25 free events to attend in October 2025

It’s the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness – autumn is well underway, and the first half-term break is fast approaching. October is also a month packed with fantastic free events, making it easy to get out there and enjoy yourself without breaking the bank.

To give you some inspiration, we’ve rounded up some of the very best free events – from spectacular light shows and literary festivals to nature-themed Halloween fun. It’s also the perfect month to enjoy seasonal wildlife and autumn leaf-peeping.

Prefer to stay in? Sit back, relax, and enjoy our exclusive members-only online talks, featuring experts on a wide range of topics, including wildlife conservation, seed growing and spooky tales, all from the comfort of your sofa.

Please note that some of the listed events are exclusive to Boundless members.

Not yet a member? If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus.

As well as getting access to exclusive events, Boundless members enjoy unlimited free or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions, plus year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more.

Simply click on a link below to jump straight to:

• Free nationwide events
• Free events in London & the South East
• Free events in the South West & Wales
• Free events in the Midlands & East
• Free events in the North of England
• Free events in Scotland and Northern Ireland
• Free online events

Free nationwide events

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Celebrate National Poetry Day

Venues nationwide, 2 October

Calling all budding poets. Unleash your creativity this National Poetry Day by taking part in various free events at libraries and arts venues, plus online workshops and livestreams by the Forward Arts Foundation and The Poetry Society.

The theme for this year is ‘Play’, and you’ll also find excellent free resources available from the National Literacy Trust, designed to help all ages explore and enjoy poetry.

The Southbank Centre in London is hosting a free event on 25 October with poetry readings for up-and-coming poets and rare poetry collections from the National Poetry Library on display.

Marvel at wildlife at the WWT

WWT centres, nationwide

In the autumn months, WWT wetlands come alive as huge flocks of birds arrive to spend the winter in milder conditions. Ducks, geese, swans, and waders are settling in after long migrations from their summer breeding grounds, turning these landscapes into essential wildlife habitats.

It’s also the season when frogs, toads, and other amphibians leave their summer hiding spots in search of somewhere safe and cosy to see out 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.

Witness the autumn deer rut

Nationwide, throughout October

October offers front-row seats to one of autumn’s most dramatic wildlife displays: the deer rut. Across the UK, rival stags bellow, clash antlers, and battle for supremacy and the attention of nearby hinds.

Some of the finest places to witness this raw spectacle include Cheshire’s Lyme Park, Exmoor National Park, and London’s Richmond and Bushy Parks. The action is at its most intense in the three hours after sunrise and before sunset. Just be sure to keep a safe distance – these magnificent animals may look serene, but during the rut, they’re anything but gentle.

Free events in London & the South East

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Celebrate the autumn bounty at the Big Apple Festival

Herriard, Hampshire, 4 & 5 October

Celebrate the autumn apple harvest at the Big Apple Festival. Bring along your own apples and take part in the cider-making tradition, or simply watch the process in action.

Enjoy a hearty open-fire BBQ and a freshly harvested cup of cider. All apples collected over the weekend will be pressed together, creating a community cider to be shared at future village events. This event is free to attend, but online booking is essential as places are limited.

Explore a fun-filled Zog-themed nature trail at Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens, London, 18 October - 2 November

This autumn, families can step into the world of Zog at Kew Gardens with an interactive outdoor trail inspired by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved book.

Children can enjoy dragon-themed activities such as learning to roar, fly and breathe fire, while parents can enjoy exploring the garden’s stunning autumn scenery. With carved wooden sculptures, life-sized book scenes, and an activity guide to continue the adventure at home, it’s the perfect day out for young explorers this half-term.

See our pick of seasonal highlights at Kew and Wakehurst.

Boundless members get unlimited access to Kew Gardens and Wakehurst. 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.

Walk this way – Isle of Wight Autumn Walking Festival

Isle of Wight, 4-12 October

Lace up your walking boots and explore miles of scenic footpaths at The Isle of Wight Autumn Walking Festival. This friendly and inclusive event is one of the UK’s longest-running walking festivals, offering free guided walks led by expert volunteers.

Suitable for all abilities, choose from gentle strolls to full-day hikes, discovering diverse landscapes, wildlife, and rich heritage along the way. With over 500 miles of well-marked footpaths, UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status, and easy access for day trips from the mainland, the Isle of Wight is the perfect place to put your boots on.

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.

Cheer on runners at the Royal Parks Half

London, 12 October

One of the UK’s top autumn running events sees thousands of athletes take on a 13-mile route through the capital, passing landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and the Royal Albert Hall.

Entries to the Royal Parks Half are now closed (and it costs to enter), but spectators can enjoy the buzz for free, so why not line the streets, soak up the atmosphere, and cheer the runners on? Entries will open shortly after this year’s event, so if you’re feeling inspired, get your entry in here.

Celebrate creativity at Bloomsbury Festival

London, 17-19 October

For centuries, Bloomsbury has been a powerhouse of creativity and innovation, and this legacy continues to be celebrated throughout the neighbourhood today.

‘The Paths We Tread’ is the theme for this year’s Bloomsbury Festival, inspired by the local history and heritage of the surrounding streets and celebrating personal and cultural artistic journeys. The programme offers a mix of free and ticketed events for all ages, including musical performances, theatre, exhibitions, local walks and talks.

Free events in the South West & Wales

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Be inspired at Cheltenham Literature Festival

Cheltenham, 10-19 October

The world’s longest-running literature festival is back with an exceptional 10-day literary line-up. With over 400 events and 500 speakers, there’s something for everyone at Cheltenham Literature Festival.

Although some of the talks, debates and music are ticketed, around a quarter of events are free, including many family-friendly activities. The Festival Village is also free to enter, so grab a drink and find a cosy corner to lose yourself in a good book.

Tickle the tastebuds at Brecon Beacons Food Festival

Brecon, 4 October

Brecon Beacons Food Festival is an annual celebration of the region’s finest food and drink from more than 60 local producers. Make sure you pay a visit to the taster table to sample the best of local and Welsh food and drink – for free!

Alongside the mouthwatering stalls, the festival offers a full programme of live entertainment, cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly fun, making it the perfect day out for foodies of all ages.

Enjoy a day of supernatural fun at WWT Llanelli

WWT Llanelli, 25 October - 2 November

This Halloween, swap ghosts and goblins for a week of magical, nature-filled adventures at WWT Llanelli.

Children can weave willow wands, mix magical potions, hunt for fungi, explore minibeasts, and get hands-on with wetlands wildlife in enchanting activities designed to spark curiosity. There’s even a fancy dress competition on 31 October and a supernatural log book to capture all the other-worldly fun.

All Super Natural activities are included with entry admission, but make sure you pre-book. Visit WWT Llanelli website for the latest info and ticket prices.

s 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.

Go leaf-peeping at the Forest of Dean

Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, throughout October

While ‘leaf-peeping’ may have started in North America, you don’t need to travel far to experience the autumn glow. The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is famous for this seasonal spectacle, and the UK’s first official leaf-peeping trail takes you on a 50-mile scenic drive through ancient woodlands, showcasing the very best spots to admire nature’s autumnal palette. We’ve also rounded up our favourite autumn walks in the Forest of Dean for inspiration.

If you fancy extending your stay, Whitemead Forest Park is the perfect place for a forest break for families of all ages. Read on to discover how this family enjoyed their stay.

Boundless members can enjoy a saving of up to 20% on their stay at Whitemead Forest Park, on top of any other current offers available. This applies to its variety of accommodation options, including glamping pods, log cabins, and apartments.

Free events in the Midlands & East

Credit: Lenton Sands

Enjoy traditional rides at Ikeston Charter Fair

Derbyshire, 15-18 October

Incredibly marking its 773rd year, the Ilkeston Charter Fair in Derbyshire is one of Europe’s oldest street festivals. Reported to have been established by Henry III in 1252, the fair is expected to be bigger and better than ever, with more stalls and traditional funfair rides and sideshows taking over the town centre.

Although you can visit without spending a penny, children (and adults!) of all ages will find the vintage Ferris Wheel and Helter Skelter rides a delight.

Hunt for gems in the Jewellery Quarter Artisan Market

Birmingham, 18 October

Set against the beautiful backdrop of St Paul’s Square, the Jewellery Quarter Artisan Market is a lively celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and community. Part of the monthly Birmingham Artisan Markets, browse handcrafted goods made by independent makers.

Taking place on the third Saturday of every month, the market has everything from handcrafted jewellery, art and ceramics to local food and drink – a perfect spot for a leisurely Saturday wander.

Free events in the North of England

Credit: @ManchesterBID, Images C. Carl Sudonik (The Vain Photos)

Get set for a scare at Halloween in the City

Manchester, 25-31 October

Celebrate the spookiest time of year with a host of monstrously good events at Halloween in the City in Manchester.

The MCR Monsters are back, alongside live performances, fancy-dress fun, spooky DJs, storytelling, and the spectacular Walk the Plank monster procession. Bring the whole family, dress to impress, and join in the Halloween fun.

Enjoy the glow at Light up the North Light Festival

Various locations, including Leeds, Liverpool and Blackpool, across the North of England, from 15 October

This autumn, the North will be glowing brighter than ever as Light up the North, an illuminating network of light festivals, transforms towns and cities across the region.

The first event on the calendar is Blackpool’s Lightpool Festival (15 October- 1 November), followed by Light Night Leeds (23–24 October). All festivals are free to attend and suitable for all ages. Wrap up warm, grab a hot drink, and wander through a magical illuminated wonderland.

Late Night Opening: Witness a goose spectacular

Lancashire, 1–25 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 – and you’re invited to witness their spectacularly noisy, honking arrival.

On Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout October, from 5:30pm to 7pm, the nature trail opens its gates for free, giving you a front-row seat to watch these magnificent birds as they swoop in to roost for the night.

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.

Browse artisan crafts at the Treacle Market

Macclesfield, 26 October

If you’re a fan of street markets, then head to the Treacle Market in the market town of Macclesfield to browse an eclectic mix of stalls and soak up the lively atmosphere.

With more than 200 traders, this free outdoor market is held four times a year, offering everything from handmade crafts, clothing, plants, art, and homewares. There’s also a good selection of street food vendors serving up tempting gourmet food and drink. Spend as much, or as little as you like.

Free events in Scotland & Northern Ireland

Credit: Getty Images

Have a frightful night at the Paisley Halloween Festival

Paisley, 24 & 25 October

When it comes to scares and spectacle, few can rival the Paisley Halloween Festival. This spooktacular event brings together eerie live performances, haunting installations, and a costume parade each evening. Don’t just watch – join the fun by donning your spookiest Halloween attire! You’ll also find plenty of street food to tickle your taste buds.

Immerse yourself in culture at Belfast International Arts Festival

Belfast, 14 October – 9 November

This October, Belfast hosts the Belfast International Arts Festival. Expect a packed programme of exceptional theatre, dance, live music, visual art and literary performances.

Showcasing world-renowned performers alongside local talent, this lively festival takes place across more than 30 venues across the city.  Although some events are ticketed, there are various free performances and exhibitions to enjoy. Check out the programme for the full line-up.

Listen to stories at the Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Edinburgh, 22 October - 1 November

The Scottish International Storytelling Festival gathers storytellers and musicians from Scotland and beyond to celebrate the magic of storytelling. Inspired by the ceilidh tradition of togetherness, the festival features atmospheric performances filled with personal tales, songs and ballads.

The majority of ticketed events are held in venues across Edinburgh; however, a good money-saving option is to purchase a Storytelling Festival Pass, which provides entry and discounts to the diverse programme of performances, workshops, talks, and children’s events.

Alternatively, have a listen to the free Another Story podcast, which delves deeper into the art of storytelling.

Be spooked at Derry Halloween Festival

Derry, 28-31 October

Walk alongside ghosts, banshees, and Celtic spirits as they roam the 400-year-old walls of Derry’s historic city at Europe’s biggest Halloween festival, Derry Halloween.

Held over four nights, this scarily good event celebrates Samhain, the ancient Celtic festival marking the beginning of the darker half of the year. Expect ghastly storytelling, mischief, and feasting woven through contemporary, cultural, and family events.

Free online events

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Boundless online events to join in October

These free online talks are open to all Boundless members – simply register via email to book your place. Don’t forget to add your membership number for the chance to win prizes.

Not yet a member? If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus. Enjoy unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more.

A Day in the Life of a Zoo Director with conservation expert Simon Jeffrey

Online, 7 October

Tune into this fascinating talk with Simon Jeffery, a conservation expert with over 30 years’ experience in zoological and wildlife conservation, and a specialist in animal welfare, breeding programmes, and endangered species protection.

Based at Port Lympne, this online talk will provide exclusive behind-the-scenes views of this major zoo, sharing unique insights into its day-to-day operations and conservation initiatives.

The Making of the Millennium Seed Bank

Online, 14 October

Step inside the world’s most biodiverse treasure trove – Wakehurst’s Millennium Seed Bank. Home to 2.4 billion seeds and safeguarding 90% of the UK’s native plants, it stands at the forefront of global conservation.

Discover its fascinating history, pioneering preservation techniques, international partnerships, and inspiring stories of restoration that protect plant life for generations to come in this online talk.

Weird in the Wade, Spooky Tales of Biggleswade

Online, 21 October

Celebrate Halloween with Nat Doig, creator of Weird in the Wade, the award-winning podcast that uncovers ghost stories, folklore, and hidden history with a paranormal twist.

In this online event, Nat shares her inspiring career-change journey, the ups and downs of podcasting, and spine-tingling tales from Biggleswade and Bedfordshire’s often-overlooked past.

Do more with Boundless

If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus.

With Boundless, you get unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions, including Kew Gardens and Wakehurst and WWT centres across the UK, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more. With Boundless Plus, you can enjoy additional benefits, including unlimited access to Historic Royal Palaces sites, National Trust for Scotland places, access to the Ramblers' extensive group walks and routes, and peace of mind with roadside assistance and local recovery by Britannia Rescue.