Half term always seems to come around quickly and finding ways to keep everyone entertained for a whole week can sometimes feel like an activity in itself. Fortunately, there is plenty happening locally this October, with a brilliant programme of half term activities at Cranleigh Arts for children and families to enjoy.
From getting up close to British wildlife and creating your own comic strips to pottery painting, drumming and retro gaming, there is something for all kinds of interests. So, if you are starting to make plans for the October break, here are some of the highlights coming to Cranleigh Arts.
Get Wild with Wild About Britain
Things get off to a wild start with Wild About Britain on 20th October.
This interactive experience gives children the opportunity to meet some of the fascinating creatures that can be found right here in Britain, including a tawny owl, kestrel, hedgehog, common toad and smooth snake.
There will also be opportunities for handling, helping children learn more about native wildlife while experiencing some of these amazing animals up close.
Suitable for ages four and upwards, it is a great choice for curious young nature lovers and anyone who would rather see wildlife in real life than just on a screen.
Prepare to Be Amazed by The Ultimate Bubble Show
Bubbles are pretty simple. Until an international Bubbleologist gets involved.
The Ultimate Bubble Show arrives at Cranleigh Arts on 21st October with world record holder Ray Bubbles on a mission to create the ultimate square bubble.
Expect bubble sculptures, unusual effects and plenty of surprises, including volcano bubbles, bubble carousels and even a tornado inside a bubble.
The show is suitable for all ages and has also been developed through Ray’s work with SEND schools, neurodivergent groups and science centres, making it an accessible and entertaining experience for a wide range of families.
Create Your Own Comic
For children who spend their spare time sketching characters, inventing superheroes or filling notebooks with doodles, the Comic Art Masterclass on 22nd October could be right up their street.
The session is led by Kev F Sutherland, whose work includes Beano, Doctor Who and Marvel comics. During the workshop, children will learn how comic strips are created and get the chance to put their own ideas onto the page.
Everyone taking part will leave with a comic containing work created by the class, as well as their own caricature by Kev.
The masterclass is suitable for ages seven and over, making it one of the half term activities at Cranleigh Arts that is particularly suited to older children who enjoy drawing and storytelling.
Make Some Noise at the Drum Circle
Sometimes children need a half-term activity where being noisy isn’t just allowed – it’s actively encouraged.
The Drum Circle returns on 24th October with Ray Watters leading a relaxed, energetic and family-friendly session.
You don’t need any previous musical experience and all the drums and percussion instruments are provided. The emphasis is simply on joining in, experimenting with rhythm and having fun together.
It is an easy way for the whole family to try something a little different, without having to worry about hitting a wrong note.
Get Creative at the Pop-Up Pottery Café
If you fancy something a little calmer, the Pop-Up Pottery Café on 27th October offers a relaxing morning of painting and creativity.
Choose from a selection of ceramic pieces including mugs, plates, bowls and seasonal items, pick your colours and create something completely your own.
No previous experience is needed, so children and adults can simply get stuck in and see where their imagination takes them. Once finished, the pieces will be professionally glazed and fired before being returned to Cranleigh Arts for collection.
As well as being a fun activity in its own right, you will come away with a personalised keepsake – or possibly a homemade gift if you’re organised enough to already be thinking about Christmas!
Go Retro at the Gamers’ Lounge
Half term wouldn’t be complete without a little gaming.
The Gamers’ Lounge returns on 28th October with an enormous collection of more than 3,000 console games spanning the 1980s through to the mid-2000s.
There will be plenty of consoles available with both single-player and multiplayer games, giving younger gamers the chance to discover some classics and parents the opportunity to prove that they really were quite good at video games once upon a time.
Sessions last around two hours and are suitable for all ages, making this a fun option for families, siblings and groups of friends.
Make the Most of October Half Term in Cranleigh
Whether your children love animals, art, music, crafts, gaming or simply trying something new, this October’s programme offers plenty of variety.
The range of half term activities at Cranleigh Arts means you can choose anything from an energetic afternoon of drumming to a creative pottery session or an unforgettable encounter with British wildlife.
With several events and sessions taking place across October, it is worth planning ahead and booking early for the activities you don’t want to miss.
Take a look at our full half-term programme, choose your favourites and make this October break one to remember at Cranleigh Arts.