Spooky Halloween trails, outdoor adventures, free workshops, storytelling and activities for young people are just some of the experiences on offer for children and families from Wa...
Spooky Halloween trails, outdoor adventures, free workshops, storytelling and activities for young people are just some of the experiences on offer for children and families from Warwickshire County Council this half-term.
Warwickshire Libraries are getting into the Halloween spirit with free crafts and activities inspired by this year's Reading Screams theme. Little ones aged two to five can also enjoy free storybook-inspired dance and movement sessions with Motionhouse at Rugby, Nuneaton and Bedworth libraries. The full programme of library activities is available in the What’s On Guide.
For families who love being outdoors, Warwickshire Country Parks offer plenty of ways to make the most of autumn, from woodland walks and nature activities to spooky seasonal fun.
Places are filling up fast for a range of October half-term activities at Kingsbury Water Park and Ryton Pools Country Park. From spooky campfire cooking and wildlife workshops to magical crafts and family-friendly trails, there are lots of opportunities for children to learn new skills, get creative and enjoy the great outdoors during the school holidays. Explore October half-term activities and book your place.
There's more Halloween fun at St John's House Museum, where St John's Haunted House returns from 29–31 October with a Sleeping Beauty-inspired adventure, including a spooky trail, slime-making, crafts and messy play. At Market Hall Museum, families can enjoy a free Halloween trail from 24–31 October, with a special late opening on Friday 30 October for Warwick's Twilight Market.
Families with younger children can enjoy free activities at Best Start Family Hub Hatters Space in Nuneaton, including a SEND stay and play session and bookable sensory space sessions. Looking ahead to November, the hub will also offer Story Explorers, a free five-week programme for children aged two to four and their parents or carers, bringing stories to life through songs and creative activities. Warwickshire’s Children and Family Centres across the county also offer a varied programme of activities for families, including SEND-specific sessions, throughout the year and during school holidays. Visit the Children and Family Centres and Best Start Hubs page to find out more.
There's plenty happening for older children too. The Our Voice, Our Warwickshire Youth Conference returns for another year on Friday 30 October at the Manufacturing Technology Centre, Ansty Park. Organised by young people, for young people, the free event will bring together young people aged 11–17 (up to 25 with SEND) for a day of interactive workshops, fun activities and opportunities to meet new people and share their views. Find out more and register at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/youthconference2026.
Support for families during half term
Families looking for last minute childcare or additional support during the school break can access information, advice and guidance through the Warwickshire Family Information Service (FIS). The service provides support and information for families with children and young people aged 0–25, including childcare, SEND services, health and wellbeing, activities and financial support. More information is available at Warwickshire Family Information Service.
Families can also find inclusive activities and events through the Warwickshire SEND Local Offer. For the latest updates follow the SEND Local Offer Facebook page and subscribe to the SEND Newsletter.
Celebrating Halloween and Bonfire Night safely
With Halloween and Bonfire Night approaching, Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service and Warwickshire Trading Standards are reminding families to take a few simple precautions to enjoy the celebrations safely.
For Halloween, families are encouraged to choose well-fitting costumes, use battery-operated lights instead of candles in pumpkins and make sure children can be seen by drivers when out trick-or-treating.
For Bonfire Night, attending an organised fireworks display is the safest option. Anyone using fireworks at home should only buy UKCA or CE-marked products from reputable retailers, follow the manufacturer's instructions and never return to a firework once it has been lit. Children should always be supervised, and pets kept safely indoors.
Further guidance is available through Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service's fireworks safety webpages.
Explore a wide range of activities, days out and ideas for a long stay in Warwickshire at the Visit Warwickshire website. Find your next adventure in Warwickshire for all ages and interests.
Warwickshire County Councillor Wayne Briggs, Portfolio Holder for Children and Families, Education and SEND, said: "October half term is a great opportunity for children, young people and families to spend time together, try something new and enjoy everything Warwickshire has to offer.
"From exploring our museums and country parks to getting creative at local libraries, there are plenty of activities to suit different ages and interests, including lots of free opportunities.
"It's also fantastic to see our Youth Conference taking place during half term, giving young people the chance to come together, have fun and share their ideas.
"These activities are all part of our commitment to making Warwickshire a county where children and young people can be happy, healthy, safe and heard."
Want to find out more? Visit the Child Friendly Warwickshire website or explore our Autumn CFW newsletter for the latest news, activities and opportunities.