October half term can feel a long way off until you realise it’s only around three weeks away. If you’re hoping to swap grey skies for sunshine, now’s the time to start looking.
First, check your October half term dates
For most schools in England and Wales, October half term 2026 runs from Monday 26 October to Friday 30 October. Dates can vary by local authority, academy trust or individual school, so please check your own school calendar or the latest government guidance.
Scotland doesn’t have one national October half term. Each of the 32 councils sets its own dates, with breaks generally falling between roughly 5 and 19 October 2026. Some councils take one week, while others have a two-week break.
In Northern Ireland, the break is typically in the last week of October, but dates can vary. Please confirm the exact dates directly with your school.
Once you know when you can travel, choosing becomes much easier, and booking sooner gives you a better chance of securing suitable flights, family rooms and resort facilities.
Where to go for October sunshine Canary Islands: the dependable short-haul choice
Tenerife, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are among the most popular options for October half term holidays, particularly for families travelling during the final week of the month.
You’ll find direct flights, a flight time of around four to four-and-a-half hours, no time difference and a wide choice of family-friendly resorts. Look for hotels with kids’ clubs, heated pools, waterparks and all-inclusive dining to make the week feel effortless.
The Canaries are a strong choice for family beach holidays. Southern Tenerife, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura tend to offer some of the most reliable late-October warmth, though weather is never guaranteed.
Turkey: excellent resorts, especially earlier in October
Antalya and Dalaman offer impressive family resorts, spacious pools, waterslides and generous all-inclusive packages. Turkey is often good value, especially if you’re travelling during the earlier Scottish October breaks.
Late October can be warmer than the UK but less predictable than the Canaries, so it’s worth choosing a resort with plenty of indoor and outdoor facilities.
Egypt and Cape Verde: more reliable heat
Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh are ideal if you want sunshine, warm sea temperatures and the option to add excursions. Cape Verde offers a relaxed beach-resort atmosphere and dependable warmth, although the flight is longer than to the Canaries.
Both work well for families who want to spend most of the week by the pool or beach, with minimal travelling once they arrive.
Dubai, Cyprus, Tunisia, Madeira and the Algarve
Dubai offers hot weather, waterparks, shopping and big family appeal, while Cyprus, Tunisia, Madeira and the Algarve can suit a shorter, gentler escape.
Much of the Mediterranean starts winding down from late October, so some resorts, restaurants and attractions may operate reduced hours.
Make the most of one week
One week goes quickly, particularly with children, so direct flights, shorter transfers and an all-inclusive resort can remove a surprising amount of friction. When comparing options, think beyond the headline price and check flight times, luggage, transfers, family room layouts, pool facilities, children’s menus and what’s included, as a slightly more convenient option can make the holiday feel far more relaxing.
The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is now in operation at Schengen airports. UK families may be asked for biometric details, including a facial image and fingerprints, when entering the Schengen area. Allow extra time at the border and read the latest UK government EES guidance. We’ll flag anything important for your journey before you travel.
Let us take care of the details
As your family holiday planner, we can compare more than 450 travel brands to find an option that suits your dates, preferences and budget, from practical family breaks to all inclusive luxury holidays and fully tailor made holidays.
We can arrange flights, accommodation, transfers, airport parking and excursions, while reminding you about insurance and helping with check-in and travel details. Our service is free, and your booking is fully ABTA protected.
Ready to explore October half term breaks? Contact Emmitt Travel and we’ll help you find the right destination before the best options disappear.
I have worked in healthcare for 19 years, building my career at some of the country’s leading paediatric hospitals, including Great Ormond Street Hospital, Birmingham Children’s Hospital and…
