What’s on this half-term in the New Forest?

As we step into Autumn in the New Forest National Park we’re reminded of the joys this cosy season brings; warming soups, post-ramble hot chocolates, dog walks through the golden leaves and of course, Halloween! Spooky fun and pumpkin-picking shenanigans is the wonderful finale to this year’s October half-term so, what’s on this half-term for families in and around our Beaulieu hotel?

Our family-friendly hotel is an ideal base for your half-term short break, with plenty of things to do with the kids right on the doorstep. Plus, you can take advantage of our hotel deal on the Kids Stay Free break…

Speaking of on our doorstep, we’ve got some spooktacular things for kids happening at our Hampshire hotel; you and the family can look forward to our half-term Halloween Pumpkin Hunt in our garden from the 27th October to 2nd November. Simply follow the trail, solve the riddles and find the hidden pumpkins to win treat, plus more Halloween family-fun!

Step away from Halloween-themed experiences, a great new adventure for families this autumn is horse-riding through the New Forest together. We’ve partnered with Coombe Stables who welcome everyone, from seasoned riders to beginners on ‘their guided rides through scenic woodland and open countryside’ – it’s a wonderful way to explore the area.

Another unforgettable thing to do with the kids this half-term; take them to the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu. A stone’s throw from our door, the whole family can enjoy a day exploring their world-famous museum with over 280 vehicles, Palace House & Gardens and medieval Beaulieu Abbey, you needn’t be a motoring enthusiast to get lost in the fabulous displays and Phantasmagorical experiences!

This half-term, the Halloween fun continues at nearby Exbury Gardens, just 8 minutes from our hotel, enjoy a ride on their Halloween Ghost Train between the 25th – 31st October, join one of their Creepy Crafts Family Workshops, or try your hand at one of their Pumpkin Carving sessions.

If it’s classic half-term fun you’re looking for this October as well as some Halloween antics, plan a visit to Paultons Park just 22 minutes from our New Forest hotel. Gather the troops and head for the Ghostly Manor with ‘interactive gameplay and ghostly storytelling’ on an indoor dark ride haunted experience. Then, continue the adventure, enjoying the parks’ other rides and attractions.

If you’re looking for a wild adventure, look a little farther afield to Marwell Zoo, a slightly longer, 41-minute drive from our hotel, they’re inviting families to enjoy their Wild Autumn activities; ‘pumpkin carving, a haybale maze and plenty of wildlife adventures’, from Saturday 25 October – Sunday 2 November 2025.

Swap the country for the coast and go on an adventure beside the sea at Hurst Castle during this October half term, breathe in the fresh sea air and enjoy Halloween antics daily between 25th October and 2nd November. ‘Roam through every corner of the castle to find the clues to solve our Treasure Trail!’

You can even take to the water donning your scariest costumes with New Forest Activities this half-term; they’re offering a unique and unforgettable ‘Spooky River Tour’ under the moonlight for any family brave enough, as well as an array of other outdoor Halloween (or not) inspired fun!

When it’s time to refuel your little pumpkins (family) our country pub Monty’s Inn is just the thing for muddy boots and relaxed family dining, especially if you’ve brought your four-legged friend with you to our dog-friendly hotel. Otherwise, plan a special dinner at the Terrace restaurant, our wood-panelled dining room which welcomes children over 8 years to enjoy a thoughtfully curated kids’ menu so the whole family can sit down to delicious authentic British dishes in a beautiful traditional country house setting.

Don’t fill every day of your family break up with attractions, save some time to relax and share an afternoon tea or to go for a gentle walk around our village of Beaulieu. There are endless walks nearby when you want to reconnect and recalibrate, spend some time in nature away from the buzz of half-term activities.

At least if your time with us is jam-packed this half-term, you can take a moment to slow down, freshen up and enjoy family dinners together reminiscing about the day’s activities and all the ghoulish fun you’ve had!