Still looking for October half-term plans in Plymouth? There is time for a last-minute outing before the holidays end on Sunday 1 November 2026. This guide focuses on activities still coming up from Friday 30 October, with free ideas first and clear distinctions between free admission and ticketed events.
Free things to do on Friday 30 October
The Box: Imagine the Future
Free family creative sessions run on Friday 30 October, 10.30am–12.30pm and 1.30–3.30pm, with a suggested £3 donation. The activities are particularly suited to ages 4–11; last entry is 15 minutes before the end of each session. Check The Box’s official details.
The Box: free museum admission
Explore Plymouth’s maritime and cultural history, including the woolly mammoth and ship figureheads. General museum admission is free, although special events can be ticketed. Plan your visit.
Free Halloween fun on Saturday 31 October
Plymouth Market Halloween Party — 11am–3pm
Plymouth Market, Cornwall Street, PL1 1PS, is hosting a free family Halloween party with face painting, crafts, spooky entertainment, trick-or-treating and costumes. See the organiser’s announcement.
Terrifically Terrifying Monster Tail Trail — until 31 October
Explore the Barbican shop windows to find the missing monster tails. Pick up a trail sheet at the Tourist Information Centre, 3–5 The Barbican; the trail is free. Trail information.
Ticketed Halloween activities
Creepy Creatures of the Deep at The Box — Friday 30 October
This family evening runs 5.30–8pm, with slime making, spooky storytelling, crafts and dancing. The organiser lists adult and child tickets aged 5–17 at £8, and tickets for children aged five and under at £7. All children must attend with an adult. Check availability and book directly.
More Halloween events and trails
Visit Plymouth lists the Mount Edgcumbe Fantastical Halloween Experience (30 October–1 November), Plymouth’s Halloween trails, and other seasonal attractions. These are not all free; check individual event pages for tickets and age guidance. Browse current listings.
Rainy-day ideas and days out
The National Marine Aquarium is another indoor option; check its current entry conditions and return-pass offer on the official website. The half-term mystery at Twist Board Game Café runs through 1 November; check café charges and availability. Royal William Yard’s Artober also provides art to explore through the end of October; check session times before setting off.
Accessibility and planning tips
For sensory needs, ask each venue about quiet spaces, crowds, noise, lighting, step-free routes and accessible toilets before travelling. The Box has advertised quieter family craft sessions during the week, but do not assume these are available at every event. Allow extra time for parking and travel between the Barbican, city centre and attractions outside Plymouth.
Frequently asked questions
Are there free Halloween activities in Plymouth on 31 October?
Yes. Plymouth Market’s Halloween party is advertised as free, 11am–3pm, and the Barbican Monster Tail Trail runs until 31 October.
When does Plymouth October half-term end?
This guide covers the holiday period through Sunday 1 November 2026; individual school calendars can vary.
Is everything at The Box free?
No. General museum admission and certain family sessions are free, but the 30 October Creepy Creatures of the Deep evening is ticketed.
For more ideas beyond this weekend, explore our Where, What & When finder.
Updated 29 October 2026 from official venue and destination listings. This is a planning guide, not a personal visit review. Event availability may change.
