Rainy days and free family fun: Things to do in Barnstaple this half term!
October half term is here, and while we would usually be looking forward to autumn walks, trips to the park and getting out and about in the fresh air, the weather isn’t exactly playing ball!
Thankfully, there is plenty happening locally to keep little ones busy, curious and creative without breaking the bank. From Halloween crafts and space-themed activities to museum adventures and a free family disco, there are lots of ways to make some lovely memories this half term.
Here are some of our favourite free activities to check out!
1. Get creative at Barnstaple Guildhall
If your little ones love getting crafty, the Barnstaple Guildhall is worth checking out this half term. The Guildhall has hosted free Halloween craft activities for children during the school holidays, making it a lovely opportunity to get creative while escaping the rain.
Keep an eye on the Town Council’s event listings for the latest details about activities, dates and times.
2. Discover something new at the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon
A rainy day is the perfect excuse to explore our local museum!
On Wednesday 28 October, the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon is hosting a free Curious Creators family workshop, where children can design and create their own ideal home, complete with people, plants and pets.
There are two sessions to choose from:
- Morning: 10am–12pm
- Afternoon: 1pm–3pm
The activities are free, drop-in and all materials are provided, so there’s no need to book. Children must be supervised by a parent or carer.
The museum is also running a skeleton-themed trail throughout half term, giving families another reason to explore the galleries together.
Where: The Square, Barnstaple.
3. Make the most of Barnstaple Library
Libraries are brilliant places to visit during the school holidays, and Barnstaple Library has some lovely ways for families to enjoy a little time together.
On Friday 30 October, families can enjoy a free Breakfast & Craft session from 9.30am to 11am. It’s a lovely opportunity to start the day with breakfast and a creative activity for the children.
The library is also running a Halloween costume swap throughout October. If you’ve got costumes your children have outgrown, why not see whether you can swap them for something new-to-you? It’s a great way to save money and give costumes another lease of life.
Where: Barnstaple Library, Tuly Street.
4. Explore the wonders of space!
For little ones who love discovering how the world works, there are some exciting free, hands-on activities taking place around Barnstaple this half term.
The Planetary Lab is popping up at several local venues between Tuesday 27 and Thursday 29 October, bringing activities inspired by biodiversity and our world from space.
The programme includes:
- Tuesday 27 October: Drop-in biodiversity activities at Green Lanes Shopping Centre.
- Wednesday 28 October: Activities at Barnstaple Library’s Wellbeing Wednesday Café.
- Thursday 29 October: Our World From Space activities at Barnstaple Pannier Market.
The drop-in sessions at Green Lanes and the Pannier Market are free and feature hands-on activities for all ages.
It’s a lovely opportunity to encourage children’s curiosity about nature, science and the planet — all without spending a penny!
5. Enjoy Halloween fun at Barnstaple Pannier Market
There is plenty of spooky fun planned at Barnstaple Pannier Market from Tuesday 27 to Saturday 31 October.
Throughout the week, families can take part in the Find the Golden Pumpkin challenge. Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the market stalls and see if you can spot the hidden pumpkin!
Then, on Thursday 29 October, there are even more Halloween activities to enjoy:
- Pumpkin carving: 10am–3pm. Pumpkins must be purchased separately, and places are limited.
- Family Halloween disco: 5.30pm–7.30pm, including a fancy-dress competition.
The family disco is free to attend, so get those Halloween costumes ready and prepare to show off your best dance moves!
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
6. Find more free activities around North Devon
If you’re happy to venture a little further afield, there are plenty more activities and family events to explore during the school holidays.
It’s always worth checking local listings, as community groups, libraries and venues often add extra workshops and events during half term.
Here are a few useful places to look:
- What’s On in Barnstaple
- Libraries Unlimited – Events
- Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon
- North Devon Council
Remember to check individual event details before setting off, as some activities have limited places or require booking.
Making memories doesn’t have to cost a fortune!
Half term can quickly become expensive, especially when the weather puts paid to outdoor plans and everyone is looking for something to do.
But from getting creative at the museum and enjoying breakfast at the library to exploring space and joining in with Halloween celebrations at the Pannier Market, there are some fantastic opportunities for families right here in Barnstaple.
And if the rain really does get the better of us? A blanket fort, a favourite story and a cosy afternoon at home can be just as magical.
From all of us at Banana Moon Barnstaple, we hope you have a wonderful half term filled with fun, laughter and plenty of lovely memories — whatever the weather brings!
@BananaMoon - 19 hours ago
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Banana Moon Day Nursery, 3 Trafalgar Lawn
Barnstaple
EX32 9BD
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