UK October half-term 2026
October half-term is the most fragmented school holiday in the UK. Scotland's autumn break falls one to two weeks before England's, and Northern Ireland's is often just two days. This is the holiday where nation differences matter most for travel planning.
October half-term 2026 dates by UK nation
| Nation | Upcoming dates |
|---|---|
| England | · |
| Scotland | · |
| Wales | · |
| Northern Ireland | · |
Why Scotland's break is earlier
Scotland's autumn holiday, sometimes called the October week, typically falls in the second week of October, one to two weeks before English schools break up. This is a direct consequence of Scotland's earlier school year start in August: the half-term point arrives sooner.
The week immediately after Scotland's autumn break, when Scottish pupils are back in school but English schools haven't yet broken up, is one of the quietest weeks of the autumn at popular family destinations.
Northern Ireland's two-day Halloween break
Most Northern Irish schools take only Thursday 29 and Friday 30 October as a Halloween break, rather than a full week. NI families don't drive the same demand spike as England during October half-term, and NI destinations stay quieter during the English half-term week.
The Wales reform and October half-term
The Welsh Government has proposed extending October half-term to two full weeks, by taking a week from summer. As of 2026 this hasn't taken effect and Welsh October half-term still mirrors England's. If the reform proceeds, Wales will have the longest October break in the UK.
Finding quieter windows in October
In date order:
- Scotland's October week. Popular Scottish destinations peak now, but English ones are quiet.
- The week after Scotland returns. Scottish pupils are back, English haven't broken up yet. Often the quietest autumn week at most UK and European destinations.
- English half-term week itself. Busy across England and Wales; Scottish destinations still recovering.
October half-term dates vary by school. Northern Ireland's Halloween break timing is set by the Education Authority but individual schools may vary. Always confirm with your school.