Last Minute Half-Term Getaways: Where To Stay This October
By
3 weeks ago
It’s not too late for a 2025 family escape
Not quite ready to let go of summer? There’s still one last chance for a little escapism with the kids, as the October half term is just around the corner. From countryside staycations near London to autumn sunshine adventures in Greece and Portugal, there’s something for everyone in our edit of autumn breaks, including a slice of Halloween fun.
October Half Term Holiday Ideas 2025
The Grove, Hertfordshire, UK
Just 18 miles from central London, The Grove is a hub of family fun for those wanting countryside calm without straying too far from the city. Sprawled across 300 acres, this Hertfordshire estate combines outdoor adventure, family-friendly dining, and top-class spa facilities. Over half term, the hotel is an autumnal playground for kids (and big kids), with pumpkin carving, Halloween crafts, and Sharky & George’s Monster Mash Disco bringing the festive spirit. Little ones can head to Anouska’s Kids Club or join football camps with UEFA coaches, while adults can sign up for floristry or cocktail masterclasses. Half term offers include 20 percent off stays of two nights or more.
BOOK: thegrove.co.uk
Quinta do Lago, Algarve, Portugal
For those yearning for autumn sunshine, Quinta do Lago in the Algarve offers a blend of active pursuits and coastal relaxation. Just 15 minutes from Faro airport, this resort, famous for its golfing and sports facilities, places wellness at its heart, from family cycling in the Ria Formosa Natural Park to watersports on the lake and professional-led kids’ sports camps at The Campus. Accommodation ranges from cottages to private villas overlooking the golf course or lagoon.
BOOK: quintadolago.com
The stunning walled gardens at Heckfield Place
Heckfield Place, Hampshire, UK
For the perfect English countryside half term escape, Hampshire’s Heckfield Place offers a seasonal sanctuary where families can reconnect with nature. Set within 400 acres of woodland, lakes, and meadows, this Georgian manor house blends heritage with a strong sustainability ethos. Children can explore the grounds through guided nature walks, foraging classes, and farm activities, while adults dive into the spa or join biodynamic gardening workshops. Seasonal dining by Skye Gyngell celebrates produce from the Home Farm, ensuring every meal feels fresh and rooted in the land. It’s one of our favourite hideaways.
BOOK: heckfieldplace.com
Mare Ayia Napa
Mare Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Newly opened for its first full season, Mare Ayia Napa is styled like a traditional village fitting for Cyprus’ east coast. The resort is designed with all generations in mind, from the splash park and dedicated kids’ and teens’ clubs to eco-focused workshops highlighting the island’s endangered turtle species. Many of the spacious rooms and suites have direct pool access, while dining options include Cypriot cuisine at Estia and Italian classics at Nico, plus modern Asian plates at Kaiyo and an ice-cream and street food outlet. Beyond the resort, Cape Greco National Park and Ayia Napa’s open-air sculpture park are waiting to be explored.
BOOK: mareresorts.com/mare-ayia-napa
Laflouder Thatch, Cornwall, UK
After a private rental for a big family getaway? Switch off on Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula at Laflouder Thatch. This beautifully restored thatched property sleeps eight across a main house and annexe, with a heated outdoor pool, garden room, and views of the spectacular coastline. The interiors balance rustic charm with modern comfort, with an open-plan kitchen-diner and cosy living spaces for relaxing after windswept coastal walks along the South West Coast Path.
BOOK: Weekly rates start from £2,350. perfectstays.co.uk
The Landmark London, UK
There’s no need to leave London to get some real R&R this half term. Families looking for a capital city stay with a twist will love The Landmark London’s Investigator Package. Nestled in Sherlock Holmes’ Marylebone, this five-star hotel is inviting young sleuths to embark on an interactive treasure hunt, discover in-room detective surprises, and visit the Sherlock Holmes Museum. Parents can enjoy Holmes-inspired cocktails at The Great Central Pub, and Regent’s Park and Baker Street are an easy stroll away.
BOOK: Available from £760 per night for two adults and two children. landmarklondon.co.uk
Hotel Eden, Rome, Italy
In the Eternal City, Hotel Eden from the Dorchester Collection elevates cultural exploration with experiences led by art expert Corinna Turati, helping families connect with Rome and delve a little deeper. Families can discover lesser-known corners of the city before dining at Il Giardino, where sweeping skyline views and delicious Italian food make for memorable evenings. Expect spacious accommodation, curated activities, and insider access to a city that has something for every age.
Mirabello Bay Luxury Resort, Crete, Greece
For sunny skies and laid-back family time, Crete’s Mirabello Bay Luxury Resort is sure to deliver on some autumnal sunshine. Overlooking the Aegean, it specialises in multigenerational stays, offering spacious villas with private pools and terraces alongside five-star facilities. Children can enjoy splash zones, kids’ clubs, and waterslides, while teens can dive into water sports or cultural excursions. Adults and grandparents can retreat to (/hide in) the spa, join a cookery class, or simply relax over seaside dinners.
BOOK: zeusintl.com
Sani Resort, Greece
Regularly voted as one of Europe’s best family resorts, Halkidiki’s Sani Resort really delivers for parents wanting adult luxury plus child-friendly facilities. From the Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre and Chelsea FC Football Academy to the Bear Grylls Survival Academy, there isn’t a boring moment. Teens gravitate to Ozone Club, while younger children can be deposited in the Sani Creche for some fun while parents take a break. This October will also feature a Halloween Party hosted by Annabel Karmel MBE, featuring spooky-themed dining and creative fun.
BOOK: sani-resort.com
(c) Sean Elliott
Matfen Hall, Northumberland
Set amidst 300 acres of historic Northumberland parkland, Matfen Hall blends grand country-house elegance with family-friendly warmth. This 19th-century stately home offers spacious suites, a championship golf course, and a modern spa, while still providing plenty of activities for younger guests. Families can explore the grounds by foot or bicycle, wander through nearby castles and coastline, or simply enjoy cosy afternoons by the fire. It’s the perfect place to reconnect with nature, and the kids, for a stress-free half term break.
BOOK: matfenhall.com
Coworth Park, Ascot, UK
Closer to home, Ascot’s Coworth Park is a countryside haven for grown-ups and kids alike. This autumn, families can enjoy equestrian adventures, from pony rides to countryside treks, or explore the hotel’s beehives with educational hands-on sessions perfect for inquisitive children. Younger guests are welcomed at the Kids Club, while parents can enjoy the newly-renovated spa or relax over fine dining. Woven by Adam Smith, the hotel’s Michelin-starred dining offering also welcomes kids over the age of nine, so it’s a wonderful special-occasion family dinner spot, too. Read our reviewer Jack’s (9) take on the offering, here.
BOOK: dorchestercollection.com
