As the leaves begin to change and the air grows cooler, we look forward to one thing: the coveted October half term holiday. Are you worrying there might not be as much to do at this time of year? Fear not, because in this article we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to planning your perfect half term holiday in Dumfries and Galloway.

From breathtaking autumnal walks to festive Halloween adventures, get ready to discover all the exciting possibilities for your October break. Get your calendars ready and let’s dive in to find the ideal holiday ideas for you and your family.

Halloween Entertainment

The Beagle Country Pub’s halloween parties have now become a staple of the October half term here at Barend. This year they will be running one on Thursday 17th October to cover Scottish half term, and another in the last week of October, to cover English School term. Keep an eye on their website and Facebook for more details. Don’t forget to bring your halloween costumes with you!

Take a look at Mabie Farm Park for a great evening out. They are opening specially in the evenings for a spooktacular time, which promises to be great for all the family.

Alternatively, the award winning Mostly Ghostly are based in Dumfries. What could be better than a tour of Dumfries and Galloway’s history, with all its spooky past, around Halloween? This is great for older children, teenagers and adults.

Pumpkin picking & autumnal delights

Pumpkin picking is becoming a firm-favourite amongst adults and children alike. Drumlanrig Castle makes a great day out; where you can mix a bit of history, plus walks and bike rides with pumpkin picking during your October holiday. Find out more here.

Closer by, Ernespie Farm Park, offers soft play, outdoor play and pumpkin picking. This is perfect for youngsters. (And their food and coffee is popular with mums and dads too!).

Enjoy the outdoors during your October holiday

It may be a little cooler, but October often brings crisp, sunny days with stunning views of the Solway Coast. So bring your gloves and scarves to jump into the delights of Dumfries and Galloway during Autumn.

Mersehead is an important break point for geese flying south for winter. Be sure not to miss the spectacular sight of the geese formation flying through the skies!

If walking, mountain biking or gravel cycling is more your thing, enjoy a great day out in the woods and forests of Dumfries and Galloway. Nearby Dalbeattie Woods, Mabie Forest and Kirroughtree turn beautiful shades or red, gold and amber at this time of year. There’s nothing more delightful than the crisp rustle of fallen leaves under your boots or wheels! There are walks and bike rides suitable for everyone; from babies in prams and carriers to expert cyclists.

Availability at Barend during October holidays

October half term breaks are very popular at Barend, with many people booking ahead for the next year. Thankfully the holidays span 3 weeks across the UK, so there is still some availability. Minimum stays in October are 2 nights, but we recommend staying for longer – its much better value.