October Half-Term Activities in Yorkshire 2025

October Half-Term Activities in Yorkshire 2025

As another half-term fast approaches, parents begin frantically assembling a packed schedule to ensure the kids remain entertained for the week. Fortunately, we’ve compiled a wide list of fantastic October half-term activities in Yorkshire your little ones will love.

Instead of dreading a half-term locked indoors, take the family out and explore all of these exciting places hosting the best things to do in Yorkshire.

Hallowscream at York Maze – Selected dates from 10th October – 1st November

Winner of best scream park UK, Hallowscream is back this October, with five truly terrifying scare houses to explore, plus live entertainment, a bar and plenty of foodie options.

There’s over one hundred scare actors throughout the site, both in the scare houses and ready to give you the fright of your life!

Refuel at Fodder Barn with streetfood – dirty fries, fresh pizzas and moreish churros. This spot has to be one of the best activities this October half term.

Get your tickets here ( if you dare).

Where? York Maze, York YO19 5LT

Castle Courtyard food market at Ripley Castle – 26th October

Back to Ripley Castle this October is their monthly courtyard food market. Organised by Real Markets, this is an independent market focused on celebrating independent, local suppliers.

Sample delicious food, homemade bakes and barista made coffee, surrounded by the beautiful Ripley Castle.

You can even enjoy free entry to Ripley Castle and its surrounding grounds – so you can make a whole day of it this October half term.

Where? Ripley, Harrogate HG3 3AY

Woodland School at Swinton Estate – 31st October

Ran by Sophie Wilkinson from Yorkshire Forest Folk, woodland school is all about exploring the great outdoors. Perfect for the little ones this October half term, get outdoors and stuck into this interactive workshop.

They’ll learn through play and explore the stunning woodland and grounds of Swinton Estate – there’s a morning and afternoon session to choose from.

Parents can unwind in the Bistro too, enjoying a few hours of quiet.

Where? Swinton Park Hotel, Ripon HG4 4JH

Spooky Scarecrow Mystery at Harewood House – 25th October – 2nd November

For ages 7+, Harewood House is putting on an exciting spooky adventure, perfect for the kids to get involved with this October half term.

Follow the clues to solve the puzzles hidden at each scarecrow, and uncover the culprit behind the haunting spell. You’ll even win a prize if you manage to crack the code!

Where? Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LG

Pumpkin Trail at Bolton Abbey – 25th October – 2nd November

Taking place in Strid wood, Bolton Abbey is hosting the perfect family-friendly trial this October half term. Get wrapped up and enjoy the crisp autumn air, as the young ones have fun spotting the giant pumpkins on your way!

They’ll need to follow the clues, using the trial map collecting upon parking.

Where? Abbey Village Car Park, Bolton Abbey Bolton, B6160, Skipton BD23 6EX

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Halloween trail at Burton Agnes – 25th October – 2nd November

Visit Burton Agnes for a playful hunt around the peaceful, but eerily atmospheric woodland.

If they’re looking to let off some steam, make your way to the the spine-tingling woodland adventure playground. There’s nine swings, a  tower with corkscrew slide and double zip wire.

Where? Burton Agnes, Driffield, East Yorkshire, YO25 4NB

Wizarding afternoon tea at The Grand York – Throughout October

For fans of the wizarding world, this is a foodie experience not to miss. Spend the morning exploring York’s iconic Shambles, and the breathtaking Minster, before walking up the cobbled streets to The Grand.

As York’s only five-star hotel, The Grand is putting on a spellbinding afternoon tea, with delectable warmed scones and themed treats.

Expect to be mixing up a potion or two, this is one of our favourite half-term activities. Save with our exclusive voucher.

Where? Station Rise, York YO1 6GD

The great Yorkshire pumpkin patch at Monk Park Farm – October weekends

Pumpkin picking at Monk Park Farm has it all. A large patch so you can pick your favourite pumpkin, plenty of autumnal treats to indulge in, and even a carving station – so no more mess at home!

There’s autumnal displays and carnival games too, so you can make an afternoon or even a day of it. You’ll soon be feeling ready for the cosy season.

Where? Green Ln, Thirsk YO7 2AG

Illuminations at Whitby Abbey – 24th October – 1st November

Whitby Abbey is once again becoming illuminated this autumn, with dramatic lights showcasing the ruins in all their glory. Take a walk to Whitby Abbey once dusk has fallen, to see this spectacle for yourself.

Where? Abbey Ln, Whitby YO22 4JT

But don’t wait for half-term activities to have fun, check out our things to do in October to ensure you don’t miss a thing! 

Things to do in Yorkshire this weekend