13 things to do in DEVON this October half term
I can’t believe we’re getting towards the end of October! Part of me is so excited for Christmas (my favourite time of year) but another just can’t believe how quickly this year’s gone.
But now it’s time for October half term fun in Devon!
Whether you live here or are just visiting, here’s our list of the very best events going on, including Halloween festivities and Autumnal fun.
Unless stated, I would recommend pre-booking all of these.
This blog post contains affiliate links.
Things to do in South Devon
Pennywell Farm Pumpkin Festival, Buckfastleigh
This is a daytime festival that has been running from 26th September, and will be on all the way to 1st November! There are plenty of acvitives, including mini pig racing each day.
In the evening, Pumpkin Nights run to 9pm; these are evening festivals with live music, lights, moonlight pumpkin picking and tractor-and-trailer rides!
Take a look at the full event here.
South Devon Railway’s Enchanted Pumpkin Express, Buckfastleigh
This runs daily from 24th – 31st October. The trains run to Totnes Rare Breeds Farm, where you’ll find a pumpkin patch and have the opportunity to purchase a pumpkin to take home!
Train rides are generally running at 10:30am, 12:10pm and 2:15pm (subject to change) and you can purchase tickets here.
Kents Cavern, Torquay
Kent’s Cavern is glorious to visit any time of year (read about my experience here!) but it’s especially spooky in October!
This Trick or Treat trail runs through the caves from 17th October to 1st November.
There’s also a “Go Darker” guided tour covering some of the darker history of the caves, and some ghost walks!
Find out full schedules on their website.
Buckland Abbey
The historic home of Francis Drake, Buckland Abbey is sticking true to its roots and running a nautical-themed “Sea Monsters” half-term trail from 23rd October to 1st November.
It’s also been open to visitors for 75 years, so there’s a “Buckland 75” exhibition on too, about the house and its transformation into a tourist attraction.
This one is a National Trust property; it’s currently £14.70 a month (with a year minimum contract) for families to join the National Trust and get included entry to all of their properties across the country. More information about that here!
Mount Egcumbe House & Country Park
There’s a “Fantastical Halloween Event” on during half-term – three hour sessions with storytelling, games and entertainment. Further details here.
East Devon
Crealy Theme Park, near Exeter
Crealy is running its Spook-Fest event through October, where very child gets an included pumpkin!
With 60 rides and attractions, Crealy is a fab place to visit any time of year, BUT in October you’ll also find live scare mazes, shows and their Creaky Hotel!
This runs throughout half term – tickets are available here.
Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth
The Donkey Sanctuary is a lovely free-to-visit attraction all year round!
This half term, there is a trick-or-treat trail to find hidden pumpkins and learn more about the donkeys. Completed trails all win a prize! The trail is payable, but at £5 per kid it’s an affordable day out!
Mid Devon
Knightshayes, Tiverton
There’s a free “Spirit of Autumn” family trail running all half term, AND a pick-your-own pumpkin patch running!
Knightshayes is National Trust run, so normal ticket fees apply – included entry if you are a National Trust member. More information here!
Castle Drogo, Drewsteignton
Another National Trust property! Normal entry fees apply, but there’s a free autumn half-term trail and activity sheet. You’re on Dartmoor, so do dress for Dartmoor weather (and see my tips for visiting Dartmoor here!).
Again, it’s National Trust run – you can look at membership here.
North Devon
Watermouth Castle
Watermouth Castle is running “Pumpkins at the Castle”, with thousands of pumpkins and spooky trails. This is all included with your entry ticket, which you can also use to go on the rides and see other attractions.
“Pumpkin Nights” is also running on 27th-29th October, with an illuminated pumpkin trail!
The BIG Sheep
The BIG Sheep is running all sorts this October half term!
There’s a Monster Glow Party, fancy dress prizes, animal magic and live animal shows, along with their usual rides.
The Milky Way
The Milky Way is running a Halloween event from 25th October – 1st November.
Pay standard park entry, and get involved in Halloween story telling, witches and wizards school, Merlin’s spooktacular show and spooky-themed dodgems.
There’s even a fancy dress competition!
I’ve recently launched a new Facebook group where you can ask questions about visiting the South West and myself or other SW locals and frequent travellers will answer! If you’d like to join, the link is here.
