The Best Halloween Activities at Historic Houses
This October, historic estates across the UK are getting into the Halloween spirit with a range of family-friendly activities. From foraging in enchanted woods to pumpkin picking and ghost tours, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some top Halloween events taking place at Belvoir Castle, Boughton House, and Glamis Castle.
Halloween Foraging at Belvoir Castle – Sunday 20th October
Belvoir Castle invites families to join in a Halloween foraging adventure. This hands-on experience takes participants through the castle’s scenic woodlands, guided by expert foragers who will help uncover the wild foods that nature provides in autumn. The event is split into two sessions: Slot 1 starts at 10:00 am, and Slot 2 begins at 12:30 pm, both meeting at the Belvoir Bistro. It’s a great opportunity to learn about edible plants, mushrooms, and berries, all while soaking up the autumn atmosphere.
Tickets for this unique experience are £15 per adult and £10 per child. Children must be accompanied by an adult, making it a perfect family outing to kickstart Halloween celebrations.
Pumpkin Patch at Boughton House – Saturday 26th - Thursday 31st October
From October 26th to 31st, the grand Boughton House in Northamptonshire will host a delightful pumpkin patch in its Great Court. This festive event offers the perfect Halloween experience for little ones, with child-friendly mini wheelbarrows to help them carry their chosen pumpkins. It’s not just about the picking; the pumpkin patch offers an amazing photo opportunity for families, with the grand estate providing a stunning backdrop.
Whether you're there to select the perfect pumpkin for carving or simply to enjoy the seasonal atmosphere, the Boughton House pumpkin patch is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
Halloween Storytelling and Ghost Tours at Glamis Castle - 25th-31st October
Glamis Castle, steeped in history and famous for its ghostly tales, offers a Halloween experience for both children and adults. On October 26th and 27th, children under 14 can enjoy Halloween storytelling sessions, carefully designed to bring the castle’s eerie past to life in a fun and child-friendly way. Each session includes a 30-minute ghost tour of the castle, running every 15 minutes between 4pm and 5pm. Tickets are priced at £5 per child, providing a thrilling yet accessible Halloween event.
For those seeking a more intense experience, adult-only Halloween tours will also be available at Glamis Castle. Taking place on October 25th, 26th, 27th, 29th, 30th, and 31st, these spine-chilling tours run between 6:30pm and 9:00pm each evening, with each session lasting around 40 minutes. Be prepared for jump scares and dark ghost stories, as the castle’s most haunted corners come alive with frightful tales. These tours are designed for thrill-seekers aged 14 and over, and tickets cost £20 per adult.
With its haunting atmosphere and rich history, Glamis Castle offers a perfect setting for a ghost tour that promises to deliver genuine scares and unforgettable moments. Whether you're visiting with family during the day or braving the adult-only tours at night, Glamis Castle will leave you with lasting Halloween memories.
HeritageXplore Exclusive Hellfire Caves Tour and Dinner – Thurdsay 31st October
For those looking to elevate their Halloween experience, the HeritageXplore exclusive Hellfire Caves tour and dinner on Halloween night offers a truly unforgettable evening. This VIP event invites guests to dress up in their spookiest Halloween costumes and embark on a private tour of the eerie Hellfire Caves. Known for its dark and mysterious history, the caves were once a meeting place for the infamous Hellfire Club, and the tour promises to explore the legends and ghostly tales that surround them.
The exclusive tour will be followed by a lavish three-course dinner in the enchanting Walled Gardens, starting at 8:15pm. The atmospheric setting, combined with candlelight and the lingering thrill from the caves, will create a truly magical dining experience. This event is perfect for those who enjoy combining history, mystery, and fine dining, all wrapped up in the spirit of Halloween.
With its unique blend of exploration and indulgence, the HeritageXplore Hellfire Caves tour and dinner is an unmissable Halloween event for those seeking a sophisticated yet spooky celebration. Be sure to secure your spot for an evening filled with history, haunted tales, and delicious food in a one-of-a-kind setting.
Adult Halloween Ball at Carlton Towers – Friday 1st November
Get ready for a spooky night at the Adult Halloween Ball at Carlton Towers, from 7pm until midnight! Dress in your best Halloween costume and enjoy a delicious dinner in the magnificent State Rooms, followed by dancing with our DJ. Tickets are £49 per person. Want to make a night of it? Stay in one of our beautiful rooms for £85 per person, including a delicious breakfast the next morning.
These Halloween activities offer a wonderful blend of education, adventure, and spooky fun for families looking to make lasting memories this season. Be sure to book your tickets and prepare
