There’s something special about the October holidays in Fife. The countryside changes colour, the evenings draw in and, after the rush of summer, it feels like the perfect time to pack up the family, pull on your wellies and escape to the country for a few days.
At Lindores, October brings a whole new feel to the farm. Harvest is finished, the barley has been gathered in and the stubble fields stretch out across the landscape. The leaves are turning, the air is crisp and there’s plenty of space for children to get outdoors and enjoy a proper countryside adventure.
And, of course, the dog can come too.
Make West Cottage Your Base
For a family break, West Cottage makes a wonderfully cosy base.
Sleeping 4+2, with two bedrooms that can be arranged as super king or twin rooms, it gives families plenty of flexibility. There’s space to gather together after a day out, countryside right outside your door and your own enclosed garden — ideal when you’re travelling with children and dogs.
West Cottage welcomes up to two well-behaved dogs, so there’s no need to leave four-legged members of the family behind.
Say Hello To Cookie & Cream
There are some particularly entertaining neighbours waiting for you at West Cottage.
Our pet goats, Cookie & Cream, can be spotted from the garden — and they have a habit of becoming firm favourites with our younger guests!
Being on a working farm gives children a chance to experience the countryside in a way they simply don’t get at home. There are animals to spot, tractors and farm life to watch and the landscape itself changes with the farming calendar.
By the October holidays, harvest has transformed the fields around Lindores. The golden crops have been cut, leaving the stubble fields behind and opening up those wonderful autumn views.
Bring The Dog
Family holidays are even better when nobody gets left behind.
West Cottage is dog friendly, welcoming up to two well-behaved dogs, and there are farm walks to enjoy as well as plenty of beautiful countryside to discover around Fife. As Lindores is a working farm, dogs do need to be kept on leads while exploring the farm.
What Can We Do During The October Holidays?
One of the best things about staying at Lindores is having the countryside on your doorstep while still being within easy reach of brilliant family days out.
Here are a few ideas for your October holiday itinerary.
Have An Outdoor Adventure
Wrap up warm and make the most of those bright autumn days. Head to Craigtoun Country Park near St Andrews for plenty of space to explore and play, or visit The Scottish Deer Centre near Cupar for a family day out meeting some rather impressive residents.
For something closer to nature, explore the paths around Lindores and the surrounding Fife countryside. Give the children an autumn scavenger hunt — colourful leaves, conkers, pinecones, feathers and animal tracks all count.
Spend The Day In St Andrews
St Andrews makes a brilliant family day trip from Lindores. Pull on your coats and head for West Sands, where there’s plenty of room for children (and dogs) to burn off some energy. Collect shells, paddle if you’re feeling brave and enjoy a big walk along the beach before heading into town to warm up over lunch or a hot chocolate.
Explore The East Neuk
Make a day of discovering Fife’s beautiful fishing villages. Crail, Anstruther and Pittenweem are lovely places for a family wander, even when the weather is a little cooler. Explore the harbours, watch the boats, take a coastal walk and, of course, stop for fish and chips.
Discover Falkland
Another lovely autumn excursion is Falkland Estate, where woodland walks become particularly beautiful as the leaves change colour. Combine time exploring the historic village of Falkland with a family adventure up East Lomond.
Make Lindores your family’s autumn escape this October. Check availability and book your stay here.