From 24th October to 1st November 2026, The Bowes Museum is offering families a programme of indoor and outdoor activities and events to keep young visitors busy over October half term. Visitors of all ages are invited to explore colour and light in beautiful landscapes in the new exhibition: Impressions of Light: Masterpieces from MuMa – Le Havre and The Bowes Museum.
Make an Impression
Explore the artworks in the galleries with Gallery Takeover: Map Makers, then use these discoveries to create your own map. Inspired by Impressions of Light: Masterpieces from MuMa – Le Havre and The Bowes Museum, visitors can look closely at the nature and terrain reflected in landscape paintings, collect ideas and transform them into an imaginative map.
Curious minds can dig deeper into the collection with Wonder Workshop: Cloud Collage and explore clouds and weather in art. Visitors will investigate the stories behind museum objects before experimenting with creative techniques to design and make their own work.
Inspired By Nature
Head outside into the wildflower meadow to discover autumn wildlife and learn about hedgehog habitats in Parkland Explorers: Hedgehog House, using recycled materials. If it rains, the session will take place in the museum’s Create Space, where visitors will make arty hedgehog houses instead.
Artist-Led Workshops
Led by a team of local artists, designers and makers, Artist Makers introduces children to a range of techniques and materials in a relaxed and welcoming setting. With backgrounds spanning glasswork, painting and sculpture, each artist brings their own skills and creative approach. It’s a great chance for budding artists to experiment, build confidence and enjoy making together.
For the youngest visitors
A sensory museum session for little ones and their grown-ups. Bowes Babies offers opportunities to play, explore and discover through touch, sound and movement in a welcoming environment.
Daily Highlights
Alongside workshops and activities, visitors can enjoy daily favourites throughout the school holidays, including the 11am Spotlight Tour and the much-loved Silver Swan Performances at 11:45am and 2pm each day.
Eat, Shop and Explore
Café Bowes is open daily until 4:30pm, serving refreshing drinks and food perfect for refuelling after a busy day of play and discovery. Families can finish their visit in the museum shop, browsing unique gifts, bestselling Silver Swan toys and beautiful books to take a little inspiration home.
For more information on activities please visit: thebowesmuseum.org.uk/october-half-term