12 things to do in the UK in October 2026

Spooky season is upon us come October, and some truly terrifying happenings are set to unfold in every corner of the UK 🎃

Spooky season is upon us come October, and some truly terrifying happenings are set to unfold in every corner of the UK. So, let’s dive into the coolest (and spookiest) things to do in October 2026 🎃

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1. Fright Nights at Thorpe Park

• 
  2nd October 2026 – 1st November 2026

The ultimate destination for spooky season is Thorpe Park in Surrey, where only the bravest souls will enter. Come face-to-face with the most dreaded and tormented terrors in scare mazes and scare zones – featuring live actors, special effects and frights around every corner. There will be awe-inspiring shows featuring live stage performers and special effects that will leave you petrified.

And of course, there will be thrilling rides in the dark – not least the world’s first horror movie-themed rollercoaster Saw – The Ride.​ Plus, with favourites like Hyperia, Swarm and Stealth, it’s easy to spend the whole day and night here!

2. Tulleys Shocktober Fest

• 
  2nd October 2026 – 1st November 2026

Fancy a fright this October? Then you HAVE to check out Tulleys Shocktober Fest! This isn’t your average Halloween event; it’s the ultimate Halloween full-on scream park. Wander through spooky mazes filled with creepy characters, jump scares galore and enough eerie atmosphere to make your hair stand on end. It’s the perfect place to get your heart racing and your adrenaline pumping.

But don’t worry, it’s not all scares and frights! Between facing your fears, you can grab a bite to eat, enjoy some live entertainment and soak up the spooky atmosphere with your friends.

3. Cheltenham Literature Festival

• 
  10th October 2025 – 19th October 2025

October is Literature Festival season! Celebrating the written and spoken word, the world-renowned Cheltenham Literature Festival presents the best new voices in fiction and poetry alongside literary greats and high-profile speakers. This impressive 10-day programme includes a mixture of ticketed events, free family activities, events and fringe events scattered throughout the Regency town.

You can book up your diary from cover to cover or just sit back and soak up the culture in the Festival Village, where the heart of the story unfolds.

4. Cardiff Half Marathon

• 
  4th October 2026

A flat, fast and scenic course through the Welsh capital is one of the largest and most exciting road races in the UK. Over 27,500 registered runners take part alongside world-class athletes in a trio of fiercely contested men’s, women’s and wheelchair elite races. Participants pass Cardiff Castle, the Principality Stadium and stunning Cardiff Bay on this spectacular route.

Supporting various charities and good causes, the Cardiff Half Marathon raises over £3 million each year. Spectators can enjoy big screens, music and prize giveaways as well as tiered standing terraces giving a fantastic view over the finish line.

5. Henley Literary Festival

• 
  2nd October 2026 – 11th October 2026

Fancy a literary escape this October? From the 3rd to the 8th October, the charming town of Henley-upon-Thames comes alive with words and ideas, as the Henley Literary Festival returns. This bookworm’s dream features everything from talks with your favourite authors to discovering and getting lost in incredible new stories.

Whether you’re a seasoned reader or just starting your bookish journey, there’s something for everyone at Henley Literary Festival. From heart-warming novels to fascinating deep dives into health and science, you’ll find yourself inspired and entertained by the array of genres celebrated at the Henley Literary Festival.

8. BFI London Film Festival

• 
  7th October 2026 – 18th October 2026

The BFI London Film Festival promises a selection of the best in world cinema for UK audiences. Growing in popularity each year, the BFI London Film Festival offers a wide array of films that represent a variety of languages, genres and filmmaking styles.

The festival will showcase exceptional British filmmaking alongside international work. The programme spans features, shorts, fiction, documentaries, artists’ moving images, restorations, animation and films for families, alongside titles destined for awards-season glory.

7. The Devil Wears Prada at Dominion Theatre

If you’re heading to London for a West End trip this October, make sure The Devil Wears Prada at the Dominion Theatre is on your list. The classic tale of ambition, fashion and high heels has been given a fabulous new life on the West End stage, with Elton John penning the music and a dazzling creative team bringing the drama of Runway magazine to life. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the 2006 original or just love a sharp, stylish musical, this production is bursting with energy!

The Dominion Theatre is the perfect venue to host this glitzy, high-fashion story – situated right in the heart of the West End and close to all the action. Expect bold costume design, captivating choreography and sharp one-liners that will have you laughing (and cringing) in equal measure. So channel your inner Miranda Priestly, dress to impress and don’t miss this stylish hit while you’re in the UK this autumn.

9. Halloween bottomless brunch

Fancy a bit of Halloween witchcraft with your morning mimosas? London’s got you covered! There’s nothing quite like combining spooky season with a classic bottomless brunch. It’s the perfect way to kickstart a day of Halloween fun!

If you’re looking for something a bit out of the ordinary, Ballie Ballerson is a must-visit. Expect bottomless drinks, delicious food and a massive ball pit to top it all off! Add a touch of Halloween magic and you’ve got yourself a spooky spectacular! Or check out Blame Gloria or The Prince, who know how to throw a party! And their Halloween bottomless brunches are sure to be epic. Expect delicious food, flowing drinks and a whole lot of Halloween cheer. Just remember, fancy dress is pretty much a requirement!

10. Betfred Super League Grand Final 2026

• 
  3rd October 2026

More men running around a field with an oval ball in October, but this time in the British tradition at Manchester’s Old Trafford. The Betfred Super League Grand Final unfolds in the Theatre of Dreams this October as rugby fans descend to see who will take home the glory of this beloved sporting competition.

11. Bloomsbury Festival

• 
  1st October 2026 – 31st October 2026

If you fancy exploring London’s rich local culture and creativity, then the Bloomsbury Festival will be right up your street! Every October, this London neighbourhood transforms into a buzzing hub of arts, music and everything in between.

From mind-boggling performances to thought-provoking talks, explore every hidden corner of Bloomsbury, discovering secret gardens and stumbling upon live music or art installations. It’s like a treasure hunt for culture!

12. Tulleys Pumpkin Festival

Looking for epic pumpkin picking fun this October? Tulleys Pumpkin Festival offers a spectacular Halloween adventure that the whole family will adore. With over 1 million pumpkins scattered across their West Sussex countryside venue, there are endless photo opportunities at Tulleys Pumpkin Festival. Be sure to check out the quirky live roaming characters throughout the Pumpkin Village and plenty of street food options – including smash burgers, loaded fries and, of course, pumpkin spice lattes!