About UK October Half Term
The October half term is a one-week school holiday taken by most UK schools in late October, roughly halfway through the autumn term. In 2026, most English schools take the week commencing Monday 26 October, though dates are set by local authorities and academy trusts, so some areas differ by a week.
Halloween falls in half term
The 2026 half term week includes Halloween itself — Saturday 31 October — making it a natural week for pumpkin patches, spooky trails and Halloween events, most of which run throughout the school holiday week. Bonfire Night follows on Thursday 5 November, just after most schools return.
The clocks change too
British Summer Time ends on the last Sunday of October — in 2026, the clocks go back one hour on Sunday 25 October, the first morning of half term week for most families. The extra hour and darker evenings mark the real start of the winter season.
Why half terms exist
The three-term school year with half-term breaks became standard in England during the 20th century, splitting each long term to reduce fatigue for pupils and teachers. The autumn term is the longest of the year — typically 15 to 16 weeks — which is why the October break matters more than most: it is the only pause between early September and Christmas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days until UK October Half Term?
There are 86 days until UK October Half Term on 26 October 2026.
What day of the week is UK October Half Term?
UK October Half Term falls on a Monday in 2026.
How many weeks until UK October Half Term?
Approximately 12 weeks until UK October Half Term.
How many months until UK October Half Term?
Approximately 2.8 months until UK October Half Term.
How many hours until UK October Half Term?
Approximately 2,064 hours until UK October Half Term.