Things to Do in the Lake District This October 2026 Half Term
A local’s guide to October Half Term Family Days Out, from Anna Bailey Photography
October half term in the Lake District is one of my favourite weeks of the whole year. The bracken has turned copper and the trees are glowing. The light goes soft and golden by mid-afternoon, and the summer crowds have thinned out. For Cumbrian families, half term runs from Monday 26th to Friday 30th October 2026. If you’re visiting from further afield, it’s a brilliant time to come.
I grew up here and I spend most of my weeks out on the fells with a camera. Here are a few things I’d genuinely recommend for a half term week with kids.
1. Book a family photoshoot in the autumn colours
Okay, I’m biased, but autumn really is the most beautiful time to have your family photographed in the Lakes. The colours do half the work for you. There’s something lovely about everyone wrapped up in jumpers and wellies, kicking through leaves and splashing in becks.
My shoots are relaxed and fun rather than stiff and posed. We’ll head somewhere beautiful and let the kids run about, maybe have a go at skimming stones, and I’ll capture the real moments in between. You come away with photos of a holiday (or just an ordinary Tuesday) that you’ll treasure for years. View my Lake District Family Photography.
I’m running a small number of autumn mini sessions: £120 for 10 edited photographs. Spaces are limited and half term is always the first week to go, so get in touch soon if you’d like one.
2. Climb the walls in Kendal or Keswick
The Lake District weather can be... changeable. When the heavens open, an indoor climbing wall is a lifesaver for burning off energy.
Kendal Climbing Wall is a great shout if you’re based in the south Lakes. There’s plenty for little ones trying climbing for the first time, and for older kids who want a proper challenge.
If you’re further north, head to Keswick Climbing Wall. As well as indoor climbing, bouldering and archery, it’s home to Rookery Woods, an outdoor adventure play area for children aged 8 and under.
It’s only a few pounds per child for the whole day, and there’s a café and free parking on site. Keswick Climbing Wall is run by the family behind Newlands Adventure Centre, so older kids and teens can book bigger outdoor adventures in the Newlands Valley too.
3. Roll marbles at Grizedale Forest
Grizedale Forest, between Hawkshead and Coniston, is one of my favourite places in autumn. The woods are full of colour and there are sculptures hidden along the trails for the kids to hunt out.
The giant marble run is the big hit with younger children, who can easily spend an hour sending marbles racing down it. Add a short sculpture trail, a play in the woods and a hot chocolate at the café, and you’ve got a full day out.
4. Treat yourselves at Kimi’s Gelato in Staveley
Yes, ice cream in October. Trust me. Kimi’s Gelato on Main Street in Staveley makes proper artisan gelato, and the flavours change all the time, so there’s always something new to try. It’s the perfect reward after a walk. Staveley is a lovely little village to wander round, with places to grab lunch nearby.
Top tip: opening hours change with the seasons, so check their website or Facebook before you make a special trip.
5. Let off steam at the park in Ambleside
Sometimes the best days are the simple ones. Rothay Park in Ambleside is a flat, open space by the river, a short walk from the town centre. It has a playground, room to run and a gorgeous backdrop of fells. Grab a takeaway coffee and let the kids loose on the swings, then wander into Ambleside for a browse round the shops.
It also happens to be a beautiful spot for photos, especially when the trees are turning.
Make memories you can keep
Half term flies by. Maybe you’d love the whole family in the photos for once, rather than someone always stuck behind the phone. If so, I’d love to hear from you. My autumn sessions are designed for families who love the Lake District as much as I do.
Have a wonderful half term,
Anna x
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