Half Term for families in West Sussex

Experience a spectacular half term activity with the Chichester950 Light Experience; the dazzling finale of the Chichester Cathedral’s 950th anniversary celebrations.

Running in the early evening from 24th to 31st October 2025, this immersive light and sound installation was created by the internationally renowned Luxmuralis. Every corner of the Cathedral will be transformed into a vibrant canvas of colour, story and music, celebrating nine and a half centuries of history. Using thousands of images from the Cathedral and West Sussex Record Office archives, the installation offers a truly family friendly event that will be one to remember!

This half term, step back in time and set off on a South Downs adventure the whole family will love. While adults and older children soak up the inspiring Every Step of the Way art exhibition (celebrating the beauty of the 100 mile South Downs Way), little explorers can dive into hands on history and wide open spaces.

The exhibition spans two unique venues:

The Novium Museum: Free to enter, this museum is built over the remains of a Roman bath house and packed with fascinating artefacts. Three floors of local stories and treasures make it the perfect place for curious kids to roam while adults enjoy the artworks.

Weald & Downland Living Museum: Set among historic buildings and rolling countryside, this outdoor museum includes the exhibition in its entry price. Families can watch a working watermill in action, play traditional games, and run free in a landscape steeped in history - plus for half term, families can explore the world of witches marks and hidden objects.

The Every Step of the Way exhibition feature pieces from 33 talented artists exploring all 11 sections of the South Downs Way, and offers a fresh look at the long distance walk from Eastbourne to Winchester.

Whether you’re wandering cobbled streets, stepping inside ancient homes, or admiring contemporary art, this is a half term outing that blends art, history, and adventure guaranteed to delight both grown-ups and kids.

With lots of spooky, Halloween themed events taking place around Chichester and West Sussex, grab your broomsticks and whoosh over to our Halloween Days Out blogpost for Tricksome Treats and Frightening Fun!

Enjoy an exciting half term activity with Children’s Camps at Golf at Goodwood, perfect for young golfers aged 5 to 13. This half term camp offer a fun, supportive environment where children can learn and develop their children’s golf skills, whether they’re complete beginners or already confident players.

Led by Goodwood’s expert coaching team, each child will be placed into a group according to their age and ability to ensure tailored guidance and plenty of encouragement. Running from 27 to 29 October 2025, the junior golf camp operates from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, giving young golfers a full day of activity and learning.

The Winter junior golf camp is an excellent way for kids to build confidence, make friends, and enjoy a memorable sporting adventure during their days out this October half term.

Make the most of your days out this half term with an exciting space themed Family Fun Day at South Downs Planetarium. The days will be packed full of space themed activities for children and their adults to enjoy together. 

Highlights include Virtual Reality headsets, safe solar observing (weather permitting), and model rocket launches. Budding astronomers can try drawing craters on the Moon using a telescope, learn the importance of dark skies for wildlife and even test their skills at spotting a meteorite.

You can also explore fascinating rocks and fossils, piece together a giant wooden jigsaw puzzle, and let little ones get creative at the drawing and colouring table. Children will love the space-themed dressing up clothes! It's time for an adventure this October half-term.

Join Wilfrid the Seal on a free fun family trail at Chichester Cathedral, perfect for days out this half term.  Complete the trail to collect a special Chichester950 sticker and explore the Cathedral’s rich history and heritage in an engaging, interactive way. Trails are available from the Visitor’s Desk and other points around the Cathedral, making it an ideal day out in October for all ages.

Families can follow Wilfrid the Seal to discover historic artefacts, from flowers pressed in a WWI Bible to 800 year old rings worn by 12th-century Bishops.

Suitable for all ages, younger children can enjoy an eye spy game, and everyone can try making the 18th Century rice pudding recipe at home. It's great fun day out in Chichester for the whole family.

Entrance to the Cathedral is free but donations are welcome. 

See wildlife in stunning detail at Arundel Wetland Centre's new monthly Optics Days. Happily, the October 2025 Optic Day falls during half term, so it is perfect to add to your list of family activities.

The event is held in the Discovery Hide overlooking Arundel Riverlife Lagoon. Come along on Saturday 25th October, and you will be able to test binoculars and scopes from top brands like Swarovski, Viking, and WWT. Get expert guidance, try beginner-friendly to advanced optics, and enjoy spotting birds and insects in real-life conditions.

These event is included in your admission ticket or free for WWT members, and is a great day out in October for nature lovers of all ages.

Dive into half term fun with Mulberry Marine Experiences and inspire your young ocean lovers with hands on marine ecology activities. Perfect for days out this half term; these sessions give children the chance to explore the beach, discover marine life, and learn fascinating facts about UK sharks and rays.

Led by experienced SSI Marine Ecology Instructor Anya, each 3-hour session combines Beach Bingo, Junior Eco Warrior challenges, and practical learning; all from the safety of the shore.

Suitable for children over 8 (younger children welcome with an adult), these events are designed for beginners and budding ecologists alike. Held at locations around Selsey, with indoor alternatives if the weather turns; this is a fantastic day out in October to get outside, have fun, and help support ocean education. Advance booking is required.

Let your little ones enjoy days out this half term at Goodwood where they can explore the wonders of the woodland. Children can run free, discover nature, and try hands-on activities like lighting a fire, toasting marshmallows, making seasonal crafts, or building a den. Overnight stays at The Goodwood Hotel during half term start from £150 per room, with children's activities ranging from £8 per session. 

Embrace Autumn and let young explorers connect with nature and enjoy a memorable half term experience. 

Join Pallant House Gallery, Chichester, West Sussex, during the October Half Term for some fun and creativity for all the family with a range of free and paid for creative workshops aimed at families.

Spend an enriching few hours being creative with your children at the Goodwood Art Foundation Family Art Club. A different creative activity will be the focus on each of the sessions, led by the artist educator. All materials are provided and there’s no need to book a space - just drop in on the day (one ticket holding adult can accompany up to four children).

When: 10.30am – 2pm on Sunday 26th, Monday 27th and Friday 31st October.

Don't miss: There are wonderful self-guided art trails for children at the Art Foundation which explore the beautiful landscapes here aiming to spark curiosity through play, observation, and creativity. Activity cards can be collected from the Visitor Information desk in The Gallery.