Just as quickly as the kids returned to school in September, it’s October half term again and time to plan some activities for the whole family.
The October break can be super fun, with halloween half term activities getting everyone in the spooky spirit and better yet, there are plenty of FREE activities to do around Bristol and at home.
Here are 5 FREE half term activities for kids you can do this October!
October Autumn Half-term Activities in Bristol
1.Join Almondsbury’s FREE Skeleton Trail
October half term isn’t complete with something a little spooky! We run FREE Halloween inspired trails every year, launching our brand new skeleton trail in 2025. Head down to Almondsbury, pick up a free trail sheet and follow the clues to spot the mischievous skeleton hiding around the garden centre.
Pop into Florum Cafe for a mid-trail break and a spot of lunch or seasonal treat. Our pumpkin spice latte is perfect for parents and our seasonal hot chocolate and sweet treats will keep the little ones happy.
We’ve also got a fun range of Halloween decor and accessories perfect for getting your home into the spooky feel this half term.
Once you’ve found all the skeletons in the trail, head to the customer services desk and claim your sweet treat prize!
2.Have the ultimate Harry Potter Marathon with snacks!
There’s something extra magical about watching Harry Potter in Autumn and half term calls for a Harry Potter marathon! Go one step further and create the ultimate movie night with Harry Potter themed snacks and decorations too like our Harry Potter infinity range!
Turn your living room into a cosy Hogwarts-inspired cinema with blankets, fairy lights and plenty of themed treats. You could make butterbeer, chocolate frogs or even create your own wizard-inspired snack station for the kids.
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If the weather takes a turn for the worse, a Harry Potter movie marathon is the perfect rainy day activity that the whole family can enjoy together. Whether you're introducing the children to Harry Potter for the first time or revisiting a family favourite, it's a great way to spend an Autumn afternoon.
3.Go for an Autumn scavenger hunt
One of the best things about Autumn is the changing colours and there are plenty of great spots around Bristol to go for a family Autumn walk. Creating an Autumn scavenger hunt is a great way of getting your kids excited about the outdoors as they spot insects, leaves and plants.
Aston Court Estate
Create a checklist before you head out and see how many Autumn treasures your little ones can find. Challenge them to spot a red leaf, an acorn, a conker, a feather, a squirrel or even a spider's web. You can make it as simple or as detailed as you like depending on their age.
Not only is it a fun and free activity, but it also encourages children to explore nature, get some fresh air and burn off some energy during the school holidays.
4.Pick your spring bulbs and do some family gardening
Gardening doesn’t stop after summer! Why not use October half term as an opportunity to do some family gardening? Now is the time to pick your Spring bulbs and get planting. A trip to the garden centre with the kids can be a fun way of getting them involved as they pick which bulbs they’d like to plant.
Did you know Almondsbury has one of the BIGGEST bulb markets in the South West?
Spring bulbs are perfect for little gardeners as they're easy to plant and exciting to watch grow. Daffodils, tulips, crocus and alliums can all be planted in Autumn ready to burst into colour next year.
Whether you have a large garden, raised beds or simply a few pots on the patio, planting bulbs is a simple activity that gets children outdoors and teaches them a little patience as they wait for their flowers to appear in spring.
5.Decorate pumpkins ready for Halloween
Pumpkin decorating is a classic October half term activity and a great way to get creative at home and it's an activity suitable for all ages. All you need is paint or colourful pens.
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You don't have to stick to scary designs either. Why not create funny faces, favourite characters or colourful Autumn-themed patterns? If you've got younger children, painting pumpkins can be a safer alternative to carving while still being just as fun.
Display your finished creations outside your front door, in the garden or around the house to get everyone into the Halloween spirit. Plus, it's a great excuse to take some family photos and show off your masterpieces!
Keep your little ones entertained this October half term and don’t forget to visit Almondsbury!