22nd September 2026 |
Activities, School Holidays
October Half Term Events on the Suffolk Coast 2026
The first term back to school can be exhausting. Everyone’s getting used to routine again after a long summer. Uniforms, packed lunches, homework and the dreaded start-of-term lurgy. It’s no wonder we’re already dreaming of a break!
Southwold and the Suffolk Coast offers fresh air, mild autumn weather and plenty of family-friendly and fun things to do. We’ve gathered a selection of the activities taking place during October half term this year, so book a cottage, pack the car, and head to Suffolk for an Autumn staycation.
Southwold Pumpkin Patch
Old Hall Farm opens its pick-your-own pumpkin patch in October, where you can make a day of it with their riverside walks and café on site. There’s also a Trick or Treat Trail and Golden Pumpkin Hunt during half term itself. Get all the details here.
RSPB Minsmere
On the first weekend of half term the team are hosting some great seasonal events including craft sessions, Red Deer Safari and a workshop on how to build a bat box. Visit the website for a full list of their activities and to book your place.
Africa Alive
Get ready for a wickedly wild adventure at Africa Alive during their half term special events. Take on the Super-Natural Scavenger Hunt and embark on a spooky adventure around the zoo, meet fang-tastic minibeasts and discover night time creatures. Find out more here.
The Red House
Guided Tours of The Red House continue throughout October. Experience the Britten and Pears’ House, studio and Library from a knowledgeable guide and learn more about their life and legacy. The team are also hosting Spooky Sounds – an interactive experience for children including a Garden Trail, DIY sound kit activity and a chance to hear Spooky Suffolk Tales! Book here.
Pleasurewood Hills
Get ready for a spooktacular Halloween half term in Lowestoft with Pleasurewood Chills! Enjoy all your favourite rides and attractions alongside festive treats like pumpkin carving, creepy crafts, and their immersive scare maze experiences. Find out more here.
Southwold Arts Centre
The Arts Centre is hosting another fantastic Southwold Science Week during half term. There’s something for all ages including a Little Witch Halloween Story Show, experiment workshops and even a mobile planetarium! Book tickets here.
Marina Theatre, Lowestoft
Calling all trainee detectives! Join The Mystery of Marina Theatre, an award-winning board-game style theatre show where your skills are needed to solve a thrilling murder mystery. Find out more about the show and book tickets here.
Carlton Marshes
Have a Wild Halloween at Carlton Marshes with Suffolk Wildlife Trust. Enjoy a trail of nocturnal activities including bat detecting, stargazing and a skull quiz. Running on Thursday 29th and Friday 30th October. Find out more here.
East Point Pavillion
The cultural hub by the coast is hosting a wealth of activities throughout half term suitable for the whole family. There’s pumpkin decorating, a storytelling session and a Monster Mash Party disco! See the full list of events here.
Need some more holiday inspiration? Head to our Suffolk Coastal Area Guide for helpful tips including dog-friendly pubs, must-visit beaches and beautiful walks to enjoy this Autumn.
–> Your base on the Suffolk Coast
Durrants Holiday Cottages are dotted throughout Southwold and the surrounding area, giving you the perfect base for your Suffolk adventure.
Need advice? Get in touch with our friendly, local team who can help.
