Half term activities in the South West

The South West is notoriously the place to be in the summer thanks to its long sandy beaches, expansive moorlands, and gorgeous coastal paths. However, perhaps best known to the locals, the South West offers an abundance of fun all year round, with a number of must-see attractions covering Cornwall, Devon, and Somerset. We’ve rounded up some of the best, from local businesses to nationally-renowned sites, promising a variety of fun for everyone during half term.

Dartmoor Zoo

Home to the ‘We Bought a Zoo’ story, Dartmoor Zoological Park was donated to the Dartmoor Zoological Society in 2014, a charity specially created for purpose. With a variety of animals, daily talks, zookeeper experiences and more, Dartmoor Zoo is one of a kind and promises a day of excitement. Back for Halloween is the Night of the Dead event, so if you think you have the skills to escape a zombie apocalypse, join the team for an unforgettable evening.

China Blue

China Blue is a unique one-stop-shop offering a curated mix of shopping, creativity, and food. Perhaps most well-known for its pottery painting, China Blue also offers classes and events, late-night painting sessions, pottery workshops, and paint and dine evenings. Head to the ceramic studio to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece and enjoy food at Wild Thyme café or Daily Knead bakery.
Daily Knead

Cornish Seal Sanctuary

The Cornish Seal Sanctuary is a Sea Life Trust charity, dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating grey seal pups from around the Cornish coastline. As well as meeting the seals in their enriching environment, you can also meet the playful puffins that have been rescued from threats in the wild, such as climate change and habitat loss. This half term, you can take part in the ‘Bugs and Mini Beasts’ Halloween trail, enjoying some creepy crafts and getting immersed in nature.

Babbacombe Model Village

Set in 4.5 acres of gardens on the English Riviera, Babbacombe Model Village is home to a vast miniature world comprising hundreds of models and scenes, and over 13,000 miniature residents. It portrays a generic version of Britain through the decades with some hidden puns, funny scenes, and plenty of topical humour for both kids and adults to enjoy. There are plenty of activities to enjoy such as mini golf and illusions, and you can enjoy lunch at the top of the hill overlooking the entire model village. For Halloween, the model village will be lit up with Spookluminations: the fun illuminations, sounds, and fire effects specifically created for the spooky season. Children can also enjoy the miniature pumpkin hunt with a chance to take home a small treat.
Babbacombe Model Village

China Fleet Adventure Golf

China Fleet Country Club is home to a fantastic Woodland Adventure Golf. The outdoor adventure covers 18 holes of fun in the setting of charming woodland. Navigate themed challenges, tricky obstacles, and unique paths to find out who the ultimate winner of putting is! Visit this half term to enjoy a thrilling round of Halloween-themed holes, where every child will receive a free goody bag.

Amelia’s Flower Farm

Nestled in the hills alongside the River Teign, Amelia’s Flower Farm is the go-to place for those who want to pick their own bouquets. As the seasons change, so do the variety of flora, so whether you visit in the spring, summer, or autumn, you’re guaranteed a number of decadent bouquets from your bucket of stems. This October, you’re invited to visit Amelia’s Flower Farm to decorate your own pumpkin with flowers. The price includes the pumpkin, glue, dried flowers, decorating patterns, and all other resources, and the end result is a perfect autumnal addition to your home.

Bodmin Jail

Bodmin Jail is a must-visit if you’re in Cornwall. Built in 1779, the jail was home to Georgian and Victorian crime and punishment and is now open to visitors as a museum and hotel. Explore paranormal experiences, award-winning tours, and the immersive Dark Walk. This October, delve deeper in the macabre history of Bodmin Jail with the Go Darker Guided Tour! Enjoy a bite to eat at the Moor Café and treat yourself to a souvenir from the Curiosities Gift Shop.

National Trust sites

The National Trust is home to over 500 places to visit across the country, but some of their most iconic sites are based right here in the South West. From historical castles to manor houses, award-winning gardens to parks, there’s something for everyone. Visiting a National Trust property is a fantastic way to learn more about the county you live in, explore the history of your local area, and give back to the charity who are dedicated to maintaining these areas. If you want to get in the spooky spirit, here’s the National Trust’s ‘most haunted places to visit’, but if you’re after family-friendly Halloween fun, you can explore the list of half term events here!

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