October half-term fun
October half-term fun
No plans for the holidays? We’ve got you covered with these fantastic ideas…
This year, the October half-term looks exciting! From a Banksy art exhibition and special trails to a London Bridge drawing challenge and theme park thrills, your little ones can have fun at all times…
1
The Smeds and the Smoos at the Rose Theatre
Music laughs and interplanetary adventures for everyone aged 3 and up at the Rose. The adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s picture book The Smeds and the Smoos will have its world premiere on 27 October before embarking on the UK tour.
On a distant planet, Smeds and Smoos can’t be friends. So, how will their families track down a young Smed and Smoo who fall in love and fly off into space together?
2
Spooky Art Workshop
Join the spooky art workshop! To celebrate the Day of the Dead, children aged 6 and up will be drawing colourful skulls using materials that you probably already have at home, such as pencils, pens and markers. The workshop takes place via Zoom on 27 October, and spaces are limited. The workshop is £10 per child or £18 for two siblings. Spooky dress up is optional (but recommended!)
3
Family Fun at The Runnymede on Thames
On Saturday, October 30, your kids (and you!) will be thrilled with spine-tingling ghost stories from Windsor’s WE Tour Guides. The ghost talk take place at the hotel and last 45 minutes. Plus, Halloween treats, cocktails and mocktails galore. Guests can also try their hand at archery, ride their bikes down the river’s towpath, or test their precision with laser clay pigeon shooting.
IMAGES: The Rose Theatre and The Runnymede Hotel
4
Spooky Season at KidZania
KidZania is gearing up to welcome youngsters and adults with a half-term lineup not to be missed. From October 23 to 31, kids aged 4 to 14 may join the thrills and frights as the indoor city, which features immersive activities based on real-life employment, is converted into a fa-BOO-lous ghost town. Activities include Poltergeist Parade, creating ghastly garments, delivering petrifying parcels, BOO-gie dance and a special hike.
5
The Art of Banksy
Explore the world’s largest collection of privately owned Banksy artworks. Currently on display in Covent Garden. Prints, canvasses, screenprints, one-of-a-kind works, and limited-edition pieces are on show. Most of them date from 1997 to 2008, the period during which Banksy’s most recognisable works were created.
6
Tower Bridge’s Family Activity
For the October half-term, Tower Bridge’s Family Activity is back with a new drawing challenge. Drop in, join in the fun and see who knows Tower Bridge the best. Open to children of all ages but most suitable for those aged 6-10. (Family activities are drop-in and included in the price of admission – make sure to book your visit on one of the days listed on their website).
IMAGES: KidZania and The Art of Banksy
7
Treasure Trail
This October half-term, get into the Halloween spirit with spectacular self-guided Treasure Trails that will take you on adventures with phantoms and ghosts of all kinds! Treasure Trails are themed walking, cycling, and driving trail adventure booklets, divided into three categories: detective mystery, treasure hunt, and spy mission. Embark on a secret spy mission around Kingston, search for treasures in Battersea and uncover the mystery in Chiswick.
8
Half term fun at The Lensbury
Searching for an autumnal escape for you and your kids? The Lensbury in Teddington has a host of activities for children aged two and over – from kayaking to crafts and from tennis to sailing. Parents can relax and enjoy the resort knowing their children are in good hands because all activities and camps are led by experienced instructors.
9
Howl’o’ween at Chessington World of Adventures Resort
Around every turn, you’ll come across a variety of deliciously frightening creatures. Meet spiders, ghosts, zombies and wild witches or brave the really creepy caves.
10
Illuminature at London Wetland Centre, Barnes
Step into the magical world of illuminated wildlife. Floating swans, an otter family, a flock of flamingos, and Winifred the owl can all be seen among the reed beds, lagoons, and viewing marsh. Plus, if you’re lucky – real animals!
11
Spooky Afternoon Tea, 144 on the Hill
Head for a Halloween themed tea at this lovely hotel on Richmond Hill. From 25 to 31 October. Little ones who dress up will also get a goodie bag.
12
A Hocus Pocus trail around Wimbledon
Dust off your broomsticks and hats and join Love Wimbledon’s free treasure trail around the town centre, from now until 31 October.
