Our top 9 activities for October half term in Cornwall
Our top 9 activities for October half term in Cornwall
As the leaves turn to copper and the summer crowds fade, Cornwall in October takes on a special kind of magic. The air is crisp, the sea still sparkles and the landscape glows with autumnal colour. Half term is the perfect time to wrap up warm, embrace the season and explore the best of Cornwall – from pumpkin patches and enchanted woodlands, to surf-friendly waves and spooky theatre.
Whether you’re chasing family-friendly fun, crisp coastal walks or just a peaceful break with the dog, there’s no shortage of things to do this October. Here’s your ultimate guide to October half term in Cornwall, packed with activities that celebrate the spirit of the season.
Pumpkin picking at Trevaskis Farm
Nestled near Hayle, Trevaskis Farm is one of the best places to soak in autumn vibes. Wander through the pumpkin patch to pick your own from an array of shapes and sizes – perfect for carving, decorating or cooking. Afterwards, treat yourself to hot chocolate or a hearty lunch in their award-winning farm cafe.
Halloweden at the Eden Project
The Eden Project transforms into a spellbinding world of storytelling, mystery and adventure for its Halloweden event. With magical torchlit trails, potion-making workshops, wand-crafting and spooky performances, it’s a must-visit for families. The eerie (but friendly) energy lasts through the whole half term, and Cornwall’s only ice rink opens mid-October – just in time for some early winter fun.
Autumnal walks with the National Trust
Autumn in Cornwall is perfect for slow strolls and crunchy leaves. Visit National Trust estates like:
- Penrose: lakeside paths under golden trees
- Trelissick: sweeping gardens and estuary views
- Lanhydrock: stately grounds and a peaceful woodland cycle trail
- Trengwainton: sub-tropical gardens alive with colour
Many sites offer seasonal pop-ups like apple pressing, leaf art and kids’ trail maps.
Surfing and cycling for all ages
October still brings solid surf to Cornwall’s coast, with cooler water but uncrowded waves. Try lessons at Fistral, Perranporth or Gwithian, where instructors provide warm wetsuits and beginner-friendly boards. Or, stick to dry land and explore scenic bike trails like:
- Camel Trail: Wadebridge to Padstow
- Coast to Coast Trail: Portreath to Devoran
- Clay Trails near St Austell
Bike hire is widely available and many trails are dog-friendly too.
Quieter beaches (and dogs welcome!)
With summer dog bans lifted, October is beach bliss for four-legged friends. Beaches like Perranporth, Porthtowan, Gyllyngvase and Crantock become tranquil playgrounds for dog walkers and shell hunters alike. Enjoy brisk walks, sunrise coffees or even a brave paddle!
Rainy day ideas
Cornwall has you covered if the rain rolls in:
- National Maritime Museum: with pirate fun, knot workshops and half-term activities
- Tate St Ives: art workshops and family zones
- Paradise Park: indoor soft play, tropical birds and Halloween trails for little ones
Pack your waterproofs, and maybe a flask for those must-have hot chocolate stops.
Rogue Otherworld at Tehidy Woods
Prepare for enchantment. Rogue Theatre’s immersive “Dead of Night Dance” returns to Tehidy Woods, blending haunting tales with wild dance, firelight, music and magic. This open-air woodland theatre show is a spooky spectacle that’s both thrilling and beautiful – suitable for brave children and big kids alike. Be sure to get there early to enjoy a woodland walk and a slice of cake at the cafe.
Feast nights and harvest treats
From candlelit barns to rustic woodland feasts, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the season’s bounty.
- Nancarrow Farm: Renowned for its fire-cooked harvest feasts, Nancarrow hosts occasional seasonal feast nights in its atmospheric courtyard or 19th-century barn. Expect organic veg, grass-fed meat, open fires and communal long-table dining.
- Kilminorth Woodland Feasts: These intimate, outdoor woodland suppers combine seasonal ingredients, local drink pairings and nature-inspired storytelling.
Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm
Celebrate the flavours of the season at this family-run cider farm set among golden orchards. Wander tree-lined paths, meet horses and goats and hop on a tractor ride through the apple groves. Adults can enjoy tastings of Rattler cyder and farm-made spirits, while kids sip fresh-pressed apple juice and enjoy scooping up slathers of homemade jam. During October, keep an eye out for harvest-themed events, cider-making demos and seasonal treats in the farm cafe.
Whether you’re chasing autumn adventure, quiet coastal beauty or spooky storytelling, October half term in Cornwall is full of warmth, colour and charm. Don’t forget the wellies, and maybe bring a jar for collecting conkers.
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