Half-term school holidays: 26–30 October across England, Wales & NI
Families with school-age children can plan activities for the week of 26–30 October 2026, with Scottish children on holiday 12–16 October. Museums, attractions and family events will be busy and many venues offer special half-term programming.
The autumn half-term school holidays begin on Monday 26 October 2026 for most of England, Wales and Northern Ireland, running through Friday 30 October. In Scotland, the break is earlier, from 12–16 October. Individual schools may vary their exact dates by one or two days, so check with your child's school, but these are the standard dates most families follow.
What's available during half-term
- Museums, galleries and attractions across the UK run special children's workshops, treasure hunts and family events
- Outdoor attractions like parks and adventure parks offer seasonal activities (conker hunts, nature trails, pumpkin patches for Halloween preparation)
- Shopping centres often host free entertainment
- Theatre productions and cinema showings aimed at families book up quickly
During half-term weeks, family-friendly venues tend to be crowded, so booking tickets or activity slots in advance is wise. Accommodation prices may also rise slightly if you plan trips away from home. Public transport (especially on popular weekend days within the half-term week) will see heavier use as families travel. If you're planning to visit attractions, book ahead or go on weekdays if possible.
Sources
Independent app, not a government. General information, not advice. The official source:
