Half-term is that precious time before Christmas where you can appreciate some time away before the chaos commences. While Cornwall offers a safe haven away from the hustle and bustle all-year round, October is a wonderful time to visit with plenty of special events, quieter roads, cosy pub lunches and crisp autumn walks.
This year October half-term break falls over the spookiest time of the year with Halloween being Friday 31 October, and there’s plenty of freaky events happening in the Duchy.
While we can’t promise glorious sunshine, we can guarantee you’ll never be bored in beautiful Cornwall.
Many lifeguards have packed up their flags, seasonal dog bans have been lifted, and you won’t find many buckets and spades on the beach, but what you will appreciate is Cornwall’s beaches looking in more of a natural state of beauty. Embrace a stomp across the beach, and head to a local pub to refuel or a warming hot chocolate at a beachside café.
Perhaps you’re a competent swimmer but yet to join the open-water swimming craze? Half-term is the last chance to enjoy Penzance’s art deco Jubilee Pool (closes on 2 November for winter), or Bude’s tidal sea pool is free to enjoy all year round – but be aware there are no lifeguards.
Every weekend in October & half-term week until Thursday 31 October
Head to Cornish Maize Maze near Saltash, and pick your own pumpkin this year (small additional charge). For families there’s also a short maze with a Halloween-themed quiz, plus a loveable selection of farm animals to meet. Open every day from 10.30am until 5pm and entry is £5 per person (under 2s free).
Or if you dare take on the one-night-only Halloween Maze of Horrors! taking place from 6pm on Saturday 1 November 2025. Not for the faint hearted, the halloween Horror Maze route features scare scenes with live actors along the way. Tickets are £16.50.
Cornwall has hundreds of wonderful pubs (here’s our top 50 you should absolutely visit), full of charm and character, with many dating back as far as the 12th century. After a meander around the Duchy’s quaint towns and villages, or perhaps a stomp along the coast path, a good pub lunch is in order – perhaps try the latest opening from the Carbis Bay Estate in pretty Portreath, The Basset Arms. And if the weather is miserable, there’s nothing quite like a roaring log burner in the distance.
A trip to Tate St Ives always comes recommended, and this half-term is your last chance to see the works of Liliane Lijn, where you can discover art that sees the world in terms of light and energy, with her exhibition Arise Alive.
Saturday 25 October – Sunday 2 November
Falmouth is a sailing enthusiast’s dream! As the nights grow longer and shadows creep in, step into the Boat Hall for eerie shadow puppet tales and haunting songs, get hands-on with spooky crafts in our Make & Take sessions, and set off on a mysterious Museum trail. A Halloween treat for curious minds of all ages!
There’s also 15 galleries over four floors to explore. Families can jump aboard boats, climb the 100-foot Lookout Tower, watch boat-building, go underwater in the Tidal Zone, discover stories of ocean adventures and survival, and sail miniature boats on the waterfront boat pool.
Saturday 25 October – Sunday 2 November
The Eden Project is often at the top of most families Cornish bucket list, and October half-term is a particularly special time to visit with special events for Halloween. This year, Zog and the Flying Doctors have landed. Meet Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Zog, and embark on an exciting adventure like no other this Halloween. Take flight on a whimsical quest filled with potions, pumpkins, and playful challenges at every turn. Or why not lace up your skates? Its fabulous ice rink is back to add an extra bit of sparkle to your half-term!
October and November
If you’ve carved out some adult-only time this half term, treat yourself to something special. This October and November, Jude Kereama of Kota in Porthleven is serving up a unique “nostalgia menu” — a celebration of nearly 20 years of Kota, where beloved classics are reimagined with a modern twist.
Guests can also enjoy some of Jude’s signature dishes from his appearances on BBC’s Great British Menu, reliving flavours that wowed viewers across the country. It’s a delicious trip down memory lane, crafted with the creativity and flair that has made Kota one of Cornwall’s most celebrated restaurants.
Feeling hungry? Check out our review of Kota Kai.
Running until 31 October
It’s time to get spooked at Bedruthan Hotel & Spa in Mawgan Porth, with its magical and immersive Halloween-themed experience. Set against the hauntingly beautiful cliff tops, children can enjoy a befitting feast of both sweet and savoury treats, a storytelling session and some extra creepy crafts.
Categories: Activities, Family Days Out, General
Rebecca Moore
LOCAL EDITOR AND CORNISH AFICIONADO
Rebecca Moore is a seasoned editor and content writer with over a decade of experience, specialising in Cornwall’s unique lifestyle, travel, and culinary scene. Her expertise has been featured in media outlets such as The Sun, Express, and Cosmopolitan. A proud Cornish resident, Rebecca’s authentic insights help readers explore the best of the Duchy.
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