Half-Term Hikes for Families

October half-term is a great time to head outdoors, cool enough to keep things comfortable, but often dry enough to get a few good miles in. The key is picking the right walks: nothing too steep or remote, but still interesting enough to keep younger walkers engaged and adults happy.

Whether you’re planning a full-day outing or just want a loop to burn off energy between museum visits and hot chocolates, these family-friendly hikes strike a good balance between manageable terrain and memorable moments.

What Makes a Good Half-Term Walk?

For most families, it’s about:

• Distance: ideally 3–6 km (2–4 miles), with the option to extend or shorten
  
  
• Variety: forests, water, animals, ruins, or even a well-placed rope swing
  
  
• Facilities: nearby parking, toilets, or a café make a big difference
  
  
• Safety: solid underfoot, clear paths, and not too remote
  
  
• A reward: something at the end — a view, a waterfall, or a place to play
  
  

Here are some of the best family-friendly routes across the UK to enjoy this half-term.

1. 

Aira Force Waterfall, Lake District

Short, safe, and scenic, the Aira Force loop near Ullswater offers woodland trails, bridges, and the dramatic waterfall itself. There’s parking, picnic spots, and the walk is short enough for younger legs without being boring. Add a lakeside paddle if it’s warm enough.

2. 

The Gruffalo Trail, Wendover Woods, Buckinghamshire

Forestry England’s themed trails are ideal for little ones. Wendover Woods features an interactive Gruffalo trail with sculptures, signs, and optional app games. The walk itself is easy-going, and there’s a café and playground to bookend the outing.

3. 

Padley Gorge, Peak District

Winding through ancient oak woodland with stepping stones and shallow streams, Padley Gorge is a natural playground. You can link it up with the Longshaw Estate for a longer circuit, or simply follow the water and explore at your own pace.

4. 

Glenariff Forest Park, Northern Ireland

Known as the ‘Queen of the Glens,’ Glenariff’s forest trails follow waterfalls, wooden boardwalks, and mossy cliffs. The Waterfall Walkway is ideal for families, clearly waymarked with lots to see and a café at the visitor centre.

5. 

Loch an Eilein, Cairngorms

A flat loop around a loch, with reflections of the Cairngorms and a ruined castle on an island. This 5 km trail is ideal for families with mixed ages. The path is firm, pushchair-friendly, and wildlife like red squirrels are often spotted.

6. 

Rhossili Bay to Worm’s Head (Tide-Dependent)

If your kids love a bit of adventure, this Gower Peninsula walk has it; a dramatic beach, clifftop views, and the chance (if timed with the tide) to walk across to Worm’s Head causeway. Always check tide times and stick to the main path.

7. 

Cardinham Woods, Cornwall

This woodland near Bodmin is full of well-maintained trails for all abilities. The Lady Vale Walk is a 2 km pushchair-accessible route alongside a stream, and longer routes like the Wheal Glynn trail add distance for older kids. Café, toilets, and bike hire available.

8. 

Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh

If you’re based in the city, this extinct volcano in Holyrood Park gives a short, sharp climb with huge views over the capital. Multiple route options, take the easier green route if you’re with smaller children.

Tips for a Smooth Half-Term Hike

• Layer up – autumn weather changes fast, especially at higher ground
  
  
• Snacks make everything better – keep energy up and morale high
  
  
• Turn around early – leave something for next time if energy dips
  
  
• Let kids lead – giving them a map or goal makes the walk more engaging
  
  
• Check tide times / daylight hours – especially on coastal or longer routes
  

Summary

Half-term walks don’t have to be epic to be memorable. Pick something manageable, build in a bit of curiosity or play, and make time for a snack stop, that’s often all it takes. Whether it’s forest, coastline, loch, or moorland, there’s plenty of UK walking to explore this October that fits around family plans and keeps everyone moving.

Photo by Ian Cylkowski on Unsplash