Half term lands on 26 October this year, and if you're already staring down a week of "I'm bored" before it's even started, you're not alone. Whether you've got big plans or none at all yet, here's a guide to help fill the days — rain or shine.
For a sunny day (yes, it still happens in October!)
Autumn sunshine can be surprisingly bright, and a clear October day is often perfect for getting outdoors without the summer crowds.
• Local parks and nature reserves — autumn colour makes for a genuinely different experience than a summer visit, and most are free.
• Farm visits and pumpkin patches — a half-term classic for a reason, and many run right through to Halloween.
• Bike rides or scooter trails — cooler weather often makes for more comfortable, less sweaty outdoor activity than peak summer.
• A coastal walk — if you're near the coast, autumn beaches are quieter, and a bracing walk followed by a warm drink is hard to beat.
For a rainy day
Because let's be honest, this is the UK in late October.
• Local museums and galleries — many run half-term activity trails or kids' workshops specifically for the break.
• Soft play or indoor activity centres — a reliable way to burn energy when the weather won't cooperate.
• Baking or craft afternoons — Halloween-themed baking is an easy win if you're looking for something low-cost and low-effort to plan.
• Cinema trips — half term usually brings a good run of family-friendly releases.
Free and low-cost ideas
• Library half-term events — story times, craft sessions, and reading challenges are often free and easy to drop into.
• Local council or community centre listings — many areas run half-term programmes that don't make it onto the bigger events sites.
• A simple scavenger hunt in the garden or local park — collecting autumn leaves, conkers, or pinecones costs nothing and keeps younger children entertained for longer than you'd expect.
One thing worth packing either way
Whatever the week holds, it's worth keeping a Solar Buddies applicator in the bag. Autumn sun can catch you out on a bright day, and with a refillable, mess-free applicator, it's one less thing to think about while you're out the door with coats, snacks, and whatever else half term demands.
However you spend it, we hope it's a good one.