Check your exact dates
Term dates vary between councils, academies and private schools, so two families on the same street can have different half-terms. Find yours on GOV.UK (England) or your council’s website. In the US, spring break and winter break also vary by school district.
Book the big day early
Popular attractions like the Harry Potter Studio Tour and big theme parks sell timed tickets that can go weeks ahead for holiday dates. Most use date-based pricing, so the earlier you book, the more choice you have.
Beat the crowds
- Go midweek: Tuesdays to Thursdays are usually quieter than Mondays and Fridays.
- Arrive at opening: the first hour is the calmest at almost every attraction.
- Avoid the first weekend: it’s often the busiest of the holiday.
Keep costs down
- Use 2FOR1 with the train where it’s available.
- Fill gaps with free days out like national museums and country parks.
- Take a picnic: see our picnic checklist.
- Check kids-go-free offers before paying for little ones.
Have a rainy-day backup
Keep one indoor idea ready for the inevitable wet day: an aquarium, a museum, a swimming pool or a cinema morning. Our rainy day days out list has plenty.
October half-term ideas
Autumn half-term is perfect for pumpkin picking and Halloween events, crunchy woodland walks and theme park Halloween seasons. Check whether events need separate tickets.
Last updated: 14 October 2026
