Best October half-term holidays: where to go in 2026

The UK weather can be predictably unpredictable over the October half-term holidays which is why it's such an appealing time of year to escape for sunnier shores on a family holiday. It's also an opportunity to squeeze in a relaxing (or energising) break before the Christmas craziness kicks in.

Whether you've got tots or teens, October half-term provides a chance to book a family city break, a European beach getaway or a family adventure holiday. Prices are typically cheaper than in the peak summer months and there are still plenty of destinations that offer guaranteed sunshine or cooler climes for a traditional autumnal escape.

To help plan your October half-term getaway, we've rounded up destinations that Mumsnetters rate for escapes near and far, from the magic of Disney to sun-drenched beaches in Tenerife to the colourful streets of Lisbon. Take advantage of the last of the autumn sunshine in southern Europe, go further afield to fun-filled Dubai, or even jet off on a dreamy long-haul family holiday.

When is October half term in the UK?

It's best to double check exactly when your child's half-term holiday lands, as some dates vary across the UK. Generally October half-term 2026 is either 19-23 October or 26-30 October, 2026. Increasingly, schools are extending the October half-term break to cover a two-week period, particularly in secondary schools.

Some schools don't follow these term dates including academies, free schools, foundation schools and faith schools so if you're unsure about your school's term dates, we'd recommend contacting them directly.

Read next: The best suitcases to buy, as tried and tested by families

At a glance: best holiday destinations for October half term

• Best for short-haul sunshine: Tenerife

• Best for budget breaks: Turkey 

• Best for older kids: Marrakech

• Best for luxury: Dubai

• Best for babies and toddlers: Cyprus

• Best for tropical sun: Sal, Cape Verde

• Best for family fun: Orlando, Florida

• Best long-haul destination: Playa del Carmen, Mexico 

• Best city break: Lisbon, Portugal 

• Best for activities: Westerhoven, Netherlands 

1. Best for short-haul sunshine: Tenerife, Spain

Flight time from the UK: 4 hours

Average temperature in October: 20-26C

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What Mumsnet users say

"Went to Tenerife for October half term last year, weather was beautiful and everything was open." User12385359

"Tenerife has many excursions, boat trips, jet skis, also jungle park, loro parque, siam park and you can pay extra for vip fast pass where you don't have to queue for the slides and it's definitely worth it. You can go on the excursion up teide which is fab. Weather is always great in October." lalafox

Our verdict

Famous for its year-round sunshine, child-friendly activities, and huge range of accommodation options for families, Tenerife is a top destination on the Mumsnet holidays forum. Around a four-hour flight from the UK, you can touch down knowing there's something to suit all ages, tastes and budgets on arrival.

The most popular resorts are in the south, just a short trip from the airport. Playa de las Americas, Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje are all firm favourites, with white sandy beaches and excellent family activities. Each resort has its quirks, so do your research before you book.

Top travel tip

Check out Siam Park waterpark which all the family will love, and the Teide National Park for hiking and mountain biking.

Read next: The best family hotels in Tenerife, as rated by parents

2. Best for budget breaks: Antalya, Turkey

Flight time from the UK: 4 hours

Average temperature in October: 18-25C

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What Mumsnet users say

"I had a beautiful week in Antalya for Oct half term in 2023, although was torrential rain on our way to the airport coming home. The pools were absolutely brassic, didn't bother the dc but I only went when they wanted me to go on the slides!" Lovelynames123

"I've been to Antalya at that time of year and it was lovely - mid to high 20s! Perfect (and much warmer than the Canaries!)" Sleepthief

Our verdict

Turkey is a great destination for affordable family holidays. You can find some brilliant bargains and your spending money will go further than in popular resorts across Europe.

It's also home to some of the world's leading child-friendly hotels and resorts, many of which are dotted along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. When it comes to choosing an area to stay, Mumsnetters rate Antalya for its climate, beaches, choice of hotels and action-packed Lands of Legends Theme and Water Park.

Alternatively, Bodrum is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a short transfer from the airport. Or you can consider Fethiye for its crystal clear blue waters and sandy white beaches. Wherever you go in October in Turkey, the weather is gorgeous and you can expect temperatures of between 20C and 25C, depending on your location.

Top travel tip

Take cash with you as you cannot rely on cards. Most service providers prefer cash and ATMs can sometimes be unreliable.

Read next: The best family hotels in Turkey, as rated by Mumsnetters

3. Best for older kids: Marrakech, Morocco

Flight time from the UK: 3.5 hours

Average temperature in October: 15-28C

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What Mumsnet users say

"Morocco is usually lovely in October!" - WittyFatball

"I think Marrakech is reliable weather wise. Also lots of options for trips from Marrakech, Atlas, desert (and Essaouira). It’s not beachside of course but plenty of pool resorts just outside the town. With older kids I’d pick Marrakech over Tenerife but it’s all personal taste." minipie

Our verdict

Seek out sunshine and souks in Marrakech over the October half-term break. It's a busy, bustling, noisy, energetic city and as such can be tricky to navigate if you're travelling with small kids. That's why it gets our vote as a fantastic option for older children who will likely love wandering the labyrinthine streets and exploring colourful market stalls (perfect TikTok backdrops). The street food options should go down well and the city is home to excellent spas for wellness-loving teens.

The heat can be a little oppressive in the summer months so October is a great time to explore while it's still warm but not unpleasantly hot.

Top tip

Consider staying in the Palmeraie area if you're looking for more of a relaxing break. It's a peaceful alternative to the hectic central medina and is home to hotels with pools and lush gardens.

We've got plenty of recommendations for UK family holidays too if you don't want to venture far, from the best UK holiday parks and farm stay holidays to the best budget hotels in London and hotels that the family will love in the Lake District and the Cotswolds.

4. Best for a luxury holiday: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Flight time from the UK: 7.5 hours

Average temperature in October: 24-35C

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What Mumsnet users say

"Dubai is great though, warm weather and lots to do for both adults and children. We can’t wait to go back." user0177561

“We have stayed in Le Meridian Mina Seyahi 10 times now. It’s very child friendly and has just had a small water park built in its grounds.” ihearttc

Our verdict

On the coast of the UAE, Dubai offers both a city break and a beach holiday combined. Parents can enjoy huge shopping malls, topnotch restaurants and family-friendly hotels with kids' clubs. Popular attractions include KidZania, Dubai Aquarium, Ski Dubai, and the Green Planet.

Make sure to head out on a desert excursion too - activities like sandboarding and desert safaris are so much fun. Not forgetting the emirate's award-winning waterparks like Aquaventure and Wild Wadi, which everyone will love regardless of their age.

In October, the average high temperature is 35°C, with plenty of sunshine and a pleasant, warm sea. Evenings stay hot and it’s very rare for it to rain in October.

Check out our guide to the best family hotels in Dubai to help you plan your stay. We've also compiled a list of fun things to do with kids in Dubai with plenty of recommendations from Mumsnetters.

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Top tip

October to March offer the coolest temperatures for visitors. Aim to dress modestly and avoid PDAs. Try and choose a location that's close to public transport, like Dubai Metro, to help you get around easily.

5. Best for babies and toddlers: Paphos, Cyprus

Flight time from the UK: 4.5 hours

Average temperature in October: 16-26C

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What Mumsnet users say

"Both Limassol and Paphos are lovely. Paphos has better beaches. Limassol also has nice beaches & a great waterpark but need a car to be accessible. It should be mid 20's in October half term." roses2

Our verdict

Cyprus is ideal for families seeking October sunshine thanks to its perfect mix of culture, glorious beaches, scenic mountains and family-friendly accommodation, all accessible via a five-hour flight.

Temperatures reach highs of 26C in October. But once the sun goes down little ones can get chilly, so it’s worth packing cardigans or light hoodies.

History-loving kids will no doubt love exploring the ancient sites in Paphos, all set within a small area so little legs can easily navigate around (if not, taking a baby carrier with you will help when they grow tired). Paphos is also home to the Aphrodite Water Park, which offers a play area designed for babies and tots.

Top tip

The capital Nicosia is divided by a green line between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. It makes an interesting day trip, but if you cross the border from North and South you'll need to show your passport.

Read next: The best family-friendly hotels in Cyprus, as rated by Mumsnetters

6. Best for a laid-back tropical escape: Sal, Cape Verde

Flight time from the UK: 6 hours

Average temperature in October: 24-30C

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What Mumsnet users say

"We went to Cape Verde in October and the weather was beautiful. Mid-high 20's. It was also turtle season so we saw the babies hatching and making their way to the sea." aprilshowers2015

Our verdict

The archipelago of Cape Verde is made up of 10 volcanic islands and is about a six-hour flight from the UK. Thanks to its location off the west coast of Africa, the destination offers all-year-round sunshine.

Although the islands are an up-and-coming destination, they each offer fine white sandy beaches, lively surfing, and modern all-inclusive hotels. Plus, many of the resorts are child-friendly, making Cape Verde a must-try destination for Mumsnetters.

One particular island to visit is Sal. Known as a beach lover's paradise, Sal is the archipelago's most popular island for holidaymakers - and the easiest to travel to, and get around. Alongside golden, sandy beaches with azure waters, Sal is also home to Espargos and Santa Maria, and the latter offers hotels with everything you need within a 20-minute walk. Enjoy everything Cape Verde alongside a welcomed temperature of 30°C.

Where to stay

Ideal for families, experience world-class service at Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa complete with a water park, kids' club, all-day and evening entertainment.

Top tip

Pack baby necessities such as nappies, formula, baby food and wipes. Even though there are mini-markets in the larger towns, you may struggle to get these items.

7. Best for non-stop family fun: Orlando, Florida

Flight time from the UK: 9 hours

Average temperature in October: 20-29C

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What Mumsnet users say

"I have been a couple of times around the English half term at the end of October and I was quite happy with the temperature. We were still shorts and t-shirts during the day, and used the outdoors pool." Createausername1970

"I’ve been several times and it was roasting! We were very glad of air con. Brilliant time to go - any rain is over quickly, it’s not crazy busy, and it’s a big Halloween party!" CrustyBread1977

Our verdict

Discover the land of theme parks, attractions and some of the best beaches in the world, right in the heart of the Sunshine State of Florida. Whether you're looking for thrilling rollercoasters or magical moments with Mickey and friends, Orlando keeps everyone entertained from morning until night and offers heaps of family fun.

October is a fantastic time to visit for non-stop entertainment. Mickey's not-so-scary Halloween party at the Magic Kingdom, the themed parades, the shows, and pumpkins everywhere, nowhere does Halloween like Disney!

In October, Orlando sees highs of 29C. Days are usually hot and evenings balmy, so visitors are advised to pack light and cool clothing.

Where to stay

A Disney resort hotel, a hotel near Universal Studios, a private villa, a hotel near International Drive… The choices of accommodation in Orlando are endless and depend on what suits you as a family. It’s worth researching different options and costs.

Top tip

If you visit before your child turns three you’ll avoid paying for park entrance at Walt Disney World - they're considered as 'special guests' of Mickey Mouse and do not need to pay for theme park admission.

Read next: The best Disneyland Paris hotels, as rated by Mumsnetters

8. Best long-haul destination: Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Flight time from the UK: 10 hours

Average temperature in October: 24-30C

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What Mumsnet users say

"I've been to Mexico first week in November, weather was stunning, the sea was beautiful. It's the very end of the hurricane season so some risk still but small. A long flight." Chewbecca

"I’ve been to Mexico in November and temps were pleasant. Typically, when it did rain, it was light rain overnight or briefly in the afternoon, and the rest of the day is fine & sunny. It wasn’t at all humid. From experience, Playa del Carmen gets less rain than Cancun. Day of the Dead is at the beginning of November and it’s great to be there for that." Forgottenmyphone

Our verdict

Picture postcard beaches, clear turquoise waters, stunning scenery, vibrant culture and tequila and avocados galore!

Mexico is one of the most popular family destinations in the world and Playa del Carmen is a big hit with families.

There's so much to do outside your hotel for outdoorsy types too. With highs of 30C in October, you'll enjoy cooling off after a dive into cenotes (freshwater pools) - you can swim, snorkel and even scuba dive in remarkably clear depths. Catch the ferry to the island of Cozumel, or for families with older kids, check out the Mayan Ruins in Tulum or Chichén Itzá.

Not forgetting Xel-Há Park! A family-friendly aquatic theme park where the kids can snorkel, swim with dolphins and stingrays or explore the jungle.

Where to stay

Check out the all-inclusive Paradisus, a luxury resort designed with the entire family in mind. It has a nursery club for babies aged 12 months to 3 years, and a kids' club for older children.

Top tip

Avoid drinking tap water anywhere in Mexico. While the water is purified at the source, distribution systems across the country allow the water to be contaminated en route to your tap.

Read next: The best family-friendly hotels in Mexico, according to parents

9. Best for a family city break: Lisbon, Portugal

Flight time from the UK: 3 hours

Average temperature in October: 15-23C

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What Mumsnet users say

"Been to Portugal at October half term twice. Both times around 22-24 degrees. Lovely to sunbathe but pools were freezing. Sea was warmer." indoorplantqueen

Our verdict

Lisbon makes for a charming, affordable family city break with its fantastic food, quirky trams, and easy access to gorgeous beaches. There's plenty to keep kids and teenagers occupied, like the Oceanarium, Castelo Sao Jorge, and loads of colourful urban street art.

It's worth noting that there are some steep hills with cobblestones in Lisbon that are not ideal for buggies, so child carriers are always a practical solution. Look out for the electric tuk-tuk city tour, which children of all ages will love.

October temperatures reach highs of 23C, a comfortable heat to enjoy the city without getting too hot. But if you fancy getting outside the city limits to explore, you're a scenic 35-minute train ride from Cascais for a day at the beach.

Where to stay

Following on from the success of Martinhal Sagres in the Algarve, the team behind the ultra family-friendly resort has opened its first city apartment-style Martinhal Chiado hotel in the heart of Lisbon in the happening Chiado district.

Top tip

If you're planning to visit several sites and museums that charge an entrance fee and aim to use public transport, you should consider purchasing the Lisboa Card.

Read next: The best family-friendly hotels in Lisbon, as rated by parents

10. Best for families that can't sit still: Westerhoven, the Netherlands

Flight time from the UK: 1 hour

Average temperature in October: 7-15C

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What Mumsnet users say

"De Kampervennen is good as it has the indoor snow slope and it's within very easy cycle distance to the town." Lykia

Our verdict

For October half-term fun, why not book a classic Center Parcs break - albeit in a different location, away from the UK? Center Parcs originated in the Netherlands and offers an alternative to the UK locations, which can be insanely expensive during school holidays. School holidays in the Netherlands usually fall on different dates to the UK, meaning prices are super reasonable for the October half term - plus you get the bonus of travelling abroad and experiencing a different country too.

Located in the heart of nature, set around two lakes, Kempervennen is a 5-star Parc near Eindhoven with a variety of activities indoors and outdoors. It’s perfect for families especially those with energetic teenagers. The facilities include a long zip wire, aqua dome with waterslides, a snorkel pool, climbing, an indoor ski slope, an escape room and VR gaming.

Getting there

Westerhoven is around a 20-minute drive from Eindhoven Airport. Amsterdam Port and Schiphol Airport are both around two hours away.

Top tip

It can be costly to purchase food from an onsite Parc Market. Bringing supplies with you or stopping at a local supermarket away from the site can work out more cost-effective.

Read next: The best family hotels in Amsterdam, as rated by parents

How to save money on an October half-term holiday

Set up alerts on major airline sites like Virgin Atlantic and British Airways to be the first to know about flight sales. Or use Skyscanner's Explore Everywhere tool to see the cheapest routes in any given month. It's worth signing up for loyalty schemes like Booking.com's Genius programme in order to build up credit to spend on trips. On the Beach is a good place to search for affordable family holiday deals.

Where is the best short-haul destination to visit in October?

October is an excellent month for a holiday in Europe. It’s hot enough in the south, particularly in places like Tenerife, Cyprus and Turkey to bask in the sun, and the sea will be lovely and warm too. This time of year is perfect to explore Europe’s cities like Lisbon, and you’ll avoid the crowds, higher prices and the sweltering heat of summer.

Where is the best long-haul destination to visit in October?

It’s always sunny somewhere. Fly for another couple of hours and you can find yourselves in Dubai where you can expect temperatures of 36C and 10 hours of daily sunshine. October is also the start of the tourist season across southeast Asia.

Across the pond, if you're looking for hot weather and relatively crowd-free sightseeing, October is one of the best times to visit Florida with an average high of 29ºC. Mexico also sees highs of up to 32°C in October. Elsewhere, Africa is warm, dry and sunny and The Indian Ocean is starting to come out of the wet season which is a fantastic time to visit.

How we chose our recommendations

Recommendations by real parents

Before choosing any destination for our roundups, we first consult the Mumsnet forums. With over 10 million users per month, there’s a lot of suggestions by real parents who have been there, done that when travelling during October half-term with the family.

Expert guidance and traveller reviews

After we’ve collated our destination picks, we then turn to the experts and consult the likes of TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Expedia to see what their recommendations include for family holidays during October half-term.

Here we’ll also check what travellers are saying about each destination on these sites, taking into consideration both the positive and negative points of their trip to bring you a well-rounded and honest guide.

About the authors

Marketing Director and freelance writer, Karen Basnett is the mother of a very energetic two-year-old. Currently expecting her second baby boy, she has a passion for travel, live music, fashion and food, and loves nothing more than having a good time with family and friends. Plus, chasing after her crazy Golden Retriever, Alfie.

Rachel Erdos is an Editor at Mumsnet where she commissions, edits and writes content with a focus on family travel. She has written hotel reviews, features and destination guides for top publications including the Guardian, Four Seasons Magazine, Travelzoo, Visit Britain and Visit London. She loves nothing more than researching and writing about fun things for families to do in destinations near and far, as well as trawling the Mumsnet holiday forum for inspiration for her next trip away with her husband and two kids.