With half term running from Monday 24 to Friday 28 October parents in the BCP Council area will be looking for fun ideas to keep the family entertained.

From enjoying the autumnal colours at Hengistbury Head in Christchurch, to fun-packed days out in Bournemouth, or more cultured afternoons in Dorset’s most visited free attraction, Poole Museum, here are some suggestions.

Treat the kids to a round of spooky adventure mini golf at Smuggler’s Cove and enjoy the autumn colours in the Upper and Lower Gardens. For older teenagers and adults, head to the Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum on Saturday 29 October where an immersive mystery game ‘The Evil Engagement’ will take place. Make sure you buy your tickets in advance.

For little ones, try Stour Valley Kingfisher Barn, which will be hosting a half term spider-themed trail from 22-30 October.

Experience the romance and excitement of the coastline which inspired Thomas Hardy’s writing at Poole Museum, with a macabre bone guillotine carved by a Napoleonic prisoner of war among some of the grislier finds. Children can explore the exhibition with the Wessex the Dog fun detective trail.

For more outdoor fun that is pocket friendly, head over to Upton Country Park, where you will find a Witches Brew Adventure Trail. Search the grounds at Upton Country Park to find all the ingredients the witch needs to create her potion.

Pokemon fans will also love the spooky augmented reality experience which is coming to Christchurch this Halloween. Look out for posters in shops from 14-31 October to take part in the free Halloween Hunt Trail on the LoyalFree app and try your luck to be in with the chance to win two tickets to The Regent Centre.

Red House Museum also invites you to join them this Halloween half term for some spooktacular fun at the museum. Have a ghoulishly good time as you follow the Halloween trail around Milestones to spot who’s haunting the museum’s buildings.

The whole family can admire the autumn colours at Hengistbury Head this half term. The nearby visitor centre will host a Halloween-themed Astronomy and Archaeology event from 7-9pm on Friday 28 October.

Cllr Beverley Dunlop, portfolio holder for Tourism, Culture and Vibrant Places said: “With half term coming up and much tighter budgets going into winter, parents will be concerned about the cost of children’s activities over the holiday and will be on the lookout for fun things to do that fit their budget.

“So, we have pulled together this mini guide of pocket-friendly things to do that are on your doorstep to help. From nature walks to art to Halloween fun, there’s something for everyone. You can find out more on our websites bournemouth.co.uk, pooletourism.com and visit-christchurch.co.uk.”