What’s On in Newquay and Cornwall this October Half Term
Autumn has arrived in Holywell Bay, bringing crisp sea breezes, colourful leaves, and plenty time for coastal stomps followed by hot chocolates piled high with marshmallows. Whether your looking for a holiday with outdoor exploration, wildlife encounters, or Halloween thrills, October Half Term at Trevornick is the perfect mix of fun, adventure, and relaxation by the sea. Read on to see our top picks of family activities this Halloween and Half Term.
Spooky Newquay Zombie Crawl
Sat 25th October
FREE for all
Join the undead in Newquay Town Centre for the annual Zombie Crawl – one of the biggest Halloween parade in the UK! Starting near ASDA, this free, family-friendly event features workshops, face painting, and a grand parade of zombies through the streets. It’s a highlight of the Halloween season in Cornwall. Click here to see the full line-up including free workshops and activities for the whole family.
Zog and the Flying Doctors at Eden Project, St Austell
Sat 25th October – Sun 2nd November
FREE with an Eden Admission
Embark on a magical adventure with Zog and the Flying Doctors at the Eden Project. This interactive experience includes potion-making, pumpkin trails, and the return of the beloved ice rink. A perfect blend of Halloween fun and family-friendly activities.
A Wickedly Witchy Afternoon at The Headland Hotel, Newquay
Fri 17th October – Sun 2nd November
Served from 14:00 – 16:00
£39.00 for adults and £19.00 for children
For a spellbinding family treat, head to The Headland Hotel for their Wickedly Witchy Afternoon Brew. Set in the stunning clifftop hotel overlooking Fistral Beach, this special Halloween-themed afternoon tea is a feast for all the senses — think eerie cakes, bubbling brews, and magical sweet surprises. Little witches and wizards will love the spooky decorations and themed treats, while parents can soak up the luxury setting (and maybe sneak an extra scone or two). It’s a delightfully different way to spend an autumn afternoon by the sea.
For Animal Lovers: Blue Reef Aquarium & Newquay Zoo
Sat 25th October – Sun 2nd November
Activities included with general admission
For families who love wildlife, this half term there’s plenty to explore both above and below the waves. At Blue Reef Aquarium, dive into a spooky underwater adventure with hands-on “Trick or Touch” sensory boxes, a pumpkin trail, and creepy-but-fascinating facts about some of the ocean’s weirdest creatures.
Over at Newquay Zoo, it’s time for Spooky Zooquay. Dress in your creepiest costume and follow the stinking poo trail, track down sinister scarecrows, wander the Witches Walkway, peek into the Pooseum, and strike a pose with your straw-stuffed friends. Special spooky talks, Halloween-themed activities in the Skeleton Shack, and hands-on workshops from the Ranger Things team make this a truly immersive experience. All spooky fun is included in your ticket price, so the whole family can enjoy a frightfully good day out without any hidden costs.
Bring the whole family for wildlife, fun, and Halloween thrills!
The Spirit of Harvest at The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Sat 18th October – Sun 2nd November
£28.00 for adults | Under 5’s go FREE
Families will love The Spirit of Harvest at The Lost Gardens of Heligan, where the estate comes alive with autumn magic. Little ones can explore the Kitchen Garden, fields, and woodlands, spotting colourful vegetables, fruit, herbs, and flowers, while older children will enjoy discovering the stories behind the year’s harvest and the fascinating folklore of Halloween.
It’s the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and seasonal learning – wander the gardens, enjoy the crisp autumn air, and see how a year’s hard work has transformed into a bounty you can touch, taste, and marvel at. A day here is both fun and inspiring for all ages.
Grand Firework Display at Lappa Valley
Thursday 31st October and Friday 1st November
£9.99 per person | Under 3’s go FREE
Experience a dazzling fireworks display at Lappa Valley, one of Cornwall’s most scenic heritage railways. Enjoy train rides, soft play, and a lakeside setting before the fireworks light up the night sky.
Haunted Experiences at Bodmin Jail
Throughout October and November
Entry from £13.50
Ideal for teenagers and big kids, explore the eerie depths of the (in)famous Bodmin Jail with a range of spooky experiences this half term. Including the Go Darker Guided Tour, the Haunted Gallery and, for a unique twist, the Day of the Dead Silent Disco takes place on 1st November – one not to be missed!
Halloween Fun at Trerice Manor
Monday 27th – Friday 31st October | 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
National Trust members go FREE
Step into a world of magic and mystery at Trerice Manor. This year, the manor transforms into a mythical realm of fire-breathing wonder with enchanted dragon storytelling and themed activities. Located just outside Newquay, this impressive Elizabethan manor house is a tranquil oasis with beautiful gardens to stroll around in and let the kids run around the apple orchards before all having a go at Cornish kayling (it’s a type of skittles). Let the kids dress up in their favourite Halloween costume and take part in the variety of dragon themed activities, from storytelling to dragon school. A day out here is not to be missed! It’s National Trust so remember your card!
Explore the Outdoors: Free Family Fun
One of the best things about autumn in Newquay is how easy it is to fill your days with simple, memorable family adventures – many of them completely free. Wrap up in cosy scarves and wander along Holywell Bay Beach, hunt for crabs at the harbour, or go rock pooling to uncover tiny ocean treasures. Brave little ones (and big ones too!) might even take a brisk morning dip in the sea to wake up for the day ahead.
At Trevornick, we’re perfectly placed to explore the South West coast path heading south to Perranporth or north towards Newquay. Either way is absolutely stunning. Think hidden coves, ambling rivers and lots of wildlife – seals are usually spotted on route and Perranporth even has wild ponies roaming. If this is too far for little legs, pull your wellies on and grab a drink from Hollywell Bay Beach Bar and stroll along beautiful Holywell Bay Beach or head to Crantock for a walk followed by a pub lunch.
This is just a few of our favourite things to do in Cornwall in October Half Term but the fun does not stop there! Whether you’re seeking thrills, chills, or simply a peaceful autumn walk, Cornwall offers a diverse range of activities this October Half Term. From the spine-tingling Zombie Crawl in Newquay to the magical experiences at Eden Project and Newquay Zoo, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this Halloween.
If you’re looking for a last-minute stay in Cornwall this October half term, then look no further than Trevornick. Choose from camping pitches, contemporary static caravans, luxury lodges or cosy cottages, we have it all plus a jam-packed evening entertainment guide. There’s something for everyone, from pumpkin carving and fancy dress to discos, crafts, bingo, live music, quizzes, and competitions. It’s the perfect way to make the most of your holiday and enjoy every moment before we close for the season.
