Looking for things to keep the kids entertained this October half term? From a brand-new Halloween maze and a spooky town trail to creative workshops, swimming, soft play and Halloween treats, Dorking is packed with family-friendly fun this autumn.
Whether you’re planning a full day out or looking for something to fill a few hours, there’s plenty happening in town to keep little monsters of all ages happy. Best of all, some of our Halloween highlights are completely free!
Get into the Halloween spirit
A Halloween Maze at St Martin’s Walk – FREE and NEW for 2026!
Ready to get lost in some Halloween fun? New for 2026, a free Halloween Maze is coming to St Martin’s Walk, giving families a brilliant new reason to head into Dorking this half term.
The maze will be open from 17 October to 2 November, and there’s no need to book – simply turn up and have a go!
It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy some spooky seasonal fun while exploring Dorking town centre.
Find out more: https://www.hellodorking.com/event/halloween-maze-at-st-martins-walk-dorking/
Follow the Friends of Dorking Halloween Trail
The ever-popular Friends of Dorking Halloween Trail is also returning to town, inviting families to explore Dorking as they hunt for Halloween clues.
It’s a lovely way to discover the town, spot seasonal surprises and enjoy a little adventure together. Combine the trail with the free Halloween Maze at St Martin’s Walk for even more spooky fun – and make a day of it in Dorking!
Get crafty with a Halloween Crafty Caper at Pippbrook House
Join Hello Dorking and our friends at Pippbrook House for a free Halloween Crafty Caper on Friday 30 October, from 10am to 1pm.
It’s a chance for children to get creative, enjoy some Halloween-themed crafting and make something special during the school holidays.
The session is free, but booking is essential, so make sure you reserve your place in advance.
Book your place: https://www.hellodorking.com/event/halloween-crafty-caper/
Claytime: A Play with Clay at Pippbrook House
For something creative with a twist, head to Pippbrook House on Saturday 24 October at 2pm for Claytime: A Play with Clay.
This fun-filled performance blends comedy and creativity, using clay to bring stories to life. The show is inspired by children’s imaginations, with the audience helping to shape the action. Afterwards, children can get hands-on themselves in a clay-making workshop.
It’s a brilliant opportunity to enjoy an imaginative afternoon of theatre, play and creativity.
Make a splash at Dorking Sports Centre
If your children have energy to burn, Dorking Sports Centre has plenty planned for the school holidays.
Here’s what’s on:
- Pool inflatable: Tuesdays, 2pm–3pm, for ages 8–16. £6 per person.
- Junior Gym: Monday to Friday, 10am–11am.
- Family Fun in the main pool: Monday, 1pm–3pm; Tuesday, 9.30am–11.30am; Wednesday, 1pm–3pm; and Friday, 11.30am–1.30pm.
- Swimming lesson top-up courses: A short course is planned for 26–30 October, including junior foundation sessions for children developing their swimming skills and non-swimmers.
The swimming sessions are a great option for families looking to keep active over half term, while the lesson courses offer a chance for children to build confidence in the water.
Check availability and booking details directly with Dorking Sports Centre before visiting.
Halloween treats at Harts at the Courtyard
Something spooky is brewing at Harts at the Courtyard, where Halloween comes with a delicious twist.
Halloween Afternoon Tea
Available on Thursday 29 and Friday 30 October, the popular Halloween Afternoon Tea promises spooky treats, creepy creations and plenty of seasonal fun.
Booking is essential, so be sure to reserve your place. Please note that Halloween Afternoon Tea will not be available on Saturday 31 October.
Scary Lunch Boxes
On Halloween itself, Saturday 31 October, children can tuck into a Scary Lunch Box, available to eat in or take away.
Each £7.50 box includes spooky sandwiches, ghostly vegetable sticks, terrifying crisps, a creepy cookie and a deadly drink. Adults can order from the main menu.
Pre-order your box if you dare!
Kids Eat Free this Half Term at Heaven’s Kitchen🥩🎨
From 17th October to 1st November, children under 12 can enjoy a free kids’ meal with every adult meal purchased. They’ll also have little colouring activities ready to keep the children entertained while parents relax and enjoy their meal!
More family fun around Dorking
There’s even more to discover if you’re planning a family day out.
- Game N Play board game café: A great option for families who enjoy games, challenges and a little friendly competition. Settle in for some screen-free fun together.
- Burgundy and Black Soft Play: Give younger children the chance to climb, explore and burn off some energy in a play environment.
- Silvermere Soft Play: Another option for little ones who love an indoor adventure, particularly useful if the October weather takes a turn.
Remember to check individual venues for opening times, age suitability and booking requirements during the school holidays.
Pick up some Halloween bargains at Dorking Lighting Centre
Getting ready for Halloween at home? Dorking Lighting Centre is helping you get into the spirit with 25% off all Halloween water spinners, plus a spooky selection of talking pumpkins and a talking, motion-activated skeleton nun.
Whether you’re decorating your doorstep, creating a haunted corner or looking for something to give the neighbours a fright, it’s worth popping in to see what’s available.
Make a day of it in Dorking
With a free Halloween maze, a town trail, creative workshops, family swimming, soft play and plenty of seasonal treats, there’s no need to travel far to enjoy October half term.
Combine an activity with lunch, a coffee or a spot of shopping, and take the opportunity to discover some of Dorking’s independent shops, cafés and family-friendly businesses along the way.
From little witches and wizards to families looking for a fun day out, Dorking has plenty to offer this October.
Plan your half-term adventure
