Wondering about October half term things to do with kids that get them off the sofa and into the fresh air? The autumn half term arrives at the end of October, right around the time the clocks go back on 25 October 2026 and the daylight starts to feel precious. It is the ideal week to make the most of those crisp, bright afternoons before winter sets in. A round of outdoor mini golf ticks every box: it is active, affordable and works for the whole family, whatever the ages.
A week to fill before winter arrives
The October break is that funny in-between week: too short for a big trip away, but long enough for the “I’m bored” chorus to start by day two. Getting outside is the simplest fix. A morning in the park breaks up the week, burns off some energy and sends everyone home with rosy cheeks. With the clocks about to change, it is also a lovely reminder to grab the daylight while it lasts.
Autumn colours and crunchy leaves
There is a special kind of magic to a park in late October. The trees are turning gold and copper, there are leaves to kick through on the way round, and the low autumn sun makes everything glow. Playing a round of mini golf surrounded by all that seasonal colour turns an ordinary afternoon into a proper autumn adventure, and the children get a nature walk without even realising it.
Wrap up warm and keep moving
The trick to a great autumn day out is simple: layer up and keep active. Mini golf is perfect for a cooler day because everyone is on the move, walking the course and lining up their shots rather than standing about getting chilly. Pop on a hat and gloves, and a brisk October round is invigorating rather than cold. When you are ready for a break, the warm clubhouse cafe is right there.
Half term without the half-term prices
School holidays can quietly drain the budget. Because every Putt in the Park course sits in a free-to-enter public park, a half-term day out can be as simple as a round of golf and a hot chocolate afterwards, with no expensive gate ticket. If you want more purse-friendly ideas, our guide to leisure on a budget is packed with them.
One activity for every age
Half term often means entertaining a range of ages at once, from toddlers to older cousins. Mini golf is one of the rare things they can all do together and genuinely enjoy. Younger children take a few extra turns, older ones keep score, and nobody is left out. Gathering a group over the break? Our children’s parties are an easy way to turn a half-term meet-up into a celebration.
Where to play across London and Essex
You have five outdoor courses to choose from: Wandsworth Park, Battersea Park, Acton Park and Gunnersbury Park across London, plus Castle Park in Colchester for families in Essex. Check our booking guidelines and grab a half-term slot before they fill up.
October half term mini golf: your questions answered
Are you open during October half term?
Our London courses open from 9am every day, and Colchester from 10am on weekdays and 9am at weekends. Closing times are earlier as the evenings draw in, so check your chosen course before you travel.
Is mini golf still fun when it is cold?
Definitely. Because you are up and moving the whole time, a wrapped-up autumn round is great fun, and the warm cafe is on hand whenever you fancy a break.
What if it rains during half term?
A light shower rarely stops play, and every course has a licensed clubhouse cafe if the weather turns heavier. Our wet weather guide explains what happens if it pours. Keeping your plans flexible is the way to go.
Do we need to book?
Half term is a busy period, so booking ahead is the surest way to get the slot you want. See our booking guidelines for details.
Make the most of the autumn light this half term. Find your nearest Putt in the Park and book an outdoor round the whole family will love.
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