Share:

September and October in Devon

The kids may be back to school but there is still plenty going on at weekends and after-school between now and half term for families across Devon. See our featured local businesses below or see our frequently updated online listings guide here for more tips and ideas

 

Get ready for a Grand Day Out with Storyfest!

Families across Devon and Torbay can look forward to a brand-new festival this October half term, as Libraries Unlimited launches StoryFest in partnership with Aardman Animations. The week-long festival of reading kicks off at Exeter Library on 25th October for a full day of exciting live events including the Vegetable Orchestra, Shaun Dares Ewe, and special guest appearances from Shaun the Sheep himself! Half term will be filled with live performances, hands-on model-making and animation workshops at libraries in Exeter, Barnstaple, and Paignton, led by Aardman’s expert team. There will also be clay animation workshops at other libraries across the county, an interactive Wallace and Gromit AR trail and film screenings.

Events will be ticketed but all low cost. They will go on sale mid-September, with library members getting exclusive early access to tickets. So don’t be sheepish, sign up at your local library today!

 

Unleash Creativity at Craft Club!
Join the After School Craft Club to explore your imagination, create beautiful projects, and unwind with friends. From sewing to clay and seasonal art, there’s something for everyone. Develop fine motor skills, build confidence, and take home creations you’ll be proud of each week. Craft Club runs every Tuesday from 4pm in Barnstaple Open to age 8+. Limited places available – sign up now to secure your spot and enjoy afternoons filled with creativity, colour, and fun!

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!

Call 07703 719 402, email nathan@go-kartparty.co.uk or visit www.gokartpartysw.co.uk or facebook.com/GoKartPartySW

 

 

 

Dartline Drives Forward as Devon Success Story

Devon-based bus and coach operator Dartline (formerly Dartline Coaches) is entering an exciting new phase of growth as it rolls out a bold rebrand and welcomes two new coaches to its expanding fleet.

Founded in 1987 with just six minibuses and two coaches, Dartline has grown steadily into one of the South West’s most trusted and recognisable transport providers. Today, the company operates over 50 vehicles from its depots in Exeter and Plymouth — serving local communities, schools, businesses and passengers across the UK and Europe.

Since becoming part of the Go-Ahead Group in late 2022, Dartline has continued to invest in its services while staying true to its Devon roots and values. The new branding and vehicle additions are the latest phase in this journey — blending local pride with national backing and long-term ambition.

With a strong reputation built on reliability, friendly service and community focus, Dartline remains a key player in regional transport — proudly delivering safe, comfortable journeys for nearly four decades.

Dartline’s flexible private hire services include:

• School and college transport
• Corporate and conference travel
• Airport transfers and group events
• Sports team travel and more

The fleet ranges from well-equipped minibuses to full-size luxury coaches, catering to all group sizes with professionalism and care.

As a local Devon success story, Dartline is proof of what local enterprise can achieve with commitment, consistency, and a passion for service — now with a fresh new look for the road ahead.

Find out more or request a quote at www.dartline.co.uk

 

Sidmouth Science Festival - 10th to 19th October 2025

Sidmouth Science Festival offers over a week of inspiring events in and around Sidmouth and at the Norman Lockyer Observatory. Enjoy serious talks, fun hands-on drop in activities and creative workshops for all ages and abilities. Explore art and STEM, gaze through telescopes and microscopes, learn about the Jurassic Coast and biodiversity, get close to owls, build robots, step inside a bubble and more. Most events are free and designed to educate, entertain, and inspire. Whether you're a budding scientist or just curious, there's something for everyone.

 Find out more at www.sidmouthsciencefestival.org

 

Craft Parties with Pom Stitch Tassel

Looking for a unique party experience perfect for a winter birthday? Make it a day to remember with a Pom Stitch Tassel craft party – a hands-on, imaginative experience that your kids will absolutely love!

Host your party at our Bovey Tracey venue (completely free to use!) or let us bring the fun to your chosen location. Each party is filled with creative activities and colourful crafts that keep children engaged and entertained.

Create a mermaid tail, pirate hat and polly the pom pom parrot or a unicorn headband in our arts and craft parties. Create pom pom animals, garlands, and rainbows in our pom pom parties. Both suitable for 5+. Or enjoy a party for older children (suitable for ages 7+) and learn to sew using a machine, create your own bag, cushion, or toy.

Want to go the extra mile? We also offer optional extras like party food and take-home party favours to make the celebration even more magical.

Exclusive reader offer! Quote PRIMARYTIMES and the birthday child goes FREE*!

*Based on a minimum of 8 party booking*

Make your child’s birthday unique, memorable and full of creativity. Find out more and book today: https://bit.ly/PST-party

 

FUTURES returns to Devon with a programme of fantastic FREE family-friendly events throughout September and October.

 Join in at Exeter Phoenix for a day of discovery, packed with hands-on activities, bite-size talks and creative zones at the Pop-Up Curiosity Shop. Take an expert led walking tour around Exeter city centre or see their events in Plymouth - with the Big Talk public lecture and interactive Voyage of Discovery showcase. A fantastic chance for families to explore science, research and ideas together.

 Find out more about all their events near you at www.futuresnight.co.uk

The pantomime you’ve been wishing for heads to Queens Theatre for Christmas 2025!

The son of a humble washerwoman, Aladdin Twankey dreams of a better life and fabulous riches. When an mysterious Wizard offers him the chance of the adventure of a lifetime, Aladdin jumps at the chance to prove his worth. Will he survive the journey and return a rich man? And will Widow Twankey ever shift those stubborn stains? You’ll have to book to find out!

This classic rags-to-riches pantomime tale is filled to the brim with our genie-us comedy, mayhem, magic and more!

Find out more at www.queenstheatre-barnstaple.com

 

 

Get away from the school blues at The Donkey Sanctuary

Get set to explore the globe in the comfort of the Sidmouth sanctuary until 29 September! Their Donkey Passport Trail transports you to faraway and exotic countries. Bring all the family to begin your adventure and combine exercise and brainpower, just £5 per trail. Plus, with our new miniature paddock, 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 mesmerising immersive attraction which brings the works of Vincent Van Gogh to life in thrilling and vivid fashion, comes to Exeter this autumn.

Beyond Van Gogh - The Immersive Experience blends more than 300 of the post-Impressionist icon’s paintings with cutting-edge technology and a specially curated musical soundtrack to tell the story of one of history’s most influential artists.

Visitors will be swept on a journey through Van Gogh’s world from darkness to light, enhanced by his own dreams, thoughts and words set to a stirring symphonic score. Wander through iconic works - including The Starry Night, Sunflowers and Terrace of a Café at Night - as they came alive around you.

 

Matilda The Musical at Theatre Royal Plymouth

In celebration of 15 years on stage, following performances in 100 cities across 17 countries worldwide, Matilda The Musical, the multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the beloved book by Roald Dahl, returns to Plymouth in 2026.

With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda is the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny.

Winner of over 100 international awards, including 24 for Best Musical, the ‘hilarious, moving, glorious’ (Daily Telegraph) global phenomenon, Matilda has now delighted over 12 million audiences worldwide.

 ‘An absolute cracker’ (Daily Express)

A Must-see’ (Mail on Sunday).

 

 

Dive into a splash-tastic adventure at the Waves Leisure Pool at Riviera International Centre!

Perfect for all ages, their vibrant wave pool brings the ocean indoors with thrilling wave sessions, a flume, and exciting water features. Whether you’re looking to ride the waves, relax in the pool, or let the kids enjoy the water play area, they have something for everyone. It’s the ultimate destination for family fun, fitness, and relaxation. Book your visit today and make a splash!

 

The Polar Express at Seaton Tramway

The Polar Express™ Tram Ride returns to Seaton Tramway from 28th November–24th December 2025 for a magical 2.5-hour journey to the North Pole. Families can ride in decorated tramcars, enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and meet Santa, who gifts every passenger a Silver Sleigh Bell. Explore the elf workshop, naughty detector, and North Pole BBQ before singing carols on the return.

 Limited seats - book early! Seaton Tramway’s award-winning festive event offers an unforgettable Christmas experience for all ages.

Tickets from £29.95 (under 2s free) are on sale now at www.tram.co.uk/ThePolarExpressSeaton or 01297 20375.

 

Learn Devon Launches New Adult Learning Programme

Learn Devon, Devon County Council’s adult education provider, has unveiled a new programme offering both online and in-person courses starting this September.

Enrolment is now open, with options including GCSEs, Functional Skills, and vocational qualifications in areas like mentoring, early years, and mental health. Courses are tailored for adult learners, with small groups and supportive tutors. Face-to-face classes run across Devon in locations such as Bideford, Exmouth, Newton Abbot and Tavistock, while online pathways support those with limited travel options.

Find out more about our courses on the website: www.learndevon.co.uk/courses

 

October Half Term Fun: The Secret Life of Pumpkins, 25 Oct -2 Nov
This October half term RHS Rosemoor bringing some frightfully good family fun to our gardens with a spine-tingling celebration of all things pumpkin. Explore the trail to discover scarecrows, spooky surprises and the secret life of pumpkins beyond the patch. Watch artists from Sand In Your Eye bring bugs to life through a live pumpkin carving session and come face-to-face with creepy-crawlies who love to munch on a pumpkin banquet.

Get ready for some hands-on autumnal magic the whole family can get their claws into.

 

 

The Box, Plymouth

There are plenty of events on offer at The Box this autumn to help keep young, curious minds active. ‘Super Saturdays’ take place every month and always include some great creative activities for families. In September, this major event will take place on Saturday 6th and will celebrate The Box’s fifth birthday! Keep an eye on the website for more details.

Their sensory ‘I Wonder’ sessions for under 5s are back for a brand new term on Tuesday mornings while our free ‘Tell Me a Story’ sessions continue each Friday from 10.30-11am. Just go in and get comfy under the Royal Naval ship’s figureheads and enjoy a tale or two read by members of  their friendly front of house team. Keep your eyes peeled for a new autumn trail that will help you explore their galleries too!

Find out more at www.theboxplymouth.com

 

FUTURES returns to Plymouth with an amazing programme of FREE family-friendly events throughout September and October.

Visit the FUTURES stand at Seafest and find out about the community lead Plymouth Fish Finger project. Hear directly from one of world’s leading marine scientists solving plastic waste at the Big Talk public lecture and have hands-on experiences with cutting edge research at the fun, interactive Voyage of Discovery showcase. A fantastic chance for families to explore science, curiosity and ideas together.

Find out more about all the events near you at www.futuresnight.co.uk

 

Kids Parties at Paradise Island Plymouth

1 round of Golf (18 holes) + Reserved table in the Bunker, Squash, Panini, Nachos to share, Ice cream - £17.50 per head

*Food provided by The Bunker and served in our Bunker Bar on the mezzanine level.

Please contact a member of the team to find out the latest food options. *Birthday options require a minimum of 6 kids per booking, All bookings require a £35 deposit. Advanced bookings only. Available Monday - Sunday (subject to availability) please contact us for further details 01752 669 399

See the website to find out more at www.paradiseislandgolf.com

 

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. Go for the pumpkins, stay for the fun!

Book your tickets now at www.cornishmaze.co.uk