October half term holiday on the Isle of Wight

Looking for the perfect October half term getaway? The Isle of Wight is the ideal destination for family holidays, offering a wide range of activities, attractions and exciting things to do. This October half term, explore Halloween parties, spooky family-friendly activities, and interactive events for all ages. From countryside walks to coastal adventures, there's no shortage of memorable activities to enjoy. Wondering what's on October half term on the Isle of Wight? There are thrilling theme parks, scenic nature trails, interactive museums, exhibitions and festivals that will keep everyone entertained. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a full October half term break, the Isle of Wight has everything you need for unforgettable holidays and a spooky Halloween experience. Just off the South Coast of England and only an hour and a half from London, the Isle of Wight is ideal for a quick getaway. Keep scrolling to check out what's on and make the most of your Autumn adventure!

Things to do this Halloween on the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight, often dubbed "Ghost island," is famous for its sinister, spooky past, making it a perfect destination for Halloween adventures with the family. Ventnor Botanical Gardens, known as one of the most haunted places on the Isle, is steeped in eerie history. The gardens are said to be haunted by the ghosts of tuberculosis patients who died at the Old Royal National Hospital that once stood there. Visitors have reported the chilling smells of ether, and spine-tingling sightings of a sickly ghost and phantom nurses in old-fashioned uniforms roaming the grounds.

Carisbrooke Castle, Osborne, Appuldurcombe House, Fort Victoria, Brading Roman Villa, and the Royal Yacht Squadron are other hotspots of ghostly activity. If you’re exploring our island with your family during Halloween, keep an eye out for ghost ships that have been spotted off the coast.

The Isle of Wight’s haunted pubs, such as The Castle and Wheatsheaf Inn in Newport, and the Hare and Hounds at Arreton, offer a spooky stop for those brave enough to enter. For an unforgettable Halloween experience, spend the night at the fairy-themed Enchanted Manor in Niton, where you might encounter the spirits of an Edwardian gentleman, mischievous ghost boys, or even Mrs. Prendergast, who still watches over her former home.

Discover more spine-chilling stories here and plan your family's Halloween adventure on the Isle of Wight!

Isle of Wight family events at Halloween

If you're searching for "family events near me" this Halloween, the Isle of Wight offers fantastic October half term days out that are perfect for all ages. The island's attractions are second to none, with special events throughout the holiday to suit everyone - from the smallest children to the most hard-to-please teenagers.

Attractions on the Isle of Wight at October half term 

If your kids need to burn off some energy, head to Tapnell Farm Park and Sandham Gardens, or for animal lovers, a visit to Monkey Haven or the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary is a must. With on-site cafes and refreshments, you can make a real day of it, or pack a picnic and enjoy your lunch surrounded by nature.

If history and heritage are your thing, then our island has plenty to offer. Visit Osborne House and step back centuries, or see where rockets were tested in the fifties at the Needles Battery. Discover the remains of a Roman villa at Brading Roman Villa, this museum offers a unique insight into Roman life in Britain. 

The weather may be unpredictable during October half term, but there's no shortage of rainy day ideas to keep everyone entertained. From interactive art and craft workshops and glass studios to fascinating exhibitions, you won't have to let a little rain dampen your plans! Or enjoy a little retail therapy with an abundance of independent shops across our island from farm shops, jewellery, clothes to gifts. 

Isle of Wight October half term activities and adventures

Pack your week with adventure by diving into a wide range of exciting activities; go coasteering, sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, climb trees with Goodleaf Tree Climbing, kitesurfing, or go karting fun with Wight Karting!

With our unique microclimate, October is the ideal time to soak up some fresh air and a dose of vitamin sea. Explore our island by foot or bike with a stunning backdrop of 68 miles of coastline, a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and the many Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You can easily hire a bike on our island if you don’t want to bring your own.

With family routes including the Red Squirrel Trail and the flat ride from Sandown to Shanklin, smaller children will enjoy cycling, squirrel spotting and maybe even an ice cream. You should also have a look at our Slow Travel Guide which gives information about how to travel around our island without your car using bus and train services or just on foot!

There's plenty of wildlife to spot during October half term on the Isle of Wight. Our island is one of the few places with a thriving red squirrel population, thanks to there being no grey squirrels on our island. October half term is a great time to spot them as they are at their most visible during the autumn, foraging and stashing nuts for the winter. The HIWWT recommend Bouldnor Forest nature reserve as a good bet for a sighting. You’ll also get lots more opportunities for sightings if you cycle the Red Squirrel Trail.

Brisk beach walks and cosy pubs on the Isle of Wight

Enjoy the beauty of the Isle of Wight this October half term with refreshing brisk walks on our picturesque beaches. Many of the beaches revert to being completely dog-friendly during the autumn months so you’ll have miles of seaside to explore.

After a refreshing walk, refuel at one of our island's many cosy pubs, cafes, and restaurants, where you'll find children's menus and delicious dishes made with local produce.  

Isle of Wight accommodation at October half term

You'll be spoiled for choice with a wide range of holiday accommodation options that cater to every family's needs and preferences. Whether you're dreaming of a cosy stay in a traditional B&B, an adventurous night under the stars in a yurt, a retreat in a hotel, a cosy cottage, or a luxury apartment, the Isle of Wight has it all.

Plan your visit to the Isle of Wight this October half term!

It couldn’t be easier to get to the Isle of Wight by ferry via Lymington, Southampton, Southsea or Portsmouth. There are regular rail connections to the south coast via South Western Railway.

Travelling as a foot passenger is simple due to our excellent transport links with trains, buses, foot passenger ferries and our hovercraft service. 

Make sure you check directly with your accommodation provider on ferry discounts that they have available, and head to our Ways to Save section for further money saving tips to the Isle of Wight.

Book your visit today to create ghoulish half term memories!