It’s probably been a tough couple of months getting back into the swing of things after the long summer break, and by the time that the October half-term comes around everyone’s just about ready for a break. So we’ve put together five great places to head for all round the UK - wherever you’re heading off this list, you’ll find there’s plenty to do there for everyone.
Take a trip up The Shard
This half term Western Europe’s tallest building is giving you the chance to take your kids all the way up to the View From The Shard platform completely free of charge - as long as they’re with a paying adult. The open air viewing platform on Level 72 provides the very best views of the city below – and on clear days you can see for 40 miles around. Hire a car in London and you’ll also be able to visit the capital city’s countless other attractions, from the Natural History Museum to Kew Gardens.
Head for the Eden Project
Where else in the UK are you going to be able to enjoy an October walk in a tropical rainforest but at Cornwall’s Eden Project? The exotic environment beneath its famous biomes is what makes for the perfect destination whatever the weather. There are also special half-term events during their ‘Halloweden’ spectacular including magic and puppet shows, pumpkin carving and even a Little Monsters’ Disco on Saturday the 29th.
Explore Drusilla’s Park
Drusilla’s Park, near Alfriston in East Sussex, makes for a fantastic day out especially for families and children of all ages. Here you’ll find perennial favourites Thomas The Tank Engine and Hello Kitty, as well as a zoo with everything from penguins to monkeys and several play areas. There are also lots of Halloween-themed activities all week including a runaway mummy and the chance to meet the Gruffalo.
Discover Edinburgh Castle
Famous for its tattoo as well as the cannon that is ceremonially fired at one o’clock each day, Edinburgh Castle stands high above the city’s old town. Take a guided tour of the grounds and you’ll not only see the crown jewels of Scotland but also the Stone of Destiny upon which many of the kings of the country were crowned. It’s also home to a fascinating museum telling of Scotland’s rich military history.
Conquer the Giant’s Causeway
A volcanic eruption of 50 million years ago was what caused the Causeway – but legend has it that the 40,000 basalt columns making up The Giant’s Causeway were laid by an Irish giant who had been challenged to a battle by a Scottish rival. To this day they are a breath-taking sight and there’s an exhibition in the visitors’ centre telling you all about its history and creation. Nearby you’ll also find some of Northern Ireland’s most stunning beaches.
So make this October half-term a time to get out and about and enjoy yourself as a family at one of these fantastic attractions, or at any of the thousands of attractions the UK has to offer. Before you know it, it’ll be time to start planning Christmas fun.