It only feels like yesterday that we waved goodbye to the summer holidays and sent the kids off to school, new backpacks and pencil cases in tow. Yet here we are again, facing the October break, leaves on the ground and a crisp freshness in the air.

With the weather being as gloriously unpredictable as it is this time of year, it’s always handy to have a few emergency days out in your arsenal. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best things to do in Scotland over the October holidays, so sit back and have a peek at some of our family-friendly autumnal suggestions.

Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry

Open from October 3 this year, the Enchanted Forest is back to transform Faskally Wood into a magical wonderland with a light show like not other. This year, the team have created a show that is inspired by the magnificence of the cosmos, encouraging you to look up and let your imagination run wild.

This event combines breathtaking visuals, state-of the-art technology and an inspirational soundscape the whole family will love. Food vendors are on site to serve up delicious hot food and drinks so why not make an evening of it? Wrap up warm and venture into the cosmos with the family this October holiday.

Faskally Wood, Pitclochry, PH16 5LB - enchantedforest.org.uk

Arnprior farm, Stirling

Just in time for Halloween, take the kids along to Arnprior Farm to pick out the biggest and best pumpkin they can find. A family-run farm, Arnprior opens up to the public to allow families the chance to experience autumn at its very best.

Pumpkin picking begins in early October, so pack up the car and head on up to Stirling for a whole host of actives. The kids can also enjoy face painting, run wild in a bale maze and make their mark with chainsaw carving. Not only that, the adults are catered for with gin cocktails and delicious street food. You can even stay in one of the newly-opened glamping pods and make a weekend of it!

Arnprior, Stirling, FK8 3HA - arnpriorfarm.com

National Museum of Flight - Bird of Prey Show

National museum of flight, North Berwick

Any aspiring aviators in the family? Inspire your kids at the National Museum of Flight and visit the four huge hangars full of super cool interactive exhibitions. On the dry days, explore the acres of land covered by an assault course guaranteed to tire even the most active of kids.

Visit between October 14 to 18 and enjoy the Reach for The Skies events, half-term fun for active adventurers that includes a spectacular show from birds of prey and flight themed crafts. This event is free with museum ticket entry.

East Fortune Airfield, East Lothian, EH39 5LF - nms.ac.uk/national-museum-of-flight

Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Glasgow

Glasgow’s West End is home to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the perfect place to take the kids on a rainy day, or to enjoy some quiet time away from the hustle and bustle.

Inside the museum, you’ll find a whole host of fascinating artefacts and exhibits. There’s so much to discover as you explore the many parts of the museum - from Asian elephants to Egyptian coffins, there will be a display for everyone to enjoy!

Kelvingrove Park, Argyle Street, Glasgow, G3 8AG - glasgowlife.org.uk

Jump In Trampoline Parks

Jump In Trampoline Parks are ultimately one of the best places you will ever visit. Fact. Packed full of the biggest and best in jumping trampoline fun, at the parks you’ll discover a tumble track, dodgeball court, foam pit and much more. As if that wasn’t enough there.s also a cafe serving up hot and cold food and drinks so you can stay all day long.

Things to do in Scotland in the October holidays