Sep
As the evenings grow crisper and the trees turn golden, the Thames Valley comes alive with autumn magic. October Half Term is the perfect time for families to get out and explore – from twinkling light trails and spooky adventures to laugh-out-loud theatre shows and hands-on science fun. Whether you’re hunting for pumpkins, meeting much-loved storybook characters on stage, or uncovering fascinating history, the region offers plenty of activities to keep children entertained while adults enjoy the rich heritage, beautiful countryside, and cultural highlights.
At House of Fisher, our centrally located serviced apartments across key towns in Reading, Newbury, Bracknell, Basingstoke, Farnborough, and Camberley, provide the ideal base for families to discover everything this vibrant region has to offer. With fully equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, and flexible booking options, you’ll have all the comforts of home after a busy day of exploring.
Here’s our guide to the best family-friendly events happening across the Thames Valley during the October Half Term.
Newbury (Central Gate)
Spectacle of Light
Welford Park, Newbury
17th October – 9th November, on selected evenings
Take a magical evening walk along the paths of Welford Park and experience this much-loved woodland in a new light. The walk typically takes 60–75 minutes, but families are welcome to stay longer and soak up the atmosphere. This timeless experience is suitable for all ages.
Stick Man
The Corn Exchange, Newbury
28th – 30th October
Get ready for laughs, excitement, and heartwarming fun as Freckle Productions brings Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man to the Corn Exchange, Newbury. From the creators of Zog and Zog and the Flying Doctors, this award-winning show features a talented trio of actors, dazzling puppetry, catchy songs, live music, and energetic movement. Families can also enjoy a hands-on pre-show workshop to craft their very own Stick Man to take home.
Reading (100 Kings Road and City Wall House)
Hallo’Welly’ween at Wellington Country Park
25th – 31st October
Experience the biggest and friendliest spooktacular event with pumpkin carving, spooky trails, and themed activities. Ideal for families with young children looking to enjoy Halloween festivities in a safe and welcoming environment.
Camberley (Central House)
Halloween Party in Windsor – Brick or Treat at LEGOLAND®
Selected dates until 1st November
Looking for a spooktacular day out this October half term? Head to Windsor, where the LEGO® Monsters are back with their biggest Brick or Treat Halloween Party yet!
The entire resort will be transformed into a Halloween wonderland, packed with spooky surprises, live entertainment, and over 55 rides and attractions.
Basingstoke (Central Point)
We’re Going on a Ghost Hunt Halloween Adventure
The Vyne, Basingstoke
11th October – 2nd November
This October, join the bunnies on a ghost-hunting adventure at The Vyne. Kids can pick a bunny name, play Halloween games, race broomsticks, and spot spooky surprises before celebrating with a prize or sticker.
A perfect mix of fun and gentle spooks for preschoolers and young children.
You Choose
The Haymarket, Basingstoke
25th October
Inspired by Pippa Goodhart and Nick Sharratt’s brilliant book, this interactive musical lets the audience decide what happens next. With games, challenges, and ever-changing characters, no two performances are the same!
Tom Gates EPIC Stage Show
The Haymarket, Basingstoke
28th October
Based on Liz Pichon’s bestselling books, this lively show bursts with music, doodles, and laugh-out-loud fun. Whether you’re a fan of the books or meeting Tom and his friends for the first time, it’s great family entertainment.
Bracknell (Beneficial House)
The ‘Yucky You’ Show
The Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell
Until 9th November
Dive into the wonders of the human body with over 90 interactive activities. From building bones to exploring the senses, this hands-on science show is both educational and fun for children of all ages.
Farnborough (Solstice House)
Farnborough Air Science (FAST) Museum
Saturdays & Sundays, tours on Thursdays
FAST preserves and celebrates Farnborough’s aviation science heritage. The FAST Museum, next to Farnborough Airfield, features aircraft, models, satellites, and simulators linked to the Royal Aircraft Establishment.
Exclusive guided tours offer rare access to historic wind tunnels, once at the forefront of aerodynamic research from the 1930s through the supersonic jet age. Tours run every Thursday until 30 October 2025, providing a unique opportunity to explore Farnborough’s aviation legacy with insights from knowledgeable FAST volunteers.
With so much happening across the Thames Valley, why not plan your family getaway?
With so many exciting events happening across the Thames Valley this October Half Term, why not make it a proper family escape? From pumpkin trails and spooky adventures to interactive science shows and theatrical performances, there’s something for everyone.
Book Directly and Save!
Remember to always book directly to guarantee the best available rates either by booking on our website, calling our friendly Reservations team on 01189 514151 or emailing reservations@houseoffisher.com
