What to do this October half-term in Berkshire
As autumn settles over Berkshire, the parkland turns copper and gold and the scent of woodsmoke and fallen leaves hangs in the air. For families staying with us at Coworth Park this October half-term, the season is right on your doorstep: 240 acres to explore, with royal parks, gardens and castles a short drive beyond. Here's our guide to making the most of it, from the first ride of the morning to the last story by the fire.
At Coworth Park
Kids Club
While grown-ups enjoy a slower morning, little ones can head to our Kids Club, where half-term brings a full programme of activities for children. Here, you’ll find creative workshops, autumn crafts made from conkers and leaves gathered on the estate, and plenty of time outdoors in between. Our team gets to know every child by name, so each day feels like picking up with old friends.
Equestrian activities
Coworth Park has its own equestrian centre, and autumn is one of the loveliest times of year to ride. Beginners can take their first lesson, confident riders can head out through the changing parkland, and younger guests can meet the ponies and help with grooming (often more fun than you’d expect). We’ll happily arrange equestrian activities to suit every age and ability during your stay.
Exploring the estate
Pull on your boots and follow the nature trails through woodland and meadow, where every path brings something new. Hunt for the shiniest conkers, say hello to the horses in the paddocks and collect the brightest leaves to take home. Mornings bring mist over the fields, and by late afternoon the low sun turns the whole estate golden.
Back at the house
Coming in from the cold is one of autumn's simplest pleasures: curl up with afternoon tea in the Drawing Room, or slip away to the spa. Upstairs, a copper roll-top bath is waiting, the best way to soak away a day outdoors.
When evening comes, Woven by Adam Smith offers some of the finest dining in Berkshire, with menus shaped by the season and the land around it. For relaxed family suppers, The Barn serves up comfort food, an open fire and plenty of room for everyone around the table.
Walks around the area
Virginia Water Lake
At the southern edge of Windsor Great Park, just a short stroll from Coworth Park, Virginia Water Lake is especially beautiful in autumn, when the trees around it glow red and amber on the water. Walk the full two-hour loop, or keep it gentle with a wander to the Cascade waterfall and the ancient Roman ruins, a favourite with young explorers.
Two minutes’ walk from Coworth Park
Blacknest Road, SL5 7SB
Windsor Great Park
Covering thousands of acres of ancient woodland and open grassland, Windsor Great Park is made for autumn walks. Look out for the red deer in the Deer Park, then follow the tree-lined Long Walk as it stretches towards Windsor Castle on the horizon.
10 minutes’ drive from Coworth Park
Windsor, SL4 2HT
The Savill Garden
The Savill Garden is at its most colourful this time of year, with woodland glades turning shades of crimson and burnt orange. Hidden in the trees nearby is Adventure Play, a hand-crafted playground of rope bridges, slides and treetop walkways that children love. (Our guest experience team is happy to book your session in advance – please get in touch to arrange this.)
10 minutes’ drive from Coworth Park
Wick Lane, Englefield Green, TW20 0UJ
A short drive away
Legoland Windsor
With more than 50 rides and attractions, Legoland Windsor turns a family day out into an adventure. Children can become knights, pirates and racing drivers for the day, while grown-ups are swept along by the fun.
15 minutes’ drive from Coworth Park
Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY
Windsor Castle
The oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world has been home to 40 monarchs over almost 1,000 years. Children can marvel at Henry VIII's armour, and everyone can go quiet beneath the soaring gothic arches of St George's Chapel. Afterwards, cross the footbridge over the Thames into Eton for hot chocolate and a browse of the bookshops.
15 minutes’ drive from Coworth Park
Windsor, SL4 1NJ
For more ideas, explore our guide to the best things to do in Berkshire, from hidden villages to historic houses, or find out what’s on at Coworth Park. Whichever way the days take you, the fire will be lit when you return.