From pumpkin picking and family fun to coastal walks and spooky celebrations, there’s plenty to enjoy in Porthcawl this October
As the autumn leaves begin to fall and Halloween approaches, Porthcawl is getting ready for a busy October half term.
With the school holidays running from Monday 26 October to Friday 30 October 2026 for most local schools, families will have plenty of opportunities to enjoy some autumn fun in and around the town – with Halloween following on Saturday 31 October.
And with more than 130 events currently listed for Porthcawl throughout October, there’s something for all ages to enjoy.
Pick your own pumpkin
Nothing says October quite like a trip to the pumpkin patch, and families can get into the Halloween spirit at Porthcawl Pumpkin Patch at Ty Coch Farm.
The popular seasonal attraction is scheduled throughout October, including every day from Saturday 24 October through to Halloween on Saturday 31 October.
It’s a great chance for children to choose their own pumpkin before heading home to carve it ready for Halloween. The patch is set across several acres and offers a range of pumpkin varieties, with visitors advised to wear suitable footwear as the fields can become muddy.
For families looking for a quintessential autumn day out, it’s certainly one to put on the calendar.
A spooktacular afternoon at The Hi-Tide
Halloween celebrations are also taking place at The Hi-Tide, which is hosting a Spooktacular Halloween Afternoon Tea on Friday 30 October.
The family event promises plenty of Halloween entertainment, including spooky character meet-and-greets, face painting, spooky slush, a Hocus Pocus pick ’n’ mix, singing and dancing.
Characters including Maleficent, Wednesday Addams and Sally are set to make appearances, while children's tickets include a spooky meal.
It's the sort of event that should appeal to families looking to make the most of the final Friday of half term – although places are limited, so it's worth checking availability directly with the venue.
Make the most of Porthcawl’s coastline
Of course, you don't need to book an organised event to enjoy the school holidays in Porthcawl.
Autumn is a fantastic time to explore the coastline, particularly if you wrap up warm and make the most of a crisp, sunny day.
A stroll along the seafront, a walk around the harbour or a trip to Rest Bay can all make for an inexpensive family day out. The town's beaches and coastal paths take on a very different character during the autumn months, with fewer summer crowds and plenty of fresh sea air.
For families with younger children, Trecco Bay is another option for a walk and some outdoor time, while Porthcawl's cafés and independent businesses provide plenty of opportunities to warm up afterwards.
Plenty happening for children
The pumpkin patch isn't the only family-friendly activity on the October calendar.
Regular children's activities listed around the half-term period include Grace's Gigglers, Porthcawl Pandas, and children's activities at Porthcawl Library, including Lego Tuesdays.
The town's October events calendar also features sports, community activities, markets, music and entertainment, demonstrating just how much is going on locally throughout the month.
Halloween weekend
Halloween falls on Saturday 31 October this year, making the final weekend of October a particularly exciting one for families.
With the Pumpkin Patch open on Halloween itself and events taking place across Porthcawl and the wider Bridgend area, there are plenty of ways to embrace the spooky season – whether that's dressing up for a family event, carving pumpkins at home or simply heading out for an autumn walk.
For those willing to travel a little further, Halloween activities are also planned at attractions including Bryngarw Country Park, where a family-friendly Halloween trail is scheduled from 24 October to 1 November.
A great time to enjoy life in Porthcawl
October half term is a reminder of just how much there is to enjoy on the doorstep for those who live in Porthcawl.
From its beaches and coastal walks to local cafés, community events and seasonal attractions, the town offers plenty to keep families entertained long after the summer crowds have disappeared.
So, whether you're planning a pumpkin-picking trip, getting the children's costumes ready or simply hoping to make the most of a few days together by the coast, Porthcawl has plenty going on this October half term.
Dates for your diary
Monday 26 – Friday 30 October: October half term
Friday 30 October: Spooktacular Halloween Afternoon Tea at The Hi-Tide
Saturday 31 October: Halloween
Saturday 24 – Saturday 31 October: Porthcawl Pumpkin Patch at Ty Coch Farm
Event dates and details can change, so check with individual organisers before travelling or booking.