October Half Term

Wondering what you can do to keep the kids entertained this October half-term? From Halloween fun to crafternoons, take your pick from Autumnal events taking place across the English Riviera, Devon.

Spooky Halloween activities in Torquay

Visitor attractions across Torbay go all out to put the treat into Halloween. You’ll find ghoulish trails at Cockington Court, Babbacombe Model Village, Torre Abbey, and Occombe Farm. Find out more about some scary wild creatures at Living Coasts in Torquay and Paignton Zoo. Or the kids can dance the night away at the Halloween party and disco at The Riviera Centre in Torquay. 

For older children and adults who like to get into the Halloween spirit, book yourself on the Halloween Ghost Tour at Kents Cavern, Torquay. Beware though. It comes with a minimum age guide of 8 years old because you never know what is going to appear in the dimly lit caves! For those who prefer a bit more fun and bit less fiendishness, there are also lots of other Halloween activities in the caves including a family-friendly joke trail.

Half-term activities to get the children outside

The National Trust organise extra October half-term activities for the children at Coleton Fishacre and Greenway. Themed around the season, enjoy special autumn-themed trails and ranger-led activities, such as bush craft, to help your child explore the nature around them.

Enjoy a crafternoon in Torquay

Keep little fingers busy with craft activities. You’ll find craft-making events taking place during the October half-term at venues like Occombe Farm, Torre Abbey, and Cockington Court. At the end of the day, you’ll also have something special to take home and remind you of the happy memories of your holiday.

What’s on indoors?

If you need to take shelter from the weather, why not book tickets to see a show at the Princess Theatre in Torquay? There’s a varied programme of music, theatrical performance, dance, and comedy throughout the year. Or spend a morning at Torquay Museum. You’ll find special events and activities, such as story-telling, organised during the half-term break.

Exploring the beaches of Torbay during October half-term

The unique microclimate means it’s usually warmer and brighter in Torbay than some other parts of the country. That means it can still sometimes be warm enough for an afternoon on the beach during the October half-term holidays. 

Even if it’s not the right weather for sandcastles and splashing in the waves, there are still things to do at the beach. Put on your wellies and join the Seashore Centre on a rock pool ramble. Meeting at Goodrington Sands, Paignton, you’ll be guided through the fascinating under water world of the rock pools. Expect to find out all about crabs, shells, starfish, prawns and sea anemones. 

For wildlife lovers who are keen to find out about more exotic species, head over to Paignton Zoo or Living Coasts in Torquay. They both offer a packed programme of October half-term events, including special talks and meet the animals sessions.

What's on in Torbay this October half term?

The list of what’s on in October half-term is constantly being updated. Check out our ideas below and come back to discover even more things to do during your holiday.