Half-Term and Halloween in Dorset

What’s on this year in Bournemouth, Poole and the rest of Dorset

Wondering what to do with your kids during the half-term? There are lots of options to choose from in Dorset. Although many events in the UK have been cancelled due to COVID-19, and many others are running at reduced capacity, we have been extremely lucky in Dorset as local attractions are doing everything they can to make sure you don’t miss out on anything. Also while keeping everybody safe.

For a full list of events, please visit our HALF-TERM AND HALLOWEEN PAGE here. But hurry! Many local events require advanced booking and places are filling up fast.  Or if you prefer a quick summary, here are our favourite events this year.

For Mumbler-tots

We love to see activities suitable for the little inquisitive minds. They are always exploring and it can be exhausting for their carers to constantly provide entertainment.

• Poole Museum will be hosting Archie’s Green Gallery – iSpy Trail and Where’s Wally? Spooky Museum Search! And best of all, these activities are FREE. Check here for booking details.
• Lighthouse Poole is showing The Gingerbread Man. This show looks really sweet and gentle and there may be a yummy treat involved. More information here.
• The great Dorset Pumpkin Trail. Something great to get involved in if you don’t want your little ones missing out on trick-or-treating this year but without putting anyone at risk. You can find out how it works here.

Outdoors trails

We love an outdoors trail in our family. Yes, they are weather dependent but the desire to finish the trail is often enough incentive to get everyone in the family active and moving. I’ve also been known for using the occasional snack as bribery. Don’t judge me. Here are a few awesome trails this half-term. You can check them all here.

• Avon Heath
• Avon Tyrell
• Stour Valley Local Nature Reserve and Kingfisher Barn Visitor Centre
• RSPB Arne
• Walled Garden Moreton.

It’s time for pumpkins 🎃

• Pick your own pumpkin at Dorset Country Pumpkins
• Try pumpkin carving – without making a mess at home – at Avon Heath and Lulworth Cove

Check them out here.

Other events to look out for

• Autumn camping at Butchers Coppice. It sounds so wholesome.
• SAUSAGES & CIDER activities at Dorset Heavy Horse Farm. Sausages and cider aren’t the first things to come to mind when we think about Halloween but this event sounds fantastic. We can’t wait to try it out.

While you are here…

Did you know we have a section dedicated to kids classes and activities in Poole? There’s something for all ages. From babies to teens. And for all interests. From swimming, dancing, gymnastics and sports. We have them all! Check it here.