View of church surrounded by people and stalls at a local food festival
Stone marking Battle of Byland at the top of SUtton Bank
View of Long BArn courtyard in autumn sun

Discover a variety of festive events in North York Moors this October, from harvest festivals to spooky Halloween fun for the whole family. Here are some of our favourite things to do this October. 

Malton Harvest Festival 5th – 6th October is the autumn version of the Food Lovers Festival earlier in the year. Packed full of foodie stalls, chef demonstrations and street food, it’s a great (free) day out.

Battle of Byland annual anniversary event takes place on 13th October. It marks the battle which took place on Sutton Bank in 1322 when Edward II’s army was defeated by Scottish forces commanded by Robert the Bruce.

There will be lots of activities to don. Including demonstrations of arms and armour, music from the Dunholm Piper, trails for children, have a go archery and local guided walks. And much more.

Crafty workshops take place in Danby Lodge through October. Choose from water colour or acrylic painting, litho cutting or sterling silver/copper workshops.

Little blonfw boy in blue jumper holding a pumpkin in a pumpkin patch.
Two lit pumpkin candle holders on table with blue runner

Whitby Abbey Illuminated  takes place from 24th October to 2nd November. Tickets are available from English Heritage to explore the Abbey after night fall. Or view from a distance for free with some fish and chips from the Magpie. As you’d expect, there are lots of options of spooky things to do in Whitby over half term Halloween.

Ryedale Folk Museum is closer to home, and has a whole host of things to do for children including a trick or treat event on 31st.

Pumpkin Patches spring up all over the county for Halloween this month. We think that the best local patches are the Flower belt in Helmsley and Halloween fun at Cedar Barn.