October Half Term 2025: Things to Do in Cornwall

Family Days Out in October Half Term

Crash-bang-thump! Zog and the Flying Doctors are landing at the Eden Project for October half term week. Expect lots of Zog-themed quests and workshops, along with the chance to meet Julia Donaldson’s famous dragon himself. Eden’s popular ice rink is opening on Saturday, 18 October this year and look out for special play sessions for toddlers. National Trust properties across Cornwall are hosting a great variety of Halloween-themed and seasonal events over the half term week. Expect nature trails, autumnal art and spooky storytelling and we are looking forward to the dragon-themed programme at Trerice near Newquay. Don’t miss the pumpkin patch in the kitchen garden at Trengwaiton (Penzance) and take one home to carve.

In Falmouth, it is the fabulous “Silhouettes and Shadows” week at the National Maritime Museum Cornwall (it is also a great opportunity to see their superb surfing exhibition). While you are in Falmouth, head up the hill to Pendennis Castle for “a ghoulish day out” in the creepiest of settings. Do you dare listen to the chilling tales of ghosts and hauntings as you explore the darker corners of the castle?

If you are a family of animal lovers, “Spooky Zooquay” (usually known as Newquay Zoo) is promising all sorts of thrilling adventures over half term and Halloween. Paradise Park in Hayle will be running its Halloween and Wildlife Heroes quizzes and as always, the much-appreciated Jungle Barn indoor play centre will be open throughout half term (remember to book your slot in advance).

Autumn Outdoor Adventures in Cornwall

One of the best bits about autumn? A kick through the leaves on a sunny day, stopping for hot chocolate or (this being Cornwall) a restorative pasty. Cornwall’s warmer climate extends our summer with 15 degree days and mild nights. Just pack your waterproofs and wellies, in case the weather gets wetter. 

Explore the paths and cycle trails at Cardinham Woods near Bodmin or hire a bike at nearby National Trust Lanhydrock, which has miles of wooded paths to discover. Further west, enjoy a family walk through the Steeple or Trevaylor Woods or feed the squirrels and ducks at Tehidy Woods (both like oats). Hack through the falling leaves on horseback with a local riding school or hire an e-bike to explore the Cornish lanes on two wheels.

Make the most of the quieter beaches for a sandy stroll and possibly a paddle. Hardy souls can continue with surfing lessons (weather and tide permitting) and seasoned swimmers simply don a thicker wetsuit and carry on as normal. For a warmer dip, the geothermal lido at the Jubilee Pool in Penzance is open until Sunday 2nd of November.

If you love the atmosphere of the autumnal forest, keep an eye out for Rogue Otherworld’s next production “Dead of Night Dance” in Tehidy Woods. Their immersive performances take you into the heart of the woods and they always manifest extra magic for Halloween week. They typically put on two separate shows: a fun, family-friendly production during the day followed by a darker performance in the nighttime woods.

And the absolutely essential outdoor activity for Halloween week? Pumpkin picking of course! Try Trevaskis Farm near Hayle, we also recommend a delicious home-cooked meal in their fabulous restaurant.

Cosy Evenings in Cornwall

You have picked your pumpkin along with some seasonal local produce, and you are all set for a cosy night in your Cornish holiday cottage. Carve your pumpkin then enjoy a mug or two of warming mulled cider (try something from award-winning St Ives Cider or Polgoon). 

If you prefer to eat out, Cornwall has more than its share of cosy pubs with inviting fires and hearty local dishes. Mousehole, Porthleven and St Ives all have inviting harbourside pubs, bars and restaurants where you can watch the waves while feeling smugly warm and snug.

Pack a mac and a rug for We Will Rock You at the unique Minack Theatre, or if you prefer an indoor performance, family-friendly shows at the Regal in Redruth include The Littlest Yak and Halloween Spooktacular. Beautiful Art Deco cinema The Ritz in Penzance is reopening after years of closure in September 2025, and you can catch a performance of Halloween Spooktacular here, too. The combination of comfy auditoria and an excellent restaurant at Newlyn Filmhouse makes this one of our favourite autumn and winter nights out.