As parents ourselves, we know that keeping children entertained throughout the school holidays is no mean feat, and how costs for attraction tickets can quickly add up. We thought we'd help out by sharing five exciting things to do with children in Warwickshire this October Half Term which will save you some pennies!

1: Join the world's biggest celebration of drawing

Scribble, sketch, colour, print, create, explore! The Big Draw Festival returns this October, bringing to life sensational, experimental and creative activities for the whole family to enjoy. This year’s theme #DrawingwithSenses will explore the way we personally process the world and internalise our experiences through our senses. The Festival is for anyone who loves to draw, as well as those who think they can’t!

Saturday 28 October 2023
Rugby Art Gallery, Rugby, CV21 3BZ

2: Take a glimpse into Leamington’s Past

From a small village to the busy town of today, Leamington Spa has changed hugely over the last 250 years. Travel back in time with this free exhibition at Leamington Spa’s Art Gallery & Museum, as they share their amazing collection of paintings, photos and objects to allow visitors an insight into what the town was like in years gone by, and imagine how it might look in the future. Drop by to see what family activities are on offer too.

Until January 2024
Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum, Leamington Spa, CV32 4AA

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3: Have a wander along the river

If you're in the mood for exercise and exploration, then spend half a day doing Riverside Walk - a lovely 3½ mile route linking Leamington and Warwick, following the River Leam, Grand Union Canal and River Avon. Start at Newbold Comyn Leisure Centre and stop off at Jephson Gardens, the Royal Pump Rooms, Victoria Park and St Nicholas Park, hoping over stiles, going under bridges and spotting otters, birds and fish along the way.

Open daily
Start the journey at CV32 4EW

4: Spot the colours of autumn in a beautiful park

Leamington Spa offers so many stunning green spaces to enjoy, including Victoria Park and Jephson Gardens. Just across the river from Jephson you'll find the smaller Mill Gardens, with gorgeous grass areas, a children's play area and a boating lake and boathouse. Winning a Green Flag award every year since 2006, and voted a Green Heritage Site by English Heritage, it's well worth a visit.

Open daily
Mill Gardens, Leamington Spa, CV31 1BB

5: Get your game on at The Dice Box

Open every day from 11am
The Dice Box, Leamington Spa, CV32 4NX

The Dice Box is different to a normal cafe… The Dice Box is a Board Game Cafe, where you can relax, eat and play as many games as you like! Staff (or ‘Games Gurus’) can help you choose from their library of nearly 700 games, including ones suitable for children starting from age 3. Whilst it’s not totally free, under-12s tickets will only set you back £1 per person/per hour - and if you’re able to go during their off-peak hours (Mon-Thurs before 5pm) then adult tickets are just £1 too!

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Half Term Holiday Activities Near You

If you’re on the hunt for fun, exciting things to do with your children, we hope our ideas above provide some inspiration. But if you’re looking to give your child an unforgettable October Half Term whilst you work, then we'd love to welcome your child to one of our Holiday Camps near you.

With over 100 5* independent reviews via Feefo from parents this year, The Strings Club welcomes children from one day to the whole experience.

There are multiple ways to save on our Holiday Camps, including 10% off for first time bookers, childcare vouchers and tax free childcare.