Best October half-term holiday destinations

October Half Term

Posted by Samantha Thomas on 12th August 2022

Arriving at holiday cottage

When summer is clearly in the rear-view mirror, the lazy days of holidays become just distant memories and we’re fully in the throes of mornings of hasty breakfasts, shoe-hunting and hurrying out of the door with coats half on, into the crisper autumn air.

But as the August hordes disappear and green leaves take on russet and golden hues, it’s time to start digging the jumpers out the back of closets. The arrival of autumn can herald some of the most beautiful landscapes, so before the chaos of Christmas descends, it’s time to take a break from the hectic whirlwind of everyday life, slow the pace and escape to one of our fabulous properties for October half term. With a little energy, a spoonful of patience and the desire to create memories they’ll remember forever, your little ones, your older ones, and even your difficult-to-please ones can all find plenty to enjoy.

 We even have ideas for a rainy day out in October half-term for when the weather turns wet - there are some great all-weather attractions to consider checking out with your family on your autumn holiday. Read on to uncover some of our favourite places across the UK to find a break from routine, bend the rules and simply spend some time together this October half term.


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October half-term in the West Country

There’s nothing better than getting to the coast for your ocean fix, and in October the whole West Country experience feels just as magical, as well as being far less rushed and crowded.

Cornwall 

Best for blustery beach walks

Cornwall

Half term in the city - Cornwall isn't really renowned for its cities or large towns by they do exist. Truro is the county's only city with a cathedral and thriving heart. You can depend on Truro for night-time entertainment like nightclubs, pubs, restaurants, theatres, and cinemas. It is also worth a visit if you fancy a shopping trip. Most of the shops centre around Lemon Quay and Fore Street and a high number of chain stores are represented in amongst the legions of independent shops selling local fare from food, drink and bespoke craft goods. A shopping trip with the family is a good pastime during October half term as there are plenty of places to hide from the rain should it decide to turn up. Truro is on the main train line and is linked to the various branch lines that connect the south and north coast together.

Half term in the country - Cornwall countryside is beautiful in October as the leaves on the trees turn golden and the autumn has England in its grip. To see the change best take your family kayaking along the Helford River during October half term, another great option for an autumn day out in Cornwall is to the Lost Gardens of Heligan near Mevagissey. The countryside in Cornwall is characterised by its wide-open spaces dotted with the stony remains of old mining buildings, in some areas like West Penwith, there are very few trees on the land, so you can see for miles. Visit the mining museums at Levant and Geevor for an insight into life in the Cornish countryside as it was lived a few centuries ago.

Half term at the coast - In Cornwall, you can find the best beaches for running on in the autumn sunshine … or drizzle … or wind – this is the UK after all. Crackington Haven is a great beach for building sandcastles or discovering hidden rock pool treasures and you’ll be protected from the elements by the surrounding tall cliffs. The dune-fringed Fistral Beach at Newquay is one of the most popular places in the UK to watch surfers, or by contrast seek out secluded beauty at Kennack Sands on The Lizard, far away from the seething crowds. Cornwall has beaches for all tastes.

Great Cornish beaches:

  • Summerleaze Beach - Wide and sandy with grassy dunes and the River Neet running by.
  • Lusty Glaze - Includes a fantastic restaurant and adventure centre which sits behind the beach offering the chance to try new things and make new memories.
  • Porth Beach - A quiet cove, perfect for family time.

Stay in Cornwall:

Discover more of our collection of Cornish coastal cottages and begin planning your next family getaway to the seaside.

October half-term holidays in Cornwall


Devon

Best for crunching through autumn leaves

Couples autumn walk

Half term in the city - Devon is home to two major cities: the ancient, historic Exeter, and the maritime and naval hub of Plymouth. The two cities are chalk and cheese with a legion of merits that make them both excellent choices for an October half-term holiday in Devon. Exeter is a classic destination with a cathedral, caverns, ancient ruins of city walls and bridges; it also has wonderful river walks and one of the best city shopping centre experiences in the South West of England. Dartmoor National Park is on the doorstep too, so you can be in the deepest countryside within half an hour's drive from the High Street. 

Plymouth by comparison is more modern. Its position by the coast and around the edge of the huge deep-water harbour Plymouth Sound makes it a haven for boating enthusiasts. The British Navy has one of their largest fleets of battleships at anchor in Plymouth and you'll learn about the history of the famous Mayflower here too. Attractions include Tinside Lido, The National Marine Aquarium, Mayflower Steps, and the city's gigantic shopping centre.

Half term in the country - If autumn for you and your brood is epitomised by bundling up in scarves and taking long strolls through crunchy, leaf-lined woodland; collecting conkers; or blowing the cobwebs away on windswept coastal walks, then Devon should be the break that beckons you on. Dartmoor’s valleys, gorges, and cascading waterfalls erupt into an explosion of colour in the autumn months, making it one of the most inspiring times to visit. Squeeze your former flip-flopped feet into wellies and spend a golden afternoon scuffing leaves, picking crimson fruits, and jumping in puddles – a timely reminder from Mother Nature that the best things in life really are free.

Why not don walking boots and explore the dramatic landscapes of Exmoor National Park? For a new, magical experience with your loved ones, witness this location in all its glory, on a clear evening as the sun drops behind the horizon and you can gaze up at the velvet blanket of darkness to limitless stars, planets and constellations. What’s more, the Exmoor Dark Skies Festival usually runs across the October half-term period and into November (check for details) and offers amazing events such as a full moon safari and night walk where you can count the stars and escape from the artificial glows which can dominate our lives.

Half term at the coast - Devon is the only county with two coastlines - one to the north and one in the south. They are quite the contrast, the North Devon coast is home to miles of prime surfing beach from Croyde, Woolacombe, and Westward Ho! This coastline is also home to some of the longest unspoiled stretches of coastline in the South West of England, where secret coves join up to cascading woodlands. South Devon's coastline is where you will find lots of quaint fishing villages and towns like Brixham, and Dartmouth, and a host of sandy beaches and coves to enjoy with your family for an October half-term holiday in Devon.

Here are some other great autumnal locations to explore in Devon:

Stay in Devon

Then drift back to your holiday cottage to wrap chilly fingers around welcoming mugs of hot chocolate and gather around an open fire or wood burner, or even an outdoor firepit. This should be what holidays are about – doing something different. Find cosy Devon cottages, perfect for your half-term break.

October half-term holidays in Devon


October half-term on the South Coast

The South Coast, meanwhile, offers all the flexibility you could need this half term providing the perfect backdrop for an autumn adventure. Traditional Victorian seaside towns that pepper the coast are the stuff childhood dreams are made of, and out of season – even when whipped by the wind, they are the perfect antidote to busy city life.

The New Forest 

Best for fairy-tale forests

The New Forest  Best for fairy-tale forests

Half term in town The New Forest isn't really celebrated for its towns, but the ones found within its borders are very pleasant all the same. Lymington, Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst are the main hubs, and they make for a great base from which to explore the New Forest during your October half-term break. You can find bike hire, tour buses, and lots of handy shops to make your New Forest holiday an easy-going one. Head to the village of Beaulieu to discover one of the UK's biggest and best motor museums, and see where Lord Nelson had his warships built for the Battle of Trafalgar at Buckler's Hard, both of which make for awesome family days out.

Half term in the country - If sand and shingle aren’t really your thing, head inland and enjoy the autumnal magnificence of the New Forest which turns into a scene from a fairy tale in autumn with the pink and purple hues of the heather and the floor littered with red-topped mushrooms. Get the kids to really engage with their surroundings. Send them on a silent hunt for the prettiest autumn leaves, encourage them to draw everything they can see, or they could even become leaf or tree detectives. Whatever you choose to do, revel in the freedom and choose one of our favourite places. Keep an eye out for wild horses and ponies!

Half-term at the coast - The New Forest reaches down to the coast where you will find hidden beaches at Lepe and Calshot Spit. Also enjoy October half-term walks at Lymington and Keyhaven Nature Reserves and Hurst Castle. Lymington is a pleasant marina town with cobble streets and lovely restaurants, you can also catch a ferry to the Isle of Wight for a day trip too. Hurst Castle is located on a shingle spit that runs miles into the Solent and offers fantastic views of The Needles on the Isle of Wight.

Three of our top places to visit in the New Forest:

Stay in the New Forest

Find even more cosy family cottages in the New Forest to snuggle up in.

October half-term holidays in the New Forest


Kent and Sussex

Best for history and heritage

Kent and Sussex

Half term in the towns - An October half-term city or urban break to either Kent or Sussex is incredibly inspired as both counties are home to some of the South Coast's most interesting metropolises. Let's start with Brighton in Sussex, the king and queen of all English seaside resorts with its long promenade, piers, and lust for life. You also have the wonders of Eastbourne, Bexhill-on-Sea, and Hastings. Kent is home to ancient Dover with its WW2 and Roman heritage, the titular White Cliffs, and colossal ferry terminal, Folkestone is its slightly quieter but no less alluring neighbour with its harbour and long beach. For traditional seaside fun and cheer, check out Ramsgate, Broadstairs, and Margate too.

Half term in the country - When you and the kids decide it’s time to collect some cultural moments, you can’t go wrong with Kent or Sussex. Bursting with national treasures, magnificent scenery and short distances between city, country and coastline, you can create your perfect half-term break. Visit the cathedrals and castles of Canterbury and Rochester, explore The Historic Dockyard at Chatham, head to Folkestone’s Creative Quarter or explore the ‘Garden of England’ and the country parks and nature reserves of Sussex under a canopy of autumn colours.

Half term at the coast - With over 150 miles of coastline between the two counties, there is heaps to enjoy at the Kent and Sussex coast this October half-term. Sandy beaches dominate the western end of Sussex at The Witterings, before becoming pebbly the further east you go from Bognor Regis, Littlehampton, Brighton, Eastbourne, and into Kent. There are some sandy beaches at Camber Sands on the border and Greatstone and Sandgate. Try oysters at Whitstable, or discover the vital role Kent played in WW2, you can still see remnants of fortifications in the cliffs up and down the Kent Coast. Beaches are a great place to enjoy the final sunny days of the year during your October half-term holiday in Kent and Sussex.

Other great places on the South Coast:

  • Leeds Castle – A fantastic family day out and including seasonal activities such as a Monster Academy, fireworks and markets.
  • Bodiam Castle – Take a brilliant guided tour of this 14th-century medieval castle.
  • Rye Harbour National Nature Reserve – A Site of Special Scientific Interest and riot of wildlife!

Stay in Kent and Sussex

Stay in a family-friendly find in Kent or a perfect property for all the family in Sussex.

October half-term holidays in Kent and Sussex cottages


October half-term destinations in the East of England

Should your half-term wanderlust draw you to the East of England, then you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to places to go and things to do to create those all-important family moments this October half term.

Norfolk

Best for wild and remote exploration 

Skimming stones

Half-term in the city - Norfolk is home to several interesting cities that are worth considering for a holiday this October half-term. Norwich is a city of artists in the depths of Norfork. It's a picturesque and historic city with river walks, city walks, market squares, a cathedral, and shops galore to explore. Norwich also serves as the gateway to Thetford Forest, the Norfolk Broads, and the North Norfolk Coast.

Half term in the country - The county of Norfolk offers beaches as a key draw; the vast skies, attractive stretches of sand and seaside towns full of character are so inviting – even in colder months. Some of the best places include Cromer, Hunstanton, and Wells-next-the-Sea. You can fill your days with visits to historic towns, country houses, and medieval castles on your trip. Don't miss out on a boat trip through the Norfolk Broads, one of the largest man-made wonders in the UK.

Half term at the coast - Norfolk has nearly 100 miles of coastline from Hunstanton in the west to Great Yarmouth in the east. Much of its length is wild and unspoiled, from the seal haulouts of Blakeney to the obscure coral reef at Cromer with its ornate seaside pier and decorative prom. We'd recommend a day out to Holkham Beach, Scolt Head Nature Reserve, and the Norfolk Coast AONB.

Other great places to go to in Norfolk:

  • At Holme-next-the-Sea the Norfolk Coast Path meets Peddars Way and the trail leads inland – one of the best ways to take in a beautiful pine forest and its flatness makes it perfect for little legs.
  • Older children can feel the adrenaline rush for hours in Weasenham Woods with ExTREEme Adventure – high ropes course including real tree climbing and assault courses because autumn is made for getting muddy.
  • Or if holidaying at a more measured pace and spending time on the water is what really floats your boat, quite literally, then pack a picnic and from Wroxham head off up the Norfolk Broads on a hired launch.

Stay in Norfolk

October half-term holidays in Norfolk


Suffolk

Best for a break filled with variety

Suffolk

Half-term in the city - A trip to Ipswich may not be on your radar but it's a very pleasant city and a superb place to choose for a city break in Suffolk. Ipswich Wharf is great for evening meals and entertainment and there is a huge IMAX in the heart of the town too. If shopping is your thing then Ipswich will appeal to you and your family on your October half-term city break. Basing yourself in Ipswich gives you access to the surrounding Suffolk countryside and coast, with wonders like Orford Ness, and Felixstowe a reasonably short drive away. Bury St Edmunds is the perfect blend of town and country - in spite of its beautiful cathedral, it is not a city. Walk around the abbey ruins and enjoy a lovely day exploring the cobbled shopping streets.

Half term in the country - In autumn, this area of England is packed with things to do and places to go. Have fun in zoos or enjoy the waterways of the Broads. Stop in picturesque towns and villages throughout this delightful county, or stay by the sea and enjoy coastal excursions every day. The Suffolk Coast and Heaths AONB is home to much natural beauty making it a lovely place to enjoy the colourful autumn leaves this October half term.

Half term at the coast - From Felixstowe in the south to Great Yarmouth in the north, the Suffolk Coast is both unspoiled and busy in equal measure. You can escape the crowds by catching a boat to the mysterious nature reserve of Orford Ness, or enjoy some fairground rides and a traditional English day at the beach at Great Yarmouth. In between, there is the busy port of Felixstowe with its viewing platform where you can watch gigantic ships load with cargo for their worldwide voyages across the sea. Felixstowe also has a lovely seafront with a newly restored pier and winter gardens. There is a lot to see at the coast in Suffolk on your October seaside half-term break.

Explore ancient heritage, incredible coastline and meet exotic animals during a family break to Suffolk:

  • Soak up local and national heritage at Sutton Hoo, where archaeologists uncovered two cemeteries dating all the way back to the 6th to 7th centuries. A wealth of incredible Anglo-Saxon artefacts can be seen here.
  • See incredible animals from rhinos to cheetahs at Africa Alive!, a zoological centre whose work revolves around the conservation of animals all over the world. You could even feed a giraffe or meet the lions with their animal experiences. 
  • Grab a breath of fresh sea air on a stroll to the end of Southwold Pier, a popular trip for the whole family, with a cafe, arcade and busy calendar of events.

Stay in Suffolk

October half-term holidays in Suffolk


October half-term destinations in the Heart of England

If a break to an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is on your autumn wish list, then the Heart of England is a great place to start. Visit the simply beautiful, cultural cities of Bath and Oxford which perch on the edge of the 800 square miles of the Cotswolds, famous for its gentle and lush countryside dotted with honey-hued, chocolate-box cottages. Or head to the rugged and hilly landscapes of the Peak District – a place for adventure and families with a passion for the active outdoors.

The Cotswolds

Best for a truly British break

The Cotswolds: best for a truly British break

Half term in the towns -  Discover everything that is quintessentially English in The Cotswolds. The towns of the Cotswolds are characterised by their honey-coloured stone houses, there's no place else like it. Stop at Bourton-on-the-Water with its streams criss-crossing the main street, or Broadway with its country park and tower. See one of the grandest stately homes in all the land at Blenheim Palace, where Winston Churchill was born. The Cotswolds has something for everybody in its beautiful towns and villages.

Half term in the country - Roam beautiful castles in Warwickshire, stately homes, and the market towns of Oxfordshire or get wonderfully (and deliberately) lost in the countryside before stumbling through the door of a wonderfully warm and cosy firelit pub or a charming tearoom. Check out the wonderful trees at Batsford Arboretum and Westonbirt Arboretum; Autumn is the perfect time to see the leaves at their most eye-catching.

We couldn’t possibly cover all of this vast area, but some of the best days out would include:

  • An investigation of even more Roman wonders in Cirencester’s Corinium Museum. It houses a vast collection of mosaics where you can piece together some yourselves and play a variety of games.
  • Cotswold Water Park - comprising more than 150 lakes and 40 square miles, it’s perfect for walking and mountain biking whatever the season with an excellent network of paths and trails or try your hand at a variety of water sports.
  • The kids are spoilt for choice at the Cotswolds Motor Museum.

Stay in The Cotswolds

Escape to a holiday cottage in the Cotswolds for a break with all your closest family and friends.

October half-term holidays in the Cotswolds


October half-term destinations in the North of England

What if you’re choosing the North of England for your autumn adventure? Stretching from Cumbria and the Lake District in the west and traversing across the Pennine hills to ‘God’s Own Country’ of Yorkshire – this is a region of huge opportunity.

The Peak District 

Best for miles upon miles of open space

Derbyshire countryside

Half term in the towns - The Peak District National Park is home to a few pleasant towns such as Buxton and Bakewell. Buxton is known for its opera house, its spa waters, and its stunning architecture. Buxton is the perfect base for exploration of the western edges of the Peak District National Park, it is located close to the southern end of the Pennine Way in Edale. Bakewell is the birthplace of the Bakewell tart and its lesser-known relative the Bakewell Pudding. Bakewell is within a very short distance of the spectacular Chatsworth House and Estate, which provides the ultimate October half-term day trip for families.

Half term in the country - Head a little further north in the heart of England if you want your autumn adventures in the Peaks and surrounding counties. Aside from the wealth of family-friendly footpaths and cycle trails to explore, there are a whole host of other activities which you can enjoy. If you fancy some time underground, Derbyshire is well known for its caves which are great for little explorers fascinated by rock formations. The caves in Castleton include some of the best caverns with Treak Cliff and Speedwell Cavern or head to Poole’s Cavern in Buxton where you can journey beneath the earth to see a display that has been millions of years in the making.

When you’re in the Peak District, we’d also recommend that you:

  • Pack a picnic (and your teddy) and head to Elvaston Castle Country Park with acres of open space for outdoor games.
  • Take a trip back in time at Crich Tramway Village, complete with a reconstructed village scene, sculpture trail and unlimited rides on the trams.
  • Have a roarsome time at Gulliver’s Kingdom where you’ll find the Lost World of Living Dinosaurs and a pirate play area, me hearties.

Stay in the Peak District

If this part of the UK has inspired you, then look at some of the fantastic properties in the Peak District that you could head back to as night falls.

October half-term holidays in the Peak District


Yorkshire

Best for the scenery

Yorkshire Best for the scenery

Divided into North, South, East, and West Yorkshire the region is vast and covers one of the biggest areas of the North of England.

Half term in the city - If you are planning a city break in Yorkshire this October half-term, then York is not to be missed. It's home to ancient walls and medieval streets, the magnificent gothic Minster and a huge array of eateries. For something a little different, take a cruise along the beautiful River Ouse, where you can even enjoy an afternoon tea or if you’d prefer a bit of mystery, experience the Original Ghost Walk of York. Don't forget to read our blog about the UK's most haunted places; is York on our list? Also consider a holiday in the spa city of Harrogate which gives you great access to the Nidderdale AONB, and the castles at Knaresborough and Ripley.

Half term in the country - The Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors National Parks take up the lion's share of the county. That is an awful lot of countryside to cover on one holiday, yet autumn is a great time to be out on the moors walking along one of the region's long-distance walking trails like Wainwright's Coast to Coast or the Pennine Way. With the transition to autumn, the later mornings with shrouds of mists across hill and dale as well as the rushing streams and water, the wild expanses of Yorkshire are a must-visit. Also, seek out Wensleydale, and the Nidderdale AONB for wonderful walks and cycle trails to enjoy on your October half-term break to the wilds of Yorkshire.

Half term at the coast - The coastline runs from the mouth of the River Humber in the south to near Staithes in the north. Walk the Cleveland Way to get the best of this craggy coastline. See one of the largest bird colonies in the British Isles at Flamborough Head, or take to the beach at Filey or admire the prettiness of Whitby with its abbey ruins and tales of Count Dracula. Fancy a traditional seaside day out with all the fun of the beach, then make sure you spend some time enjoying yourself with the family in the evergreen favourite of Scarborough. The Yorkshire Coast is a brilliant choice for an October staycation this half term.

Our top spots for October half-term in Yorkshire include:

  • Thorp Perrow Arboretum with hundreds of gorgeous woodland walks, trails and adventure playgrounds to explore.
  • Aysgarth Falls are a sight to behold when jewelled autumn colours combine with cascading waters.
  • Robin Hood's Bay is a coastal village with beautiful views and a gorgeous beach that stands at the eastern end of a popular national walking trail.

Stay in Yorkshire:

When your long day of touring Yorkshire's wonders has ended, retire to one of our cosy retreats in Yorkshire.  

October half-term holidays in Yorkshire


The Lake District

Best for countryside and castles

Lake District in autumn

Half term in the country - The Lake District is home to England's only mountain range, its longest lake (Windermere), and its deepest lake (Wastwater). There are 16 lakes and tarns in the National Park and it is also one of the most visually appealing parts of the UK. October is a particularly good time for a staycation because the trees are losing their leaves and the scenery is awash with russet, gold, and yellow leaves. Enjoy walks on the fells or around the lakes like Derwentwater, Coniston Water, or Buttermere. There's also a great sculpture and cycle trail at Grizedale Forest to discover too. When walking in autumn, the landscape is accentuated by the clarity of the light, the summer crowds have disappeared and you have the freedom of the land, and that's when the Lake District becomes extra magical.

Half term in the town - The Lake District is studded with beautiful villages and towns that are relatively small. Ambleside serves as a great hub, located at the northern end of Lake Windermere, it has a superb array of restaurants and arthouse cinemas. Attractions for October half term include the World of Beatrix Potter, Hilltop, Wordsworth House, and Windermere Jetty Museum

Some suggested walks:

  • The Old Man of Coniston – If your legs are up to it, climb the slopes of The Old Man which dominates the skyline above Coniston Water: the views are magical.
  • Cat Bells – This ‘proper little mountain’ involves a muddy scramble, but it’s well worth it with the views from the top.
  • Castlerigg Stone Circle - Cumbria’s very own version of Stonehenge. Wrap up warm and take a stroll to Keswick to this tranquil spot, great for mini humans as it is just over 1.5 miles.

Wray Castle

A land of castles

Besides the scenic walking routes, the Lake District is also home to magnificent castles that have been build over the centuries in this landscape full of valleys and mountains, perfect for defensive tactics. 

Fabulous castles:

  • Wray Castle – ignite your children’s imagination with these iconic fairy-tale castles where they can play knights and princesses (or cops and robbers…or ninjas) for hours. Wray Castle even includes a games room.
  • Muncaster Castle – if you feel like being a little spooked, take a trip to reputedly one of the most haunted castles in Britain; with a singing lady, children crying and a distinct chill in the air, only enter if you dare. For a bit more of a light-hearted visit, stick to outside where you’ll find a maze, trail and an adventure playground.
  • Brougham Castle and Carlisle Castle – both great castles to visit to absorb a bit of history. Carlisle bears the scars of many battles whilst Brougham is a labyrinth of fascinating ruins.

Stay in the Lake District

Head to a cottage hidden in the delightful Lake District and walk alongside marvellous bodies of water or step back in time with visits to the castles throughout the region.

October half-term holidays in the Lake District


October half-term destinations in Scotland

This is Scotland – a place of epic wilderness, natural wonder, and a country that should be visited at least once in every person’s lifetime. Experience the superb scenery, only magnified and rarefied by the autumn light.

Explore Northern Scotland and the Highlands complete with dramatic mountain ranges and unspoilt coastline. Venture to the Scottish Islands, where you would be forgiven for thinking that you’d walked onto the set of a fantastical movie. Or experience the vibrancy of Central and Southern Scotland with its two major cities, Glasgow and Edinburgh, alongside the sheer, raw beauty of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Further south and you’re into the Scottish Borders where the scars of historic battles remain, coupled with gentle valleys and some of the best cycling you will find anywhere.

There is something truly ethereal about some destinations in Scotland and so this could be the ultimate destination for you to escape routine and slow the pace. Let us shine the spotlight on just a few of Scotland’s highlights.

Scotland in autumn

Southern Scotland – best for culture

Edinburgh Castle – spend an afternoon exploring this imposing 12th-century city fortress, finishing your tour up on the battlements where you can see the autumnal panorama stretching out before you as the autumn sun hangs low in the sky.

Floors Castle – take a child-friendly guided tour around this castle near Kelso, which is still a family home, or take the bikes to follow the cycle path. Plus, the woodland will be at its very best in autumn.

Loch Lomond

Central Scotland – best for autumn colours

The Hermitage – an enchanting piece of Perthshire forest filled with Douglas firs that dominate overhead. Paths lead to the River Braan and to the impressive Ossian’s Hall with a spectacular view of the Black Linn Falls as they crash to the waters below. In autumn, you may be lucky enough to see salmon leaping as they head to spawning grounds.

Loch Lomond – while this loch is home to Scotland’s most southerly Munro (mountain over 3,000ft), Ben Lomond, those with little legs might prefer climbing Conic Hill. Spot buzzards on the leisurely 45-minute ascent and once at the summit, take in the burnished colours of the landscape below.

The Caingorms

Northern Scotland – best for finding magic

The Enchanted Forest – within the Faskally Forest from the 3rd October to 3rd November you can see what is quite possibly one of the most captivating light and sound shows. This will make for quite a memorable evening.

Top movie locations – head to Eilean Donan Castle, a stunning castle that featured as the backdrop in The World is not Enough or hop aboard a Jacobite steam train with your wand and an owl at the ready. The train leaves from the foot of Ben Nevis and crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct made famous by the Harry Potter films. A must-do for magical mischief-makers.

The Cairngorms – beautiful no matter what the season, highlights include visiting the RZSS Highland Wildlife Park which has a diversity of wildlife or why not get into the festive spirit a little early and check out the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre where the herd roam freely on the mountainside? Unforgettable.

Fairy Pools, Skye

Scottish Islands – best for spectacular scenery

Fingal’s Cave, Staffa – take a boat trip into this incredible hexagonal cave, which has been dubbed one of the most spectacular caves in the world. Once inside, listen to the eerie sound produced by the waves.

Fairy Pools, Skye – set off on a moderate trek and you’ll be rewarded with one of Skye’s most enchanting natural wonders: a series of waterfalls appear as if from nowhere and fill up the crystal-clear blue pools. Your little adventurers will love crossing the streams, rivers and stone bridges on the way.

Be inspired with our family-friendly cottages in Scotland, complete with warming tartan blankets and roaring wood burners.

October half-term holidays in Scotland


October half-term destinations in Wales

Swathes of rich colour drape over the valleys, vales and mountains of Wales in autumn, replacing the blues and greens with burnt ochre and fiery orange. If you haven’t yet experienced autumn in this beautiful country, then perhaps now is the time before the rush of the festive season. From the Welsh mountains to the spectacular coasts with the horizon pierced by dramatic cliffs and lone lighthouses, Wales is a beautiful land of epic experiences to be enjoyed by young and old alike.

Pembrokeshire 

Best for sandy walks and seal spotting

Couple having pizza

As well as the beaches of Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire is where you can feel free running on the stretches of sand; discovering hidden gems in rock or immersed in the water. You might even spot some seal pups – go on a walk with the rangers during autumn’s seal pupping season.

After a day wrapped in scarves and faces bright from the salty air, why not return to one of our fantastic holiday properties in Pembrokeshire? Many have wood burners or open fires for extra cosiness.

Here are our favourite Pembrokeshire beaches:

  • Barafundle Bay – voted many times as one of the best beaches in Britain with pristine sands and waters. Accessed by a short walk from the car park.
  • Tenby North Beach – a fantastic beach which is sheltered from the wind and offering a wealth of facilities – a great place in autumn as dog restrictions are lifted and so the whole family can run wild.
  • Whitesands Beach – this beach is often awash with surfers and kayakers making it a great spectator beach if you don’t fancy a dip as the weather turns colder. Build sandcastles or take to the coast path for a family stroll.

Stay in Pembrokeshire


Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons

Best for wild walks

Four Falls walk, Brecon Beacons

Autumn is undoubtedly one of the best for wandering under golden canopies in woodland or watching nature’s show in a garden where berries glow crimson and trees and shrubs turn warm shades of amber. If you have children in tow, many locations offer extra autumn half term or Halloween events so even the difficult-to-please ones will be entertained.

Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons are such commanding places of beauty that they will draw you like a magnet and provide the most magnificent backdrop to any cherished family photo. The varied landscape offers endless opportunities for exploring the countryside on foot. 

Here are some of our favourite walks in these two beloved Welsh National Parks:

  • Sgwd yr Eira Waterfall  (7 miles), Brecon Beacons National Park - with an amazing backdrop any time of the year, autumn renders it a riot of colour and the woodland hides this beautiful curtain of water – the perfect setting for a family photo.
  • Cwm Idwal walk (3 miles), Snowdonia - a pretty easy way to access Snowdonia’s epic mountain scenery and glacial lake. Older children may want to test themselves on the scramble up to Devil’s Kitchen.
  • Bodnant Garden, Colwyn Bay, North Wales - on the edge of Snowdonia, this garden includes some astounding ‘Champion Trees’, so-called as they are the biggest and best of their kind in Britain. Children can collect autumn treasures to create collages, or if you’re lucky enough to be visiting in half term there is a range of activities to get involved in – or even create your own treasure trail to follow.

Stay in Snowdonia and The Brecon Beacons

Find a cosy countryside cottage in Snowdonia or the Brecon Beacons, two national parks that would provide fantastic settings for your next exciting family getaway to Wales.

Family having breakfast

Another top destination to visit in Wales is Anglesey on the northern coast. Cross one of the bridges and escape to this beautiful island with its 125 miles of unspoilt coastline and wonderful gardens. There are also many walking and cycling trails criss-crossing the island, many of which are suitable for four legs as well as little legs.

If you fancy a stroll through manicured greenery, we'd recommend a trip to the beautiful Colby Woodland Garden This fantastic National Trust garden is crammed full of things to do. As well as the gardens, you can swing on ropes, scramble over trees, footbridges and logs. Or why not hunt for treasure with a geocaching kit? They even run a photography competition so you can take opportunities to get snapping and record moments forever. You can also get crafty in half term with the willow weaving workshop.

Girl on tree swing

Another scenic garden to visit - complete with classic Welsh castle within the grounds - is Powis Garden Castle. This medieval castle is simply spectacular, towering above the stunning gardens which are aglow with autumn. Take a moment to breathe in the scents of the season before heading to the Courtyard Restaurant, where in October you can enjoy a different flavoured scone every day. Every Halloween there’s also an exciting pumpkin trail for little ones (and not-so-little ones) to follow – collect all the clues to complete the trail, and best of all? It’s completely free!

There are endless opportunities to head out into Welsh landscapes and enjoy the freedom and flexibility which family holidays bring. Carefully chosen for their family-friendly features, each of our cottages in Wales offer something truly unique.

October half-term holidays in Wales


Stay at a self-catering holiday cottage this October half-term

As night falls, there is nothing better than retiring to somewhere special with all your someone-specials in a great dog-friendly property so no one in the family gets left behind. Or why not treat the whole family to a little bit of luxury in one of our cottages with a hot tub?

Scarves, long baths, steaming hot chocolate and open fires mixed with cosy tea rooms, steaming roasts in local pubs, and nature’s fireworks in the form of a kaleidoscope of autumn colours is everything that an autumn addict could wish for. 

We can’t promise that the sun will shine and the rain won’t fall for your visit, but whatever the weather, we do promise that our marvellous collections of family-friendly cottages for October half-term holidays across the length and breadth of the UK will provide everything you need for a memorable stay and a chance to collect some golden autumn moments.

October half-term cottages

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.