October Half Term in Dorset

The days are getting shorter, the air is turning crisp, and autumn is painting Dorset in warm shades of gold and amber — which scarily means the October Half Term 2025 is fast approaching. If you're looking for ways to make the most of the school break with the whole family, Dorset is bursting with exciting things to do. From outdoor adventures and nature trails to cosy indoor attractions and creative workshops, there’s something to suit every age and interest. Whether you're exploring the coast, discovering hidden gems in the countryside, or enjoying local food and crafts, this is the perfect time to reconnect and make lasting memories.

We’ve gathered a fantastic selection of family-friendly activities and events happening across the county, so you can plan a Half Term full of fun, laughter and seasonal charm. Whether it’s a day out at a farm park, a scenic walk through autumn woodlands, or a hands-on experience at a museum, Dorset has plenty to offer for a memorable school holiday.

Book an October Half Term getaway to Dorset

Just because the summer has drawn to a close, it doesn't mean the fun has to end! Pack your chunky knitwear and head on down to Dorset for a few days away this half term holiday.

The quieter beaches means the children (and dogs) will be free to run and play. Our countryside also looks gorgeous as the leaves change colour and shorter days mean you can curl up for some quality time together in the evenings. Plus, there are some great family-friendly events taking place too. Your perfect autumn escape is here waiting to be discovered.

A trip to Brownsea Island is almost like a rite of passage at this time of year. Enjoy a woodland walk, take part in some Forest Bathing or get the kids to test their balance skills on the adventure play area. And not forgetting the chance to see the Island's rare red squirrels busy hoarding their food ready for the winter.

Sherborne Castle and Gardens host their annual Autumn Colours weekend event on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 October where entry is at a reduced ticket price. Throughout the half term holidays there will also be an Autumn Children's Trail to follow - find the pumpkins and solve the clues along the way to get a prize.

At Exbury Gardens you can see beautiful autumnal shades of golden yellow and ruby red throughout their magnificent landscapes.

For a few more ideas about where to visit this season, check out our Awesome Autumn Colours blog.

Autumn half term fun for families in Dorset

At Abbotsbury Swannery children can follow the Brambly Hedge Trail. Brambly Hedge is a collection of children's stories and illustrations by author Jill Barklem. The trail takes visitors around the Swannery grounds, to discover more about the swans and the adventurous mice in the books. Designed for families to enjoy, the trail includes stamp points, questions to answer and characters to meet, all alongside the swans and discovering more about the unique Swannery.

Award winning presenter Steve Backshall will be bringing Deadly Live! to Bournemouth on 28 October. From big cats and birds of prey to Dinomania dinosaurs, snakes, and more, this electrifying live show takes you across land, sea, and sky in an unforgettable wildlife spectacle.

Over at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest you can join Stick Man on his forest adventure. Enjoy the wonderful world of Stick Man as you complete lots of fun stick-based activities, discover tree-mendous facts and learn about forest wildlife. Once you've helped Stick Man find his way back home, complete the rubbing in your adventure passport and take a picture with Stick Man in the family tree.

The October Half Term holidays see the return of the Teddy Bear zip wire and a new family quest at Corfe Castle. Bring your own teddy or borrow a furry Corfe Castle veteran and take them for a tour around the site before attaching it to the zip wire by the castle keep.

If you love musicals, head over to Bournemouth's Pavilion Theatre to see Annie. Set in 1930s New York during the Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan's orphanage. Her luck soon changes when she's chosen to spend a fairytale Christmas with famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Meanwhile, Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie's search for her true family. Featuring unforgettable songs - "It's the Hard-Knock Life", "Easy Street", "I Don't Need Anything but You" and "Tomorrow" - you can bet your bottom dollar that you'll love it!

Pumpkin picking and carving in Dorset

October half term wouldn't be the same without some pumpkin picking and carving so put on your wellies and get ready for some fun in the fields! We've got a great blog that details all of the great places to go hunting for that perfect pumpkin!

October half term on a budget in Dorset

Offering great value for a family day out, check out our blog to find 30 days out costing less than £30.

For some great low-cost or no-cost days out in Dorset read our low-cost holidays blog or check out our top ten ideas for free days out. Explore castles, go on a nature trail or ride your bike for a cycling adventure in our beautiful countryside.

Dorset also has over 50 attractions offering free tickets for children, making your day out that little bit more affordable.

There are also museums, country parks, hill forts and more which offer free admission. See the full list of over 200 free things to do in our wonderful county.

And don't forget to look at our Special Offers page to see what deals and discounts are available to save some money during your break.

Visit Dorset during Halloween

It wouldn't be the October Half Term holidays without Halloween, and we've got some fabulous treats (and tricks) in store for you.

From ghost trains and zombie archery to haunted houses and of course fancy dress, there's lots of fangtastic family friendly events to choose from. There's something for all ages, so whether you've got tots or teens, or wanting a low budget option, you'll find the perfect way to enjoy the spooky season.