Your Guide to October Half Term Holidays

October half term is the perfect time for a quick break — just after the summer crowds have gone and right before the festive season madness begins. Whether you’re travelling with kids, planning a romantic getaway, or just need a week of chill before the clocks change, I’ve got ideas to help you make the most of it.

Let’s find your perfect half-term escape! 🍂🌍

🌞 Looking for Sunshine? Fly South!

If you're chasing the sun (and let’s be honest, by late October the UK is feeling a bit soggy), here are some top picks for warm weather and easy travel:

☀️ Canary Islands (Spain)

• Avg. temp: 24–26°C

• Family-friendly beaches, volcanic hikes and all-inclusive resorts

• Quick flights and loads of kid-approved activities

  
  

☀️ Cyprus

• History, beaches, and still warm enough to swim!

• Great for both adventure and relaxation

• Delicious food (meze all day, please)

  
  

☀️ Turkey

• Incredible value this time of year

• Stunning coastline, ancient ruins, and fab family hotels

• Perfect mix of sun and culture

  
  

🦒 Raffi’s tip: Book early! These sunny spots fill fast with families looking to escape the drizzle.

🍁 Stay Closer to Home: UK Breaks with Autumn Magic

Not looking to fly? There’s loads of fun to be had closer to home — especially if you lean into those cosy autumn vibes.

🏞️ The Lake District or Peak District

• Think crisp air, colourful walks, cosy pubs and log fires

• Great for families, walkers, and anyone who loves nature

  
  

🎃 Spooky Fun at UK Theme Parks

• Alton Towers, Chessington, Legoland and more run Halloween-themed events all half term long

• Perfect for little thrill-seekers (and grown-up ones too!)

  
  

🏰 Edinburgh or York

• Culture, castles, and cobbled streets

• Amazing autumn colours and loads of family-friendly museums

  
  

🦒 Raffi’s tip: Look out for free kids’ events in cities and museums — half term is packed with them!

🧳 Short-Haul City Breaks (Easy & Fun!)

Want a change of scene without a long flight? These destinations are fab for 3–5 day breaks:

🏛️ Rome, Italy

• Fewer crowds, great weather, and pasta every day? Yes please.

  
  

🧇 Bruges, Belgium

• Waffles, canals, and fairy tale streets

• A great choice if you want relaxed and charming

  
  

🎨 Barcelona, Spain

• Beach + city combo

• Gaudí, markets and sunshine = happy travellers of all ages

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🦒 Raffi’s Half Term Travel Tips

✅ Book early for school holiday dates — flights and family hotels go fast

✅ Look for ATOL-protected holidays for peace of mind

✅ Consider travel insurance (especially with little ones!)

✅ Pack layers — October weather can be unpredictable, even in sunny spots

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💛 Let Hashtag Travel Do the Hard Work

Planning a half term break shouldn’t be stressful. Whether you’re dreaming of a beachside escape, a UK cottage with a fireplace, or a fun-packed city break, Hashtag Travel can help with:

✔️ Hand-picked family resorts

✔️ Flights, transfers, and extras sorted

✔️ Recommendations based on your family, budget & travel style

🦒 You pick the dates — we’ll handle the rest. Let’s make this half term unforgettable!