Halloween & Beyond: Things To Do In Guernsey This Half Term

With October half term just around the corner and Halloween creeping up on us, there are lots of things to do around the Bailiwick. Yes, autumn brings cooler days and the odd downpour, but it also brings some crisp, bright days and the perfect excuse to wrap up warm and explore.

So, whether you've got kids to entertain or you're looking for inspiration for a solo date, we've got ideas to help you make the most of your free time. From pumpkin-filled adventures to coastal walks and creative indoor escapes, there's something for everyone.

And for even more inspiration, take a look at our regularly updated Things To Do  guide.

 

 

1. Have A Halloween Adventure

If you're in the mood for something spooky, there's plenty happening around the island. Souper Spooky Saturday brings Halloween fun to the Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden, with creepy crafts games, a Halloween hunt and plenty of cake.

Or climb aboard Le Petit Train for a Halloween adventure. You can choose from a Halloween Ghost Train, a Friendly Ghost Train or a Trick or Treat experience.

For grown-ups, there's the Monster Mash, a fancy-dress party with dancing and big-band music in aid of the Priaulx Premature Baby Foundation. And if you fancy live music, food, market stalls and themed bars, Rocktober might be for you.

 

2. Get Creative

The crafting community is having a moment, so why not unplug and do something creative? From pottery painting and crochet to candle making and jewellery workshops, there are lots of ways to try something new.

Iris & Dora is getting into the Halloween spirit with special Sip & Paint sessions for children and adults. Or try something completely different with an Autumn Mindful Japanese Calligraphy Workshop, combining traditional brush techniques with a little mindfulness.

Guernsey Arts keeps an updated list of creative workshops and classes, and there's plenty of inspiration online for projects at home too. Pick up some supplies from Craftwise or Creaseys Kids, or find yourself a pumpkin and get carving!

 

3. Discover Guernsey's Folklore & History

Guernsey has its fair share of folklore and spooky stories, making Halloween a good excuse to explore some of the island's history. Guernsey Museum is getting into the Halloween spirit with Freaky Friday & Spooky Saturday, a special family event inspired by local folklore, with spooky activities and plenty to keep younger visitors entertained. There's also an opportunity to discover the Tunnel of Terror, with daytime seesions for kids and evening sessions for adults at the German Underground Hospital. 

While you're there, take a journey through history with Brick History, an exhibition bringing historical moments to life using LEGO bricks. A good option for adults and children alike, whether you're planning a family outing or looking for something different to do yourself.

 

 

4. Make It A Movie Day

Sometimes a trip to the cinema is just what's needed, particularly when the weather isn't playing along. Big screens, better sound and, of course, popcorn! 

For Halloween, Beau Cinema is offering spooky film screenings for just £1, making it an affordable way to enjoy some half-term entertainment. Check the Beau Cinema programme and book your seats here.

You can also see what's showing at The Mallard Cinema, whether you're planning a family afternoon out, a date night or a couple of hours to yourself.

 

5. Head To The Library

The Guille-Allès Library is always worth a visit, whatever the time of year, and not just for the books!

The Children's Library runs special activities alongside its usual opportunities for reading and play, with a mix of storytelling, creative activities and interactive experiences. It's a lovely way to encourage children to enjoy books, use their imaginations and try something new, and many of the activities are free.

For older children and adults, there's plenty to explore too, from the Fab Lab and digital resources to jigsaws, board games and spaces to settle down with a good book. Take a look at the library's event programme for the latest activities and booking details.

 

6. Enjoy Some Family Fun

If you're looking for ways to keep the children entertained, there are plenty of options beyond Halloween.

For younger children, Oaty & Joey's Playbarn and the soft play area at Le Friquet are good rainy-day options. If the sun makes an appearance, there's always the pirate playground at Saumarez Park.

Older children might enjoy crazy golf at Nineteen, pottery painting at Iris & Dora or a trip to the cinema. And if you fancy doing something together at home, stock up on baking or craft supplies and make an afternoon of it.

 

 

7. Wrap Up & Get Outside

Autumn can be a beautiful time to explore Guernsey, particularly on those bright, crisp days when the island feels a little quieter.

Pull on your walking shoes and head for the cliffs, take a stroll along one of our beaches or discover somewhere you haven't visited for a while. For a little inspiration, the National Trust of Guernsey has a collection of walks exploring the island's heritage and countryside, while Visit Guernsey has a selection of hiking trails to help you plan your route. 

There's no need for an elaborate plan. Sometimes a good walk, some fresh air and coffee and cake afterwards are all you need.

 

8. Enjoy Some Music, Theatre & Culture

Half term isn't just about Halloween, and there are some lovely opportunities to enjoy the arts too.

Local dance company Lisia returns with an encore performance of Land & Sea, There's also Hadestown: Teen Edition, a musical journey into the underworld, and the Global Collection Festival at St James for music lovers.

If you're interested in something a little different, Think & Drink combines short talks on a variety of subjects with drinks and conversation.

For art lovers, there's still time to catch The Stillness of Place, featuring local landscapes and seascapes by Wendy Griffin, or Beyond the Shadows, an exhibition by Helen Glencross.

You'll find more performances, exhibitions and cultural events in our Things To Do guide.

 

image: Visit Guernsey

9. Take A Trip To Herm

If you fancy a change of scenery, Herm has put together a full programme of half-term family fun.

The Mermaid Tavern is hosting everything from family rocking bingo and a ghost tour to a family quiz, movie afternoon, pizza and ice-cream sundae making and a Halloween fancy-dress disco.

And, of course, there's plenty to enjoy beyond the organised activities. Take a walk around the island, explore the beaches and make the most of some time away from the usual routine.

If you're tempted to stay longer, Herm is also offering a special half-term accommodation package.

 

10. Have A Halloween Adventure In Sark

Sark has some Halloween fun of its own, and it's a lovely excuse for an autumn island escape.

There's a Pumpkin Party, combining pumpkin picking with a swim, followed by tea and cake, in support of the GSPCA. And for something a little different, Bonkers Bingo gets a spooky Halloween makeover.

If you're staying for longer, make time to explore Sark's quiet lanes and coastal views. Autumn is a lovely season to discover the island at a slower pace.

 

11. Explore Alderney

Alderney has a mix of family activities and Halloween events during half term, with something for different ages.

There's a Children's Halloween Party and the return of Alderney's Haunted House for anyone who enjoys a fright. Halloween parties are also planned at The Georgian House and Braye Beach Hotel.

Away from the Halloween activities, Alderney's beaches, walking routes and independent cafés make it a lovely place to spend a few days.

Browse the Visit Alderney events calendar for more inspiration.

 

 

12. Make Plans With Friends

Sometimes half term is simply an opportunity to catch up with people you've been meaning to see. Arrange brunch, head out for coffee, book dinner somewhere you've been wanting to try or get a few friends together for a creative workshop.

Or why not visit the Guernsey Book Fest at the end of half term? It's a chance to discover local authors, browse their books and perhaps find your next favourite read.

And if you're looking for more ideas, take a look at our Things To Do guide.

 

13. Make Time For Yourself

If you've got some time off, don't forget to make a little of it yours. Book a beauty treatment, take yourself on a solo date or go all out with a spa day at The OGH or St Pierre Park.

If you're looking for something more structured, there’s The Unpaused Retreat, a special menopause wellbeing experience designed to help you unwind, learn and reconnect. Or book a space for a Samhain Deep Rest Evening Retreat by candle light.

Or perhaps an afternoon reading or some time doing absolutely nothing is exactly what you need. Whatever you have planned, we hope you enjoy a little time doing something you love.

Looking for more inspiration? Keep an eye on our regularly updated Things To Do guide for more events, experiences and ideas across the Bailiwick.