Halloween in Devon: what’s on this October half term 2026

If you’re looking for the spookiest events happening this Halloween in Devon you’ll find them in this guide to frightening goings on over October half term 2026. Don’t care for a scare? There’s also an autumnal smattering of other fun family activities to help you make the most of the holidays.

The Devon school holidays fall on 24 October to 1 November 2026.

Visiting before or after the local holidays? You’ll want to check out what else is happening this October and my guide to what’s on in Devon in November.

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Events in October half term 2026

Whether you enjoy the thrill of being frightened or prefer something a little less freaky you’ll find plenty happening around Devon during the October school holidays.

I’ve listed events happening in South (including Plymouth), East (including Exeter), North, West and Mid Devon to help you find what’s happening near you this Halloween.

If you know of an event that should be listed here, let me know! It’s free to be included!!

Featured event: Pumpkin Festival at Pennywell Farm in Buckfastleigh – 26 September- 1 November 2026

There’s seasonal fun galore without the gore at Pennywell Farm where you’ll find all the usual activities, rides and animal encounters, plus autumn photo opportunities, a pumpkin patch and trail.

There’s prizes to be won too! Dress up as a scarecrow to receive a treat when you arrive.

But that’s not all! Visit by night for a glowing fall experience for the whole family. Pumpkin Nights take place on selected dates in October, after usual opening hours from 5.30pm to 9pm.

Visiting over half term? Book online in advance and you can get seven days admission for the price of one using our special code.

Find out more and book tickets on the Pennywell Farm website.

Halloween in South Devon

Here’s what’s on in South Devon this Halloween:

Our Story with David Attenborough at Market Hall, Devonport – selected dates until 31 October 2026

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At the start of the summer we were invited to experience the Our Story – a 50-minute immersive film that takes you on a four-billion-year journey through Earth’s history with Sir David Attenborough as your guide.

It was due to finish at Market Hall in Devonport on 2 September but screenings have now been extended until 31 October 2026.

Find out more and get tickets on the Real Ideas website.

Age of the Dinosaurs at Kents Cavern in Torquay – daily until 31 October 2026

Have you heard what’s arrived in Kents Cavern? They’re 66 million years late to the party, but dinosaurs have finally found their way into the dramatic caves, which were formed a mere 2.5 million years ago.

Age of the Dinosaurs is a new exhibition showcasing skeleton models of 18 species of pre-historic monsters. They range from the equally loved and feared  T Rex to the super cute (according to my teen) 60cm long Aquilops Americanus.

Find out more about visiting the dinosaurs at Kents Cavern.

Cockington Court Sculpture Trail in Torbay – daily until 1 November 2026

Listen up art lovers, explorers and history enthusiasts! The Cockington Court sculpture trail has returned for 2026 and this year is inspired by movie magic This free trail features more than 30 different sculptures created by local artists and sculptors. 

To take part collect a free map from inside the Manor House between 10.30am and 4.30pm daily.

Find out more about this free sculpture trail in Torbay.

Room on the Broom activity trail at Haldon Forest near Exeter – open daily from 27 January 2027

The newest children’s activity trail in the partnership between Forestry England and Magic Light Pictures opens this week. Help Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s character the Witch as she embarks on a magical journey around Haldon Forest.

Find out mort about the Room on the Broom trail.

Bayeux Around Britain at RAMM in Exeter – Tuesday to Sunday until 11 July 2027

Can’t get to London to admire the Bayeux Tapestry? Visiting RAMM in Exeter is the next best thing!

It’s part of a nation-wide programme to bring the the story of the tapestry alive with objects from RAMM’s collection, alongside digital assets from the British Museum and a trail about the history surrounding the Norman invasion.

See the Bayeux Around Britain exhibits and experiences at RAMM for free Tuesday to Sunday.

Find out more about visiting RAMM and Bayeux Around Britain.

Halloween Ghost Walks at Kents Cavern – 15 to 30 October 2026

The spirit of the season comes alive in the ancient darkness of Kents Cavern this October with ghost walks perfect for families with teens.

Journey into a place of deep time, discover tales of haunted homes, restless spirits and the strange things said to dwell alongside us.

This event evening must be booked in advance and is suitable for families with children aged 12 and up.

Find out more and book a ghost walk at Kents Cavern.

Pumpkins, plants and poisons at Greenway   in Galmpton – 17 October to 1 November 2026

Discover frightfully fascinating facts about poisonous plants, wicked wildlife and garden gobblers, on a family friendly autumn trail in the Greenway garden this October half-term.   

Visit on 29 October and you will also find spooky circus skills workshops with Elfic the Juggler.

These events are included in the admission price and free for National Trust members but parking must be booked in advance.

Find out more about visiting Greenway National Trust. 

Guardians of the garden autumn tree trail  at Coleton Fishacre in Kingswear – 17 October to 15 November 2026

This autumn follow the path of ‘The Green Man’ at Coleton Fishacre National Trust in South Devon. Along the way discover fascinating facts and spellbinding folklore about ancient woodlands on a free trail in the garden. 

Find out more about what’s on at Coleton Fishacre.

Frank ‘n’ Stein’s Teddy at Soapbox Children’s Theatre in Devonport – selected dates from 18 to 31 October 2026

Frank and Stein accidentally break their teddy Victor. Can our two madcap scientists put teddy back together again?

With extraordinary science, magical tricks and puppets all based in the Soapbox Laboratory, this fun and inventive show is for children and adults alike.

Find out more and buy tickets.

Mrs Doubtfire the Musical at The Lyric in Plymouth – 20 October to 7 November 2026

Mrs Doubtfire, the West End’s hit comedy musical based on the beloved film, is heading to Plymouth.

This “genuinely funny” (Time Out) show features all the iconic moments you love, plus fabulous new songs and dazzling dance numbers! Put it all together, and you’ve got a “surefire hit” (The Telegraph, Daily Express) that can’t be missed.

Find out more and book tickets for Mrs Doubtfire.

Dartmouth Food Festival – 23 to 25 October 2026

This delicious free event in Devon is packed with food and drink to suit all taste buds. Dartmouth Food Festival comes with three days packed with cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, talks with food writers, and cookery workshops for adults and children.

A whole day of the festival is dedicated to children, with events and activities to get kids excited about cooking. Don’t miss the free story telling sessions with tales of funny food and even ginger bread man making.

Some activities must be booked and paid for in advance.

Take a look at the Food Festival website for more information.

Make a bubbling cauldron model  at Overbecks in Salcombe – 26 October 2026

Overbeck’s crafter Elaura will lead you through the process to make your own bubbling cauldron model just in time for Halloween . There are two drop-in sessions, morning and afternoon, happening at the National Trust’s Overbecks.

This activity is included in the normal admission price and free for National Trust members.

Find out more about what’s on at Overbecks.

Frozen the Musical at Palace Theatre in Paignton – 27 October to 1 November 2026

Forget Halloween, it’s all about the Princesses! Join your favourite Characters as they throw the most wicked icicles this Halloween at Palace Theatre.

Come dressed in your best costume and sing your hearts out.

Find out more and book tickets on the Palace Theatre website.

Halloween at Babbacombe Model Village, Babbacombe –  26 to 31 October 2026

See the Model Village transform with ghouls, ghosts and spooky scenes causing havoc among the miniature residents. There’s also a Miniature Pumpkin Hunt for children.

When darkness falls there’s a new experience for adults and older children where you go behind the scenes on a creepy adventure packed with spooky scenes, eerie surprises, actors and just enough fright to delight.

Find out more about visiting Babbacombe Model Village this Halloween.

Abbey After Dark at Torre Abbey in Torquay – 27 to 31 October 2026

Step into the shadows of Torre Abbey’s ancient gardens for an atmospheric Halloween experience with ghosts, ghouls, and glowing surprises around every corner.

Expect interactive scares, spooky illuminations, and creepy effects in a trail designed for all ages.
Come in you best fancy dress and enjouy a hot drink and Halloween treats to top of your evening.

Early slots at 4.30pm and 5pm are perfect for under fives or those who prefer a gentler experience.

Find out more and book tickets for Abbey After Dark.

Littlest Yak at The Drum in Plymouth – 30 to 31 October 2026

This musical adaptation of the award-winning children’s book by Lu Fraser and Kate Hindley will delight audiences young and old with beautiful puppets, catchy tunes and an uplifting tale of self-acceptance for all the family.

Gertie is great at being the littlest yak, with the curliest, whirliest wool and the grippiest of hooves for clip-clopping up cliffs. Only, Gertie doesn’t want to be the littlest. She’s in a rush to grow up and be just like the big yaks.

Find out more and get tickets for The Littlest Yak.

Halloween in Mid Devon

Expect treats at these Halloween events in Mid-Devon:

Spirit of Autumn at Knightshayes in Tiverton – 17 October to 8 November 2026

Step into the Knightshayes National Trust garden for a fun, family trail and discover how plants and animals respond to the changing season.

As temperatures fall and daylight shortens, many species become especially active – gathering food, establishing new territories, and changing their behaviour to survive the colder months ahead. 

Visit between 23 October and 3 November and you can also pick your own pumpkin.

Find out more about what’s on at Knightshayes.

Pumpkin Trail at Devon Railway Centre – selected dates 24 October to 1 November 2026

Hunt for pumpkins at the Devon Railway Centre in Bickleigh to win a Halloween prize. This is a great attraction for families with young children so you know it’s going to be more fun than frightful.

Find out more about visiting the Devon Railway Centre.

A Touch of the Wild in Ashcombe – 24 October 2026

Get ready for a Halloween family adventure full of fang-tastic fun with A Touch of the Wild. From apple bobbing and broomstick crafting to marshmallow toasting and spooky stories by the campfire, there’s going to be something for everyone to enjoy.

Tickets are just £10 per person. Babies under 18 months go free with an older sibling.

To book visit the A Touch of the Wild website.

Steampunk Sunday at Coldharbour Mill – 25 October 2026

Coldharbour Mill is hosting its Halloween Steam Day early this year. Step into a world of gears, goggles and steam as our historic mill comes alive with a day of themed activities and autumn fun for all ages.

You can grab a pumpkin and get creative decorating while soaking up live music and marvelling at the power of steam.

Book your tickets online in advance.

Find out more and book on the Coldharbour Mill website.

Check out my guide to pumpkin picking to find patches in Mid Devon.

Halloween events in East Devon

Here’s the ghastly goings on in East Devon this Halloween:

Crealy Halloween Spook-Fest near Exeter – selected dates 10 to 31 October 2026

There’s a host of fearsome activities on at Crealy Adventure Park & Resort during October and the school half term, with some a little scarier than others.

Expect Halloween shows in the arena, a free pumpkin for every child and, if you’re feeling really brave, live scare mazes.

Half term is also an opportunity to visit Sooty Land which is great for younger visitors. The theme park’s 60 rides and attractions will also be open.

Find out more about Halloween at Crealy Adventure Park on its website.

Don’t forget that many other Devon attractions are open this half term. Here’s some more ideas for places to go and things to do in Devon this autumn.

The Space Explorers Academy at Exeter Northcott Theatre – 25 October 2026

The Science Museum, in association with the UK Space Agency, has teamed up with Mark Thompson Productions (the creators behind Ministry of Science Live!) to launch a fun-filled theatrical adventure that blasts you on an epic journey around the planets.

Zoom past the Sun, dodge swirling storms on Jupiter, glide by the rings of Saturn and venture out to the icy giants at the edge of our solar system. Along the way you’ll uncover brilliant planet facts, jaw-dropping discoveries, and the secrets of what it takes to explore space for real.

Created especially for six to 12-year-olds (and the grown-ups who love space just as much!), this high-energy show is packed with big visuals, brilliant storytelling and plenty of cosmic surprises.

Find out more and get tickets for The Space Explorers Academy.

Halloween Disco at iBounce Exeter – 30 October 2026

iBounce Exeter is turning up the spooky vibes for two special Halloween evening disco sessions packed with dancing, dazzling costumes and frightful fun for all ages.

Bring your little ghouls and goblins along for a buzzing disco, fancy dress competition and goodie bags filled with treats to take home.

Find out more and book your tickets.

Trick or Treat Tram at Seaton Tramway – 29 to 31 October 2026

All aboard for a 25 minute mystic tram ride filled with pumpkins, ghouls, and delightful surprises.

Meet Jack O’Lantern, Seaton Tramway’s lively pumpkin-headed guide, and hear the thrilling tale of how he was transformed by the mischievous witch Grizelda. But don’t worry, this ride is filled with giggles and grins, perfect for little ghouls and goblins of all ages.

Find out more and book this Halloween experience.

Halloween in West Devon

Get your fill of the frightful season at these Halloween events in West Devon:

Pumpkin Fest at Strawberry Fields, Lifton Farm – selected dates 3 to 31 October 2026

Pumpkin Fest returns to Lifton Farm in 2026 with lots of fun from pumpkin picking and carving, to family-entertainment and photo opportunities.

Don’t miss the barrel train and loads of new entertainment space where you’ll find magic, circus and puppet shows.

For adults and older kids with stamina you can also visit after dark for Pumpkin Nights events with music, fire shows and live entertainment on selected dates from 16 to 24 October 2026.

This year’s event is ticketed. Book online.

Buy tickets on the Lifton Farm website.

Half term trail at Castle Drogo  in Drewsteignton – 24 October to 1 November 2026

Head to Castle Drogo National Trust for its half term family trail around the grounds, running every day during the school holidays.

Plus on Thursday 29 October there will be free craft activities in the activity hut.  

Find out more about visiting Castle Drogo.

Halloween in North Devon

What’s on in North Devon this Halloween? Here’s what’s caught my evil eye:

Pumpkins at the Castle at Watermouth Castle in Ilfracombe – 26 September to 1 November 2026

See Watermouth Castle theme park decked for spooky season with pumpkin walkways through the grounds and into the Courtyard.

As well as all the usual attractions, there will be a trick or treat trail, photo opportunities and market stalls are stacked with pumpkins, squashes and gourds in every shape, size and colour. 

There’ll be even more seasonal fun on selected dates, including marshmallow toasting at weekends and additional family entertainment during October Half Term.

Find out more about the different ticket options on the Watermouth Castle website.

Autumnfest celebrations at Arlington Court near Barnstaple – 10 October to 1 November 2026

Take a stroll through the grounds of this National Trust property and follow the animal-themed scarecrow trail, featuring creative displays made by local schools, community groups and volunteers.

Inside the house, discover a beautifully dressed harvest table and seasonal floral displays, then head out to the gardens to enjoy a colourful display of gourds.

On Friday 30 October, there’s a Family Fun Day in the gardens. See the seasonal harvest displays, hands-on family crafts including whittling and marshmallow roasting.

Find out more about what’s on at Arlington Court.

Dark Skies Festival activities at Lorna Doone Valley on Exmoor – 17 to 27 October 2026

Learn how to capture the Exmoor landscape by night with a local photographer, go on a guided night hike and gather around a fire for enchanting children’s stories in the Lorna Doone Valley.

All events are bookable.

Find out more about what’s on at Lorne Doone National Trust.

Halloween at The BIG Sheep near Bideford – 24 October to 1 November 2026

There will be plenty of family-friendly Halloween fun at the park throughout half term including pumpkin carving, prizes for fancy dress and monster glow parties.

The usual animal shows, theme park rides and indoor play will also be open, making this a full day out.

Visiting before Devon’s half term? There’s also a Halloween toddler takeover in the week before the school holidays.

Find out more and book tickets on The BIG Sheep website.

Silent disco beach clean at Woolacombe – 25 October 2026

Join the National Trust’s Woolacombe rangers for their monthly beach clean with a added bonus of a silent disco. 

All equipment is provided. Meet at Mill Rock at 10.30am.

Find out more about silent disco beach cleans at Woolacombe.

Halloween Hocus Pocus at The Milky Way near Bideford – 25 October to 1 November 2026

There’ll be lots of extra Halloween activities to enjoy this half term, all designed to be fun rather than scary.

Enrol your little horrors at a very special School for Witches and Wizards, bump around the Spooky Swamp Dodgems, catch Merlin’s show filled with his special brand of spook-tacular fun and catch a special storytelling session for little ones.

Find out more on the Milky Way Adventure Park website.

Fireside story telling at Lorna Doone Valley in Lynton – 27 October 2026

Gather around the fire pit at Lorna Doone and listen to enchanting children’s stories under the stars. The event will be taking place in the new play area and forest school.

There is a £5 charge per child and booking is essential.

Find out more about this event at Lorna Doone.

Halloween fun at Exmoor Zoo – 28 October to 3 November 2026

There’s spooky half term fun happening at Exmoor Zoo.

Expect lots of information about the zoo’s creepier residents as well as seeing lots of Halloween enrichment for the animals.

Find out more on the Exmoor Zoo website.

Halloween Dry Ice Science Spectacular at Plough Arts Theatre in Great Torrington – 30 October 2026

Join Devon Science for a magical, interactive Halloween experience featuring real dry ice.

Watch spectacular clouds of swirling mist, bubbling experiments and spooky dry ice science before making your very own smoking Halloween potion using real dry ice.

This is far more than a science show – it’s a rare opportunity to get hands-on with an amazing piece of science that feels like real-life magic.

Find out more and get tickets.

Where to pick pumpkins in Devon

This is always one of our autumn activities. The kids dress up in their Halloween finery and we head to our local pumpkin patch

Check out my post about where to pick pumpkins in Devon to find out the latest open days.

Are you thinking ahead to next month? Here’s what’s on in Devon in November 2026.

Here’s some more ideas for things to do in Devon this winter.