25 Unmissable Family Activities for October Half Term in Gloucestershire
Family Things to Do This October Half Term in Gloucestershire 2024
As the October Half Term approaches, families across Gloucestershire are looking for exciting, family-friendly activities to enjoy. From Halloween events to theatre performances and outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do across Gloucester, Cheltenham, The Cotswolds, Forest of Dean, and Tewkesbury.
Here are some of the top events and days out for families this October Half Term.
Families visiting Gloucester during the October Half Term can embark on the Mars Family Quest at Gloucester Cathedral. As part of the Mars art installation, this space-themed quest offers an engaging experience combining the wonders of space exploration with the rich history of the Cathedral. It’s a perfect blend of fun and learning, making it a must-do for families looking for educational adventures this Half Term.
Embark on the Mars Family Quest at Gloucester Cathedral for a space-themed adventure blending fun and learning this Half Term
Looking for a thrilling night out? Glow in the Park at 270 Climbing near Cheltenham is lighting up the season with nighttime climbing adventures. Families can navigate the ropes course with head torches under the glow of Halloween lights. It's an exciting event perfect for thrill-seekers of all ages. With themed snacks and drinks available, this is the perfect evening out for families, friends, or adventurous date nights.
Glow in the Dark - 270 Climbing offers thrilling nighttime adventures on a glowing ropes course for families
Over at Primrose Vale in Cheltenham, families can enjoy the Halloween Farm Trail, a family-friendly event filled with interactive activities. The trail is tailored for children of all ages, and families can also pick their own pumpkins across the road in the Pumpkin Patch. Pre-booking is essential to secure your spot for this popular Half Term adventure.
Enjoy the Halloween Farm Trail and Pumpkin Picking at Primrose Vale, a fun family event with interactive activities
For spooky fun in Gloucester, the Spookyard Halloween Festival at Over Farm offers a full day of pumpkin-themed activities, fancy dress competitions, and countryside adventures. Kids can enjoy the Monster Mash-Up dance, while the whole family can pick pumpkins and explore the PYO Pumpkin Patch. This family-friendly event is packed with Halloween-themed fun for all ages.
SPOOKYARD at Over Farm near Gloucester is a thrill for kids during October Half Term
Head to Sudeley Castle in Winchcombe for a magical Halloween experience! The Medieval Monster Trail leads families through the castle grounds where they can encounter mystical characters and join the Medieval Monsters Ball. This is a unique Halloween adventure that’s fun for all ages and included with your admission ticket.
Experience the Medieval Monster Trail at Sudeley Castle, a magical Halloween adventure with mystical characters and the Medieval Monsters Ball
Taking place from 26 October to 3 November, the inaugural Cirencester History Festival in the historic capital of the Cotswolds promises a week of family-friendly activities. With crafting, storytelling, Halloween-themed fun, and guided walks, families can explore the town’s rich history through interactive experiences.
At Painswick Rococo Garden in the Cotswolds, families can enjoy the Great Scarecrow Hunt. Explore the autumnal garden while spotting scarecrows hidden throughout the grounds. This event is perfect for a relaxing, family-friendly day out in beautiful surroundings. Afterward, enjoy seasonal treats at the on-site café.
At Painswick Rococo Garden in the Cotswolds, families can explore the autumn garden while enjoying the Great Scarecrow Hunt
For a truly unique experience, visit Clearwell Caves in the Forest of Dean for the Pumpkin Hunt. Families can search the mystical caverns for hidden pumpkins while enjoying spooky fun. The Lamproom Café offers refreshments, and for those seeking more adventure, deep-level caving events are also available during Half Term.
In Bourton-on-the-Water, Birdland Park and Gardens will host Trick or Tweet Week from 26 October to 3 November. This fun and educational adventure invites children to complete a bird-themed scavenger hunt for prizes. Visitors can also enjoy daily bird talks and see some of Birdland’s most fascinating residents, including king penguins, cassowaries, and hornbills.
Meet the Maribou Stork aka the 'Undertaker' bird and the Cassowary - the world's most deadliest bird alive today!
For an unforgettable Half Term adventure, visit Go Ape in the Forest of Dean for Sundown Adventures. This after-dark treetop experience adds a magical twist to an already thrilling high-ropes course, with ziplining and obstacles illuminated by the night sky. It's the perfect activity for families looking for outdoor excitement this Halloween.
For a thrilling Half Term, visit the Go Ape Sundown Adventure in the Forest of Dean. Experience ziplining and high-ropes under the night sky
New for 2024, Berkeley Castle will host a magical Dragons and Wizards event, where families can meet a smoke-breathing dragon and participate in wizardry classes in the castle’s Great Hall. This enchanting Halloween adventure is included with your admission ticket and promises to be a hit with children.
Berkeley Castle's Dragons and Wizards event lets families meet a dragon and attend wizardry classes
Date-specific events during October Half Term in Gloucestershire:
Date: Tuesday 29 October 2024
Join Mr. Bubbles with his extraordinary soap bubbles in all shapes and sizes! The Bubble Show is a unique blend of magic, storytelling, and bubble art, featuring bouncy bubbles, smoke bubbles, square bubbles, and even fire bubbles! The show is brought to life by the Highland Joker, a Guinness World Record holder and one of the top bubble artists in the world, making it an interactive and fun experience for the whole family.
Join Mr. Bubbles at The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, for magic, storytelling, and incredible bubble art, including fire bubbles!
Date: Wednesday 30 - Thursday 31 October 2024
Peppa Pig is back in her new live show, Fun Day Out! Families can join Peppa and her friends as they embark on exciting adventures to the zoo and the beach. The show is packed with songs, dances, and fun moments, including building sandcastles, feeding penguins, and even swimming in the sea. A fantastic theatre introduction for younger children, this show promises plenty of giggles and fun.
Peppa Pig's Fun Day out in Cheltenham!
Date: 1 November 2024 - shows at 2.30pm and 7.30pm
Swan Lake, the greatest romantic ballet, returns to the UK with Crown Ballet's production. Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece features some of the most famous ballet music ever composed, telling the compelling story of Odette and Odile, two women who resemble each other but are caught in a tragic romance. This live ballet performance is perfect for fans of classical music, enchanting both young and old with its mystery and beauty.
Experience the timeless beauty of Swan Lake at The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury - the matinee performace will be perfect for families.
Other Family-Friendly Places to Visit During October Half Term in Gloucestershire
15. Batsford Arboretum, Cotswolds
Take a family walk through the stunning autumn colours at Batsford Arboretum. More details.
16. Bibury Trout Farm, Cotswolds
Try your hand at catching your own trout in the picturesque setting of Bibury. More details.
17. Cotswold Country Park, Cotswolds
Enjoy a relaxing walk around the lakes at Cotswold Country Park. More details.
18. Cotswold Falconry Centre, Cotswolds
Enjoy bird of prey flying demonstrations in the grounds of Batsford Arboretum near Moreton-in-Marsh. More details.
19. Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection, Cotswolds
Take a journey through 20th-century motoring history, exploring rare vehicles and memorabilia, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past. More details.
20. Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens, Cotswolds
Get up close to rhinos, giraffes, and lions, and take the last ride of the year on Bella the Train this October Half Term. More details.
21. Dean Heritage Centre, Forest of Dean
Discover the history of the Forest of Dean through interactive exhibits and outdoor activities. More details.
22. Dick Whittington Play Barn, Forest of Dean
Let the kids burn off some energy at this family-friendly play centre. More details.
23. Holst Victorian House, Cheltenham
Experience life as it was during the Victorian era in this fascinating museum. More details.
24. Puzzlewood, Forest of Dean
Explore the enchanting woodland where films like Star Wars have been shot. More details.
25. Wye Valley Visitor Centre, Forest of Dean
Explore the Jubilee Maze, mini golf, and Butterfly Zoo at the visitor centre. More details.
Rana - the Aisiatic Lion at Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
For over 21 years, Explore Gloucestershire has been your go-to guide for discovering the best events, activities, and family-friendly days out across the county. We work daily to add new events and ensure everything is up to date, but please check with websites before planning your visit to the great places listed.
Explore Gloucestershire
5 October 2024
For further information.
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