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Autumn leaves in a woodland

As autumn’s brisk winds sweep through, there’s a unique charm to the Lake District in October.

It’s the season of fiery foliage, crisp air, and a delightful array of activities. For those seeking exciting things to do in the Lake District in October, you’ve come to the right place.

We’ve put together a list of great ideas for you and your family and friends to enjoy in the Lakes. From scenic and enchanting locations waiting to be explored, to fun-filled attractions.

Let’s dive into why spending your October half term in the Lake District is simply magical…


1. Borrowdale

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Borrowdale is the most wooded valley in the Lake District, so by the time autumn comes around its views and colours are extra special.

October half term is a perfect time to see it at its best, as oaks, birch, holly, hazel, alder, and yews combine to create an amazing palette of autumn colours.

There are a number of great vantage points from which to appreciate this spectacle. Head up to Castle Crag, or take a stroll along an easy 8 mile loop of the valley following the River Derwent – this will take you through the forest itself, then onto an elevated path above the valley.

Alternatively, walk through Great Wood then climb to Walla Crag for another great view from above.


2. Grasmere and Rydal

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Grasmere is one of the gems of the Lake District at any time of the year. Visiting Grasmere is a great thing to do in October half term, when the area is a lot calmer than in the busier seasons.

The surrounding peaks really come alive in autumn, with the wealth of colour reflected off the waters of Grasmere and Rydal Water.

Why not visit one of Our Favourite Grasmere Restaurants for a post-walk treat?

Alternatively, head to Allan Bank for a lovely woodland walk, with the chance of seeing plenty of wildlife; deer, otters and red squirrels have all been spotted here.

The Allan Bank house owned by the National Trust – once home to William Wordsworth – is well worth a visit, too.

Grasmere is a great place for walking with your four-legged friend, as dogs will love the range of new sights and smells.

Browse our selection of dog-friendly properties in the Lake District for a pup-friendly break.


3. Langdale

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Head to Langdale this October half term for classic Lake District views. Stunning fells and summits, dry stone walls and old cottages, and lots of Herdwick sheep all offer striking contrasts to the blaze of orange that the densely packed trees become in autumn.

For spectacular views of the valley, head up towards Blea Tarn and Side Pike. Side Pike is to the North-East of the Tarn, and while it is not a simple ascent, the summit offers brilliant elevated views of the valley below.

You could also simply take a stroll across the valley floor, crossing the traditional Slaters Bridge, and marvel at autumn colours that surround you.

Langdale is one of the region’s most popular locations, but there should be fewer people in the October half term than during peak times, allowing you to avoid the crowds.

Check out The Ultimate Guide to the Langdale Pikes to start planning your visit.


4. Buttermere

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Like many other popular Lake District destinations, Buttermere is another place that really comes into its own when autumn sets in.

As Buttermere is one of the smaller lakes in the region, the water is often calm and still, meaning the full spectrum of autumn colours are reflected in the lake.

This is an easy walk for families, with easy access for pushchairs. A walk around Buttermere should only take a couple of hours; linger a while, take a picnic, brave a paddle, skim stones and soak it in.

Browse our range of family-friendly properties in the Lake District.


5. Coniston

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Finally, make sure to visit Coniston Water this October half term. Mid to late October is perhaps the perfect time to visit the lake, as there are some incredible displays of autumn colour in every direction.

This means that the best place to view them is from on the water itself. You can hire a boat from Coniston Boating Centre.

For a really atmospheric – and more leisurely – way of traversing the lake, take a trip on the National Trust’s Steam Yacht Gondola. The Gondola runs until October 31st before hibernating for the winter, so the October half term is one of your last chances to catch a ride until summer comes back around.

Find more inspiration to visit Coniston from our blog post 7 of The Best Pubs in Coniston.

Take a look at our range of cottages in Coniston


6. The Brockhole Halloween Experience – The Haunted Forest

Get ready for a thrilling Halloween in the Lake District at Brockhole! Throughout October Half Term, Brockhole Visitor Centre near Windermere is hosting a variety of fun things to do.

The Haunted Forest is back with exciting new activities, including Axe Throwing, the Tipi of Terror, and more.

For £24, the Pumpkin Passport grants access to 20 activities, from the Haunted Forest to Ghost Storytelling. It’s good to book early; this event sells out yearly.

If you want even more thrills, you have the option to upgrade to a Pumpkin Passport PLUS for £34 to enjoy the Treetop Nets too.


7. Other Halloween Events

There are a number of other spooky events taking place in the Lake District in the run up to Halloween.

Take a look at the Halloween Ghost Train on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. Details are still to be confirmed, so keep your eyes peeled – if you dare!

There’s also pumpkin picking and carving sessions at Walby Farm Park, plus some spooktacular activities at Muncaster Castle – one of the most haunted castles in Britain.

Why not take a look at the spookiest places you can visit in the Lake District for some extra Halloween fun!


8. Quiet Roads, Lower Prices

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As we’ve already mentioned, one of the huge benefits of visiting the Lake District in the October half term is avoiding crowds.

The peak summer holiday season of June and August is lovely but can mean packed car-parks and frequent traffic jams.

Visiting just after the summer months means there will be fewer visitors and in some places, you’ll get the views all to yourself.

One of the other benefits is that lower demand means lower prices. We have some fantastic offers for the October half term, full week holidays or short breaks.


Browse this full collection of Lake District holiday cottages or take a look at our variety of properties that are available for the full week of October Half Term.


Images courtesy of: Marilyn Peddle (CC BY 2.0)