10 places to visit this October Half Term

October half term will soon be here - if you are looking for inspiration on what to do to keep the kids entertained then fear not. We have pulled together 10 places that would make the perfect family day out this October Half Term. For more ideas and inspiration head over to our page here.

Super Natural October Half Term 
WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre,

Swap the spooky for a SUPER Natural family-friendly Halloween adventure this October half-term as you embark on a magical day out at WWT Martin Mere. For one week only, discover a world of natural wonder and mystery this autumn. Perfect for younger children, this magical experience offers a scare-free day out in nature. Explore the magical superpowers and folklore of the wetlands. With charming wildlife, seasonal creativity and plenty of outdoor fun and surprises, it's an awesome experience that will leave nature lovers spellbound. 

October Half Term Arts and Crafts Clubs 
Brockholes Nature Reserve 

Head over to Brockholes this October for a full week of exciting activities designed for the whole family to get creative and learn new skills. Each day will feature a FREE upcycled crafting session inspired by the season. Head down this half term for the opportunity to make some spooky paper plate creations. Will you make a pumpkin, a ghost or a scary monster?

Leave your creation in the safe hands of the lovely Welcome Centre volunteers to dry as you embark on an adventure around the reserve, why not try the Xplorer Challenge nature trail to add a little extra excitement to your walk!

Lightpool Festival 
Blackpool, Lancashire

Blackpool’s renowned and award-winning Lightpool Festival is making a highly anticipated return this October half-term. Once again there will be a truly extraordinary array of free entertainment that promises to delight attendees of all ages. The exciting programme, which will run from 21 to 31 October, features a spectacular mix of stunning light installations, captivating live performances, and mesmerising 3D projection shows. This vibrant festival, which is completely free to access across a range of both indoor and outdoor venues.

Hoghton Tower School of Witchcraft & WIzardry 
Hoghton Tower 

A spellbinding session full of mystery, magic and mischief awaits you this half term at Hoghton Tower. For hundreds of years, Hoghton Tower School of Witchcraft and Wizardry has been training some of the greatest Witches and Wizards in Lancashire. Now, a new trouble is brewing within the walls of Hoghton Tower. Teachers talk about a monster lurking through the corridors and students are determined to reveal the truth! Join in this story led event, where pupils will have their imaginations ignited, taking part in magical lessons including; divination, herbology, spell casting and potion making!

Spin to reveal your fate at The Hole in Wand Blackpool
Hole in Wand Blackpool 

Step into The Hole In Wand Blackpool for a Halloween adventure filled with mystery, magic and mischievous surprises. But this year, your fate isn't entirely in your hands.  Spin the wheel and discover your fate. As you take on the magical wizard golf course, you'll encounter a special Halloween challenge.  Give the wheel a spin and discover what fate has in store for you.

Perfect for families, friends, groups and Halloween fans, this Halloween experience is a fun and mysterious way to celebrate the season without the scares

Creepy before Christmas 
Affinity Lancashire 

Join in the free Halloween fun this October Half Term at Affinity Lancashire.Meet the Creepy before Christmas Crew (Jack Skellington, Sally and Oogie Boogie), get stuck into Oogie’s Glitter Goo Lab and join his Silent Halloween Bash! You can also meet the Hocus Pocus sisters and follow the Sanderson Sisters’ Spellbound Search… if you dare!

And for all the Wednesday fans, there’s a lesson waiting for you at the Nevermore School of Spells and Secrets, followed by the chance to meet Wednesday, Morticia and Thing from the PECULIAR Gothic Family! It’s going to be a spook-tacular week of FREE family fun — don't miss out. 

Pumpkin Picking
Mrs Dowsons Farm, Blackburn, Lancashire

There's something extra special about autumn at Mrs Dowsons Farm Park. As the leaves turn golden and the pumpkins ripen, it's the perfect time to gather family and friends and create some unforgettable memories this half term.

With thousands of pumpkins growing across the field, including over 12 unique and unusual varieties to discover. But that's not all, there's plenty happening across the farm, including carnival games, the much-loved animals and indoor and outdoor play areas.

Can't make it to Mrs Dowson's – check out some of the other places to go pumpkin picking in our blog here 

Spooks at Thornton Hall Farm
Thornton Hall Country Park

Spooks is back for 2026 and it's set to be more boo-tastic than ever. This year, the terror is turned up (just the right amount for kids) with the spookier-than-ever Trick or Treat Town, plus a brand new witchful musical. Step into Trick or Treat Town, where its mischievous residents spend all year preparing for Halloween night.  Explore the town, meet the ghouls and help ahead for their night of tricks, pranks and mischief. Last year was a total sell-out, so don’t miss out, book your tickets now.

Trick or Treat Trail at Ribby Hall Village 
Ribby Hall Holiday Village, Wrea Green, Lancashire

A frightfully fun time for the whole family awaits as you venture into the enchanted woodland for a magical Halloween experience, filled with spooky surprises around every corner. Meet spooktacular Halloween characters, collect sweet treats, complete your Halloween passport and enjoy fantastic photo opportunities along the way.

The Evolution of Magic 
Pleasure Beach Resort, Blackpool, Lancashire

The Evolution of Magic is one of Blackpool’s most popular live magic shows and is the perfect option for a family day out this half term. This fast-paced, immersive live experience stars magicians Craig Christian and Elizabeth, a two-time Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist, who combine illusion, mind reading, visual magic, and powerful storytelling.

Performed in an intimate setting right at the entrance of the Pleasure Beach Resort, audiences are seated close to the action — making every moment feel personal, surprising and unforgettable.