October half term in Scotland is one of the best times of the year for a family day out. With the leaves falling, the air turning crisp, and golden colours all around, it’s the perfect time to explore the great outdoors and enjoy some quality time together.
Scotland is a beautiful destination all year round, but autumn offers something a little different. From activities such as pumpkin picking to adventure trails where the little ones can experience nature, the choice is yours.
At Meridian Parks, we have a range of holiday parks in Scotland including Cockburnspath Holiday Park, Tayport Links, and Woodley Caravan Park near Arbroath. With holiday hire and holiday home purchase options available you can find your own oasis regardless of your budget.
What better way to end the day than cosying up in your own lodge with the fire on watching a movie? If you’re planning your next UK break, let’s explore why October half term in Scotland is the perfect time to visit.
October Half Term Ideas In Scotland
There’s lots to enjoy when it comes to October half term in Scotland. Whether you’re a couple looking for a scenic woodland stroll, or you’re planning a day out for the whole family (four legged friends included!).
The Enchanted Forest, Perthshire
The Enchanted Forest, held each October in Faskally Wood near Pitlochry, is an immersive art experience that transforms the ancient trees, lochs, and pathways into a world of light.
Crisp autumn air and early sunsets set the perfect stage for choreographed installations and sounds that bring the forest to life.
The event is suitable for the whole family with the accessible trail offering something for everyone, whether it’s a magical evening out with the kids or a romantic autumn walk for the two of you. Combining innovation and creative storytelling, the event continues to attract over 800,000 visitors across two decades, making it a highlight of Scotland’s seasonal calendar.
Children under 3 can go for free and there are early bird ticket options available starting from £27.50 per adult and £15 for children aged 3-15.
Pumpkin Picking
We can’t explore October half term in Scotland without mentioning pumpkin picking. This autumnal activity has surged in popularity over the last couple of years, partially due to social media. Everyone likes to capture a snap of them and their family on the pumpkin patch!
It’s also a lovely way to spend some time outdoors with sites usually offering additional amenities such as hot drink stations and hay bale mazes for the kids.
There are various pumpkin picking patches in Scotland including:
- Monty’s Farm Park, Cardross – This is a family-run farm park at Ardardan Estate near Cardross which runs pumpkin and play sessions. These activities run from mid-October, complete with a wooden indoor adventure barn. It’s a perfect choice for a day out in all weather as it offers a mix of outdoor pumpkin picking and indoor activities.
- Westerton Farm, Aberdeenshire – Located near Laurencekirk, the annual pumpkin patch is open daily in October. Families can enjoy a day of entertainment including food stalls, animals, a tractor pod ride on weekends, and much more. Tickets are required for entry and prices start from just over £5. Well behaved dogs on a lead are also allowed.
- Ethiebeaton Farm, Broughty Ferry – Situated just outside Dundee, this farm offers pumpkin picking every October. No booking is required and entry is also free. The patch is open from Saturday 11th of October.
Camperdown Wildlife Centre, Dundee
Located within the Camperdown Country Park just a few miles from Dundee city centre, Camperdown Wildlife Centre is a great choice for a family day out. Home to over 50 species of animals, including European brown bears, ring-tailed lemurs, meerkats, and colourful hyacinth macaws, children will not only learn about nature, but also enjoy first hand experiences of them.
The centre is also accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, giving complete access to all visitors.
From March to September, you can take advantages of longer opening hours (10:00 AM to 4:30 PM) and slightly shorter hours in autumn and winter (10:00 AM to 3:30 PM).
Tickets are affordability priced with adult entry from £9, children entry from £6, and family tickets available for £30. There’s also some special features like the Bear Broch viewing area and live bear cam, alongside seasonal programs, so there’s always something new to discover.
Samhuinn Fire Festival, Edinburgh
The Samhuinn Fire Festival is held on October 31st on Calton Hill in Edinburgh, and marks the transition from summer to winter. Organised by the Beltane Fire Society, the event transforms the hill into a stage of fire, music, and storytelling. Visitors can witness the dramatic battle between the Summer and Winter Kings, brought to life with drumming and fire displays.
Typically running from 6:45 PM to 10:00 PM, it’s a must on your seasonal event calendar. It’s advised that tickets are booked in advance through the Beltane Fire Society to avoid disappointment!
While it is a family-friendly celebration, parents should note that the performances include some adult-themed content, so children must be accompanied by an adult. With its vibrant atmosphere and deep connection to Scottish heritage, the Samhuinn Fire Festival allows visitors of all ages to experience the magic of Edinburgh.
Scone Palace, Perth
Scone Palace offers a great family day trip, combining history with engaging outdoor activities. Situated near Perth, Scotland, it was once the crowning place for 42 Scottish kings, including Macbeth and Robert the Bruce.
When you step inside you’ll be amazed by the grand interiors which are situated in 100 acres of beautiful gardens. The grounds feature a star-shaped maze, ancient trees, and a variety of wildlife, providing lots of opportunities to explore. The on-site Old Servants’ Hall Coffee Shop also serves up delicious scones and local treats if you’re feeling peckish!
October is a great time to visit Scone place as the autumn leaves make it an ideal place for scenic walks and family photos. The palace and gardens are open daily from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm, with the last entry at 4:00 pm. Entry is £15 for adults and £10.50 for children aged 4-15, with family tickets available. Booking tickets in advance is recommended.
Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh offers outdoor exploration and seasonal events whilst also throwing in some educational learnings too. In October, the gardens are particularly special as the trees and plants burst into bright autumn colours.
Whether you’re facing an autumnal stroll along the woodland paths or a bit of wildlife spotting, it’s a great day out for families and children alike. As well as the beautiful scenery, the gardens are running their annual Halloween Trail from Saturday 14 to Tuesday 31 October. With their tickets, children will get a booklet which guides them around the garden, finding clues and solving answers, with a chocolate prize at the end.
There’s no prebooking required and booklets start at £3 per child.
You can find more information, including opening times here.
Portobello Book Festival
The Portobello Book Festival is held every year over the first full weekend of October. Taking place from Friday, October 3 to Sunday, October 5, the festival is centered around Portobello Library, with events also hosted at The Portobello Bookshop and Portobello Swim Centre.
Families can look forward to a variety of engaging activities such as author talks, writing workshops, and storytelling sessions.
Keep an eye out for the release of the full 2025 programme, however previous festivals have featured events such as the launch of Mairi Kidd’s novel The Specimens, and discussions with authors such as Olga Wojtas. These offer children and adults the opportunity to engage with authors, participate in discussions, and enjoy the atmosphere.
Tickets for all events are free and can be collected in person from Portobello Library.
October Half Term in Scotland: Top Activities and Days Out
October half term in Scotland offers a great opportunity to spend some quality time together. With events such as pumpkin picking, light trails, and visits to historic palaces, you’ll never be short of something to do.
Some of the activities listed in this blog are also free so you don’t have to worry about entertaining the kids if you’re on a budget.
Returning to your own lodge after a busy family day out is the perfect way to end the day. At meridian parks, all of our sites come complete with a range of amenities making your stay feel like a home-from-home experience.
Check out our Scotland holiday parks here and book a park visit to see it for yourself!
