out what's on near you this half term.

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Halloween events and activities 

Find a spooky day out with our Halloween events, including pumpkin carving, spine-chilling storytelling and haunted trails.

children exploring the carved pumpkins on Halloween at Northumberland's Seaton Delaval Hall

Stranger Folk app: a family adventure game 

Download our Stranger Folk app and embark on an adventure inspired by British folklore. Conjure up old magic while playing the game and meet strange creatures at some of the historic houses in our care.

Stranger Folk App home screen

Carve a pumpkin lantern 

Learn how to make a pumpkin lantern this Halloween and find tips for recycling it afterwards. You can also find ideas for using natural materials as an alternative to plastic decorations.

Carved pumpkin display for Halloween at Wicken Fen Nature Reserve, Cambridgeshire

Family-friendly walks 

Take a family-friendly walk along these trails suitable for pushchairs and children. On the way, you can go wild in natural play areas and compete in woodland den building.

Family walking through fallen leaves on autumnal day