As the leaves turn golden, conkers fall from the trees, and the air becomes crisp, October half-term is the perfect opportunity for families to step outside and make the most of the season. If you’re searching for “fun outdoor activities in October”, then you’re in the right place!
From woodland walks to action-packed abseiling, we’ve gathered a list of ideas to help you make this half-term truly memorable. Plus, you’ll discover why autumn is the perfect season to head outdoors, and some of the exciting experiences waiting for you at our October half-term holiday camps, alongside all the incredible benefits PGL has to offer!
Reasons to get outside in Autumn
Autumn is one of the best times of the year to head outdoors. The days are still bright, the scenery is bursting with colour, and there’s a real sense of seasonal excitement. For kids, it’s a chance to explore, play, and discover nature in a whole new way. Here are six brilliant reasons to get outside this autumn:
1. Enjoy the spectacular array of colours
Few things compare to the breathtaking autumn scenes in the UK. Leaves turn from green to fiery shades of red, orange, and gold, transforming forests and parks into natural spaces bursting with colour. For children, this makes every walk or outdoor adventure feel magical—they can crunch through piles of leaves, collect conkers and acorns, and even use what they find to create arts and craft projects later.
2. Discover wildlife
Autumn is alive with wildlife activity, and kids love spotting animals or identifying different plants. From squirrels busily gathering acorns to hedgehogs preparing to hibernate, there’s so much to see and learn. Birdwatching becomes especially exciting as migratory birds arrive or depart, offering perfect opportunities for children to connect with nature and develop a keen sense of curiosity about the world around them. Plus, spotting wildlife in its natural habitat helps nurture empathy, patience, and a deeper appreciation for the environment.
3. Boosts our overall wellbeing
Spending time outside in the cooler months is brilliant for both the body and mind. The crisp autumn air not only wakes you up but also helps kids burn off energy in the healthiest way possible by naturally encouraging movement. Whether it’s climbing, running, cycling, or simply exploring, it all helps to strengthen our bodies and clear our minds. And let’s not forget the sunlight! Even in autumn, it provides a much-needed boost of vitamin D, which supports strong bones and a positive mood.
4. Strengthens physical fitness and coordination
Outdoor play in autumn is fantastic for children (and parents) to use their bodies in different ways. Climbing trees, canoeing down a river, or even balancing on logs—all these activities test coordination and build our strength. They also improve cardiovascular health and stamina. Unlike indoor sports, nature presents ever-changing terrains and obstacles, which help children develop agility and balance.
5. Encourages problem-solving and independence
Exploring the outdoors in autumn offers plenty of opportunities for children to make decisions and solve problems on their own. Whether it’s figuring out how to cross a giant puddle, building a sturdy den, or navigating a woodland trail, these challenges help build their independence and critical thinking. It’s about more than just play; it’s about building important life skills that they can carry into other parts of their lives.
6. Create new memories
Finally, autumn invites us to create new memories. There’s something special about wrapping up warm and sharing simple joys together, like a flask of hot chocolate after a long walk, jumping into a crunchy pile of leaves, or playing a fun game of tag. For children, these shared experiences can be more valuable than any toy or gadget, giving them stories to retell again and again.
Fun outdoor activities in October
October half-term is an excellent time to reconnect with nature and try something a little different. Here’s a selection of exciting October half-term activities, including a few fantastic experiences you can enjoy at our adventure centres — perfect for keeping little explorers active, happy, and entertained throughout the school break.
Abseiling
Slowly descending a wall is an exhilarating experience that combines physical activity with the thrill of height. It requires grit and determination, as you gradually walk backwards towards ground level from the top of a tall tower. Kids will learn to calculate and control risk, while building confidence and taking in the stunning autumn scenery.
What you’ll need:
- Harness and helmet
- Gloves
- Comfortable, non-restrictive clothing
- Sturdy shoes (e.g. trainers or boots)
Useful tips: Always follow instructor guidance, double-check all safety gear, and embrace the challenge—the view from above makes it all worthwhile.
Pumpkin patch & apple picking
Visiting a pumpkin patch or apple orchard is a classic October half-term activity for all ages. Kids can pick their own fruit, explore fields, and enjoy harvest-themed games such as sack races or apple bobbing. This hands-on experience offers a wonderful opportunity for families to connect with nature and create lasting memories.
What you’ll need:
- Warm layers and waterproof clothing
- Wellies or sturdy shoes
- A basket or bag for collecting your pumpkins and apples
Useful tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds, supervise younger children near farm equipment, and consider turning your harvest into creative projects or recipes at home.
Forest walks
Take a peaceful stroll through the woods, enjoying the fresh air, falling leaves, and local wildlife. Forest walks are relaxing yet engaging, making them ideal outdoor activities in October. Children can also play nature-based games like birdwatching to learn more about seasonal changes and the environment.
What you’ll need:
- Waterproof jacket
- Warm layers (e.g. jumpers, scarves, hats and gloves)
- Sturdy shoes or boots
Useful tips: Bring snacks and water for your journey, encourage kids to observe and collect natural items, and consider taking a camera or notebook to document discoveries along the way.
Giant swing
Experience the thrill of the giant swing, a heart-pounding ride that’s sure to leave you with a smile. Two or three children will pull on a ripcord before plummeting down to earth in an exhilarating rush. It’s ideal for building courage and teamwork, encouraging kids to trust each other and step outside of their comfort zone.
What you’ll need:
- Safety harness
- Helmet
- Comfortable clothing
- Secure footwear
Useful tips: Make sure shoelaces are tied, hold on tight, and listen closely to safety instructions.
Scavenger hunts
Scavenger hunts combine exploration, teamwork, and problem-solving, making them one of the most fun outdoor activities in October. Children can search for materials like leaves, acorns, or pinecones, learning to observe their surroundings closely. Once you’ve found everything on the list, celebrate completing the hunt with a sweet treat or mini trophy!
What you’ll need:
- Bag or basket for collections
- Comfortable clothing and shoes
- Optional checklist or camera
Useful tips: Set clear boundaries, and add timed challenges for older children to increase the excitement and engagement.
Raft building
Raft building is a fantastic team activity that encourages problem-solving, communication and cooperation. Work together to construct a raft using various components like large plastic barrels, rope and cord. Once they’re ready to launch, it’s time to test it out on the water!
What you’ll need:
- Life jacket with adjustable straps for safety.
- Water-resistant clothing to stay dry during construction and water testing.
- Footwear suitable for getting wet (e.g. old trainers, water shoes)
- Optional materials: Gloves for handling ropes and wood, a small towel, and a dry bag for valuables.
Useful tips: Work together as a team and communicate clearly. Experiment with different raft structures, learn from mistakes, and enjoy both the building process on land and the excitement of seeing your raft float on water.
October half-term evening activities
After a day full of adventure, the fun doesn’t have to stop. Our October half-term camps offer a range of evening activities to keep the excitement going, from camp fires and sing-alongs, to dancing and creating artwork! Here’s a sneak peek of what to expect:
- Camp fires: Gather around the camp fire for stories, songs, and marshmallows. It’s a perfect way to wind down and share experiences with new friends.
- Discos: Let your hair down and dance the night away at one of the camp discos. It’s a lively way to end the day, full of music and laughter.
- Pumpkin carving: What better way to celebrate Halloween than carving your very own pumpkin! Turn ordinary pumpkins into spooky, funny, or imaginative masterpieces.
- Arts and crafts: For a more relaxed evening, get creative with arts and crafts. This activity allows children to express themselves and take home a personal memento from their time at camp.
The benefits of half-term camps
Kids’ holiday camps are all about adventure, learning, and fun. They are an excellent choice for children during the October half-term, allowing them to learn new skills, make friends, and build confidence with round-the-clock care and support. Below are just some of the amazing benefits of a PGL October camp:
- Tailor-made programmes
Our kids’ camps provide a range of tailor-made programmes that cater to different age groups and interests for children aged 8-11, 11-13 and 13-16 years old. Whether your child is a budding adventurer, a creative soul, or just loves being active, there’s something for everyone.
- Develops life skills
Besides endless fun, kids’ camps focus on developing essential life skills. Through various adventurous activities, children learn teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership, helping them to grow into well-rounded individuals.
- Builds confidence & character
There’s nothing like the sense of achievement that comes from overcoming a challenge, and PGL half-term camps are full of opportunities to do just that. Whether reaching the top of a climbing wall or learning to build a raft, these activities push their boundaries in a safe, supportive environment.
- Make new friends
One of the highlights of any camp is the opportunity to make new friends. Our half-term camps bring together children from different backgrounds, fostering friendships that can last a lifetime.
- 24/7 care and support
PGL is known for its excellent care and support, ensuring that children are looked after around the clock. Our highly trained staff are always on hand to offer guidance, assistance, and encouragement, giving parents peace of mind that their kids are in safe hands.
Book an October half-term camp today!
Don’t miss out on the chance to give your child an unforgettable experience this October half-term! With so many fun October half-term activities for kids, Halloween-themed events, and 24/7 support for all our qualified instructors and staff,
We have October half-term holiday camps available in the following locations:
So why wait? Get in touch today and let the adventure begin!
While you’re here, why not take a look at our outdoor adventure camps? From Aqua Explorer to Cooks Academy and Pony Camp there’s something for everyone!
