Today’s blue skies have made me all hopeful that the October half term break could be a relatively warm and fun school holiday this year.

I have to admit that I love the October half term as it is usually the last good chance to spend a short break outside in the fresh air in the UK and Ireland before the colder weather arrives.  It’s also a holiday that’s filled with happy memories of carving pumpkins outside with my children ready for Halloween fun and games.

Although this break can be chilly later in the day, there is usually plenty of sunshine that means you can make good use of the day.  If you are doing pumpkin carving though, do it earlier in the day, one year I did it later in the day and my fingers had gone numb with cold by the time we had finished!

There are lots of great places to stay on a half term break but with the nights becoming cooler a cosy holiday cottage is ideal.  There are plenty of good family sized self catering holiday cottages and at this time of year there is quite good availability.  If you are looking for some inspiration we have put together a list of great family cottages ideal for the half term break.

Of course if you are looking for something a little cheaper or something with lots of kids activities lined up for the school half-term then it is well worth considering a holiday park.  The accommodation is heated and cosy and perfect for a family sized group.  You will find many of the holiday parks will have an entertainment programme for the Half Term holiday which will keep your children occupied.