Top 6 Things to do in Oxfordshire this October Half Term
As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, Oxfordshire transforms into a picture perfect autumn escape. The October Half Term is the ideal time to slow down, soak up the season, and make memories with the whole family. Whether you’re wandering through historic university streets, picking pumpkins on a countryside farm, or enjoying cosy pubs with roaring fires, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
Whether you are spending the October Half Term with family exploring all Oxfordshire has to offer or you are having a romantic getaway, here’s your guide to the very best ways to spend the October half term in Oxfordshire.
Visit Blenheim Palace
Dates: 23rd October – 2nd November 2025
This Halloween why not visit Blenheim Palace and explore their spooktacular trail with towering skeletons looming over you and glowing eyes watching from the shadows. With immersive experiences throughout there is something for everyone from terrifying fun to just a hint of spooky magic.
Discover all the Halloween trail has to offer from a medieval dungeon, giant spiderwebs, a cursed tomb and pagan ritual site – there’s lots to see and do! This is a must visit for Halloween fans this October half term.
Please note: This is a separately ticketed event – check their website for details.
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Oxford Castle & Prison
If you are staying in Oxford this Halloween check out all of the spooktacular tours and events at Oxford Castle and Prison.
Spooky Tours
Dates: 24th October – 31st October 2025
With over 1,000 years of gruesome history, Oxford Castle & Prison has seen more than its fair share of horror. Join one of their guides on an immersive journey through the castle and prison, uncovering some of the most horrid tales of its inhabitants, some of whom are still said to roam the grounds.
Potion Making Experience
Dates: 27th October – 31st October 2025
Venture into the crypt this October half-term to help Merlin discover his lost recipe book and help become his apprentice, and create some magical potions. The hour-long class will let your little ones make two drinkable and delicious potions, create their very own wand to take home, and help Merlin find the recipe book to learn some magic spells!
Please note: Recommended for ages between 5 and 10 years.
A Paranormal Evening
Dates: 1st November 2025
The highly anticipated Paranormal Evening with the UK’s leading paranormal investigator, Barri Ghai is back!
Enjoy a delicious two-course meal, where Barri will share captivating tales from the world of the supernatural and take you on a ghost hunt to experience the paranormal first-hand.
Well known for co-hosting ‘Help! My House is Haunted’, Barri has appeared in numerous shows like ‘Unexplained Caught on Camera’, ‘My Ghost Story’ and ‘Ghost Adventures’. Barri is also the founder of the Ghostfinder Paranormal Society. His experiences and expertise will draw you in as he prepares you for an exhilarating ghost hunt around the castle site.
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Pumpkin Picking
Gather your family and friends, wrap up warm and spend the day pumpkin picking and some of the farms you can even meet the animals and enjoy more family friendly activities.
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Millets Farm: Halloween Spooktacular
This year Millets Farm, located near Abingdon is offering an array of Halloween themed events for the whole family to enjoy.
Pick Your Own Pumpkins
Dates: Weekends only from 27th September and then daily from 18th October – 31st October
The pumpkin patch features loads of Halloween themed props and photo opportunities. So grab a wheelbarrow and explore the fields to pick the perfect pumpkin! Whether you want to cook or carve they have all sorts of shapes, sizes and colours to choose from.
Please note: Pumpkins and squash are charged separately when you leave the field, prices range from £1 to £10 depending on size and examples will be shown at the entrance and again at the exit. Please bring your own bags for life to transport pumpkins to your car as wheelbarrows can’t leave the patch.
Pumpkin By Night
Dates: 5.30 -10pm (last entry 8.30pm) on 16th – 18th October, then daily from 23rd to 30th October.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the Halloween spirit with an illuminated trail, live acts, and a pumpkin to pick! As the sun goes down, the patch lights up with live entertainment, an enchanted trail and lots more.
Please note: this is NOT a scary night.
The Wizard of Oz
Dates: 10.30am/1.00pm/3.30pm on 24th October – 31st October
Click your ruby heels together and join us over the rainbow for a magical adventure suitable for all ages. Follow Dorothy and her new friends along the yellow brick road as they help the wonderful Wizard of Oz defeat the Wicked Witch of the West. A fast-paced, highly entertaining feast of family fun featuring pop songs, magic, puppets and, of course, all your favourite Oz characters.
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Fairytale Farm: Scarily Ever After: Fairy Tale Villain vs. Beast
Dates: 26th October – 3rd November
Enchanting showdown between Beauty & the Beast, where the age-old question is asked: Who is the true villain – the fairy who cast the spell, or the prince who was cursed as a beast?
Join the team at Fairytale Farm for a spellbinding adventure packed with pumpkins, potions, and plenty of Halloween fun! Explore the magical realms of Fairytale Farm and help Beauty decide her fate.
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Oxford Botanic Garden
Enjoy the autumnal colours and foliage in Oxford Botanic Garden and discover fascinating plant species. The wonders of the Glasshouse, Christ Church Meadow and much more await! The Glasshouses are full of exciting oddities to fascinate our visitors. In the Conservatory you can marvel at Citrus medica (‘Buddha’s Hand’), the fruit of which have a bizarrely anatomical shape!
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These are just a few ideas for a fantastic October half term in Oxfordshire. With so many exciting things to do, you’re sure to have a memorable time when staying in one of the homes and cottages this October Half Term.
Looking for a cosy place to stay?
Check out our selection of romantic cottages and family-friendly homes in charming Oxfordshire. We have options to suit every budget and preference. If you need any help booking your Oxfordshire getaway please contact our friendly bookings team on 01993 222 200 or send us a message.
