October Half Term
There’s a week full of family fun ahead at Stanwick Lakes, with lots to see and do this half term!
If you’re looking for a bit of fresh air and free play, the playground, tower and our assault course awaits! Or, if you’re looking to learn some outdoor skills, or get creative, take a look at what we have lined up for you…
The Lost Keepers Half Term Trail
Saturday 24th – Sunday 1st November 2026
Follow our trail to find the Lost Keepers. Discover their lost story and the stories behind the special symbols they hold.
“Collect” the symbols by drawing them in your trail booklet as you make each discovery!
Once you’ve found them all, return to the Visitor Centre to collect your prize.
No booking necessary – just purchase your trail leaflet from the Visitor Centre (and collect your reward once done) during Visitor Centre opening hours. We recommend completing the trail between 9.30am – 4pm, during daylight and visitor centre hours.
Become a citizen scientist out in nature or get creative indoors with half term activities
Activities range from playful forest fun and den building to real wildlife surveying for families – spaces are limited, so secure your spot today:
Fabric Printing Workshop – 30th Oct
Join us for this autumn workshop and create your very own design to print onto a tote bag. You’ll use ready-cut stamps and lino blocks to experiment with different patterns, shapes and prints, before creating a unique design of your own. Supported by artist and printmaker Lizzie Ault, who will be providing her own hand-cut lino blocks for you to use and get creative with. It’s a fun, hands-on creative workshop suitable for ages 7+.
Citizen Science: Harvest Mice – various dates
Join us to learn wildlife monitoring techniques as we walk around the nature reserve as you become a citizen scientist! Search in the grasses for abandoned nests, spot signs of wildlife, and try out real survey skills used by scientists. You’ll even be helping the Mammal Society’s National Harvest Mouse Survey – so your adventure has a real purpose! Perfect for curious kids and families who love the outdoors.
Willow Lantern Workshops – 29th & 30th Oct
Hand craft willow lanterns using materials that our Ranger team has collected during their conservation work, right here on the reserve. With friendly guidance, you’ll build a lantern frame, add twinkling lights, and cover it with a ghostly white tissue paper canvas. Then it’s time for the best bit… decorating! Use bright colours, creepy shapes, and spooky designs to make your lantern come alive!
Also in the Visitor Centre this half term..
Pop-up Pottery Painting – no need to book
We’ve added a seasonal selection to our pottery options for half term, including pumpkin pots and mushroom oil burners. Or why not paint a monstrous mug or a petrifying plate!?
From £9
More from the Visitor Centre
Café...
A delightful assortment of spooky-themed cookies and cakes, freshly baked – no tricks – just treats – in our café!
Gift Shop...
A charming array of Autumnal gifts waiting to add a touch of warmth to the season – find them in our gift shop!
Play Areas & Adventure Trails
The playground and play tower await you this Easter, alongside water play for little ones, and lots of sand, plus the assault course is only a short walk away. Our food and drink outlets are ready to keep you refreshed and our café menu will ensure you’re satisfied! Explore more – along our adventure trail – with climbing rocks, rope bridge and zip line.