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October half-term events and activities

Family playing with autumn leaves in the garden at Osterley Park, London, with the house in the background
Playing with autumn leaves in the garden at Osterley Park, London | © National Trust Images/Arnhel de Serra

There are lots of family-friendly things to do at the places we care for this October half term. From following a Halloween trail to discovering historical stories, find activities near you that'll suit the whole family.

October 2025 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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Family-friendly places to visit 

Looking for a family day out that'll keep everyone entertained? Find things to do with the kids at the places we care for near you.

Visitors exploring the garden at Wentworth Castle, South Yorkshire

‘50 things to do before you're 11¾’ 

Plan fresh-air activities, discover facts about nature and wildlife or learn a new skill with our suggestions for ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’.

A boy playing in a tree at Nunnington Hall, North Yorkshire

Halloween events and activities 

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

A mother and child in a spooky spider tunnel at Dyffryn Gardens, Glamorgan

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