October Half Term 2026
Escape to Bournemouth This October Half Term
Still planning your October Half Term getaway? There's still time to book a family break by the coast, with rooms currently available at Riviera Hotel Bournemouth.
Located in the beautiful Alum Chine area, our hotel is perfectly positioned for exploring everything Bournemouth has to offer. Enjoy a leisurely stroll to the vibrant shops, cafés, and restaurants of Westbourne, or take a scenic walk along the promenade to Bournemouth Pier and town centre. Head in the opposite direction and you'll discover the stunning beaches of Sandbanks and the picturesque surroundings of Poole Harbour.
We offer a range of family-friendly accommodation options, with rooms sleeping between three and five guests. For larger families, interconnecting rooms are also available, and children under three stay completely FREE.
When you're not out exploring the local area, there's plenty to enjoy at the hotel, including our indoor swimming pool and games room, making it easy to keep the whole family entertained whatever the weather.
To book your October Half Term break, call our Reception Team on 01202 763653 or book online via our website.
Dining at Riviera Hotel
With stunning sea views and only a short stroll from the sandy beaches of Alum Chine, the Cunarder Conservatory Restaurant is open daily for breakfast and dinner. Our menus feature modern British and European cuisine, showcasing local seasonal produce, quality ingredients, and delicious dishes. We're confident you'll leave planning your next visit.
Breakfast
Monday - Friday: 7:30am - 10:00am
Saturday & Sunday: 8:00am - 10:30am
Dinner
Monday - Sunday: 7:00pm - 8:45pm
The Bridge Bar & Grill
Enjoy a relaxing drink with beautiful views across Alum Chine and Bournemouth Bay. Designed in an elegant Art Deco style, The Bridge Bar & Grill offers a welcoming atmosphere alongside tasty snacks, light meals, and our popular homemade pizzas.
Dinner Served: Daily from 5:00pm - 8:45pm
We also offer a children's menu, available in both the restaurant and The Bridge Bar & Grill.
Halloween in Bournemouth
October half term is the perfect time to enjoy a family break in Bournemouth, with plenty of activities to keep little ones entertained whatever the weather.
If your family loves a little Halloween magic, Bournemouth has plenty of seasonal fun planned for October Half Term, from 24th October to 1st November 2026. Head to the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum for spooky house and garden trails and Halloween crafts, or discover more family-friendly events in the area through the official Bournemouth what's on guide.
For more spooktacular half-term fun, head to RockReef on Bournemouth Pier for its Spooktober Half Term event. This indoor adventure attraction offers an exciting way for families to add a little Halloween spirit to their seaside break, with climbing challenges and activities to keep adventurous children entertained. It’s a great option for a family day out, whatever the autumn weather brings.
Our Top Picks of Bournemouth Attractions
Alum Chine Play Space
Located just a short walk from the hotel, this exciting pirate-themed play park is inspired by Treasure Island and features a range of adventurous play equipment for children of all ages. It's the perfect spot for little ones to burn off some energy, enjoy the fresh sea air, and have fun during their stay.
Bournemouth Pier
No visit to Bournemouth is complete without a trip to Bournemouth Pier, one of the town's most popular attractions and home to a fantastic range of activities for visitors of all ages.
For thrill-seekers, PierZip offers the world's first pier-to-shore zip wire, delivering stunning views and an unforgettable experience.
The pier's amusement arcade is also packed with family-friendly games, prize-winning machines, and traditional seaside fun.
Whether you're looking for adventure, family entertainment, or classic seaside attractions, Bournemouth Pier has something for everyone.
Find out how to book your adventure today.
Local Attractions
Step Back in Time and Discover Dorset's History
Whether you're fascinated by tanks, aircraft, grand country houses, or fine art, Dorset offers a wealth of attractions for history enthusiasts of all ages.
The Tank Museum
Home to over 300 tanks and military vehicles from around the world, The Tank Museum offers interactive exhibitions, family-friendly activities, and fascinating displays that bring history to life.
Bournemouth Aviation Museum
Get hands-on with aviation history and climb aboard a variety of aircraft. This unique attraction allows visitors to experience what it's like to sit in a pilot's seat and explore aircraft up close.
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
One of Bournemouth's hidden gems, this beautifully preserved Victorian house showcases an impressive collection of art, artefacts, and fascinating stories from around the world.
Kingston Lacy
Discover a magnificent Italian-inspired country mansion surrounded by formal gardens, parkland, and woodland trails. Managed by the National Trust, Kingston Lacy offers a wonderful day out for all ages.
From military history and aviation to art and stately homes, Dorset is packed with fascinating attractions waiting to be discovered.
For Animal Lovers
If your family loves animals and wildlife, you'll find plenty of exciting attractions in and around Bournemouth to enjoy during your stay.
Bournemouth Oceanarium
Discover incredible marine life including sharks, turtles, stingrays, jellyfish, clownfish, and playful otters in this fascinating underwater attraction.
Farmer Palmer's Farm Park
Meet friendly farm animals and enjoy tractor rides, go-karts, adventure trails, indoor play areas, bouncy castles, and much more.
Hope Farm Alpaca Rescue
Get up close to adorable alpacas, help feed them, and even enjoy a memorable alpaca walking experience.
New Forest Reptile Centre
Learn about Britain's native reptiles and discover the conservation work taking place to protect rare snakes and lizards in the beautiful New Forest.
From underwater adventures and farmyard fun to alpaca encounters and wildlife conservation, there's something to delight every animal lover during a visit to Bournemouth and the surrounding area.
Book Your October Half Term Break Today
We look forward to welcoming you and your family to Bournemouth this October.
