Autumn activities for kids this half-term
The crisp autumn air is settling in and many families are getting back into the school routine. But before you know it, kids will be asking “what are we doing this weekend” or saying the dreaded “I’m bored”.
If you’re already feeling the worry of keeping the kids entertained this October half-term, you’re not alone. From outdoor adventures to spooky events, this guide highlights the best autumn family activities. After all, October half-term is the perfect time for energy-burning adventures in the great outdoors.
Autumn themed activities for kids
Half-term is the perfect opportunity to be with family and enjoy quality time. Embrace the leaves changing colours, cooler weather, and festive atmosphere while creating memories together. For family fun seasonal activities this half-term choose from:
- Visiting a pumpkin patch and carve some Halloween pumpkins.
- Creating leaf rubbings with colourful autumn leaves.
- Picking fresh apples straight from an orchard.
- Hunting for treasures on a seasonal scavenger hunt.
- Taking an adventurous hike in the great outdoors.
Outdoor activities to burn energy
Kids have endless energy, so trying to find an activity that's fun, adventurous and will wear them out can be a big ask. Luckily at Zip World we have a wide range of activities for the whole family.
Bounce off excess energy in the trees
One sure fire way to burn off some serious energy this half-term, is by bouncing in our Treetop Nets. Nothing beats an adventure that keeps kids bouncing, climbing, and sliding from start to finish. Wide-open nets, long walkways, and speedy slides mean kids can bounce in a safe, exciting space. Even parents can take part and unleash their inner-child.
After an hour of nonstop movement, you’ll find them happily worn out, ready for a cosy evening and an early bedtime. The perfect balance of fun and rest for both kids and grown-ups. Check out our Treetop nets at Manchester, Windermere and Betws-y-Coed.
Take on a zip line challenge
If your family is looking for a real adventure, a high ropes course is a brilliant way to spend the day. Imagine zipping through the trees, balancing your way across beams, and testing your nerve on suspended stepping stones.
With so many obstacles to tackle, kids get the chance to push themselves while having loads of fun at the same time. It’s not just about the thrills, though. These kinds of adventures help build confidence, encourage problem-solving, and create memories you’ll talk about for years.
Experience Zip Safari and Tree Hoppers for a memorable day out this October half-term. Or if you’re a family with younger children between 2-5, we also have our Tiny Trek adventure at Betws-y-Coed.
Climb higher and conquer new challenges
The Tower Climber is the ultimate test for kids and grown-ups who love a challenge. Spread across three storeys, it’s packed with:
- rope bridges
- balance beams
- climbing elements
- and plenty of surprises along the way.
As you make your way higher, the sense of adventure grows with every level. Children get the chance to push their boundaries, try new obstacles, and build confidence step by step. It’s a brilliant way to spend time together as a family, encouraging teamwork and cheering each other on.
Indoor activities for a rainy October
It can be disheartening to plan autumn activities for kids, only to have the weather spoil your plans. You shouldn’t have to cancel any plans and sit at home if it’s rainy, cold or stormy. There are plenty of indoor activities that can keep your children entertained, while burning off any excess energy.
Bounce in an underground cavern
For an activity that’s certain to be memorable and tire the kids out, head underground and Bounce Below. Step into a vast underground cavern and leap across bouncy nets, zoom down slides, and explore multiple layers of fun. The space is enormous, giving children plenty of room to run, jump, all while sheltered from the weather. With unique lighting, music, and exciting obstacles around every corner, the experience is sure to be one to remember this half-term.
Head underground and complete 18 holes of golf
If your family is competitive and loves a fun game, check out Underground Golf. This isn’t your standard mini-golf, the course is entirely underground, so the weather is never a worry. Take a train ride into a former slate cavern and explore an incredible 18-hole adventure golf course spread across four deep levels.
Here children can enjoy an immersive experience, putting, and exploring safely during the half-term. Once you’ve finished and added up your scores, you can even end the experience with a thrilling drop slide.
Deep mine tour
If you’d rather a more educational activity that’s great fun, journey underground and experience the Deep Mine Tour. Step 500 feet below ground and explore the historic slate mines on a guided journey through ten incredible chambers. Along the way, interactive exhibits, projections, and storytelling bring the history of the miners to life.
The tour is entirely indoors, keeping everyone safe and comfortable no matter the weather outside. By the end, kids and adults alike will have learned something new, seen spectacular underground sights, and experienced a unique adventure far removed from the everyday.
Zip World events this autumn
If you’re looking for something unique this half-term, we have a range of spooky Halloween events. Each event has a selection of rides and frights, perfect for younger children and older children.
Face your fears in the forest
This October, step into the dark and twisted world of Ffear Fforest for one of North Wales’ most thrilling Halloween experiences. As night falls, demonic clowns lurk behind trees, leap from shadows, and stalk every path in the eerie woodland.
During your visit you can bounce across treetop nets, race down the Cursed Coaster, or brave heart-stopping rides like Nightfall and Screamride. This isn’t an ordinary family adventure, it’s an immersive Halloween fright-fest where adrenaline and terror collide.
Beware the monsters that lurk in the dark
In autumn, Zip World Tower becomes the setting for Monsters of the Mine, a Halloween experience set at a South Wales coal mine. The grounds are swarmed with creatures that appear when you least expect them, creating an eerie atmosphere as you navigate darkened paths.
During your experience visitors can ride the Terror Coaster, tackle the Cursed Climber, or try the Phoenix zip line. If you’re looking for a frightening half-term experience, this is perfect for older children.
Bounce with creepy crawlies
For a daytime Halloween experience, Arachnophobia brings a spooky twist to the treetops in Windermere. Families can bounce and explore the suspended walkways and slides, all while dodging cobwebs and creepy spiders. With two full hours this daytime Halloween adventure is packed with fun and perfect for families with young children.
Escape the terrors in the trees
For a family-friendly Halloween adventure, Heaton Park of Horrors brings supernatural thrills to Zip World Manchester. Families can bounce through the suspended Treetop Nets while dodging mischievous monsters and goofy ghouls. With one hour of bouncy net access plus a supernatural scavenger hunt, this daytime spooktacular is perfect for families with children aged 3 and up.
Make the most of the half-term
Whether your half-term is indoors, outdoors or perfectly autumnal, there’s something for every family to enjoy at Zip World. We have a range of adventures for every adrenaline level, certain to tire out your children. Try something new and enjoy a half-term your kids won’t stop talking about.
