25 free events to attend in October 2026

UnsplashCelebrate National Poetry Day

Venues nationwide, 1 October

Celebrate the joy of words this National Poetry Day by discovering new and old favourite poems. This year’s theme, ‘Wonder’, is all about discovering the curiosity and magic of poetry.

From free events at libraries and arts venues to online workshops, readings and livestreams, there are plenty of ways to get involved. The Forward Arts Foundation has lots of resources, an event calendar and free activities for inspiration.

And if you’re in London, head to the Southbank Centre on 24 October for Poetry Day to enjoy free poetry workshops and concrete sculptures curated by artist Sam Winston.

Getty ImagesSpot wildlife at the WWT

WWT centres, nationwide

As autumn arrives, WWT wetlands become a haven for wildlife, welcoming thousands of migrating birds escaping the colder conditions further north. Ducks, geese, swans and waders settle in for winter after their long journeys from summer breeding grounds, creating spectacular opportunities for wildlife watching.

It’s not just birds making the move, either. As temperatures drop, frogs, toads and other amphibians emerge from their summer retreats, seeking sheltered spots where they can safely spend the colder months.

If you’d like to learn more, you can take a guided walk with a warden to discover more about the incredible lives of these fascinating wetland insects. Find a wetland centre near you.

As a Boundless member, you and up to five children can enjoy unlimited access to all nine WWT centres, plus 50% off for one additional adult guest. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join. Please note while you don’t need to book events, you need to book online in advance for admission.

Getty ImagesWitness the autumn deer rut

Nationwide, throughout October

October brings the deer rut, one of the UK’s most spectacular wildlife events, as stags roar, clash antlers and battle for dominance and the attention of nearby hinds.

For a front-row view, head to Lyme Park in Cheshire, Exmoor National Park, or Richmond and Bushy Parks in London. The action is often most intense after sunrise and before sunset, but keep your distance, as these magnificent animals are powerful and unpredictable during the rut.

UnsplashCelebrate the autumn bounty at Hydes Cyder Family Day

Herriard, Hampshire, 3 October

Embrace the flavours of autumn with a relaxed day at Hydes Cyder taproom Family Day. Savour a chilled cider and enjoy delicious seasonal food while learning how cider is made through informal talks and tastings throughout the day.

Families and four-legged friends are welcome, and admission is free, although booking is recommended.

Credit: HEY DUGGEE™ and character logos™ & © Studio AKA Ltd 2014. Licensed by BBC Studios. BBC logo™ & © BBC 1996.Join Hey Duggee’s Squirrel Club at Kew

Kew, London, 17 October - 1 November

Get ready for an autumn adventure with Hey Duggee at Kew Gardens. Inspired by the much-loved CBeebies series, this fun-filled outdoor trail invites little ones to join the Squirrel Club and take on a series of interactive challenges as they explore nature.

Pick up your trail map and activity leaflet, then collect special Duggee badge stamps as you complete each challenge. Finish the adventure by earning an exclusive Kew Gardens badge stamp and enjoy a special photo opportunity with a child-sized Duggee sculpture and a Duggee hug!

Running during the October half-term, the trail is included with Gardens entry. Boundless members get unlimited annual access to Kew Gardens. Members also get 50% off entry for an additional adult, free entry for up to five children and a 10% discount in the Kew shop, both online and in store.

Getty ImagesWalk into autumn at the Isle of Wight Autumn Walking Festival

Isle of Wight, 3-11 October

Pull on your walking boots and discover the island’s spectacular scenery at the Isle of Wight Autumn Walking Festival. One of the UK’s longest-running walking festivals, this family-friendly and inclusive event offers free guided walks led by knowledgeable local volunteers.

With walking routes suitable for all abilities, choose from gentle strolls to full-day hikes, taking in dramatic coastlines, peaceful countryside, fascinating wildlife and the island’s rich heritage. With more than 500 miles of waymarked footpaths and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status, the Isle of Wight is a great place to enjoy autumn adventures on foot.

Join Boundless Plus

The Ramblers is a great way to start your walking journey, with thousands of guided walks and routes available to members. What’s more, Boundless Plus members benefit from unlimited access to Ramblers.

Finding a group couldn’t be simpler: just enter your postcode on the Ramblers website and you’ll see which of their 500 local groups is nearest to you.

Why not join Boundless’ new walking group?

The new Boundless Walking Group is a friendly online community for members who love getting outdoors, exploring new places and enjoy the benefits of walking. Whether you’re an avid walker, a weekend wanderer or simply looking for motivation to get moving more often, you’ll be part of a supportive community that shares your passion for walking.

Getty ImagesCheer on runners at the Royal Parks Half

London, 11 October

Soak up the race day atmosphere as thousands of runners take on the Royal Parks Half Marathon, one of the UK’s most spectacular autumn races. The 13.1-mile route winds through the heart of London, passing iconic landmarks including Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and the Royal Albert Hall.

Entries for this year’s race are now closed, but you can still enjoy the excitement for free from the sidelines. Find a spot along the route, soak up the atmosphere and cheer the runners towards the finish. Feeling inspired? Entries for next year’s race will open shortly after this year’s event.

Getty ImagesCelebrate 20 years of the Bloomsbury Festival

London, 1-31 October

Marking its 20th anniversary this October, the Bloomsbury Festival celebrates two decades of bringing together some of London’s brightest creative and curious minds. This year’s festival is the biggest yet, with a month-long programme inspired by the theme Create and Celebrate, spanning music, theatre, art, science, literature, walks and workshops.

With up to 150 events across more than 40 venues, there’s something for everyone, from free exhibitions and family activities to fascinating talks, creative workshops and ticketed performances.

Getty ImagesBe inspired at Cheltenham Literature Festival

Cheltenham, 9-18 October

The world’s longest-running literature festival returns for a 10-day celebration of books, ideas and brilliant minds. With a packed schedule of over 400 events and 500 speakers, the Cheltenham Literature Festival sparks debate and imagination, from thought-provoking talks and lively debates to music, family activities and author events.

And even better, you don’t have to spend a penny to join the fun as around a quarter of events are free, while the Festival Village is free to enter. So grab a drink, find a cosy spot and settle in for a day of literary inspiration.

Getty ImagesCelebrate local flavours at Brecon Beacons Food Festival

Brecon, 3 October

Get ready for a delicious day out at the Brecon Beacons Food Festival, celebrating seasonal food and drink from more than 60 local producers. Head to the taster table to sample a tempting selection of Welsh flavours – completely free!

Alongside the delicious stalls, enjoy live entertainment, inspiring cooking demonstrations and family-friendly activities.

Getty ImagesEnjoy a day of SUPER Natural fun at WWT Llanelli

WWT Llanelli, 24 October - 1 November

Get curious about the natural world this October half-term with a (scare-free!) SUPER Natural family adventure at WWT Llanelli. Little explorers can weave their own willow wands, mix magical potions, hunt for mysterious fungi and get hands-on with wetlands wildlife through a host of fun activities. Examine an owl pellet to uncover the secrets of its midnight feast, step into a magical fairy mushroom ring and discover fascinating minibeasts along the way. Don’t forget to pick up a SUPER Natural log book to record your discoveries.

All Super Natural activities are included with entry admission, and no advance booking is required. Visit WWT Llanelli website for the latest info and ticket prices.

As a Boundless member, you and up to five children can enjoy unlimited access to all nine WWT centres, plus 50% off for one additional adult guest. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Getty ImagesGo leaf-peeping at the Forest of Dean

Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, throughout October

Get ready for a spectacular display of autumn colour in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Famous for its seasonal scenery, the area is home to the UK’s first official leaf-peeping trail, a 50-mile scenic drive through ancient woodlands, showcasing some of the best spots to admire nature’s autumnal palette. We’ve also rounded up our favourite autumn walks across the UK for even more inspiration.

If you fancy extending your stay, Whitemead Forest Park is the perfect base for a family forest break. Read on to discover how one family enjoyed their stay.

Boundless members can save up to 20% on stays at Whitemead Forest Park, on top of any other current offers. Choose from a range of accommodation, including glamping pods, log cabins and apartments.

Getty ImagesEnjoy traditional rides at Ikeston Charter Fair

Derbyshire, 14-17 October

Enjoy a traditional day out at Ilkeston Charter Fair, which celebrates its incredible 774th year in 2026. Reportedly established by Henry III in 1252, this historic Derbyshire event is one of Europe’s oldest street festivals, bringing the town centre to life with colourful stalls, traditional fairground rides and classic sideshows.

Entry is free, so you can soak up the atmosphere without spending a penny. For an extra dose of nostalgia, hop aboard the vintage Ferris wheel or take a thrilling spin on the Helter Skelter.

Getty ImagesExplore handmade crafts in the Jewellery Quarter Artisan Market

Birmingham, 17 October

Set against the beautiful backdrop of St Paul’s Square, the Jewellery Quarter Artisan Market is a great place to discover handmade crafts and delicious food and drink. Part of the monthly Birmingham Artisan Markets, the market brings together talented independent makers and creatives showcasing their handmade wares.

Browse stalls packed with unique jewellery, original art, beautiful ceramics and local food and drink. It’s also a good spot to start your Christmas shopping early!

© The Vain Ltd / Carl SukonikGet set for a scare at Halloween in the City

Manchester, 24-25 October

Don your scariest Halloween costume and head to Manchester for a frightfully fun weekend at Halloween in the City.

Meet the mischievous MCR Monsters, enjoy live performances, spooky DJs and spellbinding storytelling, then watch the city come alive with the spectacular Walk the Plank monster procession.

Light up Leeds | ©Lizzie CoombesBe dazzled by Light up the North

Blackpool, Leeds and Worcester, various dates in October

Get ready to see the North in a whole new light as Light up the North transforms towns and cities into dazzling outdoor galleries this autumn. Head to Lightpool Festival in Blackpool (21–31 October), Light Night Leeds (28–29 October) or Bridges of Light in Worcester (28–29 October) for spectacular installations and illuminated artworks dancing on buildings and the night sky.

Free to attend, these family-friendly events are a great excuse to wrap up warm, grab a hot drink and head out to explore the city in a new light. Can’t make it this October? More Light up the North festivals take place in cities across the region throughout November and December 2026, and into January and February 2027.

Getty ImagesLate Night Opening: Witness a goose spectacular

WWT Martin Mere, Lancashire, 3-24 October (Wednesdays and Saturdays only)

Each autumn, thousands of pink-footed geese migrate from Iceland to spend the winter at WWT Martin Mere’s wetland reserve. Experience one of Lancashire’s greatest natural spectacles as tens of thousands return from a day of grazing, filling the autumn sky with their unmistakable honking calls before settling on the mere to roost for the night.

Free to attend from 5:30pm, with no booking required, the Discovery Hide and nature trail will stay open until 7pm, offering a great view to witness the geese’s arrival.

Fancy visiting earlier in the day? As a Boundless member, you and up to five children can enjoy unlimited access to all nine WWT centres, plus 50% off for one additional adult guest. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Getty ImagesDark Skies Fringe Festival

North York Moors, 23 October-1 November

Gaze at the night sky and spot an incredible array of stars and planets at the Dark Skies Fringe Festival, celebrating the wonders of stargazing across the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales.

Explore two spectacular International Dark Sky Reserves during the peak stargazing season, with a programme of events and activities to enjoy. The North York Moors is one of just 27 locations worldwide recognised for its pristine dark skies.

Getty ImagesPaisley Halloween Festival

Paisley, 24 & 25 October

Get ready for a night of spooky spectacle and Halloween thrills at the free Paisley Halloween Festival. This year’s ‘Haunted House’ theme brings larger-than-life characters, spectacular performances and spooky surprises around every corner.

The highlight is the 400-strong Halloween Parade, winding through Paisley town centre from 7pm each night, with spine-tingling performances from Spark! LED Drummers and Uncle Doom and his Organ of Gloom. Fancy joining in the fun? Don your spookiest Halloween attire and get ready to be part of the action.

Getty ImagesImmerse yourself in culture at Belfast International Arts Festival

Belfast, 14 October – 8 November

This October, be inspired at the Belfast International Arts Festival, which returns for its 64th edition. With more than 200 events across 30 venues, the city comes alive with an eclectic programme of exceptional theatre, dance, live music, visual art and literature, alongside the festival’s exciting new Immersive Arts strand.

World-renowned performers join brilliant local talent for a vibrant celebration of creativity across Belfast. And you don’t have to spend a penny to enjoy it, with free performances and exhibitions among the packed programme. While entry is free, some events require booking and a small booking fee may apply.

Getty ImagesScottish International Storytelling Festival

Edinburgh, 21 – 31 October

Celebrate the magic of stories at the Scottish International Storytelling Festival, bringing together leading storytellers, musicians and artists from Scotland and around the world. This year’s ‘Bird and Beast’ theme explores our fascinating connections with animals and the natural world through live performances, workshops, talks and family events.

There’s plenty to enjoy for free, including Family Fun for International Intangible Cultural Heritage Day on 17 October and Family-friendly Storytelling Day at the National Museum of Scotland on 24 October, alongside community events, talks and activities. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the October half-term and discover the magic of storytelling together.

Getty ImagesBe spooked at Derry Halloween Festival

Derry, 28 October- 1 November

Step into a world of myth, magic and mischief at Derry Halloween, Europe’s largest Halloween festival. This year’s 40th anniversary celebration transforms the city’s historic walls and streets into a spectacular playground of Samhain spirits, immersive experiences, live performances and family-friendly fun.

Explore the Awakening the Walled City Trail, then dress up and join thousands of revellers for the spectacular Carnival Parade on 31 October, followed by a dazzling fireworks finale. Best of all, the trail, parade and fireworks are completely free to attend – dress as a ghoul, ghost or witch and prepare for a scarily fun Halloween!

UnsplashSpot the Scam: Understanding Modern Fraud

Online, 6 October

Scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but knowing the warning signs can help you stay one step ahead. In this online talk by consumer-protection leader Louise Baxter, discover how modern fraud works, why anyone can be targeted and the tactics criminals use to manipulate, pressure and deceive.

Louise will share real-world examples and research, and advise how to recognise common scam techniques and discover practical ways to protect yourself and those around you. The session will also look at the emotional impact of fraud and why a ‘no blame, no shame’ approach matters. Don’t forget to stay tuned until the end to enter a special giveaway on the night.

UnsplashControlling the skies: What really goes on up there?

Online, 14 October

Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes to keep our skies safe and aircraft moving smoothly? In this fascinating online talk, experienced pilot, airshow controller and aerodrome manager Ian Revell takes us behind the scenes of air traffic control.

Discover how controllers use sophisticated technology, live flight data and split-second decision-making to coordinate aircraft thousands of feet above us. From busy international airports to the invisible network of routes criss-crossing our skies, uncover the precision, skill and teamwork that keep global travel moving safely, day and night.

Getty Images31 Inventions That Changed Our World: The Making of Modern Life

Online, 20 October

Ever wondered how the inventions we barely notice came to shape the world around us? Join author Jonn Elledge for a fascinating journey through the hidden histories behind modern life in this online talk.

Discover how innovations in transport, technology and essential infrastructure transformed us from hunter-gatherers into a majority urban species, changing how we live, work and move. From everyday essentials to the breakthroughs that reshaped our relationship with the world, explore the inventions that helped create modern society and what the future might hold. There’s also a chance to win a copy of Jonn's book on the night.