Frightful fun!

Round & About

Posted on

halloween

Round & About

Image: National Trust / Annapurna Mellor

Half term is here already and it’s packed with spook-tacular fun & magical moments

Will it be wellies or can you trot out in trainers, whatever the weather, there’s no excuse not to get out this half term and explore the glories and colours of this time of year, not to mention the frightful fun of Halloween. 

Jump to your area:
Berkshire
Buckinghamshire
Hampshire
Oxfordshire
Surrey
West Berkshire
Wiltshire

Berkshire 

Dare you embark on a batty trail of discovery at Greys Court, a haven for bats with different species making their home in the nooks and crannies on the estate. Find out more from October 25th to November 2nd. 

Get inspired by the patterns and colours of nature in autumn at Basildon Park this half term, October 25th to November 2nd. Follow an autumnal trail inspired by the beauty of the outdoors. 

Hallo’Welly’ween returns at Wellington Country Park, October 25th-31st, with circus fun, recycled crafts, exotic animal encounters, petting sessions at the animal farm and, of course, no Halloween fun would be complete without spooky rides on the train and treats and (no) tricks at the pumpkin patch. To book, please visit wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk/whats-on/hallowellyween/ 

Explore the colourful pumpkin patch at Beale Wildlife Park on October 11th, 12th, 18th, 19th & 25th through to November 1st. Wander the woodland scarecrow walk, tackle the maze quest and dress up your dog for Dog Day on November 1st. Book at bealepark.org.uk/pumpkin-patch-2/ 

LEGOLAND Windsor hosts Brick or Treat from 4th October to 1st November, with character meet-and-greets, dance shows like Monster Jam and the all-new Lord Vampyre’s House Party show. legoland.co.uk  

Looking for something fun-filled, action-packed and adventurous this autumn? Sundown Adventures returns to Swinley Forest, Bracknell for tree top thrills in a whole new light for a limited time between 17th October and 9th November. It’s the ultimate adventure with epic forest views under the night sky. Experience a Go Ape adventure after dark and tackle tree-top crossings and epic ziplines, under glowing lights. Thrill seekers will love it! 

Go on a pre-historic journey to the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods and watch the life-like dinosaurs come alive right on stage at the Hexagon, October 28th, when the Natural History Museum presents Dinosaurs Live! a roaring experience like no other. Book at whatsonreading.com/dinos 

Celebrate 250 years of Jane Austen during your visit to Windsor Castle this half term. Jane did not visit The Castle but knew the area and referenced it in her writing. A highlight of the Royal Library’s extensive collection of English literature includes the copy of Emma, presented by the author to the Prince Regent. Children can enjoy Georgian themed crafting and make a memento to take home. A Georgian trail is also available for children throughout the week, October 25th-November 2nd. 

Experience Nordic Rhythm Sauna + Plunge in Henley-on-Thames — an authentic wood-fired sauna and ice bath experience set in the beautiful walled garden of Badgemore Park, perfectly curated for recovery, health and wellbeing. Whether a peaceful solo escape or a memorable group activity, Nordic Rhythm offers private and communal sessions in a unique space that prioritises community and connection. It’s time to embrace the ritual. Book at nordicrhythm.co.uk 

Buckinghamshire 

The White family welcome you to their Pop-up Pumpkin Patch in Stokenchurch, HP14 3YF, for the fourth year. “Tom is a second-generation farmer and we love to welcome kids,” says Brooke White, mum to George, Mollie & Harry. “We’re raising funds again for Ibstone Primary School through our cafe and scavenger hunt.” 11am-3pm, 23rd to 31st October, with a straw bale mountain, tractor and trailer rides in the field and a maize maze. Follow @thepopuppumpkinpatch on Instagram & see Facebook for more info, too. 

Image: National Trust / Naomi Goggin

The enchanting Land of Lights Lantern Festival returns to Milton Keynes in north Bucks, MK15 0DT for its fourth spectacular season. Discover new lanterns and dazzling displays as the trail glows with colour, creativity, and magic. Perfect for all ages, this after-dark adventure promises to light up your winter with unforgettable sights and photo moments. Don’t miss the brightest highlight of the year! miltonkeynes.landoflights.co.uk 

Over at historic Hughenden Manor (Disraeli’s old Wycombe home), HP14 4LA, the National Trust hosts We’re Going on a Ghost Hunt from 11th October to 2nd November. Based on the much-loved Bunny Adventures books, the enchanting trail invites children to pick a bunny name and search for friendly ghosts hidden around the gardens. Expect broomstick races, Halloween hoopla, stepping stones, warty toads and a celebration party. Perfect for preschoolers & younger children. Visit nationaltrust.org.uk for this & more. 

At wondrous Widmer Farm Park in Princes Risborough, HP27 0PG, enjoy, a spooky biscuit decorating drop-in on Thursday 10th and a pop-up pumpkin patch from 18th to 31st October with carving and sticker sets available. widmerfarmpark.co.uk 

Odds Farm Park, HP10 0LX, is another fun treasure trove, with a pumpkin patch, animal encounters and indoor play barns; oddsfarm.co.uk. And don’t miss Pumpkin Fest, 19th-31st October at gorgeous West Wycombe Walled Garden (the food is great, too!); westwycombewalledgarden.com. There are also pumpkin-picking opportunities aplenty at Peterley Manor Farm in Great Missenden, (peterleymanorfarm.co.uk), Copas Farms in Cookham & Iver (thefruitfields.co.uk) and The Pumpkin Patch at Christmas Tree farm in Chesham, HP5 1NE; thepumpkinfarm.co.uk 

Over at Norden Farm near Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, there are three enchanting live shows lighting up half-term: Cinderella Ice Cream Seller on 28th October (a blend of storytelling and magical music, a spooky, interactive family comedy WiFi Wars and The Great Baldini Family Magic Show on 29th. Visit norden.farm 

The Halloween Spectacular is back at Chiltern Open Air Museum in Chalfont, HP8 4AB, 5-9pm on Friday, 31st October, with spooky buildings (and horses) as well as spine-tingling storytelling. Warm yourself by the bonfire, toast marshmallows and brave the scary walk with an amazing fire performance & family activities. Visit coam.org.uk 

All of the workshops at Backwoods Experiences in Stokenchurch, HP14 3XS, are for adults. However those aged 14+ can try axe throwing (adult supervision required), plus there are autumn plant propagation and wreath-making workshops on Sunday, 26th October; visit backwoodsexperiences.co.uk 

Gates open at 6pm on Sunday, 2nd November at Marlow Sports Club, SL7 2AE, for Marlow Monster Fireworks at 7.15pm, thanks to Marlow Tennis Club. Tickets £12pp online (£6 kids) at ticketebo.co.uk or £15/7.50pp on the gate. 

Bucks has plenty of ghost stories and sightings, from haunted coaching inns in Old Amersham to eerie footsteps at Missenden Abbey. Wrap up warm (with a Thermos of hot chocolate) for a family ramble through Wendover Woods or Black Park, where the autumn colours are at their most breathtaking now.  

Hampshire 

There’s no better place to make the most of the rich vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, greens and chestnut browns that pepper autumn than at National Trust properties in Hampshire. 

As part of Hinton Ampner’s harvest celebrations marvel at the plump pumpkins on show around the grounds from 11th and if you’re looking for some frightful family fun then join Wilma the Witch on her Quest for the Dutton Crest (October 18th-November 2nd) to find the missing feathers and meet mysterious beasts along the way as you tackle bean bag challenges, leap, jump and dash your way through half term hunting the clues to solve the mystery. The more magic wands and pointed hats the better! 

There’s Halloween fun at The Vyne with We’re Going on a Ghost Hunt from October 11th to November 2nd. Find the ghosts hidden around The Vyne, play Halloween hoopla, race your broomstick and watch out for warty toads! 

Follow the pumpkin trail at Gilbert White’s House where you’ll spot pumpkins and gourds of all shapes, sizes and colours in some unusual places around the gardens this half term – collect your Pumpkin Spotters guide and see how many you can find! There will be one carved pumpkin to unearth – where is it and what creature does it show? Twilight Tales at the house features stories, craft and a torch-lit trail around the museum after hours on October 30th. This year’s theme is bats – you’ve been warned! gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk 

Before half term, October starts with the Autumn Steam Gala on The Watercress Line from 3rd to 5th. Enjoy unlimited rides behind two stunning visiting locomotives, explore the heritage stations along the 10-mile line and get up close to some of the locomotives and various exhibits. The Watercress Line then undergoes a transformation becoming a spellbinding world of magic, mischief, and spooky fun for the whole family, October 25th – November 2nd, as the historic railway is transformed into a haunted haven filled with exciting activities for young witches, wizards, and little monsters. Visit watercressline.co.uk to book. 

October wouldn’t be complete without pumpkins so head to Rogate Pumpkin Patch near Petersfield for one of the best. Located on Slade Farm on the Hampshire and West Sussex border. Unleash your autumn spirit, and celebrate all things Halloween. Immerse yourself in a world of pumpkin fun and spooky delights at this magical outdoor event each from October 17th to November 4th. Get ready for another season of pumpkin-filled fun, adventure, and magical moments. Book at rogatepumpkinpatch.com 

October at The Shed in Bordon is packed with fun for all ages. On 4th October, little ones can enjoy a sparkling Princess Party. Then, on 30th October, the day is filled with creativity and laughter: Daisy’s Crafts (11am–2pm), colourful face painting (11am–2pm), the classic Punch & Judy (11am–1pm), and magical storytelling (1–2pm). To finish the month, don’t miss a Wicked screening on 31st October – a perfect autumn treat! More at theshedwb.com 

This half term, Farnham Maltings is bursting with activities for children, teens and families. Enjoy hands-on fun including Halloween soap making, jewellery, cupcake decorating, crochet, puppet workshops and Crafty Kids at Farnham Museum. Teens can try 3D Design & Make, Mixed Media Artbox or the Spooky Sustainable Horror filmmaking workshop – ideal for budding directors! Plus, there’s live theatre and family-friendly cinema to enjoy. Come and get creative this half term. More at farnhammaltings.com/half-term 

At The Artisans Kitchen & Cookery School, near Liss, the Cook Together Classes are all about fun, food, and family. Perfect for parents and children, these hands-on sessions let you roll up your sleeves, learn new skills, and create delicious dishes side by side. From pizza making to sweet treats, it’s a chance to bond, laugh, and enjoy quality time while sharing the joy of cooking. More & booking at theartisanskitchen.school 

Oxfordshire 

Oxford Castle & Prison sees the return of Ghost Fest with spooky tours 24th-31st October, potion making 27th-31st Oct and A Paranormal Evening hosted by Barri Ghai, including a delicious two-course meal on 1st November; oxfordcastleandprison.co.uk 

Alfred Fest promises bundles of family fun on Sunday, 26th October. Taking place in the heart of Wantage, the town that gave us King Alfred the Great, enjoy historical reenactments, talks, traditional crafts, music, family-friendly fun, artisan markets and a special film screening. Dress up as an Anglo Saxon to win a prize! 

Staying in Wantage, we love The Beacon, which is a hive of activity this month! On Thursday, 30th October there’s a free playtime event for 2-6-year-olds (and their grown-ups) thanks to The Last Baguette Theatre Company and you can make a Halloween hand puppet to take home (£10pp). Plus see our article on Wantage Lit Fest & Mr Wilson’s Second Liners on 7th November! beaconwantage.co.uk 

Abingdon Craft Fair might be the UK’s oldest active craft fair. From 31st October to 2nd November (entry 10am-3pm) in the glorious Abbey Buildings, browse or buy work by 65 artisans. Book tickets & find info at abingdoncraftfair.org.uk or pop by! 

The Ashmolean in Oxford invites you to see the museum through new eyes. At a free family-friendly drop-in event on Sunday, 2nd November, create a paper monocle or binoculars, and explore the museum with some hidden surprises! ashmolean.org 
Millets Farm Centre in Frilford, offers a Spooktacular, PYO & SEND sessions; milletsfarmcentre.com. Something wicked is stirring at Blenheim Palace… 23rd October to 2nd November: a new Halloween trail with skeletons, giant spiderwebs, a cursed tomb and pagan ritual site; blenheimpalace.com 

At gorgeous riverside High Lodge Farm near Abingdon book in for Pumpkin Nights, PYO, the spooky trail & SEND sessions (you can also camp); highlodgefarm.com. Abingdon Museum presents a poignant, educational exhibition, Abingdon 1945 remembering the end of WWII. Learn about the town’s experience of the war in parallel with the global conflict, and beyond, plus, on 7th November, Gareth Howell will give a talk, 1945 – The End of the Third Reich. abingdon.gov.uk/abingdon-county-hall-museum 

Music at Oxford’s season of events has just got under way, highlights coming up include Mozart’s beautiful C Minor Mass on 10th November, a festival of the serene and contemplative music of Arvo Pärt running 11th-16th November and the amazing sitar playing Roopa Panesar performing her album ATMA on 5th December. Just before Christmas they have their very popular seasonal events at Christ Church Cathedral (6th, 17th & 19th) – early booking essential, musicatoxford.com/whats-on 

The Halloween Hunt at Waterperry Gardens, 18th October-2nd November, offers spooky fun & scary prizes; waterperrygardens.co.uk We love Cogges Manor Farm in Witney, where there’s a cauldron full of Halloween fun 22nd October to 2nd November with The Witch’s House & Monstrous Movies. cogges.org.uk   

Surrey 

There’s no better place to make the most of the rich vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, greens and chestnut browns that pepper autumn than at Winkworth. Join Cyril and Bruce the squabbling squirrels, discover Fungi Fun around Winkworth, enjoy some forest bathing or capture the beauty of the season with some early morning photography. Full details of all these at nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/surrey/winkworth-arboretum 

Go on a bear hunt at Polesden Lacey and follow in the footsteps of the much-loved children’s tale or how about going on a ghost hunt at Claremont in search of ghosts hidden around the grounds – race your broomstick and watch out for warty toads. Join in half term Halloween fun at Hatchlands Park on a pumpkin hunt and go in search of spooky creatures. What’s brewing in the witches’ cauldron? 

Cranleigh Arts invites you to get spooked this Halloween with spider’s web drawing & painting (October 25th). Book at cranleigharts.org/event/kids-craft-spooky-spider-s-web 

Slip on your wellies, your fancy dress and get ready for the spooky season at Merrist Wood where you’ll find more than 2,000 wonky big and small pumpkins. Have a go at the free scavenger hunt and much more on October 25th, 26th & 27th. eventbrite.com/cc/merrist-wood-pumpkin-patch-3609629 

Discover the secret life of pumpkins at RHS Garden Wisley, October 25th to November 2nd. 

This time of year isn’t just about Halloween, there are also fireworks to spark the imagination with the Ripley Bonfire set for Saturday, 25th October, complete with funfair and live music, ripleybonfire.co.uk 

Celebrate pumpkin week at Secretts Farm, Milford this October. Dress to impress in the Halloween costume competition and compete in the pumpkin carving competition. Dates and more at secretts.co.uk/pumpkin-week 

Brooklands Museum in Weybridge is worth a visit especially after being named Family Attraction of the Year in the Time & Leisure Food & Culture Awards 2025 by their readers. The Museum’s mission is to create inspiring and inclusive experiences for visitors of all ages. From families exploring the immersive historic site and children discovering the wonders of pioneering motorsport and aviation for the first time, to multi-generational days out filled with interactive fun and learning.  

This half term, Farnham Maltings is bursting with activities for children, teens and families. Enjoy hands-on fun including Halloween soap making, jewellery, cupcake decorating, crochet, puppet workshops and Crafty Kids at Farnham Museum. Teens can try 3D Design & Make, Mixed Media Artbox or the Spooky Sustainable Horror filmmaking workshop – ideal for budding directors! Plus, there’s live theatre and family-friendly cinema to enjoy. Come and get creative this half term. More at farnhammaltings.com/half-term 

Perfect for this spine-tingling time of year, Guildford Shakespeare Company are staging Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in St Nicolas’ Church, with three actors. It follows the ambitious Victor Frankenstein as he attempts to create a super-being, but when his experiment fails to live up to his ambition he begins to realise the repercussions of the horror he has created. Oct 20th- Nov 8th. Book at guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk/tickets 

West Berkshire 

Wander the enchanting woodland trail at Wasing Estate, Aldermaston, where you’ll be met by a life-sized fairytale pumpkin carriage and stunning autumnal views. Pick your own pumpkin and enjoy seasonal snacks from October 17th to 31st, selected dates, more at wasing.co.uk/pumpkins 

This autumn step into a brand-new breathtaking trail of light, colour and fantasy at Welford Park’s Spectacle of Light. This enchanting night-time experience, selected dates October 17th to November 9th, transforms the park’s majestic woodland and gardens into a dazzling world of illumination and sound, featuring different and unique installations not seen before. Wander with family, friends and your four-legged friends through much-loved paths in a whole new light. Whether you’re revisiting or discovering Welford Park for the first time, this magical journey under the stars offers a fresh and unforgettable perspective. Don’t miss the food village and covered bar, serving delicious local treats. Book tickets at https://spectacleoflight.co.uk/welford-park/ 

Explore the grounds of Shaw House, Newbury, to find the fairy doors this half term, 27th-31st. Additional magical craft and colouring will be available in the Activity Room. Trail sheets available from Reception for a suggested donation of £2. Pay on the door. 

We all want to meet people from history but everyone is dead! So it’s time to prepare for Horrible Histories live on stage with the acclaimed production of Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians on Friday, 31st October at Corn Exchange, Newbury. Would you stand and deliver to dastardly Dick Turpin? Can you help detectives find the headless man? Will you be saved by Florence Nightingale? Find out what a baby farmer did and move to the groove with party Queen Victoria. Don’t miss this horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in! Book at cornexchangenew.com/events/horrible-histories-georgians-and-victorians 

Join a nocturnal safari at Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham at twilight to explore the nature reserve and find out more about the animals that come out after dark. Enjoy a variety of activities including a bat walk, star gazing and lantern making. Some activities will be self-led and others led by members of the BBOWT learning team. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Tuesday, 28th October, 4.30-7.30pm. Book at https://tinyurl.com/4y9dmtdz 

Why not use the school break to improve an essential life skill? Join Madden Swim School for their popular half-term intensive courses of swimming lessons at Downe House / Oratory School? With fun-filled but informative lessons by qualified and experienced teachers, plus small classes with no more than 6 swimmers per class, it is amazing how much progress can be made in just 5 days. Find out more at maddenswimschool.co.uk  

Find the clues to solve the case at The Living Rainforest Mysteries this half term. Can you help find the missing orchid? Book at livingrainforest.org 

Head to The Base at Greenham for Halloween craft fun and more starting on October 26th with Halloween Pinch Pots: Hats, Cats & Bats and try your hand at screen printing your own unique trick or treat bag. The holiday art clubs runs Monday to Wednesday and help create the annual illuminated willow lantern display to join the stag display for The Base’s festive season. Details at thebasegreenham.co.uk/workshops-events/ 

Wiltshire 

For half term, beautiful Bowood House and Gardens in Calne will host den building, game playing and fun all on   Thursday, 30th October and Creepy Critters interactive sessions with snakes, giant snails and tarantulas presented by ZooLab UK from Tuesday 28th October to Saturday 1st November: visit bowood.org 

Roves Farm & Visitor Centre in Sevenhampton, will have pumpkins galore as well as carving, potion shows at noon, wand making and spell casting, Monsters Ball & more, 23rd to 31st October; rovesfarm.co.uk 

On 29th & 30th October, Owl-O-Ween at the Hawk Conservancy Trust in Andover you can enjoy ghostly storytelling and marvel at the owls as they put on two beautiful flying displays against the backdrop of the moonlit reserve. For more info visit hawk-conservancy.org      

Marlborough Town FC will welcome your little horrors – in their best spooky costumes – for a children’s Halloween party, 6.30-8.30pm on Friday, 31st October. Buy your tickets at marlboroughtownfc.co.uk 

Visit the pop-up pumpkin patch at Cobbs Farm in Hungerford, which is open from 10am to 4pm (3pm on Sundays), with small, medium and large pumpkins to choose from. There’s no need to book for pumpkin picking but why not make a day of it (and save yourself the monster mess) by booking a £10pp slot in the carving tent and create a beautiful masterpieceto take home. Book and find out more at cobbsfarmshops.co.uk/hungerford-events 

This beautiful part of the world has plenty of ghost stories and sightings, from a spectral coach and horses in Savernake Forest to two ghosts (one royal) at Silbury Hill in Avebury: find out more at weird-wiltshire.co.uk. Wrap up warm (with a Thermos of hot chocolate) for a woodland ramble while the autumn colours are at their most breathtaking now. Keep an eye out – and your ears pricked – for owls, bats and other nocturnal creatures.               

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Keep your dog safe this Halloween

Zoe Gater

Posted on

halloween

Zoe Gater

, , ,

Halloween can be particularly dangerous for pets, with many hazards threatening their health and well-being. It may also pose a risk to visitors at the door.

Pooch & Mutt’s Resident Vet Dr. Linda Simon and Canine Behaviour Expert Dr. Emma Scales-Theobald, PhD have shared six essential pieces of advice for keeping your dogs and trick-or-treaters safe this Halloween.

1. Ensure all sweets and chocolate are stored out of reach

Dr Linda Simon says, “Keeping all sweets and chocolate out of your dogs reach is advised all year long, however with Halloween comes copious amounts of both, so making sure they are kept where your dog cannot get to them is incredibly important.”

“Chocolate is poisonous for dogs, as it contains theobromine and caffeine, which are two stimulants that dogs cannot efficiently metabolise, so ingesting even a small amount can make them quite unwell. Most sweets contain sugar, but some use a sweetener called Xylitol. This is a substance that can cause a potent release of insulin from your dog’s pancreas, thus causing a dangerous drop in blood sugar and even liver failure.”

“It isn’t just the sweets themselves that are harmful to your pooch. The wrappers and packaging pose their own risks. Consumption of these can cause serious internal damage, such as blockages and other issues that could lead to your dog requiring surgery.”

2. Supervise young children when they have access to sweets

Dr Linda Simon says, “As I mentioned in the previous piece of advice, sweets and chocolates are not safe for your dogs to consume. Whilst we adult know the dangers, our children might not. I recommend supervising young children when they are undoubtedly rummaging through their stash and ensuring they are not falling victim to your dog’s best puppy dog eyes and sharing their Halloween haul.”

Dr Emma Scales-Theobald, PhD says, “As important as supervising your children is, it is also well worth teaching them how to behave around dogs, to keep them and your pet safe. This would be a great time to teach them of the dangers associated with dogs consuming sweets and chocolate as well as teaching them how to enforce the ‘leave it’ command with your dog.”

3. Keep lit pumpkins where dogs cannot reach them

Dr Linda Simon says, “Whilst pumpkin is actually quite good for your dog, containing lots of nutrients and fibre, consuming it in large quantities can lead to vomiting, pain and even intestinal blockage.”

“It’s also a common Halloween tradition to pop a tealight candle inside a carved pumpkin, something you absolutely want to keep away from your dog. Not only is it a burn risk, but ingesting candle wax is likely to upset your dog’s tummy. Whilst eating a candle is unlikely to cause serious harm, many candles include chemicals or essential oils that could be more harmful. I would advise sticking to natural/non-toxic tea lights for your pumpkins this Halloween, to avoid any potentially pricey vet trips.”

4. Keep dogs away from the door

Dr Emma Scales-Theobald, PhD says, “With Halloween comes an influx of visitors, most of whom are strangers to both you and your dog. Lots of activity at your door can be quite stress-inducing for even the calmest of dogs, but if you have a particularly reactive dog, you need to be sure to prepare ahead of time. Whilst I will always recommend proper training with a professional to correct any reactive behaviours in your dog, there are things you can do to keep your dog calm and safe on the 31st October.”

“If you allow your dog to free roam, the constant knocking and opening of the door could trigger a reaction that could put both your dog and the trick or treaters at risk. This could be the dog escaping or your dog jumping up at and hurting those at the door in the worst-case scenario.”

“I would recommend setting up a room where your dog feels safe with a cosy bed and lots of blankets for them to curl up in. You also want to distract your dog from the sounds of knocking and new voices, so try adding some background noise such as a TV or radio and avert their attention to something that will keep their mind busy, such as a busy stuffed kong full of treats or a particular, tasty chew.”

5. Be cautious when it comes to dressing up your dog

Dr Emma Scales-Theobald, PhD says, “Trying to get a costume on your dog can be quite stressful for both parties, especially your unsuspecting pooch! I suggest getting your dog used to the costume a couple of weeks before Halloween with some positive reinforcement. Start by getting the costume out, laying it on the floor and allowing your dog to get a good sniff, all whilst offering praise and rewarding calm behaviour with a tasty treat. This should build a positive association with the costume.”

“Over the days, you can build this up by gently putting small parts of the costume on your dog and again rewarding calm behaviour, slowly building this up until you can put the whole costume on your dog with no fuss. If, however, your dog seems too stressed throughout this process, then it is best you skip a Halloween outfit. Keeping your dog happy and stress-free is far more important than squeezing them into a costume for one night.”

Dr Linda Simon says, “Putting your dog in a costume is fun and can make for some seriously cute photos, however, making sure it is safe is exceptionally important. Whatever costume you put your dog in should not limit its ability to move comfortably and freely, breathe or bark. If it limits any of these, then do not force your dog to wear it.”

“Another precaution to take is to thoroughly check the costume over for any pieces that can be chewed off and become choking hazards. It, of course, goes without saying that when your dog is in a costume, you should supervise them at all times to ensure their safety.”

“Your dog should be happy their costume on for the short time it is on, so make sure to keep an eye on them to ensure at no point they are starting to show signs of distress, anxiousness or even being too hot!”

6. Make sure all decorations are well secured and out of reach

Dr Linda Simon says, “Halloween poses many risks for your dog, with decorations being one of the largest. Dogs are incredibly inquisitive, and they explore new things with their noses and mouths. If you are someone that likes to decorate their home at Halloween, you need to ensure that all decorations are placed out of reach of your dog and are well secured to avoid your dog getting hold of them.”

“In the event of your dog chewing and ingesting any of your Halloween decorations, you will need to contact your vet as soon as possible. Ingestion of items of this kind can cause a whole host of issues, such from upset stomachs to intestinal blockages, which can become fatal.”

All in all, once you bear the above in mind you can have an exceptionally enjoyable time with your dog this Halloween. You could even really get into the spooky season and treat them to some treats to let them know when they’re doing a good job.

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Fun for Halloween & half term

Liz Nicholls

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halloween

Liz Nicholls

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Halloween and half term are on the horizon. Luckily, Buckinghamshire is a county that’s (witch’s) brimful of great family-friendly fun! Here are our top picks!

From 25th October to 3rd November you can enjoy an intriguing Aesop’s Fables interactive trail at Hughenden. The same week, there’s a nature trail at Cliveden; National Trust

The Pop-up Pumpkin Patch has popped up again in Stokenchurch, HP14 3YF, for its third year, 23rd-31st October. Pick a pumpkin from £2, and enjoy the PTA café. For more info please follow thepopuppumpkinpatch

The fun-packed Odds Farm in Wooburn Green, HP10 0LX, also has a pumpkin patch, carving corner, arts and crafts and spooky surprises, 26th October-3rd November; Odds Farm Park

Over at wondrous Wendover Woods in Aston Clinton, HP22 5NQ, pick up your £4 party pack from the information point and set off on The Gruffalo Party Trail! Find out more at Wendover Woods

The Halloween spectacular and bonfire is back at Chiltern Open Air Museum in Chalfont, HP8 4AB, 5-9pm on Friday, 1st November, promising an evening of spooky fun for all ages in the atmospheric historic buildings and woods. Enjoy spine-tingling stories, marshmallow-toasting and scary woodland walks. For more info please visit Chiltern Open Air Museum

Enjoy Hogshaw School of Witchcraft & Wizardy at the farm & wildlife Park, MK18 3LA, 26th October to 1st November with pumpkins, potions, creepy crawlies, owls & extra fun! Visit Hogshaw Farm & Wildlife Park to find out more.

Gorgeous Peterley Manor Farm in Missenden, HP16 0HH, will sell pumpkins in the farm shop, or PYO. Visit Peterley Manor Farm

Majestic Waddesdon Manor, HP18 0JH, will welcome you for an autumn adventure trail, 2nd-27th October. You can also enjoy Creepy Critters with the ZooLab animal-lovers on 19th, 20th, 26th & 27th October. Or why not book in for a spooky afternoon tea, for children or adults, on 26th & 27th? Waddesdon Manor

The Spookfest Family Fun Day at Haddenham village hall, HP17 8EE, 12-4pm on Saturday, 26th October, will offer lots of free fun including owl-handling, slime-making, biscuit decorating, arts & crafts, as well as a pop-up café. Get your free tickets at Eventbrite.

Wishing you lots of safe, scary fun!

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Half term horrors

Liz Nicholls

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halloween

Liz Nicholls

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Halloween and half term are on the horizon. Luckily, Buckinghamshire is a county that’s (witch’s) brimful of great family-friendly fun! 

From 25th October to 3rd November you can enjoy an intriguing Aesop’s Fables interactive trail at Hughenden. The same week, there’s a nature trail at Cliveden; nationaltrust.org.uk

The Pop-up Pumpkin Patch has popped up again in Stokenchurch, HP14 3YF, for its third year, 23rd -31st October. Pick a pumpkin from £2, and enjoy the PTA cafe. For more info please follow @Thepopuppumpkinpatch

The fun-packed Odds Farm in Wooburn Green, HP10 0LX, also has a pumpkin patch, carving corner, arts and crafts and spooky surprises, 26th October-3rd November; oddsfarm.co.uk

Over at wondrous Wendover Woods in Aston Clinton, HP22 5NQ, pick up your £4 party pack from the information point and set off on the The Gruffalo Party Trail! Find out more at forestryengland.uk/wendover-woods

The Halloween spectacular and bonfire is back at Chiltern Open Air Museum in Chalfont, HP8 4AB, 5-9pm on Friday, 1st November, promising an evening of spooky fun for all ages in the atmospheric historic buildings and woods. Enjoy spine-tingling stories, marshmallow-toasting and scary woodland walks. For more info please visit coam.org.uk

Enjoy Hogshaw School of Witchcraft & Wizardy at the farm & wildlife Park, MK18 3LA, 26th October to 1st November with pumpkins, potions, creepy crawlies, owls & extra fun! Visit hogshawfarm.co.uk to find out more.

Gorgeous Peterley Manor Farm in Missenden, HP16 0HH, will sell pumpkins in the farm shop, or PYO. Visit peterleymanorfarm.co.uk

Majestic Waddesdon Manor, HP18 0JH, will welcome you for an autumn adventure trail, 2nd-27th October. You can also enjoy Creepy Critters with the ZooLab animal-lovers on 19th, 20th, 26th & 27th October. Or why not book in for a spooky afternoon tea, for children or adults, on 26th & 27th? waddesdon.org.uk

The Spookfest Family Fun Day at Haddenham village hall, HP17 8EE, 12-4pm on Saturday, 26th October, will offer lots of free fun including owl-handling, slime-making, biscuit decorating, arts & crafts, as well as a pop-up cafe. Get your free tickets at eventbrite.com

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Half-term horrors

Karen Neville

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halloween

Karen Neville

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There are plenty of Halloween activities and ideas to entertain your little monsters this holiday

From glorious autumn colour to Halloween fun, there’s lots for everyone to enjoy at a National Trust place near you this autumn. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours at Winkworth Arboretum. soak up the far-reaching views at Leith Hill and Hindhead Commons and bring the little ones for spooky fun at Hatchlands Park and Claremont Landscape Garden.

There’s spine tingling spooky fun to be had at Hatchlands Park with a pumpkin hunt in the garden for younger ones and spooky fun in the house. You can also follow a Halloween themed trail at Hindhead Common.

Join a spooktacular fun run at Dapdune Wharf on Saturday 26th and test your fitness as darkness falls in a 2k run around the haunted wharf and island. Dressing up encouraged. £5 per runner. Booking essential. Visit River Wey & Godalming Navigations │ Surrey | National Trust. You can also explore the stars and space at the wharf, make a mini rocket and create your own constellation.

Help Sarah the Spider find her boots the mischievous mice have hidden at Winkworth Arboretum, Oct 19th-Nov 3rd. Based on the Sarah the Spider children’s books by Hilary Robinson. Find eight activity stations themed around friendship and a very friendly spider who loves to dance.

Conjure up some spooks and spells and get those cauldrons bubbling at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre on Tuesday 29th at a Halloween themed workshop for 5-7 year olds. Book at Spooks and Spells 5-7yrs | Yvonne Arnaud Theatre (yvonne-arnaud.co.uk)

Celebrate pumpkin week at Secretts Farm, Milford, October 19th & 20th and 25th to 30th. Dress to impress in the Halloween costume competition and try the pumpkin-themed menu.

Discover beautiful, handcrafted designs from over 75 talented makers at the festival of crafts, now in its 28th year. Well-established in the craft calendar and part of Farnham’s October Craft Month, the event, October 12th & 13th, champions great design, craftsmanship and skill. With hand-picked exhibitors, browse stalls showcasing a variety of media from textiles and print to homewares and jewellery. Expert-led talks, drop-in craft activities and bookable workshops. More at festival of crafts | Farnham Maltings

October is a wonderful time to visit Gilbert White’s House & Gardens; perfect for autumnal walks, fascinating exhibitions and the café is open to all, with a great array of hot drinks and gorgeous cakes. Plus this October Gilbert White’s House has a packed half term schedule with a pumpkin trail around the garden, owl themed twilight tales for the little ones, craft and story telling. To see everything that is on offer visit Gilbert Whites House – Journeys of Discovery in the Natural World

Take your ghouls and goblins to The Otter Nursery, Murray Road, Ottershaw from October 21st to November 1st and join the thrilling word hunt. It’s free and everyone gets to take home a prize. There’ll also be pumpkins available!

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Half term horrors

Karen Neville

Posted on

halloween

Karen Neville

, ,

There are plenty of Halloween activities and ideas to entertain your little monsters this holiday

October is a wonderful time to visit Gilbert White’s House & Garden; perfect for autumnal walks, fascinating exhibitions and the cafe is open to all, with a great array of hot drinks and gorgeous cakes. Plus this October Gilbert White’s House has a packed half term schedule with a pumpkin trail around the garden, owl themed twilight tales for the little ones, craft and story telling. To see every there is on offer visit Gilbert Whites House – Journeys of Discovery in the Natural World

Follow the Halloween pumpkin trail at The Vyne, October 26th – November 3rd. Explore the ground floor of the house, find 10 suncatchers featuring mysterious and magical pumpkins. With a jack-o’-lantern theme, in the gardens enjoy family games. £2 per trail sheet and prize.

Join Hinton Ampner’s Halloween Potions Trail with Wilma the Witch, October 19th- November 4th. Double, double toil and trouble…. Stir the cauldron and watch it bubble! Hidden in the spookiest corners of Hinton Ampner’s gardens are the ingredients Wilma needs for her magic potion. You’ll need to race on your broomstick, toss a ring onto the witch’s hat, move your pet spider through the maze and more to complete the challenge and make the potion! Trails are £2, normal admission fee applies.

Discover beautiful, handcrafted designs from over 75 talented makers at the festival of crafts, now in its 28th year. Well-established in the craft calendar and part of Farnham’s October Craft Month, the event, October 12th & 13th, champions great design, craftsmanship and skill. With exhibitors hand-picked from across the UK, browse stalls showcasing a variety of media from textiles and print to homewares and jewellery. Enjoy meeting the makers and learn about the processes used in both traditional and modern techniques with expert-led talks, drop-in craft activities and a programme of bookable workshops. More at festival of crafts | Farnham Maltings

Swap spooky scares for frightful fun on the trick or treat trail at Winchester Science Centre from October 12th to November 4th where Skully the skeleton needs help to find their lost bones. There’ll be a new free live show, Potions Science Lab, mixing up fun with chemistry and bringing to life some famous bewitching brews. And little werewolves, withces and ghouls can show off their best moves on the dancefloor at the mini monster disco.

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Newbury’s free ghost town shop trail

Karen Neville

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halloween

Newbury Business Improvement District (BID), the organisation behind Visit Newbury, has a thrilling free experience for families this October half term: the Ghost Town Shop Trail

Newbury, a town steeped in history, is home to many eerie tales. In the Market Place, the ghost of Thomas Barrie forever moans, punished for treason by having his ears removed. Nearby, The Catherine Wheel pub harbours a mischievous poltergeist who likes to pull hair and throw glasses.

From 25th to 28th October, some of Newbury’s most beloved shops around Bartholomew Street will embrace this spooky past, being transformed into hauntingly delightful destinations for children to trick or treat as they hunt for Halloween posters in shop window.

The trail features 10 fantastic local independent businesses, including The Goan Caff, The Freakshow, The Dolphin, Willow & Blooms, Salon 46, Hethertons Bakery, La La Vintage, TaxAssist Accountants, The Ugly Duckling, and The Rufus Coffee House.

Kick off at the Kennet Centre with each shop offering chocolates and sweets to celebrate the spooky season. Costumes are encouraged! Throughout the day free Halloween spooky makeovers will be offered at a face painting station in the Kennet Centre between 10am and 2pm. The event will also boast a number of offers and prizes including Lego Star Wars sets – did you know Star Wars has filmed just up the road at Greenham Common? Other spine-chillingly good prizes up for grabs include Vue Cinema family vouchers and a Nando’s family meal voucher, so be sure not to miss out!

This event aims to provide a safe and enjoyable trick-or-treating experience for families seeking accessible and engaging activities for their children over the half-term break.

The Ghost Town Shop Trail offers a comfortable alternative for families looking to experience the joy of trick-or-treating without worrying about knocking on unfamiliar doors.

Alison Drummond, Operations Manager at Newbury BID, said: “We can’t wait for the Ghost Town Shop Trail in October. With some fantastic local businesses involved, fun prizes and, of course, chocolate up for grabs, the four-day event promises to be great and provide a great showcase for our much-loved Independents down in Bartholomew Street – otherwise unofficially known as the Southern Quarter!”

Visit Newbury’s Halloween events include the Ghost Town Shop Trail, a Halloween themed fright-night Psycho Path Pub Trail, and a Spooktakular Window Competition where town-centre businesses are encouraged to dress up their windows as part of the Halloween festivities.

Families wanting to get involved should stroll down Bartholomew Street and the surrounding areas between October 25th and 28th. The participating shops will be visibly marked, making it easy for families to plot their Halloween adventure.

To find out more about the free Ghost Town Shop Trail, sign up for your trail card and read the Terms & Conditions, head to the Visit Newbury website: Visit Newbury

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Spooky half term fun at Squire’s

Round & About

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Create & Grow activities to keep your little monsters entertained this October

Squire’s Garden Centres is looking forward to welcoming young visitors for some half term with some spooky themed activities, running Monday 23rd-Friday, 27th October.

Children are invited to come along and paint a spooky tealight holder as well as enjoy a FREE ghost hunt (and fancy dress is welcome too!). Squire’s popular Create & Grow event for children is the perfect way to fill a morning over October half term with some fun creative craft activities which include painting a ceramic witch’s hat* tealight holder (priced £6.50). Once finished, it can be taken home – along with a complimentary battery-operated LED tealight – to brighten a bedroom or corner of the house during the dark, spooky evenings that lie ahead from half-term onwards. Advanced booking is required – which can be done online or in-store. The painting activity lasts approximately 20 minutes and should be booked in advance, with visitors invited to go to the information desk on arrival.

In addition, there is also a FREE Ghost Hunt with clues to find along the trail around the garden centre to complete a spooky word – with a ghost-themed sticker to receive on completion (no booking required).

A half-term visit to enjoy some ‘spooky’ fun at Squire’s can be extended with a visit to the popular Café Bars at all centres and a light bite from the ‘Little Gardener’s’ menu. There will be plenty to match the hunger of the spooky crafters, while adults may choose an autumn-themed treat and a welcome rest.

Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire’s Garden Centres, said: “Once again we are delighted to be able offer families something fun to look forward to for October half-term and the autumn season. Children seem to love this week in our centres and we’re sure the tealight holder activity will capture young imaginations. I am sure there will be an amazing variety of decoration and I hope children will enjoy their creations at home during the darker evenings to come.”

Enjoy Halloween fun at a centre near you at Badshot Lea, Cobham, Frensham, Hersham, Long Ditton, Milford, Shepperton, West Horsely, Woking and Wokingham.

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Autumn leaves and fiendish fun

Zoe Gater

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halloween

It may feel as if the children have only just gone back to school but already it’s time for half term. So, if you’re in need of some ideas to amuse them and save your own sanity, read on…

This time of year may be the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness, but it’s also the time for ghostly goings-on when things go bump in the night and you can’t help bumping into a pumpkin or two!

There’s a whole week full of pumpkins at Secretts at Hurst Farm, Milford from October 22nd to 29th. Pop along and pick your own to take home. They’re priced by the diameter so bear that in mind when tempted to go for the biggest. Pick up an activity sheet and join in a scavenger hunt. If the fleshy orange squash is to your taste, then tuck into the pumpkin menu of soup, curry or a slice of spicy pumpkin cake.

In the lead up to Halloween, RHS Wisley invites you to delve into the world of deadly plants and bugs. With fun family activities from Saturday 22nd to Sunday 30th. Follow the trail around the garden to explore how everything from cacti to centipedes defend themselves and their habitats. Meet all kinds of bugs and get stuck in with craft and planting workshops. Design a deadly bug or start growing your own carnivorous plant at a workshop and find out more about the wicked plants and wildlife who make Wisley their home.

Magic and mischief abound on The Watercress Line this Halloween with spooky fun galore to keep the kids entertained. Travel on the Wizard Express steam train, walk in Harry Potter’s footsteps over the railway footbridge and explore the Harry Potter style coaches in the siding at Alresford. Get up close to hairy, scary creatures, take part in a broom making demo and much more. As well as unlimited train travel between stations. And why not dress up as a spooky character for the chance to win a prize?

There’s a week of spooky make and take craft activities at the Rural Life Centre, Farnham from Monday 24th to Sunday 30th. With the popular pumpkin carving on Saturday and Sunday. Pre-booking essential for this.

If you’ve ever accused your children of being air heads let them revel in this at Brooklands Museum this October half term, at their Air Heads extravaganza where you’ll find all manner of activities to keep them entertained. Join in the Build a Paper Aircraft Family Workshop and watch it fly. Pedal planes will run from the paddock for under 5s. Become a detective and solve clues, decode messages and search for hidden objects to claim a prize.

Fairy Doors will be in the Painshill landscape from Saturday 22nd until November 13th. Discover the secret series of doors hidden around the woodlands and lake. As you wander the route you will see the best spots for autumn colour. Enjoy some stunning trees, collect autumn leaves and celebrate the season. Keep your eyes open for the fairies!

A new after dark trail awaits visitors to Polesden Lacey from October 20th to November 6th with IGNITE. Visitors can enjoy a walk through the gardens at night guided by flickering flames and glowing tunnels of trees, with magical illuminated installations along the way. Nestled in the Surrey Hills, the Edwardian gardens of the estate are the perfect setting for this exceptional after-dark experience.

An autumn stroll through the ancient woodlands and parkland at Hatchlands Park is a joy at this time year. The beech woodland creates a delightful haze of gold and yellow and the native wild service tree, with its vibrant red leaves glows against the sky. There are various way-marked routes to follow and if you need a little help to get around, book an all-terrain Tramper personal mobility vehicle.

There’s a weird, wacky, and wicked Halloween trail to follow at Winkworth Arboretum in Godalming. From Saturday 22nd to Monday 31st where you can uncover the spookier side of trees on a haunted trail around the arboretum. Did you know fungi is closer to an animal than a plant? There’s a tree that smells like candyfloss? Or that some trees can grow fingers? Discover all this and more…

Take part in an autumn colour hunt throughout the month at The Vyne. Search for reds, golden yellows and rusty browns hidden in the grounds using the autumn colour hunt key. Intrigue and curious conundrums are part of the Halloween riddle trail from Saturday 22nd to Sunday 30th when little ones can also hunt for witches, wizards, cats and toads exploring the gardens with the aid of trail sheets. A chocolate treat awaits at the end.

Spot the pumpkins hidden across the Pleasure Garden and have fun strolling through crunchy leaves at Petworth from Saturday 22nd to Sunday 30th. Search out seasonal colours and different leaf shapes at Petworth that are marked on the colour catcher chart. Collect what you find, then help create deer shaped wild art installations by attaching your leafy collections to the animal models.

Gin lovers listen up! Did you know there’s an award-winning distillery in the beautiful village of Ripley? Distillers Of Surrey are a family run business on the picturesque Papercourt Lake, Polesden Lane. If you’re yet to discover this hidden treasure, check out their opening times at www.distillersofsurrey.com or book one of their popular distillery tours where you’ll be welcomed with a G&T and enjoy an interesting tour. Younger ones aren’t forgotten with spooky Halloween craft to enjoy on Saturday 29th.

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Autumn leaves and fiendish fun

Zoe Gater

Posted on

halloween

It may feel as if the children have only just gone back to school, but already it’s time for half term. So, if you’re in need of some ideas to amuse them and save your own sanity, read on…

This time of year may be the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness, but it’s also the time for ghostly goings-on when things go bump in the night and you can’t help bumping into a pumpkin or two!

Come and explore the first-ever pumpkin patch at The Earth Trust Centre at Wittenham Clumps from October 22nd to 30th. Pick your own direct from the field on the farm and try not to get lost in the maize maze. Get your boots muddy and your hands grubby, as you and your little ones have fun with one of our favourite autumn harvest vegetables. Morning and afternoon sessions. Booking essential.

A spooky, fun-filled, after dark trail awaits all the family this half term at Blenheim Palace, 21st to 30th, complete with new installations for 2022. Join with family and friends to wander from dusk into darkness between one ghostly space and another… if you dare! Watch out for flickering flames in a fiendish fire garden, daring fire artists and grinning pumpkins. Wind your way through the illuminated haunted woods filled with creepy neon cobwebs, ghastly ghouls, wicked witches, larger-than life spiders and beastly bats. Then discover the Secret Garden filled with more hidden surprises. Could it be a trick of the light or do things really go “bump in the night”?

Join fascinating, free, family-friendly events at the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford this half-term. The Festival of Social Science is a celebration of creative, challenging, and inspiring work that social science researchers do to help us understand and influence the world around us. Hands-on activities are led by real-life social scientists. Discover the future of going to the doctors, explore what better cities could look like, uncover hidden histories in the museum’s collections – and much more! Find out how the researchers are helping to make the world a better place. Just drop in on 29th and 30th.

Hear spooky stories from 1,000 years of gruesome history come to life during a Spooky Tour at Oxford Castle on October 15th and 21st to 31st. Are you brave enough to visit one of the most haunted places in the UK? Explore the vaulted well chamber, visit the punishment cells and go underground into the dark and spooky crypt. Watch out for ghostly visitors revealing themselves! Underground in the crypt, a cauldron is brewing; with the help of the castle’s resident warlock you can concoct some magical potions with three exciting activities in this hour-long workshop on selected dates.

Take part in the Waterperry Halloween Hunt throughout October half term, 15th to 30th. Follow the trail through the historic gardens to claim your prize at the end.

Follow the clues around the mysterious world of Tumblestone Hollow and the Gardens at Stonor to win a chocolate prize (or an alternative treat) on the Moon Witch’s Halloween Adventure. Folk of Tumblestone Hollow will be reading stories from The Moon Witch and The Thief and giving away spooky temporary transfers. There will be pumpkins galore and ghoulish surprises in this magical spot.

Corn Exchange Newbury and 101 Outdoor Arts and The Base Greenham are excited to be presenting a range of fabulous shows, events and workshops to keep families and little ones entertained this October half term! From shows like Fireman Sam, Morgan & West: Unbelievable Science and a stage adaptation of Lemony Snicket’s The Dark on stage, and spooky screenings of Halloween classics in the cinema, to crafty workshops and fun art courses across the Learning Centre, 101 and The Base, including pumpkin carving and Halloween themed t-shirt printing – it’s going to be a fang-tastic half term! Find out more at www.cornexchangenew.com

Enjoy a free guided tour at the Living Rainforest this half term and explore the theme of ‘poisonous and venomous’ in keeping with it being Halloween. The centre is home to more than 850 species of plants and animals and visitors can experience the sights, sounds and smells of a lush tropical rainforest environment.

Children can enjoy some autumn crafts in the barn at the historic site of Avebury, as well as a half-term family trail from 22nd to 30th.

LEGOLAND’s Brick or Treat presents Monster Party, where the LEGO® Monsters are taking over this October. Join them at the Brick or Treat Monster Party to celebrate their fantastic new 4D Movie The Great Monster Chase!. There’ll be amazing new experiences, live shows, fantastic LEGO decorations and lots of Monster mischief.  The LEGOLAND Windsor Resort will be transformed into a pumpkin-filled wonderland for what promises to be the most frightfully fun event of the year.

Big friendly spooktacular family fun is promised at HalloWellyWeen at Wellington Country Park from Saturday 22nd until Sunday 30th. Enjoy daily shows and story telling at The Witches Show Tent, comedy duo Big Foot and PeteZa in The Not So Spooky Show Tent, get face to face with creepy crawlies in The Lost Jungle and carve a pumpkin in The Pumpkin Patch. The pop-up play village, Halloween themed miniature train and new for 2022 Junk Jodie with recycled Halloween crafts will all add to the entertainment.

Explore the lost village of Stowe as part of the Halloween trail at the National Trust property during October half term, expect some chants and spells along the way together with rare opportunities to explore the spookiest of Stowe’s monuments, the Gothic Temple on 29th and 30th.

Follow the paths of the Wicked Witch Trail around Lamport Garden on a spooky exploration from Saturday 22nd to Monday 31st. Help find the ingredients for a secret Stowe potion, learn some chants and spells, and enjoy the magical colours that can be found there.

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