Looking for outdoor ideas? Look no further! We asked our friends at Day Out with the Kids for their top tips on making the most of the October half-term. Read on for inspiration to help you plan your family outdoor activities.

You may feel like you’re only just getting back into the routine of school after the summer, but with half-term just around the corner (yes, really!), it’s time to seek out your next family outdoor day out. Pack your coats, hats, scarves and wellies and don’t let any signs of bad weather get in the way - adventure awaits. So, if you’re looking to make the most of the October half-term, why not give one of these a try? 

1. A family welly walk

   Nothing beats wrapping up warm and heading outdoors in autumn. From squelching in mud and crunching leaves, to hunting for conkers, a simple walk can turn into a big adventure at this time of year, and chances are you’ll have somewhere that fits the bill fairly close to home. The beauty of this is spontaneity; take a route you haven’t done before or let the kids lead the way, who knows what you’ll discover? Bring some change for a hot chocolate for the perfect way to warm up at the end. 

2. Animal adventures

   From pigs and sheep, to lions and tigers, farms, zoos and wildlife parks are a great day out outdoors whatever the weather, and are great for visiting time and time again. Encourage your kids to do their best oinks and moos at the local farm, or get close and cuddly with some little furry friends including rabbits and guinea pigs. Some farms even have the chance to help feed the animals, just be careful not to lose your fingers! At the zoo, see if your kids can spot tiger stripes or some cheeky monkeys - whatever their favourite, it’s a great day out the whole family will love. 

3. Go pumpkin picking

   Pumpkins are vital for any Halloween activities, but nothing beats visiting an outdoors pumpkin patch and choosing your perfect one. Kids will love wandering amongst rows and rows of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes, and you can even challenge them to count how many are bigger than their heads! Handy wheelbarrows make light work of getting your chosen veg back to the car, and when you get home, why not have a go at carving some fun designs with the kids? If this doesn’t get you feeling suitably autumnal, then we don’t know what will!

4. Visit a theme park

   Big days out aren’t just for the summer holidays, with plenty of fun still to be had before the end of the main season. Little adventurers (and brave grown ups!) can test their bravery on thrill rides, whilst there are often dedicated areas specifically designed for younger kids, promising loads of fun for the whole family. Be sure to check opening dates and times before you get everyone in the car, and buckle up for a whole day of squeals before they close! 

5. Go on a scavenger hunt

   Here’s an outdoor adventure idea that plays to everyone’s competitive streak, as you head off in search of some items! Theme it around the seasons, or get the kids to come up with their own checklist of things to find based on your local area - the possibilities are endless! If you need some inspiration, we’ve got some ideas that you can get straight to your inbox to help get your started. See who can find all the items the quickest or pair off into teams - kids vs grown ups is always a favourite!

Looking for even more adventures near you for half-term? Pop in your postcode at www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk - you might find your new favourite place!