Half term is here. The kids are ghoulishly excited. The weather… well, it’s Norfolk. Don’t panic, we’ve got you. There’s plenty to keep little ones (and the bigger ones) entertained and off the screens, and adults… mostly sane.
Whether you’re boating with us at Barnes Brinkcraft, exploring Wroxham, or venturing into Norwich, there’s a mix of outdoor fun, spooky adventures, and hands-on activities for the whole family.
Explore the Broads with Barnes Brinkcraft
Hire a Barnes Brinkcraft Day Boat
The best way to see The Broads is on a boat! You can hire a Barnes Brinkcraft day boat for an hour, half day, or full day. If you are staying with us then you are lucky enough to already have the use of a boat!
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🎣 Fishing – see who catches the first (or the biggest)
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🥪 Picnics – sandwiches taste better on a boat (fact)
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🦆 Wildlife spotting – swans, herons, and maybe a cheeky kingfisher or otter
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🏞️ Hop on and off at local attractions – stretch those legs and let the kids burn off that Halloween sugar
Most of our boats have foldaway canopies ⛱️ (sun or showers, you’re covered) and toilets + a kettle 🚻☕, because there’s nothing like a brew onboard and no one likes soggy sandwiches.
BeWILDerwood: A Ghoulishly Fun Woodland Adventure
📍 Horning, just a short boat ride or drive from Wroxham
From October 25 to November 2, BeWILDerwood transforms into a Halloween wonderland. Kids can:
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🧙♂️ Climb, zip, and explore the magical forest play structures
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🎨 Take part in Halloween crafts and face stencils
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💃 Join the Spooky Disco and Storytelling shows
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🍬 Follow the Twig or Treat trail for little surprises
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✨ End the day on the Glowing Light Trail for extra magical vibes
There’s also a Best Dressed Boggle competition daily—perfect for little witches, wizards, and spooky explorers.
Wroxham Barns: Jungle Adventures
📍 Wroxham Barns
From October 25 to November 2, kids can get wild:
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Ranger Rita’s Riddle Maze
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Bushtucker Trials (yes, you might have to taste something dodgy)
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Meet-and-greet with animals 🐾
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Hands-on creepy critters
Half a day of fun, adventure, and the occasional “Do I really have to touch it?”
Dotty Pottery: Little Monsters Unleashed
📍 Wroxham Barns
On October 29, let the kids:
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Listen to storytime: Little Monsters
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Paint and take home their very own ceramic monster 🎨
Indoor fun for when it’s a bit drizzly—or when you’ve had enough of wet wellies.
Family Shows in Norwich
📍 Norwich
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The Three Bears (Oct 27) – Fairy tale with a twist. No bears were harmed in the making.
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War Horse Puppetry Workshop (Oct 28) – Get hands-on, ages 10–15. Puppets are less messy than the real thing.
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Fantastic Pablo Fanque (Oct 31) – History and circus rolled into one.
Full schedule here
Norwich Castle: Family Saturday
📍 Norwich
October 25 – crafts, costumed characters, and plenty to keep little hands busy (and your coffee cup safe).
Outdoor Fun & Halloween Trails
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Whitlingham Country Park, Norwich – Oct 29, free Halloween family fun, crafts, and nature-based games. Ideal for little monsters.
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How Hill House, Ludham – Oct 23, craft stalls, orienteering, and dyke dipping. Good luck keeping the kids dry.
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Taverham Mill, Norwich – Oct 25–Nov 1, Halloween-themed nature trail (£3 kids / £6 adults). Perfect excuse for a brisk autumn walk.
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🛶 Make the Most of Your Half Term
From boating and wildlife spotting to craft workshops and spooky trails, Norfolk is full of ways to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re on the Broads with Barnes Brinkcraft or exploring Wroxham, Norwich, and beyond, there’s plenty to do—and plenty of memories to make.
Remember: Half term isn’t about perfection. It’s about enjoying the ride, even if it involves a wet sandwich or two.