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From the Blog

Unmissable South West festivals for October half term

Posted by Georgie Tombs on
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Spooktacular family fun this October half term


As the warmth of the summer sun slowly makes way for the South West's milder autumn, there's still plenty to see and do once the bustling crowds have disappeared. Whether you're planning an October half term adventure in Cornwall, Devon or Somerset, or looking to embrace the spooky season, the South West's food festivals, Halloween events and family-friendly days out offer the perfect way to welcome the new season.

From spooky trails in North Devon to pumpkin carving in the Somerset countryside, we've compiled a list of spooktacular autumn activities and unmissable family days out to add to your diary this October half term.

Use the page links below to navigate the blog post:

Falmouth Oyster Festival, South Cornwall
Camel Creek Adventure Park, North Cornwall
The Big Sheep Halloween Festival, North Devon
Dartmouth Food Festival, Devon
The Great British Autumn, South West
Halloweden, South Cornwall
Newquay Zombie Crawl, North Cornwall
The Lost Gardens of Heligan, South Cornwall
The Monster Mash, South Cornwall
A hauntingly beautiful escape awaits

 

Falmouth Oyster Festival, South Cornwall

Where: Events Square, Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 3XA
When: 8th - 11th October 
Good to know: As the festival can become very busy, several parking options are available nearby, including Grove Place, Maritime, and Town Quarry Car Park
Nearby properties: Cornerways, St Mawes

Marking the start of Cornwall's renowned oyster dredging season, the Falmouth Oyster Festival returns with four days of exceptional food, drink and coastal celebration. One of the county's most prestigious culinary events, the festival brings together acclaimed chefs, artisan producers and discerning food-lovers for an immersive showcase of Cornwall's rich heritage.

Over the years, the festival stage has welcomed some of Britain's most celebrated culinary talents, including Rick Stein, Nathan Outlaw and Hugh Fernley-Whittingstall. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Falmouth Harbour, the festival combines world-class cuisine with the charm of Cornwall's maritime traditions. Browse artisan stalls brimming with local craftsmanship, savour freshly harvested oysters from the estuary, and soak up the atmosphere as live music drifts across the waterfront. A true celebration of Cornwall's coastal heritage, flavours, and community spirit.

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© Falmouth Oyster Festival via Instagram

 

Camel Creek Adventure Park, North Cornwall

Where: Tredinnick, Wadebridge, Cornwall, PL27 7RA
When: 11th October - 1st November
Good to know: The festival is weekends only until 22nd October, when it then turns into a daily event during the half term

For a Halloween adventure packed with seasonal fun, Camel Creek Adventure Park's Pumpkin Fest is a must-visit this autumn, transforming the park into a world of pumpkins, spooky surprises and family-friendly frights.

Young visitors can collect a mini wheelbarrow and set off in search of their perfect free pumpkin, before exploring the mysterious "House of Horrors" or knocking on trick-or-treat doors to discover what surprises lie behind them. Throughout the day, eerie live shows bring Halloween magic to life, while crackling fire pits provide the perfect place to gather for toasted marshmallows.

Light up the night with the new "Firework Fiesta", an action-packed evening of thrilling rides culminating in a spectacular fireworks finale. Blending spooky fun with plenty of laughter and adventure, Pumpkin Fest promises a memorable day out for families looking to embrace the spirit of Halloween.

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© Camel Creek Adventure Park via Instagram

 

The Big Sheep Halloween Festival, North Devon

Where: Abbotsham Road, Bideford, Devon, EX39 5AP
When: 17th October - 1st November 
Good to know: Pre-booking tickets online is strongly advised as spaces are limited

A thrilling day out awaits young explorers at The Big Sheep in Bideford, where plenty of spooky surprises and family fun are in store this Halloween and throughout the Devon October half term. 

Visitors can get creative carving their own pumpkins before heading to the Monster Glow Party - a vibrant glowstick disco featuring daily fancy dress competitions, lively entertainment and cosy marshmallow toasting. Little ones are in for a treat too, with a special Halloween Toddler Takeover featuring the ever-popular Jiggy Wriggler at the Monster Ball, making it a magical day out for even the youngest Halloween fans. 

As darkness falls, the atmosphere becomes even more enchanting. Whether you're seeking pumpkins, parties or a few gentle scares, The Big Sheep promises a Halloween adventure to remember. 

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© The Big Sheep Halloween Festival via Instagram

 

Dartmouth Food Festival, South Devon

Where: The Quay, Dartmouth, Devon, TQ6 9PS
When: 23rd - 25th October
Good to know: The park and ride service, which is the primary transport option to the festival, is fully accessible and provides dedicated support for visitors throughout the festival weekend

Set against the stunning backdrop of the River Dart, Dartmouth's annual food festival is a vibrant celebration of exceptional regional food and drink. Across three flavour-filled days, more than 100 South West producers come together to showcase the very best of the region's culinary talent, from delicate patisserie creations and artisan cheese to locally distilled gins and gourmet burgers.

Enjoy expert-led wine seminars, thought-provoking Food Matter talks, live cookery demonstrations, and immersive drink masterclasses that are shared with an audience of up to 20,000. From 'myth-bursting' gluten-free cookery sessions to bustling market stalls brimming with local and regional produce, there's something to tempt every palate. Arrive hungry, explore at your leisure, and leave inspired. 

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© Dartmouth Food Festival via Instagram

 

The Great British Autumn, South West 

Where: Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW
When: 24th - 1st November
Good to know: Convenient on-site parking is available, making it easy to arrive and start exploring
Nearby property: Clifftop, Bigbury-on-Sea

Ready to swap summer sunshine for autumn adventures? The Great British Autumn at Longleat returns from 24th October to 1st November, bringing a packed programme of seasonal family fun to the Wiltshire safari park. From spooky ghost trains and giant "Top Trumps" trails to pumpkin carving and fascinating birds of prey encounters in The Longhouse, there's plenty to discover for visitors of all ages.

Perfect for a half term day out, the event combines autumnal charm with wildlife experiences and hands-on activities. Children can enjoy seasonal crafts and creative workshops, learn more about Longleat's incredible animals through keeper talks and presentations, and encounter spooky surprises along the way. Round off your visit with a scenic Jungle Cruise, where family-friendly entertainment adds an extra touch of magic to the autumn celebrations. 

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© The Great British Autumn via Instagram

 

Halloweden, South Cornwall

Where: Eden Project, Bodelva, Cornwall, PL24 2SG
When: 24th - 1st November
Good to know: To book for Halloweden, simply use the regular booking system on their website - there's no need to purchase a seperate ticket

This October half term, step into a world of wonder at Halloweden, where thrills and chills await young adventurers at The Eden Project. Follow enchanting magic trails through the famous outdoor garden, uncovering immersive story-led quests around every corner. Wander among vibrant pumpkin patches bursting with quirky, locally grown autumn treasures, then discover fascinating minibeasts and enjoy exciting live shows packed with animal encounters. 

As the day draws on, wander among vibrant pumpkin patches bursting with quirky, locally grown autumn treasures before gliding on a glittering ice rink and creating magical memories the whole family will treasure. 

Taking place each October half term, Halloweden is one of the most popular Cornwall Halloween events for families, packed with spooky fun and entertainment to keep the kids occupied. While full details are yet to be revealed, tickets for Halloweden are available here.

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© Halloweden via Instagram

 

Newquay Zombie Crawl, North Cornwall

Where: Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 1RN
When: 24th October
Good to know: The Halloween fun begins at Oakely Terrace, so head there to join the frightful festivities from the very beginning
Nearby property: Red Cove, Mawgan Porth

Get ready for a day of frightful fun as Newquay launches its annual half term festivities. The free family-friendly Zombie Crawl promises plenty of spooky entertainment, with monstrous mayhem and Halloween-themed activities throughout the day. As the town transforms into a playground for the afterlife, families can enjoy interactive zombie transformation sessions, gruesome makeup workshops for little ones, and live entertainment. 

Local businesses will be joining in the fun, with spooky story times at the local bookshop, face painting, pumpkin workshops at Project 83, and a circus skills workshop at Killacourt. The highlight of the day is the signature Zombie Crawl, which starts at 3pm. Join fellow zombies, ghosts and ghouls for a spine-chilling parade through the town centre, officially launching Newquay's spooky season. 

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© Newquay Zombie Crawl via Instagram

 

The Lost Gardens of Heligan, South Cornwall

Where: Pentewan, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 6EN
When: 25th October - 2nd November 
Good to know: Every guest is welcomed with ease, with accessible parking, premium facilities, sensory support, and wheelchairs available throughout the site

Step into a world of magic and autumn wonder this season at The Lost Gardens of Heligan's enchanting Spirit of Harvest event. 

Inspired by Cornish legends and the guardians of the natural world, families are invited to explore winding trails filled with stories, mystery and seasonal surprises. Along the way, uncover traditional Cornish fascinating tales that have been passed down through generations. 

Young witches and wizards can create their own wands and potions during daily interactive craft sessions, while autumn-themed workshops offer the chance to make charming 3D paper pumpkins and apples to take home. Adding to the magic, visitors can enjoy special appearances from the Sceech Owl Sanctuary and meet some of its magnificent, feathered residents up close. 

As the air turns crisp, gather around the fire pit for marshmallow toasting, with vegan and gluten-free options available, and soak up the cosy atmosphere of the harvest season. With magical crafts, mystical creatures, folklore-filled adventures and enchanting woodland discoveries, it feels like stepping into Hogwarts for the day - only with a distinctly Cornish twist. 

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© The Lost Gardens of Heligan via Instagram


The Monster Mash, South Cornwall

Where: Carnglaze Caverns, St Neot, Liskeard, Cornwall, PL14 6HQ
When: 31st October
Good to know: Tickets for the event are sold seperately here
Nearby properties:Eden, Downderry

For those looking to add a little more thrill to their Halloween, the Monster Mash Halloween Party promises an underground experience like no other. 

For one night only, deep in the heart of Cornwall, a historic slate mine will be transformed into a spine-tingling Halloween attraction. Combining live music, an underground disco and an immersive cave setting, this unique event offers an unforgettable night beneath the surface. Taking to the stage are crowd favourites, Land of the Giants, renowned for their groove-heavy rhythms, bold brass section and electrifying live performances that never fail to get audiences moving. Expect a high-energy soundtrack to a night of monstrous fun. 

For the brave, adventure doesn't stop here. Venture deeper into the caverns for a spine-tingling journey through the shadows, navigating the pitch-black mine as mysterious figures lurk in the darkness around every corner. Open to all ages, with under 18s accompanied by an adult, the Monster Mash blends live entertainment, Halloween thrills and subterranean adventure into one truly unique experience. 

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© The Monster Mash via Instagram

 

A hauntingly beautiful escape awaits 

Planning an autumn escape in the South West? Discover our handpicked collection of luxury retreats available for October half term and find inspiration for your next stay. From elegant coastal hideaways to countryside sanctuaries, indulge in crisp sea air, spectacular scenery and the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. 

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From left to right: Clifftop in Bigbury-on-Sea, Cornerways in St Mawes and Eden in Downderry

 

Image credits: © Main image: The Eden Project via Instagram | © Falmouth Oyster Festival, Camel Creek Adventure Park, The Big Sheep Halloween Festival, Dartmouth Food Festival, The Great British Autumn, Halloweden, Newquay Zombie Crawl, The Lost Gardens of Heligan, The Monster Mash, via Instagram | All other images are our own.

 

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Posted by Georgie Tombs

Georgie can rarely resist the beach. When she’s not strolling along the shore with her dog, she’s behind the camera, chasing surfers in action. Always eager to uncover coastal gems, she loves sharing her adventures and discoveries.

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