October half term in North Yorkshire is packed with family-friendly activities.
In the Harrogate, Knaresborough, Ripon, and Starbeck areas, Active North Yorkshire leisure hubs are hosting fun swimming sessions, family raft events, and pool parties. In Selby, Tadcaster, Bedale, Thirsk, Sowerby, Stokesley, and Northallerton, families can enjoy Big Swims, casual swims, and themed pool parties. These are mostly drop-in sessions. See details of swimming activities.
Libraries across Scarborough, Whitby, Ripon, Filey, Skipton, Knaresborough, Malton, Pickering, Northallerton, and Stokesley are running eco-friendly Halloween craft workshops. These sessions are part of the Family Learning programme and can be explored further via the Learner Hub.
Scarborough’s Peasholm Park hosts Autumn Daze on 29 October, a free outdoor day with bushcraft, storytelling, and marshmallow toasting.
At Scarborough Museums, families can enjoy Shadow Puppets, Monster Masks, and Fossil Handling at the Art Gallery and Rotunda Museum. Entry is free for under 18s, and adults can purchase a £5 annual pass. Find out more on the Scarborough Museums and Galleries website.
Skipton Town Hall is buzzing with puppet shows, art clubs, and educational sessions including Shrek The Musical, Paper Theatre, and Home Education: Romans in Craven. Full listings and ticket info are available at Skipton Town Hall.
At Knaresborough Castle and Courthouse Museum, explore the hidden underground passage with Sallyport Tours running a fascinating glimpse into medieval escape routes. On 31 October, drop in for a Make and Take craft session inspired by local history.
The Mercer Art Gallery in Harrogate hosts two creative events: Art Club on 28 October and Make and Take: Comic Book Characters on 29th October, perfect for young creatives looking to get spooky and imaginative this season Book and for more information.
North Yorkshire Outdoor Learning Centres at Bewerley Park and East Barnby are running adventure clubs and family activity days in nature. Find out more on the Outdoor Education website.