October Half-Term: Family Days Out

Looking for ways to keep the family entertained this half-term? From Halloween adventures and pumpkin-filled fields to animal encounters and creative workshops, there’s plenty happening across East Anglia.

We’ve rounded up some family days out to add to the diary. And with a pub nearby, there’s always somewhere to stop for lunch, a warm drink or a well-earned dinner.

Norfolk

The Halloween Garden at Holkham Hall

Until 31st October | Near The Globe, Wells-next-the-Sea

Head to Holkham for a Halloween adventure packed with spooky fun. Follow the Halloween trail, take part in ghoulish games and meet the mischievous characters helping to bring the garden to life. There’ll also be storytelling, ghostly crafts, pumpkin carving, face painting and a mysterious treasure hunt to find Boney the Dog, with a chocolatey treat waiting at the end.

Afterwards, head to Wells-next-the-Sea for a wander around the harbour before settling in at The Globe.

Quiet at the Aquarium at SEA LIFE Hunstanton

Sunday 1st November | Near The Lifeboat, Thornham, and The Ancient Mariner, Old Hunstanton

For families looking for a quieter day out, SEA LIFE runs its Quiet at the Aquarium sessions on the first Sunday of each month, during the final hour of opening. These sessions offer a calmer aquarium experience for visitors who might otherwise find it a little overwhelming.

Spend some time discovering the underwater world before heading to the coast. If the weather allows, enjoy a walk along Old Hunstanton beach, then stop at the pub for a bite to eat.

Suffolk

NightMARE at the Museum

Thursday 29th October | Near The Three Blackbirds, Woodditton

The National Horseracing Museum is transforming into the National Horseracing School of Wizardry and Witchcraft for one magical evening. Young visitors can join the museum’s magical professors for hands-on workshops involving wands, brooms and spells, with all classes, activities and materials included in the ticket.

Afterwards, head to The Three Blackbirds for a dinner with family.

An All Hallows Ghost Walk at Dunwich Museum

Wednesday 28th October, 6pm | Near The Ship, Dunwich

Wrap up warm and bring your lanterns and torches for Dunwich Museum’s annual All Hallows Ghost Walk. Setting off from the museum at 6pm, the walk explores local myths and ghost stories, making it a seasonal outing for families who enjoy a little mystery. All ages are welcome, and costumes are encouraged.

Make a day of your visit to the Suffolk coast with a walk around Dunwich before or after the event, then head to the pub to warm up.

A Creative Half-Term at The Long Shop Museum

Friday 30th October | Near The Westleton Crown, Westleton

If your children prefer making things to meeting ghosts, look out for the drop-in art workshop at The Long Shop Museum in Leiston on Friday 30th October.

The museum explores the history of Richard Garrett & Sons, the local engineering firm known for manufacturing machinery, steam engines and electric vehicles. It’s an interesting setting for a family visit, combining local history with a chance for children to get creative.

Afterwards, head back towards The Westleton Crown for lunch or an early dinner. Maybe stop off at the bookshop on your way too.

Scaresville at Kentwell Hall

Until 31st October | Near The Black Lion, Long Melford

For older children and families who enjoy a proper fright, Scaresville returns to Kentwell Hall for its Halloween season. Expect a spooky experience full of surprises, with the scare team bringing the grounds to life after dark.

This one is best suited to families who are comfortable with a scarier Halloween experience, so check the event details and age guidance before booking. And once you’ve recovered from the scares, head to the pub for a meal.

Meet the Animals at Baylham House Rare Breed Farm

Near The Crown, Stoke-by-Nayland

For a change of pace from the Halloween festivities, spend some time with the animals at Baylham House Rare Breed Farm in the Suffolk countryside. This working livestock farm specialises in native breeds that have become increasingly rare, offering families the chance to see the animals up close.

There’s plenty to explore, including a playground, woodland and a mere, so it’s a good choice for children who enjoy being outdoors.

Round off your visit with a stop at The Crown for lunch or an afternoon drink.

Essex

Pumpkin Nights at Hatter’s Farm

Throughout October | Near The Cricketers, Clavering

For an evening of Halloween entertainment, head to Hatter’s Farm for Pumpkin Nights. The experience includes a haunted madhouse, live music, a hay bale maze and a bale mountain, along with plenty of opportunities to take photos and make memories.

Afterwards, make your way to The Cricketers to unwind after the evening’s adventures.

Halloween Adventures on the Railway at Audley End

Throughout the Halloween season | Near The Eight Bells, Saffron Walden

All aboard for a Halloween adventure through the woodland at Audley End Railway. The journey begins at the station, where characters welcome visitors onto the train for a ride through the estate’s ancient trees, with spooky surprises along the way.

The train arrives at the Pumpkin Queen’s Patch, a mysterious spot hidden among the trees where families can meet the Pumpkin Queen! After your railway adventure, explore Saffron Walden’s independent shops or take a stroll around Bridge End Garden before stopping at The Eight Bells for a family meal.

Credit to Audley End Enchanted Railway for left-most image.

However you choose to spend half-term, there are plenty of ways to make the most of autumn across East Anglia. And when it’s time for a break, enjoy a well-earned bite at one of our pubs or Big House hotels.