October Half-Term Activities in Yorkshire 2026
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 that 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.
October Half-Term Activities in Yorkshire 2026
Pumpkin Trail at Bolton Abbey
Bolton Abbey’s popular Pumpkin Trail is returning this half-term, inviting us to follow giant pumpkins through Strid Wood and solve a mystery puzzle along the way.
The trail is free with estate parking, and runs daily from 9 am to 4 pm. Afterwards, stop by the Cavendish Pavilion for hot crumble, custard and hot chocolate at the new Crumble Corner, or head to The Devonshire Arms’ Brasserie, where children eat free with an adult main course from Monday 26th to Friday 30th October, before 6.30 pm.
Where? Bolton Abbey, Skipton BD23 6EX
When? 24th Oct – 1st Nov
Half term at Harewood House
Harewood is getting into the Halloween spirit this October half term, with a magical trail to follow, natural broomsticks to make and plenty of woodland adventures to discover.
Explore the 140-acre grounds, hunt for spooky-looking trees and let little ones loose in the Adventure Playscape. This October half-term, children can visit for free, making it an ideal family day out.
Where? Harewood House, Harewood, Leeds, LS17 9LQ
When? 24th Oct – 1st Nov
Yorkshire Sculpture Park
Little ones can let their imaginations run wild at Yorkshire Sculpture Park this October half term, with free, drop-in creative sessions in the Hidden Forest.
Aimed at under-fives, the outdoor activities include nature-inspired drawing, sculpture building and sensory play, all led by an artist educator. It’s a lovely mix of crafting and the great outdoors.
Where? West Bretton, Wakefield, WF4 4LG, in West Yorkshire, UK
When? 29th – 30th Oct
Explore some of our favourite walks in Yorkshire
From breezy coastal walks to dust off the cobwebs, or if you’re simply looking for a long walk with a promising pub lunch at the end of it, this half term is the perfect opportunity.
Have your wellies and coats to the ready this autumn, and check out our favourite walk in the Yorkshire region.
Where? Throughout Yorkshire
When? October half-term
Gimme Golf at Rudding Park
The 18-hole Great Yorkshire Golf Adventure at Rudding Park takes you through the county’s famous landmarks, legends and local history.
Suitable for all ages and abilities, it’s a good option for a family day out, with interactive driving range games and food available on site, too.
Where? Rudding Ln, Follifoot, Harrogate HG3 1JH
When? October half-term
Wild Things at Wentworth Woodhouse
From garden nature trails to animal-inspired crafts, Wentworth Woodhouse has plenty to explore this October half term.
The programme includes an immersive wildlife experience, hands-on craft workshops and Beastie Bags perfect for getting outdoors and spotting birds, squirrels and minibeasts along the way.
Where? Wentworth, Rotherham S62 7TQ
When? 24th October – 1st November
Wizarding Afternoon Tea at The Grand, York
Add a little magic to half term with a Wizarding Afternoon Tea at The Grand, York.
Expect butterbeer, colourful potions and secret menus, alongside handcrafted pastries, sweet treats and savoury bites in the hotel’s Rise Restaurant, overlooking York’s city walls. A fun twist on a traditional afternoon tea, and the perfect treat!
Where? Station Rise, York YO1 6GD
When? Until 11th November
Pumpkin picking
Where else better than the stunning Yorkshire countryside to get messy and get picking the most beautiful homegrown pumpkins, ready to be carved in time for the Halloween season?
From hen farms to fourth-generation farms, Yorkshire agriculture is all for getting involved with the festivities, so we have curated a list of our favourite places where you can go pumpkin picking in Yorkshire.
Where? Throughout Yorkshire
When? October half-term
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!
Boutique West Park Hotel Harrogate Sunday Stay with Dinner
19 West Park, Harrogate HG1 1BJ- Boutique hotel & restaurant in the heart of Harrogate
- Includes a 3-course meal and breakfast
- SAVE 25%
£40 The Fat Badger York Restaurant Voucher
2-4 High Petergate, York YO1 7EH- Popular city centre gastropub overlooking York Minster
- Showcasing the best seasonal ingredients
- SAVE 20% off
Elmbank Hotel York Afternoon Tea
Elmbank Hotel, The Mount, York YO24 1GE- Stunning York city centre boutique hotel
- Choose from Traditional, Sparkling or York Gin Afternoon Tea
- SAVE 18% off
Sunday Lunch with Wine at Swinton Park Hotel
Swinton Park Hotel, Ripon HG4 4JH- Featured on the BBC’s Amazing Hotels series
- 2 or 3-course Sunday lunch with a glass of wine
- SAVE up to 20% off
Written by
19/10/2026