25 fantastic free events to attend in October 2024

They say nothing in life is free, but we beg to differ! October is bursting with free events, offering you the chance to get out and about without spending a penny. To help you plan ahead, we’ve put together a list of fantastic free events you won’t want to miss, from dazzling light festivals to literary gatherings, halloween festivals including Paisley’s extravaganza shown above, and the simple joy of ‘leaf-peeping’.

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Not yet a member? If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus. Enjoy unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more.

Free nationwide events

Witness a wildlife spectacle

Deer rutting season, throughout October

Photo: Getty Images

October is prime time to catch one of autumn’s most thrilling wildlife spectacles: the annual deer rut. Across the UK, rival stags roar and lock antlers in a fierce battle for dominance and the attention of hinds, with some of the best viewing spots including Cheshire’s Lyme Park, Exmoor National Park, and London’s Richmond and Bushy Parks. Rutting activity peaks during the three hours after dawn and before dusk, and remember to keep your distance – they may look sweet, but these majestic creatures mean business!

Free events in London & the South East

Unleash your inner art critic

Frieze Sculpture, London, 18 September – 27 October

Photo: Woody de Othello, Jessica Silverman (San Francisco), Karma (New York) and Stephen Friedman (London)

As its tree-lined pathways are draped in shades of gold, rust, and red, Regent’s Park transforms into one of the capital’s most picturesque spots for an autumn walk. If you’re visiting in October, be sure to include this temporary exhibition on your walking itinerary, set to transform a corner of the park into an open-air sculpture gallery. Once you’ve admired all 22 works, head over to nearby Primrose Hill to soak up those iconic views over London.

Get a taste of Japan

Japan Matsuri Festival, London, 6 October

Photo: Getty Images

Japan has seen a tremendous surge in tourism in recent years, even topping Condé Nast Traveller’s reader poll of the best countries to visit. If you’re not quite sold on the destination – or simply don’t fancy the 14-hour flight – we’ve got the next best thing. For one day, Trafalgar Square transforms into a slice of Japanese culture, cuisine – and everything in between. You’ll be booking a trip to the real deal before you know it!

Cheer on a scenic race

Royal Parks Half Marathon, London, 13 October

Photo: rbcreate

One of the UK’s most prestigious running spectacles sees thousands of athletes set off on a 13-mile gallop through the heart of the capital, racing past world-famous landmarks including Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and the Royal Albert Hall. It costs to enter, but why not join the crowds to soak up the atmosphere and cheer on the runners?

Delve into a cultural feast

Bloomsbury Festival, London, 18-27 October

Photo: Getty Images

For centuries, Bloomsbury has been a hotbed of creativity and pioneering ideas – and that legacy is still going strong. Every October, this leafy London neighbourhood celebrates its enduring contributions to art, science, literature and more in this 10-day festival. This year’s theme revolves around humanity and kindness, with over 100 talks, performances, workshops and activities. Many of these are ticketed but there’s plenty you can enjoy for free, from art exhibitions to family-friendly science and creative workshops.

Meet some unusual plants

Rare and Extinct, London, 19 October – 17 November

Photo: RBG Kew

Step into Kew’s Temperate House for an opportunity to explore their unique collection of rare and threatened plants, usually kept behind the scenes. This exhibition showcases plants that are classified as rare or now extinct in the wild, highlighting how Kew’s expert horticulturists are using their knowledge and skills to conserve the world’s most precious species and halt biodiversity loss.

While you’re here, be sure to set aside plenty of time to soak up the fiery reds, golden yellows, and rich oranges bursting across the landscape. You could scale the Treetop Walkway for a stunning view of Kew’s autumnal splendour, or perhaps join a free guided walking tour to discover the vast collection of trees as they’re at their most colourful (until 27 October). 

This event is free for Boundless members, who get access to year-round savings, including unlimited entry to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and Wakehurst. If you’re not already a member, find out more about how to join. 

Let there be light

Diwali on Trafalgar Square, London, 27 October

Photo: Getty Images

London’s iconic square will be radiating energy as the city celebrates the Hindi, Sikh and Jain festival of light. Around 35,000 people attend this vibrant event every year, which features everything from traditional dancers to live music, food stalls to craft workshops. For those who prefer to chill out, there’ll also be a yoga and meditation zone.

Free events in the South West & Wales

Peep some leaves

Leaf-Peeping Drive, Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, throughout October

Photo: Getty Images

The North American craze of ‘leaf-peeping’ is all about chasing autumn's vibrant palette, but there’s no need to hop across the pond to enjoy some fantastic foliage displays. The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is renowned for its annual autumn spectacle, and this specially curated driving route – the UK’s first official leaf-peeping trail – winds through 50 miles of its stunning ancient woodland, hitting the most spectacular spots.

Explore the woolly history of Wales

National Wool Museum, Carmarthenshire, anytime

Photo: Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales

Nestled in a charming Carmarthenshire valley, these beautifully restored woollen mills offer a fascinating glimpse into one of Wales’s most historically important industries. You’ll follow the journey from fleece to fabric – even trying your hand at spinning – and discover how this humble fibre wove its way into the heart of the UK’s textile industry. With October marking National Wool Month, there’s no better time to visit this free-to-enter gem and unravel the threads of Wales’s woolly past.

Engage your brain

Cheltenham Literature Festival, Cheltenham, 4-13 October

Renowned as the world’s longest-running literature festival, this 10-day event welcomes bookworms and curious minds in a celebration of all things wordy. Expect literary legends, prominent speakers and emerging storytellers, and, with this year marking the festival’s 75th birthday, a few special surprises. A quarter of events are free to attend, many of which are family-focused – check the link above to see what’s going on.

Take a trip down memory lane

Rock & Pop on British TV, Swindon, 17 October

Photo: Getty Images

If you love both music and nostalgia, you won’t want to miss this member-exclusive talk hosted by Boundless’s Swindon Group. Join journalist and author Jeff Evans as he journeys through the golden era of British music TV. From early programmes like Jukebox Jury to iconic shows such as Top of the Pops and Later with Jools Holland—and some you may have forgotten about – you’ll explore 60 years of television that shaped generations of music lovers.

Interested in this talk but not yet a Boundless member? Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Free events in the Midlands & East

Unleash your creativity

Cartoon Drawing, Shropshire, 9 October

Photo: Getty Images

Have you always wished you could draw? It’s never too late to learn, especially with a little help in the shape of this cartoon drawing lesson, hosted by Boundless’s Shropshire Group. Under the guidance of a seasoned cartoonist, you’ll master the basics of drawing with fellow members in a relaxed, fun setting. With pens, paper and refreshments provided, all you need to bring is your imagination!

Interested in this talk but not yet a Boundless member? Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Have the fun of the fair

Ilkeston Charter Fair, Derbyshire, 16-19 October

Photo: Getty Images

Celebrating its – wait for it – 772nd anniversary this year, the Ilkeston Charter Fair in Derbyshire is one of Europe’s oldest street festivals. People travel for miles around to enjoy its dizzying funfair rides, but if you’d prefer to keep your wallet in your pocket, you could always just browse the more traditional side shows while soaking up the electric atmosphere.

Celebrate the humble apple

Hereford Apple Fest, 28 September – 13 October

Photo: Getty Images

Think of a quintessential autumn fruit, and apples are likely top of the list.

Herefordshire, famed for its cider orchards, takes such pride in the fruit that it’s dedicated an entire two-week extravaganza to it. AppleFest kicks off with a day of live music, performances and family fun in Hereford, followed by a whole host of apple-themed fringe events across the county. You’ll have to pay for your artisan ciders and apple juices, but revelling in the apple madness won’t cost you a penny.

Pick up a one-of-a-kind gift

Autumn Makers, Lowestoft, 27 October

Photo: Adam Barnes / East Point Pavilion

If having a nosy round a crafty market is one of the best ways you can think of to while away a crisp autumn Sunday, try this one at Lowestoft’s East Point Pavilion – will be brimming with handmade goodies, tasty treats and stunning sea views. Entry is free, and you’re welcome to just browse and pick up ideas. But be warned: you might just find yourself nabbing a few early Christmas gifts, or something for yourself!

Free events in the North of England

Go with the glow

Light up the North, Leeds and Liverpool, from 18 October

Photo: Getty Images

We don’t like to keep you in the dark when it comes to great events, which is why we want to tell you about Light up the North. From October, this network of light festivals brightens up towns and cities across the region, kicking off with Blackpool’s Lightpool Festival (18-26 October) and Light Night Leeds (24 & 25 October). So, bundle up in your cosiest gear, grab a hot drink and stroll around an illuminated wonderland!

Feel the rhythm

Lancaster Music Festival, 10-13 October

Photo: Getty Images

Who says music festivals are just for summer? Lancaster’s annual grassroots extravaganza proves otherwise, with over 400 performances spanning every genre imaginable – and almost every one of them is free. From Lancaster Castle’s historic courtyard to cosy coffee shops and bustling pubs, the festival takes over more than 50 venues across the city. Whether you’re into rock, jazz, folk, or something more eclectic, there’s a stage (or street corner) with your name on it.

Explore the limits of science

Manchester Science Festival, Manchester, 18-27 October

Photo: Orbie Pullen

Whether it’s developing faster, smaller or stronger technology, extremes have always driven innovation. This year’s Manchester Science Festival channels this boundary-pushing spirit, with 10 days of events and hands-on activities exploring the limits of science, creativity and human ability. There’s heaps to see and do, including an immersive experience of the human brain – a mind-bending glimpse into the millions of sensory inputs we receive every day.

Have a honking good time

Late Night Opening: Goose Spectacular, Lancashire, 2–26 October (Wednesdays and Saturdays)

Photo: Getty Images

Every year, thousands of pink-footed geese journey from Iceland to settle in for the winter at WWT Martin Mere’s wetland reserve – and you’re invited to come and say hello! On Wednesdays and Saturdays in October from 5:30pm to 7pm, the nature trail opens its gates, offering you a free front-row seat to watch these majestic birds as they come in to roost for the night.

Want to head into the reserve earlier? Boundless members can do just that for nothing at all. The many benefits of Boundless membership include unlimited entry to all nine WWT centres throughout the UK. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Free events in Scotland & Northern Ireland

Look ahead

Festival of the Future, Dundee, 9-13 October

Photo: Getty Images

The worlds of science, art and culture collide at the University of Dundee’s Festival of the Future. This year’s theme explores the interconnectedness between people and cultures, health and wellbeing, nature, technology and ideas, with more than 50 events scattered across the Scottish city. From workshops and walks to live performances and thought-provoking exhibitions, some cost money, but plenty are free (just remember to book in advance). What’s more, you can enjoy free access to the University’s stunning Botanic Garden throughout the festival.

Have a scarily good night

Paisley Halloween Festival, Renfrewshire, 25 & 26 October

Photo: Elaine Livingstone for Renfrewshire Council

When it comes to spooks and thrills, few do it better than Paisley Halloween Festival (though the next entry on our list might give it a run for its money). Now in its 10th year, this award-winning spooky spectacle combines spine-tingling live performances with gloriously ghastly installations and a Mardi-Gras type parade. Why not join in the fun by rocking your finest Halloween drapes?

Get into the spirit of Samhain

Derry Halloween Festival, Derry, 28-31 October

Photo: Derry City and Strabane District Council

Lauded as ‘Europe’s biggest Halloween festival’, this weekend celebrates Samhain – a Celtic festival marking the beginning of the ‘darker’ half of the year. This weekend extravaganza is packed with storytelling, mischief and feasting through contemporary, cultural and family events.

Free online events

Tour a museum… virtually!

British Motor Museum – a tour through the decades, 8 October

Motor enthusiasts, this one’s for you. If you’ve been meaning to pay a visit to Warwickshire’s fantastic British Motor Museum, you can do so without even having to leave your sofa thanks to this member-exclusive virtual museum tour. Experts and costumed explainers will be tracing the fascinating story of Britain’s motor industry and how it’s shaped cars of today.

Interested in this talk but not yet a Boundless member? Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Try your hand at knitting

A complete beginner’s guide to knitting, 15 October

Photo: Getty Images

Knitting has seen something of a revival in recent years ,and it’s easy to see why. It’s screen-free, incredibly portable, and its soothing, rhythmic motions are a proven stress-buster. Plus, there’s the immense satisfaction of watching your creation take shape, one stitch at a time. If you’re not a nifty knitter but would like to be, Boundless is teaming up with Simply Knitting to run a member-exclusive online masterclass. This complete beginner’s guide will help get your knitting journey started, unravelling a world of possibilities beyond baby cardigans and blankets. You’ll be knitting your way through your Christmas gift list before you know it!

Interested in this talk but not yet a Boundless member? Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Fly into the future

From a boom to a thump – how NASA is trying to achieve quiet supersonic flight, 22 October

Cracking the code for quiet supersonic flight has been a relentless headache for NASA – and few understand this better than Peter Coen. As Mission Integration Manager for NASA’s Quesst project, he's at the forefront of transforming the disruptive sonic boom into a mere ‘soft thump,’ a breakthrough that could revolutionise air travel. In this member-exclusive online event, Peter will share firsthand insights right from the cutting edge of aircraft technology and answer your burning questions.

Interested in this talk but not yet a Boundless member? Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Do more with Boundless

If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus.

With Boundless, you get unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions including Kew Gardens and Wakehurst and WWT centres across the UK, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more. With Boundless Plus, you can enjoy additional benefits, including unlimited access to Historic Royal Palaces sites, National Trust for Scotland places, access to the Ramblers' extensive group walks and routes, and peace of mind with roadside assistance and local recovery by LV= Britannia Rescue.