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October half term and halloween in Dorset

Family Activities in Cornwall This October Half Term & Halloween

Looking for the best family activities in Cornwall this October half term? From spooky Halloween events to cosy coastal adventures, Cornwall offers endless fun for families during the autumn holidays. Enjoy pumpkin picking, Halloween trails, and family-friendly days out at Cornwall’s top attractions. Whether you’re exploring the Eden Project, 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 Cornwall with kids this October and November half term — and make unforgettable memories in one of the UK’s most beautiful regions.

 

Halloween entertainment at Upton Country Park

Bunty the Bone Dog has lost their bones – can you help find them?

Join in for a spooky Halloween adventure around Upton Country Park. Fancy dress encouraged! £4.50 per trail map, including a creepy cuddly prize.

You can also enjoy themed refreshments and a variety of other activities including facepainting, Adventure Golf, arts and crafts, and more!

After finishing the trail drop into their autumn market (Friday 31 October and Saturday 1 November only).

For details about events please visit uptoncountrypark.com, email uptoncountrypark@bcpcouncil.gov.uk or call 01202 127770

 

 

It's moving into a local home, not leaving all they know

Right now, one in five children in care are being moved more than 20 miles from home due to a shortage of local council foster carers. These moves can mean losing touch with friends, family, and school — connections that shape a child’s sense of belonging.

Fostering locally helps children stay rooted in their communities and hold onto the memories that matter most. If you’ve ever thought about fostering, now is the time. Your care could keep a child close to everything they know and love.

Find out more at www.fosterwithyourlocalcouncil.org.uk

 

‘Experience the magic of Christmas at Farmer Palmer’s this year with two Christmas experiences to choose from! You’ll be sure to have a merry good time!’

Experience the magic of Christmas at the award-winning Farmer Palmer’s and make memories to treasure! This year, the farm park will be transformed into a twinkling winter wonderland, full of festive cheer, homemade treats from the Hen House, and special appearances from Farmer Christmas’ very merry helpers. Whether you choose to book a ticket for our Day Time experience or their magical Twilight experience, you’ll be sure to have a ‘merry good’ time!

With limited spaces across selected dates, booking in advance is a must to avoid disappointment! For full details and to secure your tickets, visit their website and join them for the Farmer Christmas Experience!

Find out more at www.farmerpalmers.co.uk

 

Cinderella at Bournemouth Pavilion – 6th December to 4th January

In a land of dust and dreams, Cinderella is stuck sweeping ashes while her cruel stepsisters parade in pearls. But everything changes when a glittering Fairy Godmother appears, armed with a twinkle in her eye, a wave of her wand, and a mysterious carriage fit for a princess. With the clock ticking, can Cinderella find her courage, meet her Prince, and claim the magical life she deserves?

Stepping into the iconic glass slippers this year is much-loved Milkshake! presenter Olivia Birchenough, beloved for her warmth, humour, and natural ability to connect with young audiences. Sprinkling some festive fairy-tale magic as the Fairy Godmother is none other than Melanie Walters, star of Gavin and Stacey. With a flick of her wand and a dash of Welsh sparkle, she’ll be dusting charm across the stage and making sure Cinderella gets to the ball in style.

Returning for his 11th year, Noel Brodie will once again take to the stage as the ever-lovable Buttons - faithful, funny, and fantastically foolish. If anyone can win Cinderella’s heart and a standing ovation, it’s him!

Get ready to be dazzled! UK Panto Award nominees and dynamic duo Jamie Morris and Tarot Joseph are set to steal the spotlight as The Fabulous Sisters. With a celebrated legacy of laughter, dazzling spectacle, and unforgettable performances, this iconic pair promises to bring unmatched energy and entertainment to the stage.

Find out more and book at www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk

 

October Half Term: Women in Warfare – 25th October to 2nd November 2025

Enjoy a family-friendly day out at The Tank Museum, Dorset’s largest indoor attraction. This October Half Term, there will be hands-on activities exploring all the roles women have taken in war, to celebrate ‘Women in Warfare’, as well as the interactive exhibitions included in your entry ticket. Plus, mini-tank fans can let off steam in the soft-play and enjoy trails, dressing up and more.

All regular tickets include an Annual Pass, book online to save 15%.

Find out more at tankmuseum.org

 

The Blue Pool Halloween Haunt

Get ready for a spook-tacular half-term at The Blue Pool with a whole week of Halloween fun for all ages! Follow the haunted woodland trail and discover surprises along the way, then head to the pumpkin patch to carve your very own creation to take home or display. Transform into a spooky character with face painting, or learn how to build a bat box with the team (ages 5+, adult supervision required). Fancy dress is encouraged, and there's no need to pre-book—just head along! General admission and activity fees apply.

Visit the website for full details: www.bluepooltearooms.co.uk/events

 

 

Message from Matthew Cornes Guitar Tutor

“I'm Matthew; a Poole based private guitar and bass teacher.

This October, I'm taking on new students (kids and adults) in the BCP and East Dorset area!

I will show you how to rock with my decade's experience of performing music live!

I teach for fun, and I also teach RSL & ABRSM graded material.

The best way to contact me is on my teaching page ‘Matthew Cornes: Guitar and Bass Teacher’. My charges are visible on my page.

Alternatively, contact me via my email matthewliamcornes@hotmail.co.uk, or my mobile number 07522185161,
and leave a voicemail.”

 

This season at Abbotsbury Swannery

Abbotsbury Swannery is home to a colony of over 600 Mute Swans, located on the dramatic Dorset Coast. A relaxing and calm place, a visit to the Swannery is a special and unique experience. Autumn is the perfect time to visit, with the swans and growing cygnets! Alongside are the daily mass swan feeds at midday and 4pm, the willow swan maze, pedal go-karts plus the Brambly Hedge trail is still running. Based on the Summer Story book, the trail includes fun facts, stamp points, and an activity booklet.

Find out more at www.abbotsburyswannery.com/events

 

 

Your October Half-Term Adventure! 🧗

Get ready for an epic adventure at RockReef in Bournemouth this October half-term! From Saturday, October 25th to Saturday, November 2nd, their indoor climbing attraction is the perfect place for a day of family fun. Conquer the climbing walls and take on the thrilling Vertical Slide and much more! Plus, look out for their adorable RockReef mascot…Zip!

Plus, their special SEND Sessions are back on Sundays at a new time of 9:30 am, and their popular RockStars After-School Club returns on Thursdays.

Don't miss out on the fun! Book your adventure now.

Find out more at www.rockreef.co.uk

 

This October half-term, discover Halloween Magic at Mapperton.

From Sunday 26th to Friday 31st, children can follow a spellbinding trail through the gardens, uncovering magical creatures, hidden spells and curious surprises.

New for this year is Mapperton’s enchanted Potion Room, where young witches and wizards can mix ingredients and conjure their own brew.

Set against the backdrop of one of Britain’s finest manor houses, this Halloween experience is perfect for families seeking fresh air, autumn colour and a little seasonal wonder.

Children in fancy dress are most welcome and entry for kids is completely free.

Visit mapperton.com for details.

 

 

Have a spook-tacular time at Monkey World this October half-term!

As well as 250 rescued and endangered primates to see, the Kid’s activity centre is open throughout half-term with spooky sand art, creepy crafts and a terrifying trail to keep the little ones entertained. Follow their “creatures of the night”, the slow loris, by spotting their glow-in-the-dark eyes hidden around the centre, then learn about the amazing acrobats, the gibbons, for International Gibbon Day!

Combining fun with conservation, free daily talks by the dedicated Primate Care Staff explain all about man’s closest living relative. Pre-bookable guided tours are also available, as well as a self-guided talk accessed via your own smartphone device.

Once you’ve seen the stars of TV’s Monkey Life, your little monkeys can let off some steam in the Great Ape Play Area, the south’s largest adventure playground.

You can support Monkey World to continue their rescue and rehabilitation work by joining the Adopt a Primate Scheme which includes a photograph, certificate, three editions of the Ape Rescue Chronicle and free entry to the park for a year!

 To top it off, on October 31st, kids in full Halloween fancy dress get into Monkey World for FREE! With a free fancy dress competition, Halloween is marvellous at Monkey World.

Find out more at www.monkeyworld.org

 

 

The Magic Flute by Luca Silvestrini’s Protein

Sat 15th November 2025, 3pm

Pavilion Dance, Bournemouth, BH1 2BU

Step into Luca Silvestrini’s new dance-theatre adaptation of Mozart’s opera, The Magic Flute.

A tale of love and friendship shining though darkness, join the fun-loving bird-catcher Papageno and the lost Prince Tamino as they set out to rescue Princess Pamina, uncovering the truth about the mysterious Queen of the Night and the powerful leader Sarastro.

Brought to life with Protein’s playful mix of dancing, storytelling, singing and stunning visuals, this exclusive preview is a family treat not to miss!  Suitable for 5+ years.

Tickets only £5.

Find out more at www.pdsw.org.uk

 

BEAT Editorial – join our tribe and find your vibe

At BEAT, street dance is more than steps—it’s confidence, creativity, and connection. Their classes teach kids teamwork, discipline, and self-expression through popping, locking, hip-hop, and breaking. Every session sparks energy, strengthens focus, and celebrates individuality, all in a safe, inspiring environment. Parents see the change: kids smiling, moving with confidence, and building friendships that last. With expert instructors guiding every move, BEAT turns curiosity into skill, and passion into performance. Give your child the gift of dance—because at BEAT, every beat they follow shapes their confidence.

See www.beatcompany.com or visit their social media at https://www.instagram.com/beatstreetdance/ or  https://www.facebook.com/Beatbournemouth

 

Corfe Castle

Half term at Corfe Castle

Bring an adventurous teddy or borrow a castle veteran for their teddy zip line high within the castle. Help Godwin the ghost detective investigate mysterious figures, take a spook-tacular selfie at their pumpkin display, and climb the Kings’ View tower like royalty.

25-31 October | 10am - 4.30pm | Normal admission applies | Free entry for National Trust members

 

The gory story of Corfe Castle.

Uncover the castle’s grisly past with live storytelling amongst the ruins at dusk. Murder plots, knights, and dungeons await in this rare evening experience.

25, 28, 31 October | 5-6.30pm | Booking essential | Adult £10 Child £5

Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/corfe-castle

 

Brownsea Island

Take part in their Mystical Woodland Quest Trail with magical stories and fun family activities.  Enjoy a bushcraft taster session featuring woodland skills and plant identification - all while keeping an eye out for Brownsea's playful red squirrels. 

Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/brownsea-island

 

Kingston Lacy

Adventure into British folklore at Kingston Lacy with a digital quest—download the Stranger Folk app, gather your team and join this interactive game between 1st October and 9th November. Uncover cracks between worlds, enjoy autumn’s colours, and find magical moments, including a special artwork to take home.

Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/kingston-lacy

 

Studland Bay

At Studland Bay, a Wicked Wildlife Trail takes families through the beach, dunes and woodland where mysterious creatures have left behind clues. Solve puzzles and spot signs to uncover Studland’s nocturnal wildlife. Costumes encouraged...curiosity essential.

25-31 October | 10am - 3pm | Starts Knoll Beach | £3.50 per child

Find out more at: nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/studland-bay

 

Christmas in Bournemouth

Bournemouth will be full of festive magic this winter as Christmas in Bournemouth returns from 13 November to 4 January. Families can explore twinkling lights, discover brand new attractions and enjoy seasonal treats in the heart of the town.

The much-loved Christmas Tree Wonderland is back, filling the gardens with glowing walk-through arches, dazzling light displays and themed trees from around the world. The Alpine Christmas Market offers gifts, crafts and festive flavours, while the Alpine Lodge is the perfect spot to warm up with a hot chocolate or something a little stronger for grown-ups.

On the ice, SKATE Bournemouth invites the whole family to glide beneath the stars, with helpful skate aids for younger children. This year also brings exciting new experiences designed just for little ones, including Santa’s Workshop, Santa’s Express and Snow & Glow Mini Golf. The dedicated Kids Trail adds an extra sprinkle of fun, with surprises to uncover and the chance to win a family holiday!

With so much to see and do, Christmas in Bournemouth 2025 is the perfect place to make magical memories together.

 

Make a splash this October with Individuality Swimming & Fitness!

“We provide award-winning swimming lessons across Bournemouth, Poole and Ferndown, welcoming all ages and abilities. From parent and baby sessions and preschool classes to small group lessons, adult swimming, aqua natal and fitness sessions, we have something to suit everyone. Why not book your free trial in one of our small group classes and experience the difference? Our October Half Term Intensive Courses are ideal for boosting skills and confidence, offering small groups or private 1-1 and 2-1 options. Plus, don’t miss our magical Mermaid Taster on 31st October!”

 

Keeping our children well this winter

Flu vaccines are now available for children aged 2 to 3 years and school-aged children (Reception to Year 11).

Each winter in the UK, thousands of children who do not have a health condition need hospital care because of flu.

Children can catch and spread flu easily. Vaccinating them also helps protect others who are at higher risk of getting seriously ill from flu, such as babies, anyone who's pregnant, and older people.

The children's flu vaccine is quick and easy to receive and is usually given as a painless nasal spray in each nostril.

If you have a child of school age, you should get an invitation from your child's school or the School Age Immunisation Service to get their vaccine. If your child misses their vaccination at school or if they are home-schooled, they should be offered a flu vaccine at a community clinic.

If you have a child who is aged 2 to 3 you should get an invitation from your GP surgery. Alternatively, your child may be able to have their vaccine at a participating pharmacy as some are now able to offer children’s’ flu vaccinations.

Find out more at: nhs.uk/vaccinations/child-flu-vaccine

 

 

Sunninghill Prep School

“Children can start their journey with us from 6 months old in our Little Robins Nursery and stay until they are 13 years old. Education here is child centred – shaped by the development of each individual character by giving them the confidence to be creative and adventurous. Sunninghill makes full use of its glorious location, in the heart of Dorchester town centre, with all its local facilities, and right next to the Jurassic Coast with sailing and windsurfing available.

Music is at the heart of our school with 85% of students from Year 2 - 8 learning a musical instrument. Small class sizes, excellent facilities and strong pastoral care ensure happy, adventurous, confident and hard-working students.

Anyone who joins Sunninghill very quickly becomes part of a family that is warm and inclusive. We are a community full of compassion, creativity, commitment and courage which you will see in abundance all around the school. Our staff are committed to these values and weave them through our very strong academic programme and all of our extra-curricular activities too.

Please book a tour with us and find out more about our wonderful school and see for yourself the energy, enthusiasm and enjoyment that is Sunninghill Prep.”

 

 

Could you spare a few hours a week to help local families?

Families charity Home-Start Wessex is excited to be opening its first ever children’s charity shop in Christchurch and is looking for volunteers to help in the shop. By simply giving 2-3 hours a week, you could make a life-changing difference to families in the local area.

Home-Start Wessex offers friendship, practical support, and emotional advice to parents in Dorset with at least one child under 5 who are in crisis, providing specialist groups and one-to-one home visits. Families are experiencing various issues such as poor mental health, disability, domestic abuse, bereavement, isolation, multiple births or family breakdown.

Founded in 1995, Home-Start Wessex has been supporting local families for 30 years. In the last year alone, the charity has transformed 1,716 lives, helping a record 526 families.

In the shop, flexible hours are available to suit your availability. You will also gain the opportunity to learn new transferable skills, meet new friends, and make a real difference in the local community. With the charity’s specialist support in demand more than ever, you can help Home-Start Wessex continue its work to give children the best possible start in life.

Contact carla@homestartwessex.org.uk or call 01202 574877 to find out more.

 

Bournemouth Fireworks Saturday 8th November- a firework night to remember this November

Get your tickets to a fantastic Fireworks night event, with 3 Fireworks Displays and something fun for everyone.

Live music from a Foo Fighters tribute band , Fire Performers, kids and grown-ups funfair rides, street food stalls and a bar - as well as three fireworks displays.

 One and all will be entertained...held at the Littledown Centre on Castle Lane.

TICKETS FROM: Family £25 I Adult Ticket £9 I Child Ticket £6.50 I Under 3s GO FREE

Find out more at www.bournemouthfireworks.co.uk

 

Stewarts Santa’s Winter Wonderland returns 22nd November - 24th December.

Explore the snowy Elf Village, stop at the Grotto for a chat and professional photo with Santa* then borrow Santa’s key to choose your own toy from Santa’s toy store (children 7months+, babies 0-6 months receive a small cuddly toy).

We’ve created a number of SEN sessions with help from Naomi House & Jacksplace, to which 50% of ticket proceeds from these sessions will be donated. To book an SEN Session, call or visit your Stewarts.

 

Locations:

Abbey, Fareham, PO15 5RB

Christchurch, BH23 4SA

Broomhill, Wimborne, BH21 7DF

 

Tickets available from 10am 1st October, only at santa.stewarts.co.uk