Half-term fun at Powderham Castle marks final opening before Christmas Season

Powderham Castle will be welcoming visitors for a weekend half-term activities on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 October, in what will be the last opportunity to explore the historic estate before it closes to prepare for its Christmas celebrations. 

The castle, set on the banks of the River Exe just outside Exeter, dates back to the 14th century and has been home to the Courtenay family for over 600 years. Today, it remains one of Devon’s most visited historic attractions, offering a mix of heritage, gardens, and seasonal events.

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For half-term, Powderham is making an exception to its usual schedule by opening on Saturday 25 October. Families and visitors will be able to take part in a range of seasonal activities designed to make the most of the autumn break.

Pumpkin carving workshops will take place on 25, 28, 29 and 30 October, running between 10am and 4pm. Participants can carve and decorate a pumpkin for £4 each, with all materials supplied.

Deer Park Safaris will also be running across the weekend, giving visitors the chance to see Powderham’s deer herd up close. 

Tractor-trailer rides will run through the estate’s parkland, passing views of the castle and grounds. Tickets are £10 for adults and £5 for children, on top of general admission. There is also an option to combine the ride with an afternoon tea in the castle’s Music Room.

Alongside these headline activities, the half-term programme will include guided tours of the castle, face painting for children, and seasonal refreshments such as pumpkin-spiced lattes.

The weekend will mark the final opportunity to visit Powderham this autumn before it closes to prepare for Christmas at the Castle, one of the estate’s most popular annual events which draws visitors from across Devon and beyond.

Tickets and booking information are available on Powderham Castle’s website.