October in Newcastle upon Tyne is the perfect time for families to enjoy the city’s vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and outdoor autumn adventures. From scenic riverside walks to interactive museums, Newcastle offers an exciting mix of activities for children of all ages.

During October half term, the city comes alive with Halloween-themed events, autumn trails, and creative workshops. Families can explore everything from spooky storytelling in historic buildings to hands-on science experiments, or simply enjoy the crisp autumn air in the city’s parks. With so many options, Newcastle is a great destination for an action-packed yet family-friendly half-term escape.

Here’s a detailed guide to the top October half-term and Halloween activities for kids in Newcastle, arranged in order for easy planning.

1. Pumpkin Picking at Northumberlandia Farm

When: Mid to Late October
Where: Northumberlandia, Cramlington

Children can pick their own pumpkins, navigate hay bale mazes, and meet farm animals. Tractor rides add extra excitement, and families can take photos among the colourful pumpkin fields.

Why families will love it:

• Combines outdoor fun with autumnal traditions
• Safe, hands-on experience for younger children
• Great for photos and family memories

2. Halloween Science Week at Life Science Centre

When: 25–31 October
Where: Times Square, Newcastle

The Life Science Centre hosts Halloween-themed workshops and interactive experiments. Kids can make “slime potions,” explore spooky physics, and participate in hands-on STEM activities.

Why families will love it:

• Educational yet entertaining
• Engaging experiments for children of all ages
• Indoor activity, perfect for chilly October weather

3. Spooky Storytelling at Seven Stories

When: 26–31 October
Where: 30 Lime Street, Ouseburn

Seven Stories, the National Centre for Children’s Books, offers storytelling sessions with Halloween and autumn-themed tales. Children can also join craft workshops and book-themed scavenger hunts.

Why families will love it:

• Inspires creativity and imagination
• Combines reading, crafting, and gentle Halloween fun
• Family-friendly, welcoming environment

4. Halloween Trail at Newcastle Castle

When: 27–31 October
Where: Castle Garth

Explore Newcastle Castle’s historic halls with a family-friendly Halloween trail. Children solve clues, meet friendly “ghosts,” and complete interactive puzzles along the way.

Why families will love it:

• Mild spooky adventure in a historic setting
• Educational and immersive
• Great for photos and family bonding

5. Jesmond Dene Autumn Nature Trail

When: 19–27 October
Where: Jesmond Dene Park

A self-guided autumn trail through Jesmond Dene encourages children to spot wildlife, collect seasonal leaves, and complete fun challenges.

Why families will love it:

• Outdoor activity with fresh air and scenic views
• Encourages curiosity and exploration
• Suitable for children of all ages

6. Halloween Crafts at The Biscuit Factory

When: 25–31 October
Where: Stephenson Quarter, Newcastle

Children can participate in arts and crafts workshops, making Halloween masks, decorations, and themed artwork. Parents can enjoy browsing the gallery while children create.

Why families will love it:

• Indoor activity ideal for rainy October days
• Encourages creativity and hands-on learning
• Family-friendly gallery environment

7. Discovery Museum – Family Fun Week

When: 26–31 October
Where: Blandford Square, Newcastle

The Discovery Museum offers interactive exhibits, Halloween-themed activities, and workshops where children can experiment with hands-on science and technology.

Why families will love it:

• Fun, educational, and age-appropriate
• Indoor activity for all weather conditions
• Combines STEM learning with seasonal fun

8. Halloween Family Walk at Exhibition Park

When: 26–31 October
Where: Exhibition Park, Heaton

A guided walk with Halloween storytelling and light outdoor challenges. Children enjoy seasonal decorations, themed games, and a small treat at the end.

Why families will love it:

• Gentle outdoor activity for all ages
• Encourages exercise and family bonding
• Seasonal and scenic park setting

9. Hancock Museum – Autumn Explorer Workshop

When: 25–31 October
Where: Barras Bridge, Newcastle

Interactive workshops focusing on nature, dinosaurs, and fossils with an autumn twist. Children can participate in creative activities and themed trails.

Why families will love it:

• Combines education and fun
• Inspires curiosity about nature and history
• Indoor, suitable for wet weather

10. Tyneside Cinema – Halloween Family Film Screenings

When: 28–31 October
Where: Pilgrim Street, Newcastle

Enjoy family-friendly Halloween films in a cosy, historic cinema. Popcorn and themed snacks make it a perfect indoor treat for chilly October afternoons.

Why families will love it:

• Comfortable and relaxed indoor activity
• Suitable for children of all ages
• Great option after a busy day of exploring

Stay with Pass the Keys – Newcastle

Make your Newcastle half-term adventure stress-free by staying with Pass the Keys – Andrew, your local short-let management expert. Whether you’re looking for a central city apartment or a family-friendly home near the parks and museums, Pass the Keys offers professionally managed, fully equipped properties perfect for families.

With Pass the Keys, you’ll enjoy:

• Flexible check-in and professionally cleaned accommodation
• Child-friendly amenities and spacious living areas
• Proximity to Newcastle’s top attractions and half-term events

Relax and enjoy your family getaway knowing your stay is in expert hands while you explore the best of Newcastle this October.