Things to do in Devon in October 2026
Brrr! There’s no mistaking that autumn chill. But that doesn’t mean it’s time to snuggle up in front of the telly box in your favourite slippers. There’s still plenty of exploring to be done! If you are wondering what to do with the kids now the days have turned cooler, here’s my guide to the best things to do in Devon in October 2026.
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In this post you’ll discover what events are on this month as well as where to find pumpkin patches and some of the less spooky half term happenings.
If you’re after the frightful stuff I have a guide to that too. Read on!
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What’s on in Devon in October
Know of an event I can add to my what’s on guides? Submit a listing!
Here’s a round up of the family-friendly events happening Devon this October:
Pumpkin Festival at Pennywell Farm – daily until 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.
Find out more and book tickets on the Pennywell Farm website.
England’s Seafood Festival in the English Riviera – daily until 4 October 2026
A two-week celebration of Devon’s world-renowned seafood is returning to the towns of Brixham, Paignton and Torquay.
Throughout the celebration the English Riviera towns all showcase some of the best seafood in the world, right where it’s landed. Highlights include everything from fine dining to street food and seafood celebration suppers to guest chef events.
Find the full programme on the English Riviera website.
Earth Photo 2026 at Coleton Fishacre in Kingswear – daily until 21 October 2026
The National Trust gardens at Coleton Fishacre are hosting the touring photographic exhibition Earth Photo 2026. It brings together award-winning photographers and filmmakers from across the world, inviting them to create innovative and visual stories that encourage conservations about our world and the challenges it faces.
Coleton Fisacre is also celebrating its centenary and the team have delved into the archives to share photographs documenting the building of the house and landscaping of the garden from start to finish.
This and the Earth Photo 2026 exhibition are included in the normal admission price and free for National Trust members.
Find out more about visiting Coleton Fishacre.
Our Story with David Attenborough at Market Hall, Devonport – selected dates until 31 October 2026
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.
‘Voices of the garden’ immersive audio trail at Greenway near Galmpton – daily until 1 November 2026
Step back in time on this exciting trail as HistoryScapes, an immersive audio app, brings Greenway’s garden to life.
Use your smartphone to unlock stories as you explore the riverside gardens of Agatha Christie’s South Devon holiday home.
This is a free activity. Normal National Trust admissions apply.
Find out more about what’s on at Greenway.
Pumpkins at Watermouth Castle in Ilfracombe – daily until 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.
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.
Insects Uncovered at Newton Abbot Museum – daily until 1 March 2027
See a collection of butterfly specimens and take part in The Great Butterfly & Moth Hunt to find
eight insects hiding around the museum and learn some amazing facts along the way.
When you’ve found them, go to the front desk to collect a special sticker for your Pastport and some wildflower seeds to plant at home.
Find out more about what’s on at Newton Abbot Museum.
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.
Little Shop of Horrors at Exeter Northcott Theatre – 1 to 17 October 2026
Feed your appetite for one of the most popular, hilarious and delicious musicals ever written.
When mild-mannered florist Seymour stumbles upon a strange and exotic plant, his luck seems to finally be turning. But this new green arrival has a very particular taste… and as success blooms and true love beckons, our hero has an impossible choice to make.
Packed with iconic songs, larger-than-life characters and a carnivorous plant with a mind of its own, this Northcott Theatre production promises big laughs, big tunes and exquisite stagecraft.
This show is suitable for families with children aged 10 and up.
Find out more and get tickets from Exeter Northcott Theatre.
Stranger Folk trail at Lydford Gorge in West Devon – 1 October to 1 November 2026
Forget pumpkins and plastic fangs – this Halloween adventure crackles with old magic. Download the Stranger Folk app to start your folklore adventure at Lydford Gorge.
Your guide, the Crone will direct you to where the stranger folk are slipping through the cracks to stir up trouble.
This trail is included in your admission price and free for National Trust members.
Find out more on the National Trust website.
Hennock Barn Dance, near Bovey Tracey – 3 October 2026
Beechleigh Farm in Hennock near Bovey Tracey is hosting a family-friendly Barn Dance again this autumn.
Renowned ceilidh band Spinach for Norman will be bringing the tunes the cattle barn for an evening of authentic farm entertainment in aid of the village school. There will also be activities for children including colouring, football and badminton. Even better under 11s can attend for just £2.
There will be a bar to quench the dancers’ thirst, a grand draw with many local business donations, family games and a BBQ serving local meats plus veggie options.
For more information and discounted advance tickets visit the PTA’s web page.
Family mindfulness day at Sharpham Trust – 3 October 2026
Join the team at Sharpham for a day exploring how mindfulness can help you be more present and joyful in life through meditation, play and other activities.
Whether you and your family have a long term meditation practice or you are curious to develop one, you can join two retreat leaders (who are also parents) to learn and practice mindfulness together.
This event in suitable for families with children aged eight-years-old and up.
Find out more and book your places on the Sharpham website.
Powderham Food Festival near Exeter – 3 to 4 October 2026
Set in the grounds of Powderham Castle, this award-winning food festival showcases more than 130 South West food and drink producers.
Explore the stunning grounds and sample a diverse range of food, from delicious locally farm-
reared beef burgers to sweet cookie sandwiches.
Throughout the day, there will be demonstrations from local suppliers, expert-led talks, and family entertainment. Tickets also include entry to the Castle, enabling you to enjoy the full Powderham experience.
Adult tickets cost £5 and kids under 16 go free, and dogs are welcome.
Find the full event programme and buy tickets on the Powderham Food Festival website.
Family fun weekend at South Devon Railway – 3 to 4 October 2026
As well as heritage steam trains you can add wildlife encounters to your journey throughout this weekend.
South Devon Railway runs between Buckfastlight and Totnes with Buckfast Butterflies & Dartmoor Otters and to Totnes Rare Breeds Farm at either end of the line. This weekend both are included in your train ticket for free.
To get the deal simply select a Return or Ranger ticket option between Buckfastleigh and Totnes Riverside stations. Booking in advance is recommended.
Find out more on the South Devon Railway website.
Free Tree Treasure Trail in Newton Abbot town centre – 4 October 2026
The Tree Treasure Trail is a chance to get creative in amongst the trees of Newton Abbot. Collect your treasure map and activity booklet from Golden Lion Square and follow the self-guided trail along Courtney Street and on to Victory Gardens.
As well as fun creative prompts, you’ll find a series of stamps along the way. Collect them all and come back to Golden Lion Square to collect a small prize.
This is a free event but booking is required.
Find out more and book on the Wide Hearted Living website.
CATS at Theatre Royal Plymouth – 6 to 17 October 2026
A spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s multi award-winning musical CATS is coming to Plymouth this month.
From Euston station to Victoria Grove, the strays and rebels of London gather under the Jellicle moon in the hope they’ll be the chosen one. And each of them asks, because each of them dares, who will it be?
Based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, and with a legendary score which inspired generations, this brand-new production of CATS, directed and choreographed by Drew McOnie (Brigadoon, Jesus Christ Superstar) is on in PLymouth for two weeks only.
Find out more and book tickets for the UK tour in Plymouth.
Cosmic Dance Kids Ibiza event in Torquay – 10 October 2026
This family dance experience at Rock Garden Cafe Bar has been created for parents and children to enjoy together with Clubnight DJs taking young ravers and their families on an uplifting musical journey.
There will be feel-good Ibiza anthems, hands-in-the-air classics, and energetic family-friendly dance music.
Find out more and get tickets on Eventbrite.
Comic Con & Gaming Festival at Westpoint Exeter – 10 October 2026
There’s a fantastic line-up of exhibitors, comic artists and screen stars along with immersive sets and props. Expect cosplay, hands-on activities, and plenty of photo opportunities.
Find out more about Comic Con at Westpoint.
Sidmouth Science Festival Super Science Family Day – 10 October 2026
Experience a free action-packed day of scientific discovery and hands-on fun, perfect for the curious minds of all ages.
Some of the activities on offer include making motors, projectiles, bubbles, chemistry, physics and maths.
Events take place at Kennaway House, the Parish Church, the Sid Vale Association HQ and All Saints’ Church and Hall. There’s no need to book.
This day is part of a longer festuval taking place from 9 to 18 October.
For more information visit the Sidmouth Science Festival website.
Sea Monsters at Buckland Abbey near Plymouth – 10 October to 1 November 2026
Visit Buckland Abbey National Trust for a half term filled with fearsome sea monsters. Watch out for the Kraken, leviathan, and Sirens.
The Abbey has also been opening its doors to visitors for 75 years and has a special anniversary exhibition celebrating its ongoing significance within the local community and its impact on the lives of countless individuals over the decades.
Find out more about what’s on at Buckland Abbey.
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.
Cockington Apple Day – 11 October 2026
Cockington Court’s free annual Apple Day returns this month with plenty of family fun planned including arts and crafts, live music, apple-inspired fun, a service at Cockington Church and more than 40 market stalls selling food, drinks and crafts.
The on-site Seven Dials Café will be serving food and drinks all day.
See apples being pressed and bring your own to be turned into juice for a small donation.
Find out more about Cockington Apple Day.
Tavistock Goose Fair – 14 October 2026
This traditional fayre is back in 2026 a local and national exhibitors, street food, fun fair and markets. Entry is free and the fun continues from 9am into the evening so is perfect for an afterschool visit.
Find out more about Tavistock Goose Fair.
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.
Ottery St Mary Carnival Procession – 16 October 2026
Ottery St Mary’s traditional community carnival takes place after dark with floats, walking tableaux and displays.
Find out more about event timings on Facebook.
CBeebies House Party Live at Princess Theatre in Torquay – 17 October 2026
Join the superstars of CBeebies, including Mr Tumble, Evie Pickerill, Nigel Clarke and Duggee as they throw an epic party in Torquay.
There will be dancing, singing, streamers, giant jellies and bubbles galore, and of course, a CBeebies Bedtime Story.
The must-see family show is produced by the team behind CBeebies House and CBeebies Bedtime Stories, and directed by CBeebies superstar, Justin Fletcher. It celebrates inclusivity and togetherness, with every performance featuring a BSL interpreter to ensure everyone can join the fun.
Find out more and get tickets for CBeebies House Party Live.
Toddler Takeover at The Big Sheep near Bideford – selected dates from 17 to 23 October 2026
Dig out your best Halloween costumes and take your little monsters along to The Big Sheep’s exclusive toddler Halloween event, pre-half term.
There will be a monster ball with Jiggy Wrigglers, seasonal forest play with Barnwood Bears, pumpkin picking, animal feeding and all the usual attractions, just without those pesky big kids about.
Find out more about what’s on at The Big Sheep.
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.
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.
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.
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.
October half term in Devon
Check out my full guide to October half term and Halloween fun for spooky happenings at attractions around the county.
But that’s not all.
Here’s some of the other family-friendly, less frightful things to do in Devon this October half term:
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.
Harvest Weekend at Buckland Abbey near Plymouth – 24 to 25 October 2026
Join the National Trust team at Buckland Abbey to celebrate a bountiful harvest. The Garden team have been working hard and grown squashes and pumpkins galore. They’ll be showing off their hard work as part of a beautiful autumnal display in the Abbey.
Find out more about what’s on at Buckland Abbey.
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.
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.
Silent disco beach cleans 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.
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.
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.
The 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.
Know of an event I can add to my what’s on guides? Submit a listing!
Halloween in Devon
Of course, October half term in Devon often coincides with Halloween. Halloween is one of my kids’ favourite times of year, along with Easter and Christmas – they have inherited their mum’s sweet tooth!
Here’s my guide to what’s on in Devon this Halloween including spooky days out.
Where to pick pumpkins in Devon
Last year this was one of our autumn highlights.
The kids dressed up in their Halloween finery and we headed to our local pumpkin patch where there was an astonishing collection of gourds in all shapes, sizes and colours – perfect for decorating our doorstep.
Check out my post about where to pick pumpkins in Devon to find out the latest open days.
Which Devon attractions are open in October?
Opening times for Devon attractions tend to vary in the off season but you can still find some that will welcome you all week through! Devon zoos and steam railways are my top suggestions.
Most attractions will also reopen for the October school holidays.
Check out my guide to things to do in Devon in Autumn to see a list of Devon attractions that are open daily and those that are open on the weekends only.
More things to do in October
If you’re looking for more ideas for things to do in October then here’s some ideas for entertaining the kids:
- What’s on in Devon this weekend
- Things to do in Devon on a rainy day
- Free things to do in Devon
- Where to find soft play centres in Devon
- Adventure playgrounds in Devon
- Easy walks to do on Dartmoor
What’s your favourite things to do in Devon in October? Do you know of an activity or event not on this list? Drop me a line or comment below.
Got a while to stay? Check out my full guide to family holidays in Devon.
Check out my guides to days out in Devon with kids
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Family-friendly things to do across the county, from coast to coast, in the cities, on the moors and whatever the weather.
