LittleBird loves…..our spooktacular October half-term Top picks guide!
October half-term is almost here, and it’s time to plan some seriously awesome family fun! The LittleBird team has put together our epic Half-Term Guide—your one-stop-shop for the best family adventures out there!
From West End magic to local theatre, immersive experiences, theme-parks, staycations, and FREE events, we’ve got it all. Plus, dive into brand new books, podcasts, exhibitions, outdoor and indoor activities, fresh cinema releases, arts and crafts and recipes—phew! There’s something for everyone. So grab a cuppa, get comfy, and dive into our guide for an unforgettable half-term.
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Things to see at the theatre…
Why not treat the family to a trip to the theatre? We have some incredible offers for top West End Musicals, festive shows, award-winning plays, family favourites, independent productions, ballet and dance, interactive shows and so much more!
Get your tickets to Top West End Shows including: The Lion King | Les Misérables | Hamilton | Smartest Giant In Town | Six | Wizard of Oz | Starlight Express | MJ The Musical | FanGirls | Stranger Things | My Neighbour Totoro | Mrs.Doubtfire | The Play That Goes Wrong | Wicked | Harry Potter and the Cursed Child | Matilda | Back to the Future | Mamma Mia | The Mousetrap | The Choir of Man | The Curious Case of Benjamin Button | Maddie Moates Very Curious Christmas | The Nutcracker | Clueless The Musical | Aladdin | JUST FOR ONE DAY – The Live Aid Musical | Slava’s Snow Show | Only Fools and Horses | Tina
To see all Top West End Musicals, Shows, Plays and Seasonal productions and buy tickets, click here
And….its almost panto time. Oh yes it is! Book your perfect panto here
⭐ The Elmer Adventure | Southbank Centre | 30 Oct – 3 Nov
A magical, musical adaptation of the much-loved stories by David McKee is on at Southbank Centre this October. Everyone loves the stories about Elmer the patchwork elephant – whether he’s pretending to be an ordinary grey elephant or playing a practical joke. But has anyone ever actually seen him? Buy tickets here.
⭐ Rose Theatre | The Baddies | 29 Oct – 3 Nov
Based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, meet the very worst Baddies in the world! Don’t you dare to come too close to a witch, a troll and an ancient ghost! The Baddies love being bad. They roar, spook and cast wicked spells to try and scare a girl out of her wits…who will succeed? Or perhaps the girl is braver than they think… Buy your tickets here
⭐ The Storm Whale at the Polka Theatre | 25 Oct – 3 Nov
Noi lives with his Dad and six cats by the sea…One summer, while his Dad was busy at work, Noi rescued a little whale that washed up on the beach. A friendship began that changed their lives forever. The following winter his Dad takes one last trip in his fishing boat. Noi is alone once more and longs to see his friend again. He waits and watches, watches and waits… Will it take another storm to bring them back together? For ages 4-8, tickets from £10, buy yours here
⭐ Toto Kerblammo | Unicorn Theatre | Ages 9+ | 6 Oct – 3 Nov
Poor Effy! Sent to live with her aunt and uncle in a no-dogs-allowed building, she secretly hides her dog Toto. But the secret won’t last, and when trouble comes, Toto is ready to help. Tim Crouch’s immersive new play is a touching tale of friendship, listening, and finding hope in dark times. Ages 9+, book tickets here
⭐ The Ugly Duckling | A Delightful ballet for the whole family
With crystal-clear storytelling, vibrant characters, and stunning costumes, The Ugly Duckling explores themes of self-acceptance and social inclusion in a fun, child-friendly way. Perfect for ages 2-12, including those with special needs. Buy tickets and see full tour dates here.
⭐ The Gruffalo at artsdepot | 26 – 31 Oct
Join Mouse on an exciting journey through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories’ musical adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved book, The Gruffalo. As Mouse searches for hazelnuts, she encounters Fox, Owl, and Snake. Can Mouse’s tale of the fearsome Gruffalo keep her safe from these hungry predators? After all, is the Gruffalo even real? Perfect for children aged 3 and up, buy tickets here
⭐ Jackson Lane | Trash Test Dummies | 26 – 27 October
An award-winning family adventure packed with laughs and surprises! Enjoy side-splitting slapstick comedy, daring acrobatics, and dexterous juggling in an imaginative adventure that’s anything but garbage. Tickets £16, book here
⭐ The Great Big Dinosaur Show | Jackson’s Lane | 29 – 31 Oct
Join poet Simon Mole and musician Gecko for a family show full of poems, raps and songs about all your favourite prehistoric protagonists (and some you haven’t heard of yet!). Go and get your groove on to some Jurassic Classics! Book tickets here
⭐ Royal Albert Hall | Films In Concert | Classic Films with a Live Orchestra
See the biggest films with the biggest soundtracks at The Royal Albert Hall and experience classic films with live orchestral accompaniments. This half-term, choose from Ghostbusters Live in Concert (26 Oct), Avatar Live in Concert (27 Oct) and Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows™ Part Two. Book tickets here
Exhibitions to go to…
⭐ The World of Tim Burton at The Design Museum | 25 Oct to 21 April 2025
Step into the quirky, fantastical world of Tim Burton at this major exhibition opening Oct 25! Celebrating the genius behind iconic films like The Nightmare Before Christmas and Edward Scissorhands, the show explores Burton’s unique style, blending dark humour with heart-warming misfits. Discover Burton’s talent as an illustrator, painter, and photographer through his personal archives. From early sketches to set designs, the exhibition highlights his creative collaborations and the strange, wonderful characters that have captivated audiences for decades. Tickets from £11 per child, £22 per adult, buy here
⭐ Barbie: The Exhibition at the London Design Museum
Celebrating 65 years of the iconic doll, Barbie : The Exhibition showcases over 250 dolls and artifacts from Barbie’s world. Running until Feb 2025, this vibrant exhibition dives into Barbie’s evolution, from her debut in 1959 to her modern reinventions, highlighting the cultural and design impact she has had over the decades. Expect a riot of colour and lots of unique dolls! Tickets here
⭐ Birds Brilliant and Bizarre at The Natural History Museum | Hatched and open for visitors!
A hoot for all the family, the new exhibition at The Natural History Museum invites you into their world, past and present, like never before! Recommended for hatchlings aged 8+ and see what we thought of it here at LittleBird in our blog here.
⭐ The Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition | 11 Oct 24 – 29 June 25
See the world through a new lens at the 60th Wildlife Photography exhibition perfect for older children and teens who have an interest in the natural world and photography! Explore powerful tales of survival, fragility, and the impact of human activity on the natural world through captivating photos, soundscapes, films, and expert insights. Members are free, tickets from £9.50, buy here
Family Days out and Family Fun…
⭐ Ascarium Trick or Treats this October at The London Aquarium!
Dive into an ocean of discovery at SEA LIFE London Aquarium this Halloween! Join Serafina the Sea Witch for a spooktacular adventure! She’s on the lookout for ocean defenders to help protect her underwater world. Take on her magical challenges and prove you’re worthy of joining her army of sea-saving heroes! Book tickets here
⭐ 50 years of Scares at the London Dungeon! Save £8.50 on tickets…
This Halloween, the London Dungeon is brewing up a devilishly good time as they celebrate 50 Years of Scares! This October, they’re raising the scare factor to new heights. Book now for a chilling blend of terrifying thrills, and eerie encounters. Book tickets here and save £8.50 on tickets.
⭐ London Transport Museum | Through The Darkness | 26 Oct to 3 Nov
This October Half Term, families visiting the Museum can meet time-travelling passengers from Victorian London and step into the shoes of Edwardian engineers. Explore what it is like to travel through the darkness and the engineering that makes it possible. All our drop-in activities are free with your entry tickets, find out more and buy tickets here
⭐ Hobbleween at Hobbledown! | A spooktastic day out | 26 Oct – 3 Nov
Thrills and chills this October at Hobbledown with their Hobbleween celebrations! Lots of spooktastic fun including skibbler school, the Fancy Dress Monster’s Ball, Wake The Dragon, Bug Brunch, Costume Parade and more! Events included with entry, book here
⭐ HMS Belfast | Life at See: Lost Laundry Challenge | 25 Oct – 3 Nov
This October, can you help one unlucky sailor find his lost kit at HMS Belfast? Pick up a free family trail guide and search around the ship to see if you can find all 10 lost items. Discover fun facts and stories on the way, and complete the trail to receive a special sticker. And there are also FREE craft activities too including sewing, designing and decorating your own unique collar to take home ! All included with admission, buy tickets here.
⭐ Family fun this October half term at Shakespeare’s Globe! | 26 Oct – 3 Nov
Make the most of October half term at Shakespeare’s Globe with family events! Enjoy interactive storytelling, fun-filled workshops, and on-stage acting sessions for aspiring young actors. Plus, don’t miss the new Telling Tales series featuring live events with children’s authors like Michael Rosen and Chris Riddell! Find out more and book tickets here
⭐ Terrible Thames is running throughout half term!
Tremble in terror at the Tower! Sizzle at the Savoy! Give Cleopatra the needle! Be washed away at Westminster! Lose yourself in Lambeth! Get gobsmacked by the Globe! Take a dive with Horrible Histories into the stories of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Julius Caesar, Queen Boudicca, Jack the Ripper and Captain Kidd, in this history of the Thames with the nasty bits left in! For tickets book here
⭐ Royal Air Force Museum | Old Water Spies Week | 26 Oct – 3 Nov
Join the fun at the RAF Museum this October Half Term! Enjoy returning favourites like Robot Races and RC Helicopters, or try something new with their LEGO Berlin Wall Workshop! Find out more and buy tickets here
⭐ Halloween at The Tower of London | 26 Oct – 3 Nov
Join The Tower of London this October half term for a spooky adventure! Explore 1,000 years of haunted history, encountering restless spirits and eerie surprises. Follow the ghostly trail and uncover spooky legends—perfect for a Halloween the whole family will enjoy! Tickets included with admission, book here.
⭐ Halloween at Hampton Court Palace | 26 Oct to 3 Nov
This Halloween 2024, explore Henry VIII’s haunted Hampton Court Palace! Wander through eerie corridors filled with spooky projections and sounds as you search for ghosts with our hunters. After your chilling adventure, enjoy spooky stories and Halloween treats from the café. Tickets included with entry admission, buy tickets here
⭐ A spine-tingling Halloween at Kew Gardens!
Get ready for a spine-tingling Halloween adventure at Kew Gardens! This year’s after-dark trail is packed with surprises as the gardens transform into a haunted spectacle. Stroll with friends and family through eerie, illuminated woods filled with glowing pumpkins, neon cobwebs, and spooky creatures like witches and giant spiders. Don’t miss the flickering flames of the fire garden, but beware—things may go bump in the night! Book tickets here
⭐ The Royal Institution | Family Fun Day: Amazing Animals | 27 Oct 11-4
Join The Royal Institution for day of animal facts and fun for the whole family. Get hands on with a whole host of exciting activities, experiments and demonstrations exploring every corner of the world of science. Who knows what you might uncover! More info and buy tickets here.
⭐ The Formula 1® Exhibition London | On at ExCeL London until December 2024!
Strap in for an epic journey through the world of F1 at The Formula 1® Exhibition at ExCeL London. Explore cars driven by F1 legends, interactive activities, never-before-seen memorabilia, and other spectacular surprises! Tickets from £18, book here.
⭐ Batman Unmasked | Celebrate the 85th Anniversary Batman, in an all-new experience in London!
Captivating Batman fans of all ages, Batman Unmasked will take you on a thrilling journey through the Caped Crusader’s legendary history in film, exploring an extensive collection of original props, vehicles, and costumes from Warner Bros. Pictures films! Buy your tickets here.
⭐ The Paddington Bear Experience
Step into Paddington’s world at London County Hall! This immersive, 26,000 sq. ft. adventure will take you through iconic locations, culminating in a Windsor Gardens celebration for Marmalade Day. Help Paddington and the Brown family prepare for the big event in this multi-sensory experience, featuring live performances, cutting-edge design, and fun for all ages. Tickets £29, buy tickets here.
⭐ We Call it Ballet: Sleeping Beauty in a Dazzling Light Show
Experience Sleeping Beauty like never before in this dazzling dance and light show. Classical ballet and modern technology come together to create an artistic masterpiece like no other, where exquisite dancers literally light up the stage with glittering routines and glow-in-the-dark costumes. Buy tickets here.
⭐ Boo at the Zoo at London Zoo this half-term! 19 Oct – 3 Nov | Included with Zoo Entry
Time to trick-or-treat at London Zoo! Join us for a family Halloween adventure at Boo at the Zoo this October half term. Experience spooky activities and learn about amazing wildlife, carve pumpkins and uncover the mysteries of animals, perfect for all little monsters and brave families. Buy your tickets here
⭐ London Wetlands Centre | Half-term Activities | 26 Oct – 3 Nov
Unleash the Super Natural this half-term! Dive into a week of wetland wonders with magical activities like weaving your own willow wand, embarking on a fungi hunt, potion making, crafting a clay familiar, dressing up and more. It’s nature with a splash of magic—don’t miss out! Book here
⭐ The Week Junior Book Festival 2024 – 29 Oct
Ignite your child’s love for reading with a day of imagination, adventure, and storytelling at London’s Barbican Centre on Tuesday, 29 October 2024. Enjoy captivating performances from favourite authors and interactive, creative workshops—perfect for a half-term break. A festival to remember!
⭐ MCM Comic Con | London ExCeL | 25-27 October
MCM Comic Con is the UK’s ultimate pop culture event, celebrating fandom and fantasy over three epic days. It’s the only convention that unites films, gaming, comics, anime, TV, gadgets, clothing, and toys all under one roof! Get tickets here.
⭐ Monster Funfair at Discover Children’s Story Centre | Until 22 Dec
Step into a magical circus tent and venture into the woods to uncover the fantastical Monster Funfair! Created with award-winning Nadia Shireen, solve the mystery of the missing candyfloss while exploring three floors of fun, plus a whimsical Story Garden. Explore caves, fairy worlds, hidden ships, and more in this immersive family adventure! For ages 0-8, tickets £5.
⭐ Gravity Max3 | 3 Exciting Activities for Just £25! Save at least 15% and £40 off!
With MAX 3, you can create the perfect day filled with adventure, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Choose from a range of exciting, immersive activities that promise fun for the whole family – all without breaking the bank. Valid for Wandsworth, Stratford and Liverpool. Buy your tickets here
⭐ Paradox Museum London – Exit Reality / Enter Fun!
Step within the Paradox Museum London and see the world from another perspective. Be transported to the domains of the extraordinary and the inexplicable. Traverse an enthralling collection of family-friendly exhibits where nothing seems logical, yet all is utterly real. Tickets from £17.50, buy here
⭐ Avora Immersive Family Adventure | London
Avora, a new immersive adventure designed for the whole family in London. Your mission is to explore this new world and uncover the secrets that lie within. Find the hidden secrets, interact with the local Avorians to learn how they live and play games, all while enjoying 2 interactive drinks.
⭐ The Gunpowder Plot Experience at the Tower of London
The Gunpowder Plot immersive experience at the Tower of London transports you back to 1605, placing you in the midst of a conspiracy. With authentic costumes, detailed sets, and special effects, you’ll spy for the Crown, meet rebels, smuggle gunpowder, and escape the Tower. Who’s the traitor, and who can you trust? Prepare for a thrilling adventure through history! Get your tickets here.
⭐ Jeff Wayne’s The War of The Worlds: The Immersive Experience
Experience the thrill of a Martian invasion! With 24 intense scenes, virtual reality, and multi-sensory effects, you’ll be plunged into the heart of the action, all set to Jeff Wayne’s iconic soundtrack. Feel the heat, hear the rumbles, and witness the destruction as you journey through this mind-blowing adventure that brings H.G. Wells’ classic tale to life. It’s not just a show – it’s a fully immersive experience you won’t forget! Buy tickets here.
Theme Park days out and sleepovers…
⭐Thorpe Park Fright Nights Tickets – from just £39pp!
⭐Chessington Spooktacular Tickets – from just £32pp
⭐ A Winter’s Tail at Chessington World of Adventures! Tickets from just £29pp
⭐Brick or Treat at LEGOLAND®! Tickets from just £29pp
⭐ The Magic of LEGOLAND® at Christmas! Tickets from just £29pp
⭐ Up to 20% off your Short Break at the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort!*
⭐ Santa Sleepover at Alton Towers! From just £90pp
⭐ Up to 20% off Bed & Breakfast stays at Chessington World of Adventures Resort
⭐ Save up to 20% off on Short Breaks at Alton Towers Resort! From just £107pp
⭐ Save 20% on entry to Diggerland!
⭐ LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Manchester Tickets from just £18.50pp
Things to make…
⭐ Fangtastic Egg box craft from Giggly!
⭐ Make these cute 10 minute sock pumpkins with the Gluesticks blog!
⭐ Learn how to make these seasonal Bean Mosaics with One Little Project!
⭐ Make these spooktastic Papier maché Pumpkins with Gathered.how!
Things to read…
Join the fun in this hilarious 1920s murder mystery! When the world’s greatest detective is killed aboard a luxury cruise, amateur sleuth Dilly and her dog Watson must solve the case before the ship reaches London. The first-ever murder mystery by David Walliams, with illustrations by Adam Stower. Arriving October 24th and published by Harper Collins. Pre-order here
Where to Hide a Star | Oliver Jeffers
Celebrate 20 years of The Boy in this highly anticipated new adventure from bestselling author Oliver Jeffers! When the boy’s friend, the star, goes missing, he teams up with the Martian for an exciting rescue mission to the North Pole—only to discover he’s not the only one who dreams of having a star as a friend. This out-of-this-world sequel introduces a brand-new character! Published by Harper Collins on 10th of October, order here.
The Haunting of Fortune Farm | Sophie Kirtley
Edie and her brother Pip are spending half term at Fortune Farm, a remote farmhouse in Silent Valley, Ireland. From the moment they arrive, Edie feels like she’s being watched. When she uncovers stories of Viking treasure, Edie is drawn into a world of restless spirits and a vengeful Viking warrior searching for his lost sword. As she unravels the mystery, she also faces her own grief over her father’s death, learning that memories can both heal and hurt. A chilling tale of ghosts, family secrets, and grief—perfect for dark, stormy nights. Published by Bloomsbury, get your copy here
Griselda Snook’s Spectacular Books | Barry Timms
Get ready for a spooktacular Halloween treat with Barry Timms’ new children’s book, featuring stunning illustrations by rising star Laura Borio! Join Henry as he helps Griselda Snook on the opening day of her spooky bookshop, filled with runaway jack-o’-lanterns, dragons, and magical books. But can he find the perfect book for himself? Published by Little Tiger press, out now order here
I Follow The Fox | Rob Biddulph
A heartwarming winter tale about a boy, his teddy, and a magical adventure. When Little Fox, his beloved teddy, goes missing in the park, a mysterious fox appears at the window one night. The boy follows her on a snowy journey through the city and beyond, uncovering something special along the way. Can the fox help him find his lost Little Fox? Out 10 Oct from Harper Collins, get your copy here.
The Last Dragon | Polly Ho-Yen
From award-winning author Polly Ho-Yen comes a beautifully illustrated story for readers 7+. Yara’s life is already tough—her sister’s in the hospital, her parents are stressed, and her teacher thinks she’s trouble. But when the last dragon on Earth leaves Yara its only egg, she discovers its immense power. Now, she must protect it from those who would steal it. A powerful tale of bravery, self-belief, and protecting the natural world. Published by Knights Of, buy here
The Boy Who Cried Ghost | Ian Eagleton
Richard is constantly scared, plagued by intrusive thoughts that something terrible will happen to his loved ones. When he moves to a new house, the thing in the wardrobe just adds to his fears. As long as he keeps checking the lock and duct tape, he feels safe. But when a neighbor opens the door, unleashing a sinister presence, Richard’s world unravels. Can he prove the ghost is real, or will everyone think it’s just his OCD? This haunting, coming-of-age story explores OCD, friendship, and courage, offering a supernatural adventure with emotional depth. Published by Scholastic, buy here.
Old MacPumpkin Had a Farm | Katrina Charman
Old MacPumpkin had a farm, Eek! Ahh! Eek! Ahh! Ohhh! On this Halloween-themed farm, she has a cat, a creepy spider, a swooping bat, and a clicky skeleton, among other friendly creatures. When trick-or-treaters come knocking, Old MacPumpkin warmly invites them in for a cozy snuggle around the fire. This adorable twist on the classic Old MacDonald nursery rhyme is perfect for reading or singing aloud with little ones. While there isn’t much of a plot, young readers will enjoy the catchy rhymes and learning fun new words like swish, swoop, click, and clack! Published by Nosy Crow, buy your copy here
Witchspark | Dominique Valente
Welcome to the Magic Isles, an alternate pre-Victorian Britain where children must pass a magic test to use their powers. However, only the wealthy seem to succeed, and magic is fading. Two very different girls decide to join a forbidden “course for witches” for their own reasons. Twelve-year-old Eglantine seeks sorcery skills to rescue her kidnapped father and protect their special house from her evil uncle. Princess Victoria, who has uncontrollable powers, wishes she could be rid of them, fearing for her throne. With Miss Hegotty’s help, can they overcome sinister forces and achieve their destinies? Published by Usborne Books, get your copy here
The Summer I saved the Wild | Rachel Faturoti
Kammie’s parents seeing danger in everything,.When she returns from a bike ride with cuts and scrapes, her mom is furious. Kammie struggles to explain that she crashed while distracted by a mythical creature, a Camji. Then her adventurous cousin, Precious, comes to stay. This might be Kammie’s chance to join the Wilderness Wanderers and follow in the footsteps of her legendary aunt, Fisaya, a zooarchaeologist. This engaging coming-of-age story blends myth and reality as Kammie navigates her passions, manages her rebellious cousin, and deals with her anxious parents and troubled aunt. Published by Hodder Children’s Books, get your copy here
Tomorrow We Begin | Matt Goodfellow
This powerful collection of contemporary poems for teenagers is perfect for ages 11 and up. Covering topics from navigating the first day of secondary school to experiencing first love, the collection captures the highs, lows, and messy moments of teenage life. Goodfellow’s engaging style takes readers on an emotional journey, expressing feelings from frustration with teachers to joyful days with friends. With poems that sensitively address tough issues, there’s something for every teen to relate to, whether they love poetry or not! Published by Bloomsbury, get your copy here.
Magazines to read…
⭐ The Week Junior | Get your first 6 issues FREE!
The Week Junior is the perfect magazine to boost your child’s learning! Each issue is filled with fun stories, from news and science to nature and puzzles. It’s like having a mini tutor for just £2.61 a week! Get your first 6 issues free (saving £21), plus a digital “Back to School” guide, buy here
⭐ Storytime Magazine – 3 copies for £3 and free postage
Storytime is the UK’s largest story magazine, filled with fairy tales, classic and new stories, animal adventures, myths, legends, puzzles, and games. With beautiful illustrations, it’s designed to inspire a love for reading and boosts kids’ literacy skills too! Subscribe here
⭐ Eco Kids Planet Magazine | THE science and nature magazine for children
Eco Kids Planet is an amazing Nature and Science Magazine for Kids Aged 7-11 which takes your child on a fun journey into the wonders of nature, inspiring them to become future guardians of the Earth. Try 3 issues for £5 here.
⭐ The Phoenix Comic | Get 6 issues for £1!
The Phoenix Comic is a fun weekly magazine for kids aged 7–14, filled with amazing comics, drawing guides, and activities that spark creativity. It encourages children to dive into reading, writing, and drawing, offering hours of entertainment and inspiration! Subscribe here
⭐ Creative Steps – the quarterly arts and crafts magazine for children!
Creative Steps is a quarterly magazine packed with fun, inspiring craft ideas for young kids (0-11 years) to encourage learning through creative play. Packed with creative inspiration, there is something for everyone to learn, have a go at and enjoy!
Where to pick your pumpkins…
⭐ Stanhill Farm | Dartford Kent | Pumpkin Patch, Pick your Own and Maize Maze
FREE things to do…
⭐ The Natural History Museum and its’ gardens
The new gardens at The Natural History Museum are a haven for wildlife and people. Free to visit, and free entry to the Museum too. Explore the story of life on Earth, from the age of dinosaurs to today. Follow the path of evolution, touch ancient fossils, and walk among the footprints of early ancestors. There are twelve treasures hidden in the gardens too, can you spot them all? Free, drop in session, find out more here
⭐ The Southbank Centre | Alphabet Soup | 20 Oct to 1 Nov | 11am
Join them at The Clore Ballroom this October half-term for a family-friendly, evolving art installation by A Line Art. Drop in for interactive workshops to create fun poems and stories celebrating food and language. Explore real and imaginary foods, discover quirky words, and craft a sensory literary feast! Find out more here.
⭐ Children’s Garden Trail – South London Gallery | Every Sat & Sun 11am -6pm
Explore the Orozco Garden with a free, self-guided worksheet! Every weekend from 11am to 6pm, kids and families can enjoy a creative adventure at the South London Gallery. Discover the unique plants and sculptures by artist Gabriel Orozco, with fun prompts designed by the SLG Education team. Ideal for children aged 5-12.
⭐ Hyde Park Discovery Days : Hair raising Halloween | 29 – 31 Oct, 11- 3:30pm
Celebrate Halloween with free activities from 11am to 3:30pm (last entry 3pm)! Join them for creepy-crawly fun, including:Feely boxes in the Witches’ Den, a hair-raising nature trail, bat facts in The Royal Parks and Spooky stories! Free, no need to book but advisable to register which you can do here.
⭐ Happy Birthday Elmer! | Southbank Centre | 3 Nov | 10.30am onwards!
A very famous, very colourful, patchwork elephant is turning 35 this year, and everyone is invited to a special birthday party to celebrate. Dress up in your most colourful outfits and come along to enjoy drop-in craft activities, party games and music with a live DJ to wish Elmer a happy birthday. Find out more here.
⭐ Art in the Docks | Saturday Morning Kids Club | Every Sat 10.30-12.30 | FREE
Bring your kids for a creative morning at this relaxed, friendly club hich runs every Saturday. Led by a professional artist, kids can unleash their imagination and build confidence in a supportive space. Free for all ages, with materials provided!
⭐ See the Yayoi Kusama: Pumpkin at Kensington Gardens | Until 3 Nov
Pumpkin (2024) is Kusama’s tallest bronze pumpkin sculpture to date, standing at 6 metres tall and 5.5 metres in diameter! Find out more here
⭐ Voice and Verse Family Day: Get Creative! St.Margaret’s Church Westminster Abbey | 1 Nov
Join them for a family-friendly creative adventure! Explore various poetic forms, discover Poets’ Corner, listen to vibrant verses, and learn about passionate poets. Then, express your creativity by crafting an artistic response to their inspiring words! 1st Nov 10-12, Free but booking required.
Things to cook…
⭐Air fryer Smores from Cookingwithemily.co.uk
Who doesn’t love a smore? These super easy air fryer smores are the perfect quick treat that kids (and adults!) will love!
⭐ Fun Halloween Chocolate Brownies from The Family Cookbook
We love these spooktastic mummy brownies from The Family Cookbook, made with their delicious brownie recipe and then topped with drizzled melted white chocolate and edible eyes!
⭐ Worm Juice! Fun, spooky cocktails from Eats Amazing!
Celebrate Halloween in style with a spooky mocktail! This easy, juice-based drink is the perfect festive treat that kids will love — simple, fun, and delightfully creepy!
⭐ Mini Halloween Pizzas from Wholefully!
These super cute mini halloween pizzas will surely be a hit and kids can help prepare them too and top with their favourite spooky toppings!
⭐Roasted Pumpkin seeds from BBC GoodFood
Don’t toss your pumpkin seeds! Roast them with this simple recipe for a crunchy, seasoned snack or a unique garnish. Perfect for using up every bit of your pumpkin!
Things to listen to…
⭐ Fun Kids Science Weekly
Perfect for curious minds aged 6-12, this weekly podcast is hosted by Dan from Fun Kids Radio and it explored everything science-related, from space to dinosaurs! It answers quirky science questions in a fun and accessible way. Listen here
⭐ The Week Junior Show
A podcast version of the awesome The Week Junior Magazine, offering a kid friendly take on current events, inspiring stories and fun facts. Perfect for children aged 8-14 interested in the world around them (and grown-ups too!). Listen here
⭐ Super Great Kids’ Stories
A podcast of fun, traditional tales to make you laugh and cry with some of the best storytellers from around the world, recommended for ages 5 to 105. Listen here
⭐ Everything Under the Sun
Hosted by Molly Oldfield, this podcast answers kids’ most pressing questions about anything and everything, from why the sky is blue to how volcanoes work! Perfect for ages 5-12 with big questions and bigger imaginations, find out more here
⭐ The Kids’ Poetry Club
The Kids Poetry Club is a whimsical poetry podcast that introduces kids to the world of poetry through charming, funny and thoughtful verses. Perfect for children aged 5-11 who love words and rhymes! Find out more here.
New and upcoming film releases…
⭐ Paddington in Peru | Release date 8 November!
⭐ Piece by Piece | Release date 8 November!
⭐ Gladiator 2 | Release date 17 November!
⭐ Wicked – In Cinemas 22nd November!
⭐ Mufasa The Lion King | Release date 20th December!
⭐ Sonic The Hedgehog 3 | Release date 21st December
⭐ The Lord of The Rings The War of the Rohirrim | Release date 13 Dec
Thank you for reading our October half-term guide! If you find our guide useful, please share Top Picks with your family and friends and sign up to our FREE newsletter here.
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And…if you have any suggestions on things you would like to see or hear about on the LittleBird site or for the upcoming festive season, just drop us a message at customerservices@littlebird.co.uk. We would love to hear from you!
Happy half-term and happy planning!
From the LittleBird Team xo
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