Looking for the best things to do in Cornwall this October half-term? From spooky Halloween events to autumn walks and stunning sunsets, Cornwall is the perfect family getaway this autumn. Whether you want pumpkin picking, family days out, or haunted adventures, here’s your ultimate guide to half-term fun in Cornwall.
At Hendra Holiday Park, just outside of Newquay, Halloween is always a highlight. Guests can enjoy one of the best pumpkin patches in Cornwall, with pumpkins grown right on-site, plus nightly entertainment packed with spooky shows, fangtastic fancy dress, and the legendary Hendra Ghost Train – a must-do for families this October half-term.
🎃 Family-Friendly Halloween Events in Cornwall
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Pumpkin Fest at Camel Creek Family Theme Park
A top pick for Halloween days out in Cornwall, Camel Creek has its own Halloween Festival: Pumpkin Fest (11th Oct – 1st Nov, weekends only until 22nd October, then daily during half term)! As well as the usual brilliant rides, animal encounters and indoor and outdoor play, there’s a pumpkin patch, house of horrors and trick or treat doors! -
Lappa Valley Halloween Fun
Take a scenic steam train ride through the Cornish countryside, and discover Cornwall’s secret world of play and trains. This half-term little ones will love seeing everyone’s favourite dog, Duggee, of Hey Duggee on CBeebies. He will be making appearances throughout the day. For seasonal fun, enjoy some fireworks in Cornwall on the 31st of October and the 1st of November. -
Healeys Cyder Farm
Famous for its Cornish Rattler cider, but also one of the best family attractions in Cornwall. With their Halloween events running from the 11th of October until the 31st, expect a haunted Halloween vintage tractor ride, a pumpkin patch, and pumpkin carving – you’d be ghoul-ish to miss this! Get your tickets here.
🍂 Autumn Adventures and Days Out in Cornwall
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The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Step into one of Cornwall’s most magical gardens. In autumn, Heligan is alive with colour, wildlife, and family-friendly trails. A great choice for an October day out in Cornwall. -
Woodland and Coastal Walks in Cornwall
Crisp air, golden leaves, and stunning scenery make October perfect for woodland walks:-
St Mawgan Woods – walk beside the riverside and spot all sorts of interesting wildlife, including fungi at this time of year (be careful before touching!).
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Tehidy Woods – an expansive woodland with many trails, and a cafe too.
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Cardinham Woods – near Bodmin, offering scenic trails, cycle routes, and a cosy café.
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🌅 Best Places to Watch an Autumn Sunset in Cornwall
Cornwall is famous for its breathtaking sunsets, and autumn skies are especially dramatic:
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Fistral Beach (Newquay) – Watch surfers at sunset from the Beach Bar, soaking up the lively atmosphere.
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Porth Beach & Island – Climb up to the Island for panoramic views over Newquay and Watergate Bay, or snuggle on the sand with a blanket.
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Holywell Bay – With its dramatic twin rocks and golden sands, this is one of the most photogenic spots for a sunset.
👻 Haunted Places and Spooky Things to Do in Cornwall
For families who enjoy ghost stories and legends, Cornwall has plenty of spine-tingling spots:
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Trerice Manor – This National Trust house, nestled behind Hendra Holiday Park, is home to Tudor gardens and an Elizabethan manor house. Rumoured to have lots of ghostly activities, from chilling temperature drops, a grey lady and stable boy, who had a tragic ending.
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Jamaica Inn (Bodmin Moor) – Famous for smugglers, spooky tales, and ghostly sightings. Check out Daphne Du Maurier’s Jamaica Inn, named after this very inn: perfect, cosy, autumn reading.
- Kennal Vale Woods – Ideal for an autumn stomp through the leaves, with plenty of history. The ruins of this former gunpowder factory (active in the 19th and early 20th centuries) can still be seen today. There have been numerous sightings of ghostly figures in these woods, of those who tragically lost their lives in the disasters.
🆓 Free Things to Do in Newquay This October Half-Term
Not everything has to cost money – there are plenty of free family activities in Cornwall too:
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Newquay Zombie Walk – One of Newquay’s favourite family events, taking place on the 25th of October. The Zombie walk starts at 3pm, near the train station. Beforehand there will be pop-up Halloween events throughout the town, including Halloween face painting and crafting.
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Halloween Trail – This free family event is taking place throughout half-term. Forms can be collected from Visit Newquay, which is the Tourist Information Centre in Newquay.
🍁 Why Visit Cornwall This October Half-Term?
From pumpkin picking in Cornwall to coastal walks and haunted history, half-term offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re watching a fiery sunset at Holywell Bay, exploring the woods the Cornish woods or riding the Hendra Ghost Train, you’ll make memories that last a lifetime.
So pack your costumes, wrap up warm, and get ready for an unforgettable October half-term in Cornwall.
