The Best of Bristol’s October Half-term Events

Fortunately, Bristol is chock-full of events and activities that will keep both the adults and kids entertained over the October half-term. We’ve rounded up some of the most popular events that Bristol has to offer… and they won’t break the bank either!

Bristol Zoo’s Halloween Half-term

Halloween falls right in the middle of half-term and so many Bristol attractions are hosting Halloween-themed events for families looking for some fearsome fun.

Bristol Zoo invites you to get involved with their impressive lineup of Halloween celebrations inspired by the Mexican celebration of ‘Day of the Dead’. From the 20th October – 4th November there will be a variety of activities filled with tricks and treats including creepy creature encounters, haunted mystery trails, and spooky arts and crafts. To top that all off, there is an unmissable offer allowing free child entry with code ‘FREECHILD’ when you book online from 20^th October – 4^th November.

Bonfire Celebrations

Of course, if you are not a Halloween enthusiast, this does not give you a reason to hibernate this half-term. There are plenty of impressive bonfire night events across Bristol that offer more than just a spectacular firework display. Firework night at DoubleTree by Hilton Cadbury House is a firm family favourite, filled with plenty of entertainment including fairground rides and a performance from Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Dennis Demille, alongside a warming BBQ and a drinks tent. Alternatively, experience Bristol's biggest fireworks display at the Downend Round Table Fireworks event; here you can also expect an impressive bonfire, food and drink stalls, music, and plenty more family-friendly fun.

Bristol Aquarium

Take a tour around Bristol Aquarium where you can learn about underwater creatures from around the world. The impressive naturally-themed displays, walk-through tunnels and bubble window viewing points will take you on a realistic underwater safari, where you will come face-to-face with the variety of life in the deep.

To get in the Halloween spirit, Bristol Aquarium will be taken over by real sea monsters as part of a special half-term event. Other activities throughout the week will include competitions, interactive displays, monster mask making and story tours.

If you dare to discover what’s lurking in the deep dark waters, the aquarium will also be offering the opportunity to explore the aquarium after hours with the Spooky Tourchlit Tour (26^th October).

We The Curious

We The Curious is one of the UK's biggest and most exciting interactive science centers. There is always something new to discover with over 300 exhibits ranging from the human body and robots, to food and plants. For a truly immersive experience, Planetarium Nights offers the opportunity to escape to the faraway galaxies and discover the outer reaches of the universe with a 3D tour across the solar system.

Bristol Packet Boat Trips

With a sunny half-term forecasted, it seems a shame not to enjoy the outdoors whilst you can − what better way to do so than taking to the waters?

Bristol Packet Boat Trips offer a variety of rides including Bristol’s Floating Harbour tour, which is available daily during school holidays. The Floating Harbour tour will take you on a 45 minute journey around the Floating Harbour with award winning historical commentary that is both informative and entertaining. Alternatively, enjoy a picnic on the Avon Gorge Cruise which will take you on a picturesque journey, sailing under the Clifton Suspension Bridge, through the Avon Gorge and downstream towards the Bristol Channel.