As the leaves turn golden with Halloween well on its way, October half-term offers the perfect opportunity for families to come together and welcome the magic that autumn brings. This year, why not embark on a thrilling adventure filled with spooky castles, enchanting activities, and unforgettable memories? Whether you're a family with young children, teenagers, or seeking inclusive fun for all, there's something for everyone.
Dive into the excitement of haunted castles, crafting sessions, or simply a walk through the autumnal woods, we’ve gathered something magical for every family. So, wrap up warm, embrace the spirit of the season, and discover what’s happening in Kent this half-term
Spooky Safari at Port Lympne
This October, Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve is brewing up some spine-tingling fun with their Spooktacular Half-Term offer! From October 19th to November 3rd, little ghouls and goblins can creep through the reserve and embark on a frightfully good animal encounter or ranger safari, all just £10 each for half term only when booked online. Venture through the park’s hauntingly beautiful Kentish savannah, where you’ll come face-to-face with majestic giraffes, zebras, and camels. For those who dare, there are eerie encounters with wolves, lions, and tigers, and a chance to feed baboons and bison. Kids can also undertake a chillingly exciting Ranger Tour, usually £35, for just £10! With spooky snacks, and eerie overnight stays in unique lodges, Port Lympne promises a Halloween adventure that’s more treat than trick!
Halloween at Hever Castle
Get ready for a spine-tingling adventure at Hever Castle's Halloween Half Term Fun when the castle grounds will be alive with eerie excitement, perfect for the whole family. Enjoy a pumpkin-themed trail that will lead you through spooky surprises, gather around for chilling Halloween stories, and get crafty with some ghoulishly fun Halloween-themed activities. Transform into your favourite spooky character with face painting! All these activities are included with your admission, making it a magical day out for your little ghosts and goblins. So, dust off your costumes, pack up your cauldrons, and head over for a bewitching day out!
Halloween, the perfect time to Go Ape
Looking for something action-packed, and adventurous this autumn? Families can join Go Ape in the forest after dark and experience one of their popular Sundown Adventures. Teenagers and older children will particularly relish these adventurous pursuits, making it a perfect option for those seeking extra excitement this October half-term.
These thrilling nights at height are available at both Go Ape Leeds Castle, Maidstone, and Go Ape Bedgebury, near Goudhurst. Find your nearest location to Go Ape for an exhilarating adventure amidst the twilight.
Looking for some action-packed fun to entertain the older ones? Enjoy a day out in Leeds Castle and Bedgebury Forest, Kent and SAVE 15% off Treetop Challenge with their FAMILY15 offer. Enjoy a series of tricky obstacles, free-fall Tarzan Swings and super-fast ziplines.
Howletts' Halloween Adventure
This October half term, Howletts Wild Animal Park is offering a fantastic deal where kids go FREE from 19th October to 3rd November 2024. With over 390 rare and endangered animals, including the largest herd of African elephants in the UK, the park promises an exciting day out for the whole family. Enjoy a spooky Halloween-themed adventure with a pumpkin trail, close encounters with creepy crawlies and reptile with our visiting expert, plus daily ranger talks and play areas for kids. Warm up with autumn treats like pumpkin lattes, and if you're looking for something extra special, book an unforgettable animal encounter, starting at just £15!
Halloween in Canterbury
Take a stroll through Westgate Gardens with a hot chocolate in hand and experience the stunning scenery that autumn brings. The vibrant foliage and serene atmosphere make it the perfect spot to enjoy the changing season. Or, book a guided tour around the streets with the Canterbury Ghost Tour for an even spookier experience
Celebrate Halloween in Canterbury with "Spooky Saturday 2024." This event promises fun and frights for both grown-ups and kids, making it an unmissable part of your October half-term plans. Enjoy themed activities, eerie entertainment, and festive fun in the heart of this historic city.
Explore Gravesend
Gravesend Borough Market is a must-visit destination this October, offering a vibrant mix of autumnal delights and community events. Nestled in the heart of Gravesend, the market features an array of stalls selling fresh local produce, unique crafts, and seasonal treats. For spooky fans, Future Survival will be throwing a Spooktacular Halloween Party on 29th and 31st October, with thrilling games, laser tag and costumes. While Badgells Wood is the perfect spot for little ghosts, with a spooky film screening, fancy dress and plenty of Halloween activities. Or how about taking on Trosley Country Park's Terrible Spooky Trail for even more devilishly delightful fun.
Yuck Yard at The Historic Dockyard Chatham
The Historic Dockyard Chatham will be sharing the more revolting tales in naval history this half term, so prepare to dive into a gruesome adventure. From a live action telling of Battle of the Bilge which follows gruesome characters as they compete for the Yuck Cup, to the Ratcatcher's Trail and the Gallery of Goo, we can guarantee this will be a sure favourite this half term!
Leeds Castle awaits!
Nothing says Halloween like a visit to a spooky castle! Leeds Castle is inviting brave families to experience a taste of the supernatural this October. Explore its dimly lit corridors, hear spine-chilling tales of ghostly apparitions, and perhaps even cross paths with a phantom knight or two.
Set within 500 acres of picturesque grounds, this magnificent Norman castle is one of Britain’s most cherished historic landmarks. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of attractions, including Adventure Golf, Go Ape, and the Knight’s Stronghold Playground. The castle also boasts falconry displays, stunning gardens, a challenging maze, and a charming grotto. With so much to see and do, Leeds Castle offers an enchanting blend of history and adventure for the whole family.
Trails and treats with the National Trust
Get creative at Canterbury Cathedral
Unleash your creativity with a brick building adventure at Canterbury Cathedral. Bricks McGee will be hosting hands-on model building workshops with LEGO, all while offering a little hidden history along the way. Recreate the Bayeux Tapestry, construct local landmarks and bring Tudor England to life. What's more, with kids under 17 entering the Cathedral with an adult, the team will even be offering free family tours this half term, telling tales of Becket, the Black Prince, Monks and Miracles.
The Great Plague at Penshurst Place
Things taking a turn for the spooky at Penshurst Place. Embarrassed by his lack of invitation to the Princess’ christening, the wizard in the village has cast a curse on the residents to infect them with the Plague! Join Penshurst as they tell all with storytelling sessions and get involved to help heal the village from this dreadful disease! In the Gardens and Grounds learn more about the Plague and how it swept medieval Europe in a fantastic code cracking trail, before heading to The Old Coach House for some fun Halloween crafts!
Explore Maidstone
For a memorable October half-term outing, Kent Life in Maidstone offers a perfect blend of autumnal charm and Halloween fun. Visitors can get up close with friendly farm animals, explore historic houses and buildings, and take part in special autumn-themed events. Discover the Magic of Autumn at Cobtree Manor Park. As October unfolds and autumn casts its golden hues over the landscape, Cobtree Manor Park transforms into a seasonal wonderland. This Half-term, Mote Park invites families to experience the colours of autumn in its award-winning 450-acre expanse in the heart of Maidstone. With its vast landscape, the park offers a wealth of activities for all ages, including scenic walks, cycling trails, and expansive children’s play areas. Don’t miss the 9-hole Dino Mini Golf and the opportunity to enjoy water sports at the park’s centre.
This October, Maidstone Museum offers a charming way for younger children to embrace the season with its engaging Halloween-themed activities. The museum's programme includes crafting witches’ hats, bats, and skeletons, providing a fun and creative way for kids to celebrate Halloween without the scares. In addition, a special SEN session ensures that all families can enjoy the festivities together. Beyond the seasonal crafts, children can explore the museum’s fascinating range of artefacts and historical treasures.
Devilishly good fun in at Fort Burgoyne
Fort Burgoyne in Dover will be getting fangtastic this half term. Explore parts of the fort and discover the creepier creatures and British wildlife on a self-led trail on 30th October.
Halloween drive-in at Betteshanger Park
Grab the popcorn as Betteshanger Park will be hosting drive-in cinema from 28 October - 3 November. With fun films for all ages, just take your pick from classics like The Addams Family and Nightmare Before Christmas, to Hocus Pocus 2 and Ghostbusters. Whichever you choose, you and your little film fans will love this week of terrifyingly good movies.
English Heritage
Things are getting creepy at Dover Castle this half term! Gather your little monsters for a ghoulishly good day out and follow the quest to solve creepy clues and listen to spooky stories. While Walmer Castle will be hosting woodland walks which will reveal family-friendly ghost stories of spooky goings on that are sure to get everyone in the spirit of the season! For more fearsome tales, Deal Castle is the place to go with ghost telling trails for 16s and over! Be guided on a journey of supernatural sightings and horrors from history.
The Battle of Britain Memorial
When it comes to keeping the little historians entertained during half term, the Battle of Britain Memorial at Capel-le-Ferne provides an ideal blend of hands-on activities, space to explore and fun facts to learn. Outside, there is plenty to see, including replica Spitfire and Hurricane fighters and the National Memorial to the Few, while The Wing houses The Scramble Experience, the only paid-for attraction at the Memorial and home to a wealth of hands-on fun, video and audio footage of ‘the Few’, and a unique film about the Battle of Britain.
Reuthe's
Reuthe's is famous for Halloween and this year their Spooktacular Halloween Trail is bigger than ever! Explore two new routes with lots of new props to find along the way. From the unique electric chair to the gruesome chop shop, you'll find plenty of photo ops for those ghoulish shots for the gram. The treat trail is perfect for younger children, while the trick trail is designed to spook even the bravest children! Choose your path as you complete a Halloween Trail like no other.
Escape to Charm with Keeper’s Cottages
October half-term activities aren't just about the chills and thrills, discover the perfect blend of comfort and seasonal charm with Keeper’s Cottages. Their delightful range of properties offers a cosy retreat from the autumn chill and thrilling festivities.
- Noggin: Situated seconds from the beach and high street, this charming cottage sleeps six and features beautiful decor throughout. It’s also pet-friendly, making it ideal for a family getaway.
View Noggin here
- Flint House: Located in Kingsdown, this seaside retreat sleeps five and offers stunning sea views. Enjoy the convenience of being right on the beach and the warmth of a pet-friendly environment.
View Flint House here
- Peace Cottage: Nestled in Whitstable, this coastal gem sleeps six and provides breathtaking sea views. With its coastal charm and pet-friendly policy, it’s perfect for a relaxing family break.
View Peace Cottage here
- The Old Barn: Found in Sandwich, this beautifully designed property sleeps four and is ideal for golfers, featuring private parking and a pet-friendly atmosphere.
View The Old Barn here
Whether you're looking for a seaside escape or a cosy retreat, Keeper’s Cottages offer the perfect October half-term stay, combining comfort with a touch of seasonal magic.
Visit Thanet’s Museums
Thanet offers a variety of museums to explore this October, making it an ideal destination for a day out with the kids.
- Visit the Crab Museum for a satisfyingly baffling experience. With its quirky and offbeat exhibits, this attraction adds a unique touch to your Halloween-themed explorations into Margate.
Explore Crab Museum - Step into history with a guided tour of the Ramsgate Tunnels, historically significant and offering a spine-tingling glimpse into wartime secrets. The atmospheric tours are perfect for an autumnal day out.
Tour Ramsgate Tunnels - Get close to iconic Battle of Britain fighter planes at the Spitfire and Hurricane Museum in Manston. The autumnal skies and historical context make this a thrilling visit for aviation enthusiasts. Plus get hands on with the Spitfire Simulator and Lancaster Cockpit Simulator
Visit Spitfire and Hurricane Museum - Discover the history of Manston airfield through aircraft exhibits and historical displays. The RAF Manston History Museum offers an engaging way to connect with the past as the season turns.
Explore RAF Manston History Museum - Marvel at exhibits of African and Asian natural history and cultural objects within the stunning setting of Quex House and Gardens in Birchington. The autumn colours enhance the charm of this Grade II listed manor house.
Visit Powell-Cotton Museum Quex House and Gardens
Captivating days out
Thanet is brimming with captivating attractions this October, perfect for a day out with the kids.
- Embark on an underground adventure at the Margate Caves, where a subterranean curiosity awaits. As the days grow shorter and the nights cooler, the mysterious and historic caves offer a chilling yet fascinating exploration.
Visit Margate Caves - Uncover Kent’s greatest mystery at the Shell Grotto, a dazzling subterranean world adorned with 4.6 million shells. The grotto’s intricate patterns and eerie, otherworldly atmosphere make it a perfect spot for an autumnal adventure in Margate.
Explore Shell Grotto - Dive into a nostalgic and interactive experience at The WonderWorks, where classic toys like Hornby, Scalextric, Airfix, Corgi, and Pocher come to life. This hands-on museum offers a delightful escape into a world of fun and discovery, ideal for a family outing during the Halloween season.
Discover The WonderWorks - Jump Inc at Westwood Cross will feature indoor trampolines, inflatables, and a ninja park for all ages. It’s the perfect spot for high-energy fun and excitement as the Halloween season approaches.
Find Jump Inc
