Half-Term Fantastic Things to Do with the Kids

Harrogate Guide – October Half-Term 2026: 32 Fantastic Things to Do with the Kids Across North Yorkshire

Saturday 24 October – Sunday 1 November 2026

Looking for the best things to do with children this October half-term? From spooky Halloween trails and pumpkin picking to underground caves, historic castles, spectacular autumn walks and family swimming, there’s plenty to discover in Harrogate, Boroughbridge, Knaresborough, Nidderdale, Pateley Bridge and Ripon.

Whether you’re entertaining toddlers, planning an adventure with older children or looking for a free day out with the whole family, Harrogate Guide has brought together 32 ideas to help you make the most of the school holidays.

You don’t need to travel far to enjoy a memorable half-term. Some of North Yorkshire’s most beautiful landscapes, fascinating attractions and exciting family experiences are right on your doorstep.

At a glance – Find your perfect half-term adventure

• For Halloween lovers: Mother Shipton’s Cave, Harlow Carr, How Stean Gorge and Frightwater Valley.

• For free family fun: Valley Gardens, Knaresborough Riverside, the Devil’s Arrows and Ripon Cathedral.

• For rainy days: Stump Cross Caverns, local museums and leisure centres.

• For outdoor explorers: Brimham Rocks, the Coldstones Cut and Nidderdale’s beautiful countryside.

• For something special: Fountains Abbey by Floodlight, pumpkin picking and Halloween craft workshops.

1. Harrogate – Spooky trails, fairground rides and autumn adventures

6 family-friendly ideas

Harrogate is a wonderful place to spend October half-term, with a mixture of seasonal attractions, free outdoor activities and indoor entertainment. Why not combine a Halloween trail with lunch in town, or enjoy a woodland walk followed by a warming hot chocolate?

1. RHS Harlow Carr – Spooky Plant Trail

When: 24 October – 1 November, 9.30am–4pm

Where: Crag Lane, Harrogate, HG3 1QB

Discover the spooky side of nature at RHS Harlow Carr. Explore poisonous plants, uncover fascinating botanical stories and enjoy interactive family activities. ZooLab potion sessions are listed for 26–30 October, with additional activities on selected days.

Great for: Curious young explorers and families who enjoy nature.

Website: RHS Harlow Carr

2. Harrogate Indoor Funfair

When: 24 October – 1 November

Where: Great Yorkshire Events Centre, Harrogate, HG2 8NZ

Looking for an exciting indoor adventure? Enjoy fairground rides during three-hour sessions, scheduled for 10am–1pm and 2pm–5pm. Quieter sessions are also listed on selected dates.

Great for: An energetic family outing, whatever the weather.

Website: Yorkshire Event Centre

3. Harrogate Halloween Potion Trail – FREE

When: 24 October – 1 November

Starting point: The Crown Hotel, Crown Place, Harrogate, HG1 2RZ

Turn a shopping trip into a magical Halloween adventure! Collect a trail sheet, explore participating town-centre businesses and hunt for the ingredients needed to complete a mysterious potion. Return your completed sheet to claim a prize.

Great for: Families looking for a free town-centre activity.

Website: Harrogate BID

4. Valley Gardens – FREE

When: Throughout half-term

Where: Valley Drive, Harrogate, HG1 2SZ

Enjoy the beautiful autumn colours in one of Harrogate’s best-loved green spaces. Children can explore the playground while the whole family enjoys a leisurely walk through the gardens and towards the Pinewoods.

Local idea: Take a picnic or stop for refreshments after your walk.

5. Royal Pump Room Museum

When: Check half-term opening days

Where: Crown Place, Harrogate, HG1 2RY

Travel back in time and discover Harrogate’s remarkable spa heritage. Find out why visitors once travelled from across Britain to experience the town’s famous mineral waters.

Great for: A quieter educational outing or a rainy afternoon.

Website: Culture North Yorkshire

6. Harrogate Leisure and Wellbeing Hub

When: 26 October – 1 November

Where: Jenny Field Drive, Harrogate, HG1 2RP

Make a splash during the school holidays with a family swimming session. Special half-term swimming timetables are available, making this a useful option when the weather turns wet.

Website: Swimming timetables

2. Boroughbridge – Ancient mysteries and riverside discoveries

4 places to explore

For families who love history, fresh air and quieter days out, Boroughbridge offers some fascinating discoveries. Explore prehistoric monuments, follow the River Ure or visit a nearby historic attraction.

7. The Devil’s Arrows – FREE

When: Throughout half-term

Where: Near Roecliffe Lane and Arrows Terrace, Boroughbridge, YO51 9LR

Take the children to see three enormous prehistoric standing stones and discover one of North Yorkshire’s most mysterious ancient landmarks.

Great for: A short historical adventure with older children.

Website: English Heritage

8. Aldborough Roman Site

When: Check seasonal opening before travelling

Where: Aldborough, Boroughbridge, YO51 9ES

Discover the remains of the Roman town of Isurium Brigantum, including remarkable mosaics and archaeological finds.

Great for: Children learning about the Romans at school.

Website: English Heritage

9.

Boroughbridge Riverside Walk – Autumn Wildlife and Family Adventures – FREE

When: Throughout October half-term, 24 October – 1 November 2026

Where: River Ure, Boroughbridge town centre, YO51

Discover the peaceful beauty of Boroughbridge with a relaxing family walk along the picturesque River Ure. Enjoy the colourful autumn scenery, watch for ducks, birds and other wildlife, and explore the riverside paths surrounding this charming North Yorkshire market town. It’s a wonderful opportunity for children to enjoy fresh air, discover nature and spend quality time outdoors.

Why visit? With beautiful riverside views, opportunities for wildlife spotting and free access to public walking routes, Boroughbridge offers a simple, affordable family outing away from the crowds.

Local tip: Combine your riverside adventure with a stroll through Boroughbridge’s historic town centre, where independent shops, welcoming cafés and traditional tearooms provide the perfect place for a warming drink or a well-earned treat.

Website: Visit North Yorkshire

10. Newby Hall and Gardens

Where: Skelton-on-Ure, near Boroughbridge and Ripon, HG4 5AE

Newby Hall is known for its beautiful gardens, children’s adventure play areas and miniature railway. Seasonal opening applies, so check whether the grounds or special activities are available during half-term before planning a visit.

Website: Newby Hall

3. Knaresborough – Witches, castles and riverside magic

5 activities for families

Knaresborough is especially atmospheric in autumn. With its dramatic riverside setting, medieval castle and legendary connections to Mother Shipton, it’s a lovely destination for a Halloween-themed family outing.

11. Mother Shipton’s Cave – Hocus Pocus Halloween

When: 24 October – 1 November

Where: High Bridge, Knaresborough, HG5 8DD

Step into a magical Halloween world filled with witch-themed displays, mysterious woodland scenery and seasonal surprises. Visit the famous cave and Petrifying Well while exploring one of Yorkshire’s most unusual attractions.

Booking: Advance booking is essential.

Website: Mother Shipton’s Cave

12. Knaresborough Castle and Courthouse Museum

When: Check museum opening days

Where: Castle Yard, Knaresborough, HG5 8AS

Explore the remains of a medieval castle, discover local history and enjoy spectacular views over the River Nidd and the famous railway viaduct.

Great for: Young history enthusiasts and family photographs.

Website: Culture North Yorkshire

13. Halloween at Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre

When: Saturday 31 October, 12.30pm–6pm

Where: 50 Bond End, Knaresborough, HG5 9AL

Enjoy a family Halloween celebration featuring pumpkin carving, spooky trails, face painting, music and marshmallows.

Admission: Free entry, although individual activities may carry a charge.

Website: Henshaws

14. A Magical Autumn Family Walk – FREE

When: Throughout October half-term, 24 October – 1 November 2026

Where: Waterside, Knaresborough, HG5

Discover one of North Yorkshire’s most picturesque riverside settings with a family walk along the beautiful River Nidd in Knaresborough. Admire the magnificent Victorian railway viaduct, enjoy the vibrant autumn colours and explore the charming waterside paths lined with historic buildings and welcoming cafés. Children will love watching the ducks, spotting wildlife and seeing trains crossing the towering viaduct high above the river.

Why visit? With breathtaking scenery, fascinating local history and plenty of opportunities for family photographs, Knaresborough Riverside is a wonderful free half-term destination for visitors of all ages.

Local tip: Stop at one of the traditional riverside cafés for a hot chocolate, homemade cake or light lunch. For an extra adventure, follow the paths up towards Knaresborough Castle and enjoy spectacular views across the river and viaduct.

15. Knaresborough Leisure and Wellbeing Hub

When: 26 October – 1 November

Where: King James Road, Knaresborough, HG5 8EB

Keep the children active with a family swimming session. A useful choice for a rainy half-term afternoon.

Website: North Yorkshire Council

4. Pateley Bridge and Nidderdale – Caves, pumpkins and wild adventures

7 countryside experiences

If your family enjoys the great outdoors, Nidderdale is hard to beat. Discover dramatic rock formations, explore underground caves, pick pumpkins and enjoy some of North Yorkshire’s most beautiful autumn landscapes.

16. How Stean Gorge Halloween Trail

When: 24 October – 1 November

Where: Lofthouse, near Pateley Bridge, HG3 5SF

Explore dramatic limestone scenery, caves and woodland surroundings with Halloween decorations, spooky surprises and a family trail.

Extra fun: Fancy dress is encouraged.

Website: How Stean Gorge

17. Birchfield Farm Pumpkin Festival

When: Until 31 October

Where: Birchfield Farm, Summerbridge, HG3 4JS

Nothing says October quite like choosing your own pumpkin. Visit the pumpkin patch, enjoy the autumn farm atmosphere and find the perfect pumpkin to take home and carve.

Good to know: Pumpkins are charged separately.

Website: Birchfield Farm

18. Stump Cross Caverns

When: Check opening times and activity bookings

Where: Greenhow Hill, near Pateley Bridge, HG3 5JL

Journey beneath the Yorkshire Dales and discover an extraordinary world of ancient limestone caves, dramatic rock formations and sparkling crystals.

Great for: Adventurous children interested in science, geology and underground exploration.

Website: Stump Cross Caverns

19. Nidderdale Museum

When: Check seasonal opening

Where: The Old Workhouse, King Street, Pateley Bridge, HG3 5LE

Discover what life was like in Nidderdale in years gone by. Explore traditional shops, farming displays, local crafts and fascinating collections from the area’s past.

Website: Nidderdale Museum

20. Brimham Rocks – Outdoor Adventure

When: Throughout half-term

Where: Brimham Moor Road, Summerbridge, HG3 4DW

Let imaginations run wild among Brimham Rocks’ extraordinary natural rock formations. Explore woodland paths, enjoy the dramatic landscape and discover unusual shapes created by nature.

Admission: Countryside access is free; parking charges may apply.

Safety: Supervise children closely around steep drops and rocky areas.

Website: National Trust – Brimham Rocks

21. The Coldstones Cut – FREE

When: Throughout half-term

Where: Greenhow Hill, near Pateley Bridge, HG3 5JQ

Visit this remarkable outdoor sculpture and viewpoint overlooking a working limestone quarry. The surrounding landscape offers spectacular views across Nidderdale.

Great for: Families with older children who enjoy walking and exploring.

Website: The Coldstones Cut

22. Pateley Bridge Leisure and Wellbeing Hub

When: 26 October – 1 November

Where: Pateley Bridge, HG3

Enjoy a family swimming session or indoor activity when the weather isn’t suitable for a countryside adventure.

Website: Swimming timetables

5. Ripon – Halloween thrills, creative workshops and illuminated history

10 things to discover

Ripon has plenty to offer families this October half-term, from Halloween entertainment and hands-on museum activities to beautiful historic buildings and illuminated abbey ruins.

23. Frightwater Valley – Movie Mayhem

When: 24–31 October

Where: Lightwater Valley, North Stainley, Ripon, HG4 3HT

Enjoy a Halloween-themed family adventure with rides, spooky shows, trick-or-treat activities and seasonal entertainment.

A special fireworks finale is advertised for Saturday 31 October.

Website: Lightwater Valley

24. Fountains Abbey by Floodlight

When: 23, 24, 29 and 30 October

Where: Fountains Abbey, near Ripon, HG4 3DY

Experience one of North Yorkshire’s most spectacular historic settings after dark. Watch the magnificent abbey ruins illuminated against the night sky, accompanied by atmospheric music.

Booking: Timed tickets are required, including for National Trust members.

Website: National Trust – Fountains Abbey

25. Ripon Workhouse Museum – Spooky Shortbread

When: 27–29 October, 10.30am–3pm

Where: Sharow View, Allhallowgate, Ripon, HG4 1LE

Step into a Victorian kitchen and enjoy a hands-on Halloween baking experience. Children can make their own spooky shortbread while discovering a little about life in the past.

Website: Ripon Museums

26. Workhouse Museum – Monster Mask Making

When: Wednesday 28 October

Where: Sharow View, Allhallowgate, Ripon, HG4 1LE

Let the children’s creativity shine with a Halloween mask-making session. Design a monster face and make something spooky to take home.

Good to know: A small activity charge may apply.

Website: Ripon Museums

27. Workhouse Museum – Halloween Ghost Hunting

When: Thursday 29 October, 11am and 1.30pm

Where: Sharow View, Allhallowgate, Ripon, HG4 1LE

Explore the historic Workhouse Museum through spooky stories, ghost-hunting activities and Halloween fun.

Suggested age: Five years and over.

Website: Ripon Museums

28. Ripon Walled Garden Pumpkin Patch

When: Until 31 October

Where: Palace Road, Ripon, HG4 3HN

Enjoy a traditional autumn outing, choose a pumpkin and stop for seasonal refreshments while supporting a local community charity.

Admission: Free entry; pumpkins are available to purchase.

Website: Ripon Community Link

29. Ripon After Dark – Window Wanderland – FREE

When: 24–30 October, 5.30pm–9pm

Where: Ripon city centre

Explore Ripon after dark and discover illuminated window displays created by local businesses, residents and community organisations.

Great for: An evening family walk with a difference.

Website: Ripon BID

30. The Firework-Maker’s Daughter – FREE

When: Thursday 29 October, 10.30am

Where: Ripon Library, The Arcade, Ripon

Enjoy a family theatre performance inspired by Philip Pullman’s much-loved story, featuring puppetry and Makaton.

Website: North Yorkshire Libraries

31. Ripon Cathedral – Family Visit

When: Throughout half-term, subject to services

Where: Minster Road, Ripon, HG4 1QT

Explore the magnificent cathedral, admire its architecture and introduce children to centuries of Yorkshire history.

Admission: Generally free, with donations welcomed.

Website: Ripon Cathedral

32. Ripon Leisure and Wellbeing Hub – The Jack Laugher Centre

When: 26 October – 1 November

Where: Dallamires Lane, Ripon, HG4 1TT

Enjoy family swimming and recreational sessions at Ripon’s leisure centre. A practical indoor option for keeping everyone active during the holidays.

Website: Swimming timetables

Make the most of October half-term – Whatever your budget

Not every family day out needs an expensive ticket. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy North Yorkshire during the autumn holidays, whether you have a full day to explore or just a couple of hours to spare.

Planning a free day out? Choose Valley Gardens, Brimham Rocks, Knaresborough Riverside, Boroughbridge’s Devil’s Arrows or a family walk around Ripon.

Need a rainy-day activity? Explore a museum, book a swimming session or head underground at Stump Cross Caverns.

Want a memorable Halloween experience? Consider Mother Shipton’s Cave, a pumpkin-picking trip, How Stean Gorge or one of Ripon’s creative Halloween workshops.

Travelling with younger children? A gentle woodland walk, a town-centre trail or a visit to the playground could be just the thing.

Plan your family half-term adventure with Harrogate Guide

October half-term is a wonderful opportunity to rediscover the places on your doorstep. From the historic streets of Ripon and Knaresborough to the beautiful countryside of Nidderdale, there is something for families of all ages to enjoy.

Why not choose a different town to explore each day, support a local café or attraction, and discover somewhere you haven’t visited before?

Important: This guide brings together advertised seasonal activities and established attractions from the supplied listings. Event dates, availability, prices and opening hours have not been independently reverified for this edition. Check the linked organiser websites before travelling, particularly for bookable Halloween events and seasonal attractions.

Year-round attractions are suggestions rather than confirmed special half-term events. Always check opening times, prices and booking requirements directly.

Disclaimer – A friendly note: Listings are independently researched and provided for general information only. Inclusion does not mean we recommend or endorse a particular business, product or service. As details can change, please check prices, availability and other important information directly with the provider before booking or purchasing.

If you have a query, need help, or cannot find what you require, email info@harrogateuk.co.uk and we will try to help you