Top Things to Do in South Devon this October Half Term: Autumn & Halloween Fun
The leaves are turning, the air is crisp, and Halloween is just around the corner. October Half Term in South Devon is packed with spooky-fun, harvest delights, outdoor adventures and cosy autumn treats. Whether you’re staying in Brixham, Paignton, Torquay, Kingswear, Teignmouth or Exeter, there’s plenty for families, couples or solo travellers to enjoy.
Below are curated ideas for things to do this October Half Term, plus events you won’t want to miss.
Pumpkin picking & Farm Fun
There’s nothing that says “autumn” quite like a day out at a pumpkin patch. Kids love racing through the fields to find the biggest or quirkiest pumpkin, while adults can enjoy the photo-worthy scenery and seasonal treats. Many farms also offer extra activities, from animal encounters to spooky mazes, making it a full day out for the whole family.
- Pennywell Farm – Pick your own pumpkin, explore the farm, and join in special autumn activities including animal cuddles and tractor rides.
- Devon Pumpkin Picking – Spanning 6 acres this pumpkin patch has over 20 different pumpkin varieties to choose from.
- Darts Farm – A vibrant pumpkin patch and harvest festival feel. Heaps of pumpkins to choose from, seasonal food stalls, children’s activities, as well as the chance to explore one of Devon’s most popular farm shops.
- Local pop-up pumpkin patches – Keep an eye out for smaller patches around South Devon villages, perfect for a more low-key (and often less crowded) outing.
Spooky, Ghostly & Halloween-Themed Activities
October Half Term wouldn’t be complete without a little frightful fun. Across South Devon you’ll find spooky trails, eerie illuminations, family discos and even theatre shows with a Halloween twist. From playful pumpkin hunts to atmospheric ghostly adventures, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the season.
- Kents Cavern – “Batty Half Term,” with trails, crafts, a neon bat hunt and a silent disco.
- Occombe Farm – Alongside their much-loved Halloween Disco they are also hosting a scarecrow afternoon tea for kids. Adults can enjoy an autumnal pumpkin flower arranging workshop
- Torre Abbey After Dark – Night-time Halloween trail & illuminations with Halloween themed treats and games. Hot drinks and horrifying treats will also be available.
- Babbacombe Model Village – Pumpkin hunt among the models with spooky scenes and evening illuminations.
- Ministry of Science – Live at Princess Theatre, Torquay – for a thrilling, more theatrical indoor option.
- Paignton Zoo – Join a zombie zookeeper on a wild journey through the zoo to search for his best friend. Look out for scary characters and spine chilling clues along the way. You can also create your best magic potions, carve a petrifying pumpkin and more at their ‘Spooky School’
Outdoor Adventures, Walks & Nature
Crisp air, golden leaves and dramatic coastal views make South Devon a beautiful place to explore in autumn. From woodland trails to seaside strolls, October Half Term is the perfect time to get outdoors and soak up the season’s colours.
- Autumn walks along the coast: Teignmouth to Shaldon, or around Brixham harbour & up to Berry Head Nature Reserve. Spot changing foliage, sea air, maybe even early evening bonfires in locations that permit them.
- Many National Trust properties and English Heritage sites across South Devon have events like nature explorer trails, spooky story telling, nature detecting and Halloween quests.
- For the more adventurous among us Haldon Forest is hosting a Halloween Twilight run. Brave the woods at night and escape the zombies lurking behind the trees. You efforts will earn you a medal.
Fireworks, Bonfires & Evening Events
Autumn evenings in South Devon come alive with glowing bonfires and dazzling firework displays. Across the region, most events are ticketed, so it’s worth booking in advance. Don’t forget to wrap up warm, bring a blanket, and perhaps a flask of hot chocolate, the perfect way to enjoy these sparkling seasonal nights.
- Woodbury Park, near Exeter – 24 October 2025 – Family-friendly fireworks with entertainment & food stalls. Gates open 5:30pm, display at 7pm.
- Brixham Rugby Club – 31 October 2025 – Their Halloween Spectacular promises a fantastic fireworks display, disco, fancy dress (if you fancy it), treat stalls, spooky milkshakes and hot chocolate and merch stands.
- Westpoint, Exeter – 1 November 2025 – Exeter Round Table host’s its annual Halloween-themed music-choreographed firework display by Sonic (2022 British Firework Champions)
- Teignmouth & Shaldon – 1 November 2025 – Teignmouth & Shaldon Bonfire & Fireworks Display boasts a beautiful backdrop of the sea
Cosy Autumn & Food-Themed Treats
After a day of pumpkin picking, ghost trails or seaside walks, autumn in South Devon is also about slowing down and indulging in something delicious.
- Dartmouth Food Festival (24-26 October 2025) – A three-day celebration of food and drink, with chef demos, tastings, and artisan stalls all set against the stunning backdrop of Dartmouth’s harbour.
- Ullacombe Farm Café & Shop – Famous for its hearty breakfasts and generous cream teas, this family-friendly farm café often hosts seasonal events in the barn. Their “Twisted Afternoon Tea for 2” is a treat if you’re after something a little special.
- Occombe Farm – Dare you try their Spooky Afternoon Tea for kids? Book early to avoid disappointment as this is a popular event!
And of course, sometimes the simplest pleasures are the best. You might tuck into fish and chips on the seafront at Paignton or Teignmouth, warm up with a traditional Devon cream tea in a cosy tearoom, or round off the evening in a welcoming pub with a log fire — the perfect way to end an autumn day in South Devon.
Tips for a Great Half Term Break
- Book ahead: popular events like discos or trails often require tickets.
- Check timings: some events are seasonal or only during certain days in the half term.
- Weather prep: pack layers, waterproofs, boots. Autumn does bring surprises.
- Mix indoor & outdoor: plan for wet weather with museums etc.
- Local food: try cosy cafés, farm shops, seaside fish & chips – autumn menus are often great value.
Plan Your October Half Term Getaway
With pumpkin patches, spooky trails, cosy food festivals, and firework displays lighting up the skies, South Devon is the perfect place to spend October Half Term. Whether you’re travelling as a family, a couple, or a group of friends, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Our holiday homes across South Devon put you right at the heart of the action and the relaxation.
Contact us to book your October Half Term stay and make this autumn one to remember.
