Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
October Half Term and Halloween in Devon 2026
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Family Activities in Devon This October Half Term & Halloween
Looking for the best family activities in Devon this October half term? From spooky Halloween events to cosy coastal adventures, Cor offers endless fun for families during the autumn holidays. Enjoy pumpkin picking, Halloween trails, and family-friendly days out at Devon's top attractions. Whether you’re exploring the local attractions, meeting animals on a local farm, or walking along windswept beaches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Discover the best things to do in Devon with kids this October and November half term — and make unforgettable memories in one of the UK’s most beautiful regions.
Meet the Stars of Snow White!
This Christmas, the magic of pantomime returns to the Princess Theatre with Snow White!
Starring Karen Hauer, best known from Strictly Come Dancing, and Alex Gray from BBC's Gladiators, this spectacular family pantomime is packed with laughter, dazzling costumes, spectacular sets and plenty of audience participation.
Torquay favourite Michael Neilson is back as the outrageously glamorous Dame Dolly, while the hilarious Matthew Curnier returns as Herbie the Huntsman.
Brought to you by the team behind last year's smash-hit Sleeping Beauty, get ready for an extraordinary festive adventure featuring show-stopping live music, slapstick silliness, magical surprises and fun for all ages.
Look out for the QR code on the advert and scan it to unlock an exclusive Primary Times family ticket offer.
Find out more and book tickets at: www.atgtickets.com/venues/princess-theatre-torquay/whats-on/
Frightful Farmers at Tiverton Museum this Halloween!
Something spooky is going on down on the farm at Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life this October half term! Can you find all the creepy characters lurking in the shadows?
Join us 24–31 October (closed Sunday) for the Halloween trail, plus drop-in craft sessions to make your own spooky scarecrow, and a Family Fright Night on 28th October, exploring the museum by torchlight in search of ghosts!
Something for every little monster, from spooky trails to spine-tingling evenings.
Find out more at www.tivertonmuseum.org.uk
The Home of Christmas
Celebrate Christmas at House of Marbles with two magical late-night shopping evenings in December! Enjoy festive choir performances, delicious dining and a brand-new Santa’s Grotto experience.
Browse for unique gifts and make an evening of it with festive food at The Old Pottery Restaurant. Santa’s brand-new enchanted grotto brings extra magic for families, with plenty more Christmas fun to discover.
From creative glass and craft workshops to festive treats and seasonal experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Come and make House of Marbles part of your Christmas this winter!
Find out more at https://visit.houseofmarbles.com/christmas/
Autumn events at Knightshayes
Step into a sea of pumpkins and rich autumn colour at Knightshayes this half term. Follow the Spirit of Autumn family trail from 17 October to 8 November to discover the ways wildlife prepares for winter. Along the route, enjoy hands-on activities that reveal how animals survive the colder months, from storing food and migrating to warmer countries to hibernating until spring. Get your wellies on and explore the parkland in all its colourful glory at Knightshayes. Don't miss pumpkin picking from 23 October to 2 November.
Find out more at nationaltrust.org.uk/Knightshayes
Spooky Plants at RHS Rosemoor
Step into our ghoulish garden for some Halloween fun and uncover the spooky secrets of plants at RHS Garden Rosemoor, Devon
This October half term, discover the magical powers and spooky secrets hidden in plants at RHS Rosemoor. Meet mysterious plant life, tackle the interactive garden trail and get up close with animal encounters from Really Wild Learning. With Halloween crafts and captivating theatre too, expect terrifyingly good fun for the whole family.
Garden admission applies; free to RHS members and children under 5. Children between 5-16 years go for £6. Book online and save.
As discussed there are 2 editorials – the only one with an image sent is the Halloween one
Halloween Fun at Newton Abbot Racecourse
Get ready for a spooktacular day out at Newton Abbot Racecourse on Wednesday 28th October! Enjoy an afternoon of exciting racing alongside plenty of free Halloween fun for children, including pumpkin carving, games and a fancy dress parade.
And the fun doesn’t stop when the racing finishes! This year, families can head straight from the racecourse to Circus Funtasia with our fantastic joint racing and circus ticket. Enjoy both events for just £24 for adults and £5 for children.
It’s a great-value family day out this half term.
Book your tickets online today at www.newtonabbotracing.com.
Fireworks Night at Newton Abbot Racecourse
Get ready for a spectacular Fireworks Night at Newton Abbot Racecourse on Saturday 7th November! Enjoy an evening packed with family entertainment before a spectacular fireworks display.
This year has an Intergalactic theme, be prepared to be dazzled by the display. Gates open at 4pm, giving you plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere and live music before the fireworks begin at 7.30pm.
The event is brought to you by Newton Abbot Racecourse, Newton Abbot Rugby Club and Teignbridge Events. Gather the family, wrap up warm and join us for a night to remember!
Book tickets online at www.newtonabbotracing.com.
Discover a ghostly prize at The Donkey Sanctuary this October
Pumpkins are popping up through The Donkey Sanctuary, whispering that Halloween is on its way. At the sanctuary in Sidmouth trick or treats are waiting to be discovered. Find all eight and win a prize at the end. Combine family fun, exercise and brainpower and is just £5 per trail, including a treat on completion. Plus, with a new play park, daily talks, scenic walks, engaging exhibits, hedge maze and lots of friendly donkeys, there’s so much to explore! Open daily from 9am, general admission and parking are free. Dogs welcome on a lead.
Find out more at www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/sidmouth
A Wild October Half Term Awaits
Make the most of October half term with a family day out at Paignton Zoo. Come face-to-face with incredible wildlife, from playful lemurs and striking zebras to magnificent rhinos, powerful lions, and tigers. Wander through the zoo, discover animals from around the world and explore beautiful outdoor spaces along the way. With so much to see, it is the perfect opportunity to spend time together, enjoy the autumn outdoors and learn more about the amazing species that call Paignton Zoo home.
Find out more: https://www.paigntonzoo.uk/
Coldharbour Mill
''Coldharbour Mill, located in Uffculme, Devon (EX15 3EE), is one of the oldest woollen mills in the United Kingdom, operating continuously since 1797. Originally owned by the world-renowned Fox Brothers, the mill processed fleece sourced from around the globe, transforming it into high-quality yarn, cloth, and textiles. Today, it's remarkable legacy is preserved as one of Britain’s finest working wool museums. Visitors can experience the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of the Industrial Revolution while watching skilled craftspeople produce traditional textiles, beautiful knitting yarns, and handwoven cloth using historic machinery and time-honoured techniques still in operation today.''
Find out more at www.coldharbourmill.org.uk
The Abbey After Dark
As darkness falls over Torre Abbey this October half term, families are invited to step into a world of spooky surprises, ghostly encounters and Halloween adventure.
Returning from 27-31 October (4.30pm-8pm), The Abbey After Dark transforms the historic gardens into a hauntingly fun after-dark trail packed with immersive storytelling, eerie illuminations, special effects and unexpected characters lurking around every corner.
Young witches, wizards and brave explorers can enjoy Halloween-themed treats, frightful games and plenty of opportunities to dress up, while the atmospheric setting of Torre Abbey provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable family evening.
Earlier sessions are ideal for younger children and those who prefer a gentler experience before darkness falls. Fancy dress is encouraged, and visitors are advised to wrap up warm and bring a torch. Advance booking is recommended.
Message from Escape The Game
“Our Christmas themed escape room, Santa Escape, is open every year between November and January. Each year is different, and offers a new mission!
NEW FOR 2026! Santa Escape – The Christmas Cookie
Deep within the snowy Christmas forest, nestled among the twinkling lights and frosted trees, lies Mrs Claus’ cosy little bakery. Every Christmas Mrs Claus lovingly bakes her delicious festive cookie, but this year someone has stolen it! Can you and your team follow the clues, solve the puzzles and find out who stole the Christmas Cookie?
A magical Christmas adventure awaits ……
This 60 minute, family friendly escape room is suitable for adults and children aged over 7 years.
Group size 2-8 people (please contact us for larger groups)
Open from 7th November 2025 – 4th January 2026.
Go-Kart Party - Celebrating 15 Years of Unforgettable Birthdays!
If you’re looking for a party that’s truly different, loads of fun, and completely hassle-free, Go-Kart Party is the perfect choice! Nathan and his team offer boys and girls of 4 -10 years an opportunity to drive battery powered go-karts around an inflatable circuit. The fully hosted parties feature exciting games like laser tag, cops and robbers, cone dodging, and racing—guaranteed to leave the kids buzzing with excitement.
Kart speeds and games are tailored to the age and ability of the kids so whatever the age the kids will have an amazing time. 5.0 average review scores on Google and 100% recommendation on Facebook prove it! Available indoors in multiple locations across Devon, Go-Kart Party is accessible all year. Book now to give your child a birthday they’ll never forget!
Find out more at www.gokartpartysw.co.uk or www.facebook.com/GoKartPartySW
Join us for a season of spooky fun here at Greendale!
“From picking the perfect pumpkin, discovering Halloween treats in the Farm Shop and getting stuck into our Autumn events, there’s plenty to do this season at Greendale! We’ll be hosting our popular, free pumpkin trail from 10th October and Halloween half-term activities including Live Animal Encounters hosted by Willemeena the Witch and Pumpkin Carving sessions. Our free Pumpkin Patch will be open 10th October – 1st November, with our spooky friends Billy Bob the giant Bat and Snitch the Spider making a return alongside lots of photo opportunities!
Head to www.greendale.com to learn more.”
Exeter Phoenix edit 1
Something rather large, rather hairy, and rather smelly is coming to Exeter this Winter... YETI!
It’s deep winter, and the townsfolk of Little Trusting are busy preparing for their favourite time of year. Twinkling lights are being hung, wintry songs are being sung and festive gifts are being… brung. But since a new neighbour moved in, biscuits have been snaffled. Socks have gone missing. Something must be done! So, a brave band of adventurers set off on a thrilling quest to find … the YETI.
Join in this festive season for a hilarious, heartwarming show for all the family, exploring friendship, courage and what it means to truly belong. Expect big laughs, big heart, spectacular sets, original music and a healthy dose of Quirky silliness.
DATES: SUN 13 DEC - SUN 27 Dec | SUN 20 DEC 4PM - BSL | MON 21 DEC 1:30PM - RELAXED
Find out more at www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/genre/family
Exeter Phoenix edit 2
Autumn at Exeter Phoenix
Autumn is here! Join in for spooky crafts, fun films and a very noisy beanstalk!
Part Air Guitar workshop, part magical mess JACK AND THE BEANSTALK (SORT OF) is stuffed with songs, silliness and surprises. Bring your parents. Bring yer nan. Bring snacks. It’s theatre, but it’s loud, proud and completely off its bean(stalk). Perfect for fans of surprises and noisy nonsense.
JACK AND THE BEANSTALK (SORT OF) | DATES: MON 26 OCT: 11:30am & 2pm
FAMILY FILMS FROM £5 & MUCH, MUCH MORE!
Find out more at www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/genre/family
Unleash your inner adventurer at Clip ‘n Climb Exeter!
Make memories with friends and family this half term at Exeter’s most exciting indoor adventure experience. Whatever the weather, Clip ‘n Climb is the perfect place for a family day out! With over 25 exciting climbing challenges, there’s something for everyone —from first-time climbers to fearless adventurers.
No experience? No problem! Their auto-belay system lets you clip in and climb, with no ropes or technical skills required. It’s a fantastic way to get active, burn off some energy, and try something new together.
With sessions running all day, every day throughout the holidays and every weekend, it’s easy to fit in some climbing fun. What’s more, as a fully indoor centre, it’s the perfect activity for keeping the kids entertained rain or shine!
Book your climbing adventure today!
Find out more at www.clipnclimbexeter.co.uk
Spooky Half-Term Fun at The Plough Arts Centre!
Get ready for a fun-filled half term at The Plough Arts Centre, with plenty to keep your kids and the whole family entertained! Join Devon Science on 30th October for a spectacular science show, full of Halloween experiments and hands-on fun making a smoking potion and gravity-defying bat to take home. Enjoy a monstrously fun Halloween adventure with Shaun the Sheep, or get creative with Beano artist Kev Sutherland in a Comic Art Masterclass on 28th October – for just £5! Dress your little ones as their favourite spooky character and come along to our Halloween film and dance party on 31st October.
Head to www.theploughartscentre.org.uk to book and find out more!
Autumnal family fun at Quince Honey Farm
Celebrate the harvest season at Quince Honey Farm this half term with autumnal fun for all the family. The Apple & Honey Harvest runs from Saturday 24th until Friday 30th October and will feature lively demonstrations of an apple mill and press, opportunities to have a go at extracting honey as well as tasting it, plus Halloween fun including rolling spooky candles, creepy crawly encounters, and more. Plus, you can visit the Pumpkin Patch from Monday 26th until Wednesday 28th October to choose your perfect pumpkin in time for Halloween!
Find out more at www.quincehoneyfarm.co.uk
Free EasyPeasy Premium for Devon Families
Looking for simple ways to support your child’s learning, development and wellbeing? EasyPeasy Premium is free for Devon families, thanks to Devon County Council’s Best Start in Life programme. The app is packed with fun, easy activities, expert advice and parenting tips for children from birth to primary school age. Whether you want ideas for play, support with speech and language, school readiness, SEND, wellbeing or everyday family routines, EasyPeasy helps you make the most of the moments you already share. Join thousands of families and discover new ways to learn, play and grow together.
Free adult education opportunities across Devon for 2026/27!
Learn Devon has launched a new programme of adult education courses, with around 200 opportunities to help people develop skills for work and progress in their careers.
The programme includes courses in English, Maths, Digital Skills, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), and Skills and Development, all helping learners to gain qualifications and build confidence for employment.
With flexible options and friendly tutors, Learn Devon makes it easier for adults to gain the skills they need to move forward.
Find out more about our courses on their website: www.learndevon.co.uk/courses
This October Half Term, join us for a spellbinding mix of crafting, spooky fun and plenty of evil laughter!
Come along to our Day of the Dead-themed Kids’ Halloween Party, where little crafters can get creative, have fun and make something wonderfully spooky to take home.
With activities suitable for ages 5+, there’s plenty of crafty fun to keep little hands busy throughout the holidays.
Come and get crafty… if you dare!
Pre-booking is required and spaces are limited so don't delay and book now at https://pomstitchtassel.com/collections/october-half-term.
Message from Kernow Health
“Last year, our team of 35 school immunisation nurses delivered an incredible 88,315 flu vaccinations to children across Devon. That’s over 2,500 vaccinations per nurse, and they’re ready to do it all over again!
Between now and the end of November, our nurses will be visiting every school across Devon to offer eligible children their free flu vaccine.
What do you need to do? Your child’s school will email you when we’re due to visit. Look out for the email and complete the consent form.
Missed the school vaccination or you home educated? Contact us to arrange an alternative appointment”
Protect winter moments that matter for your children
Flu can leave children seriously unwell and every winter thousands of children end up needing hospital care.
Getting the free NHS flu vaccination can help keep your child safe and also help to protect those around them, such as vulnerable family members who could also become very ill.
The vaccine is offered to children aged 2 to 3 and school-aged children from Reception to Year 11. It is usually given as a quick and painless nasal spray.
School-aged children will be invited through their school or the School Age Immunisation Service. For children aged 2 to 3, contact your GP surgery or book with a participating pharmacy.
Find out more at: nhs.uk/vaccinations/child-flu-vaccine
Spooktacular Family Fun This October!
Make magical family memories at World of Country Life in Exmouth this October! Enjoy a full day of indoor and outdoor fun, from meeting friendly farm animals and hand-feeling red deer to exciting play areas, fascinating historical features that you can interact with, and so much more.
And with Halloween fast approaching, get ready for some frightfully good half-term fun, themed activities and spooky surprises for the whole family to enjoy.
Plan your next family adventure and discover what is happening at World of Country Life: www.worldofcountrylife.co.uk
Looking for an award-winning family Halloween day out in Devon?
Spook-Fest returns to Crealy Theme Park & Resort this October, bringing frights, thrills and fun for all ages. Alongside more than 60 rides and attractions, visitors can explore the returning Creaky Hotel, brave live scare mazes and enjoy spook-tacular shows. Whether you have little monsters in tow or older scare-seekers ready for a fright, there’s plenty to discover. Better still, Spook-Fest visitors can return for free on Saturday 31st October or Sunday 1st November, subject to the offer’s terms and conditions. It’s the perfect excuse to make Halloween last even longer.
Boo-k now at Crealy.co.uk
A Great Day Out, Whatever the Weather!
Visit the National Marine Aquarium, home of the Ocean Conservation Trust, and discover over 5000 marine animals over 4 exciting zones. You'll be mesmerised by sharks, rays, a cheeky turtle and loads more! Visit between Oct 14th - Nov 2nd to help Skelly Find their Fishy Friends! Their Rangers will be delivering an engaging show in front our Eddystone Habitat - what special something can you see? Drop by Waves Cafe for seasonal sweet treats and drinks, or pick up a Halloween themed cuddly toy from the Ocean Gift shop. Visit today!
Get your school ready to run, prance and jingle with Hospiscare’s Reindeer Run Challenge this festive season!
Join schools across Exeter, central and east Devon in a fun-filled fundraising run supporting your local hospice. Simply choose a day in December, gather your pupils and spread some festive cheer.
Register at hospiscare.co.uk/run to receive your free Reindeer Run pack, including make-your-own reindeer antlers, stickers and fundraising resources. We recommend a donation of £2 per child.
Run, fundraise and make a difference this Christmas with Hospiscare.
Santa’s Magical Winter Wonderland Grotto at Bow Garden Centre!
There’s nothing quite like the magic of meeting Santa at Christmas, and Bow Garden Centre has been voted one of Devon’s best Santa experiences.
Bookings are now open for Bow’s Magical Winter Wonderland Grotto, where children can meet Father Christmas and enjoy plenty of festive fun along the way.
With their own personal elf to greet them, children enjoy a Christmas craft activity, follow Santa’s Treasure Trail, experience a magical snow machine and receive a lovely gift from Santa himself.
Make a festive day of it! Enjoy the Christmas displays, choose your perfect real Christmas tree to take home, and book Christmas lunch at Bow’s award-winning Waterside Café. A special Christmas menu is available to view online, or you can pick up a copy from the Waterside Café.
Santa and his elves can’t wait to welcome you this Christmas!
Book your Santa visit online at 01363 82438 or www.bowgardencentre.co.uk
Spooktacular Half Term Activities!
There’s plenty of family fun waiting in Seaton this October half term! At Jurassic Discovery, get creative with Potions & Charms and Fossil Rubbing activities, or put on your best costume and hit the dance floor at the Halloween Disco. Then, on Halloween night, experience Dinosaurs After Dark, with exhibition tours and plenty of spooky fun.
Over at Seaton Tramway, climb aboard the Trick or Treat Tram for a fang-tastic journey through the Axe Valley, with treats and surprises along the way.
Find out more at Jurassicdiscovery.co.uk or www.tram.co.uk
The Pikachu Art Adventure at Killerton
Join us at Killerton this autumn to celebrate the Pokémon Trading Card Game: 30th Celebration with The Pikachu Art Adventure. Featuring 30 Pikachu cards, each brought to life by a different illustrator, it’s just the thing for Pokémon fans and art-lovers alike.
Put your artist cap (or beret!) on to look closely, discover different art styles, and get creative yourself on this outdoor, fun-filled, family trail.
The Pikachu Art Adventure runs until 13 November.
There’s no need to book and nothing extra to pay (normal admission applies).
Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/killerton
Christmas at the Castle returns to Powderham
This winter, Powderham Castle near Exeter transforms into a festive wonderland for Christmas at the Castle, running from Sunday 29th November to Wednesday 30th December. By night, visitors can wander a dazzling Christmas Light Walk through the illuminated grounds, ride the Ferris wheel and see the castle glowing against the winter sky. By day, families can enjoy Christmas shows, circus fun and festive afternoon tea. Father Christmas welcomes little ones in his grotto, while the new Festive Marquee serves hot chocolate, toasted marshmallows and more.
Tickets are on sale now at christmasatpowderham.co.uk. Book early, as popular dates sell quickly.
A Different Way to Learn
“For many children with an EHCP, standard classrooms just don’t fit. If your child feels overwhelmed, anxious, or has struggled in school, you know how hard it can be to find a place where they feel safe enough to actually learn and thrive.
At Preston Bridge School in Paignton, we do things differently. Supporting young people aged 6–19, we don’t expect students to fit into a rigid mold. Instead, we build the learning around what your child is naturally curious about.
We start by helping students feel calm, settled, and understood, building trusting relationships with key adults so they can go at their own pace. From there, learning comes alive through hands-on activities that boost confidence, re-ignite a love for education, and build real life skills for adulthood.
We would love to welcome you for an informal look around, meet our team, and see if our approach feels right for your family.”
Bridge to Your Future Open Events:
- Dates: 9th November & 23rd November
- Time: 3.30pm – 5.00pm
Your young person is welcome too, but if they’d prefer to stay at home that’s completely fine.
Email admin@prestonbridgeschool.co.uk to book your place.
Kingsley School Devon: Nurturing wellbeing, Achieving success
“Set in 25 acres of woodland minutes from the surf at Westward Ho!, Kingsley is North Devon's leading independent day and boarding school for ages 3–18. Non-selective and proudly inclusive, we know, value and encourage every child, from Oxbridge hopefuls to those needing CReSTeD-accredited SEND support.
Alongside rigorous academics, which delivered top 12% GCSE results in 2026, our Expansive Curriculum offers five pathways: Sport, Performing Arts, Coastal Adventures, STEM and our Earth Centre. Our Surf Academy is the UK's only curriculum-embedded programme of its kind, plus football, rugby, netball, judo and gymnastics pathways.”
Book an Open Day or personal tour: kingsleydevon.com/admissions
Exeter Junior School
“Exeter Junior School is a fabulous school within a school, enjoying the facilities of Exeter School’s 25 acre site such as astro playing fields, a 25m indoor heated pool and even new padel courts being installed. If you’re looking for somewhere your child can thrive, why not drop them off for our ‘Inspiring Minds’ activity morning on Saturday 21 November from 9am-12 noon. They will have the opportunity to try out some of the activities on offer to our pupils, such as baking, creating artworks, making bug hotels and enjoying a swim. There is no obligation to enrol them after and all children currently in Years 2-5 are welcome.”
Fun, Frights & Family Time!
Get ready for a half term packed with Halloween fun at Cofton. Carve your own pumpkin, get creative with spooky crafts like slime making and pottery painting, take on mini archery or fencing, tackle the High Ropes course and enjoy plenty more family activities throughout the week. With frightfully good fun for little ones and grown-ups alike, there’s lots to get stuck into this October half term. Open to day visitors as well as holiday guests.
Find out more at www.coftonholidays.co.uk/activities
Cinderella at Theatre Royal Plymouth
Just announced! Musical theatre's Dianne Pilkington will be joining the cast of Cinderella as the Wicked Stepmother along with Charles Brunton and Stephen Guarino as the Ugly Stepsisters.
They will be joining the previously announced pop icon Will Young as the Fairy Godfather, breakfast TV favourite Ross King as Buttons, Eve Shanu-Wilson as Cinderella, Michael O'Reilly (returning to his home-county for the festive season) as Prince Charming, and Daniel Norford as Dandini.
The countdown to Christmas is on… book your tickets for the ultimate festive family treat today.
Spooky Plants at RHS Rosemoor
Step into our ghoulish garden for some Halloween fun and uncover the spooky secrets of plants at RHS Garden Rosemoor, Devon
This October half term, discover the magical powers and spooky secrets hidden in plants at RHS Rosemoor. Meet mysterious plant life, tackle the interactive garden trail and get up close with animal encounters from Really Wild Learning. With Halloween crafts and captivating theatre too, expect terrifyingly good fun for the whole family.
Garden admission applies; free to RHS members and children under 5. Children between 5-16 years go for £6. Book online and save.
Message from Kernow Health
“Last year, our team of 35 school immunisation nurses delivered an incredible 88,315 flu vaccinations to children across Devon. That’s over 2,500 vaccinations per nurse, and they’re ready to do it all over again!
Between now and the end of November, our nurses will be visiting every school across Devon to offer eligible children their free flu vaccine.
What do you need to do? Your child’s school will email you when we’re due to visit. Look out for the email and complete the consent form.
Missed the school vaccination or you home educated? Contact us to arrange an alternative appointment”
A Wild October Half Term Awaits
Make the most of October half term with a family day out at Paignton Zoo. Come face-to-face with incredible wildlife, from playful lemurs and striking zebras to magnificent rhinos, powerful lions, and tigers. Wander through the zoo, discover animals from around the world and explore beautiful outdoor spaces along the way. With so much to see, it is the perfect opportunity to spend time together, enjoy the autumn outdoors and learn more about the amazing species that call Paignton Zoo home.
Find out more: https://www.paigntonzoo.uk/
Children’s Hospice South West’s annual Santas on the Run fun run will be happening at the Eden Project on Sunday 6 December.
Santas on the Run sees participants walk, jog or run a 2km route around Eden while dressed in any festive outfit they wish stopping off at four different stations along the route.
Super Santa Saver early-bird tickets are on sale until 8 October, where you can save 30%. Tickets are £9.80 for adults, £4.90 for children 2 and under are free. Tickets will then move to 20% off.
To book your place simply visit chsw.org.uk/santaeden
The Cornish Maize Maze Pumpkin Patch & Halloween Maze is open every weekend in October – and every day during Half Term!
Get ready for a spook-tacular day out for the whole family! Wander through the fang-tastic Halloween Maze, explore the magical Pumpkin Patch bursting with thousands of pumpkins, and pick your perfect one – big, small, weird or wonderful. There will be incredible photo opportunities throughout the maze and patch – don’t forget your camera. You will meet friendly farm animals and enjoy a true countryside adventure.
Book your tickets now at www.cornishmaze.co.uk
Go for the pumpkins, stay for the fun!
This October half term, Mount Edgcumbe will be transformed for the Fantastical Halloween Experience, a family-friendly adventure running from 30th October to 1st November.
Children will become ghoul hunters, following a spooky story through the grounds to meet the Scarecrow, Clowns, Reaper and Witch, completing challenges and collecting stickers and treats along the way. Families can also enjoy live entertainment, Halloween-themed food, a makers market and hands-on activities throughout the house and grounds. Every child ticket includes a Halloween Wizardry Workshop, with additional optional workshops available. Costumes are encouraged and tickets are on sale now.
National Trust in the Tamar Valley
Discover the magic of autumn at the National Trust in the Tamar Valley through tricks, treats and trails at three enchanting places. All activities are free of charge and normal admission applies (free entry for National Trust members).
Cotehele – Hibernation at the Mill trail – Until 1 November (11:00-16:00)
Creep along the Morden stream to Cotehele Mill and learn about the curious creatures that hibernate at Cotehele, and get stuck into craft activities in the old Mill buildings.
Buckland Abbey – October Half Term at Buckland Abbey – 10 October – 1 November (10:00-16:00)
Meet the scary sea monsters of Buckland’s high seas and face down the kraken, sirens and leviathan as you enjoy a folklore-inspired Halloween trail. Fancy dress encouraged!
Buckland Abbey – Harvest Weekend – 24 and 25 October (10:00-16:00)
Celebrate the harvest at surrounded by squashes and pumpkins galore. Take in gorgeous seasonal displays, discover autumn colour on the estate walks and even take home a weird and wonderful variety of squash for autumn recipes.
Buckland Abbey – Historic Cooking – 29 and 31 October (11:00-13:30)
Join our historical cooking team as they cook up a feast for a Tudor ‘Allhallowstide’ in Buckland Abbey's kitchen.
Antony – Magical Potion trail – 6-29 October (12:00-15:00)
Magic is brewing at Antony! Join in the magical potion trail and discover the ingredients hidden throughout the house and gardens to create an enchanted elixir. Antony is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 12pm-5pm. Collect your trail by 3pm to ensure you have time to find all the clues.
Protect winter moments that matter for your children
Flu can leave children seriously unwell and every winter thousands of children end up needing hospital care.
Getting the free NHS flu vaccination can help keep your child safe and also help to protect those around them, such as vulnerable family members who could also become very ill.
The vaccine is offered to children aged 2 to 3 and school-aged children from Reception to Year 11. It is usually given as a quick and painless nasal spray.
School-aged children will be invited through their school or the School Age Immunisation Service. For children aged 2 to 3, contact your GP surgery or book with a participating pharmacy.
Find out more at: nhs.uk/vaccinations/child-flu-vaccine
It’s a packed half term and Halloween at The Box
There’s so much going on during October half term at The Box – this year’s Art Fund Museum of the Year! Drawing and building-inspired activities will run from Tuesday 27-Friday 30 giving you lots of opportunity to use your imaginations as you explore the idea of home and what it means to you. A free storytelling session will take place from 10.30-11am on Friday 30 before things turn decidedly spooky with our family late featuring pickled sea creatures, slime, stories, a disco, and mask making. Don’t forget to wear your best/scariest outfit! There’s plenty on offer for families during term time too.
Find out more from www.theboxplymouth.com
Looking for an award-winning family Halloween day out in Devon?
Spook-Fest returns to Crealy Theme Park & Resort this October, bringing frights, thrills and fun for all ages. Alongside more than 60 rides and attractions, visitors can explore the returning Creaky Hotel, brave live scare mazes and enjoy spook-tacular shows. Whether you have little monsters in tow or older scare-seekers ready for a fright, there’s plenty to discover. Better still, Spook-Fest visitors can return for free on Saturday 31st October or Sunday 1st November, subject to the offer’s terms and conditions. It’s the perfect excuse to make Halloween last even longer.
Boo-k now at Crealy.co.uk
A Great Day Out, Whatever the Weather!
Visit the National Marine Aquarium, home of the Ocean Conservation Trust, and discover over 5000 marine animals over 4 exciting zones. You'll be mesmerised by sharks, rays, a cheeky turtle and loads more! Visit between Oct 14th - Nov 2nd to help Skelly Find their Fishy Friends! Their Rangers will be delivering an engaging show in front our Eddystone Habitat - what special something can you see? Drop by Waves Cafe for seasonal sweet treats and drinks, or pick up a Halloween themed cuddly toy from the Ocean Gift shop. Visit today!
Get ready for a spooktacular Halloween at Plymouth Market on Saturday 31st October, from 11am–3pm.
Families can enjoy a FREE day of Halloween fun, with face painting, spooky entertainment and crafts taking place in the Event Space. Children can also join in with trick-or-treating around the market stalls, with a map available from the Event Space.
Little ones are encouraged to dress up in their creepiest, funniest or most creative costumes for the chance to win a prize. Don’t forget to take some spooky snaps and tag @plymouthmarket.
Find the Halloween fun at Plymouth Market, Cornwall Street, Plymouth PL1 1PS.
Immerse yourselves in Norfolk’s newest and most unique zoo.
With 200+ species of invertebrates from all over the world, The Bug Parc offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience exploring some of nature’s weird and wonderful creatures. From tropical butterflies to millipedes and scorpions that glow under UV light, they are certain that you’ll find something to amaze you. They have a host of outdoor play equipment and games, plus the opportunity to handle some of these incredible creatures if you’re feeling brave!
PLUS….…Their ever-popular family fun days will be running through the half-term holidays. It’s a great day out at The Bug Parc.
Marvellous Musical Mythology at Theatre Royal Plymouth
Fire has been stolen from the gods! Two bears are on the loose, a fly is trying to sing, and Holst’s Mars is about to shake the theatre.
Welcome to a concert where the audience gets to play.
Presenter Elin Llwyd will lead your family through the myths of Ancient Greece, Rome and Wales. Listen, clap and take on challenges as music, dance and spectacular lights bring gods, creatures and legends to life.
There’s no need to know the music before you arrive. Elin will help you discover everything as you go!
The concert lasts about one hour. Children are welcome to make sounds, react and join in, and English captions will help more people follow the action.