Spooky Season in Newquay

Discover October half-term Adventures

Half-term is here, which can only mean one thing: Zombies! As Newquay gears up for its annual Halloween Zombie Crawl, we’ve created an itinerary to inspire you to make the most of the week off school.

Of course, there’s more to half-term here than spooky strolls (and more to eat than brains) – discover how a half-term break in Newquay can be a breath of fresh air the whole family will love.

You can mix and match from the suggested activities below to create a great day out during your stay.

Please note: You will need to contact the venue or experience provider directly to book.

Zombie Crawl - Halloween in Newquay

On Saturday 26^th October 2024, Newquay will be transformed into a day of the living dead with a parade of zombies walking through town. In the morning, families can enjoy free face painting, scary storytelling, and wound-making and zombie outfit-making workshops. The zombie crawl then begins at 3pm in Sainsbury’s car park. Find out more here.

Animal Adventures - Newquay Zoo

Come rain or shine, you’ll have a great family day out at Newquay Zoo. It’s home to more than 130 species, including zebras, monkeys, penguins, red pandas and more. In addition to the array of animals, there are wonderful sub-tropical gardens to explore, an outdoor play area the kids will love and fascinating talks from the zoo’s rangers. Newquay Zoo encourages you to book online before visiting.

Underwater Worlds - Blue Reef Aquarium

You don’t need great weather to spend time exploring the ocean. Learn more about the creatures that live on the Cornish coast (and those from warmer seas too!) with a visit to Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay. From seahorses to their rescued sea turtle, there’s so much to discover. Top tip: Walk through the ocean tunnel to see rays and sharks swimming overhead.

Coastal Takeaways - Pasties and Fish & Chips

After a refreshing winter walk, there’s nothing better than the warmth of a Cornish pasty to wrap your hands around – or the aroma of salt and vinegar to awaken your senses. Enjoy a feast on the coast by picking up a takeaway from one of the many restaurants across Newquay. With Rick Stein’s at Fistral Beach, Flounders on East Street, Morris Pasties on Gover Lane and more, you can tick all your Cornish holiday boxes.

Explore Porth Island - Porth Beach

Flanked by rugged cliffs, Porth Beach is a relatively sheltered cove and a wonderful place to walk your dog in the off-season. Visit at low tide to really make the most of the golden sands, caves and rockpools. While you’re here, walk across the little footbridge to Porth Island. From this vantage point, it’s easy to get your bearings (and watch the surfers). On your left, you’ll be able to see Newquay town and the headland, to your right, Whipsiddery Beach and Watergate Bay. 

Halloween Hunt - Trenance Cottages

The annual Halloween Hunt at Trenance Cottages returns on 27th October 2024. The event includes a pumpkin hunt and children’s crafts and games. Entry is £4 per child.  The Garden Cafe will be serving spooky treats and devilish hot dogs too.  Find out more here.

Street Food on the Beach - The Boathouse

Enjoy a chilled evening at Newquay Harbour, where you’ll find a relaxed street food market right on the beach. During October, The Boathouse will be serving up comforting mac and cheese, pie and mash, delicious crêpes and more. Find out more about the street food vendors and what’s on during Halloween by visiting The Boathouse’s Instagram page. Top tip: Olla Hiki Sauna will also be there to warm you up this October.

Dog-friendly Beach Bar - Lusty Glaze

Experience the beauty of this privately owned cove and cosy up with a warm drink at the venue’s beach bar. You’re welcome to bring your dog, kick back and enjoy the sea views. Lusty Glaze will also be hosting live music events on weekends throughout autumn and winter. Top tip: An exciting pop-up restaurant will be opening this October (2023), bringing a fresh seasonal menu and beer and bao nights to the beach.

Tell us about your Autumn and Winter Discoveries

Whether you’ve just come back from an amazing autumn or winter break, or you’re an experience provider and would like to be featured in a future itinerary, please share your discoveries with us on social media using #NewSeasonNewquay.

The information on this page was correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. You will need to contact the venue or provider directly to confirm any seasonal opening details and to book the experiences mentioned.