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Halloween Events London: Top Spooky Fun for Kids in 2024
Looking for the best Halloween family events in London with the kids? You’re in for a treat! London is packed with Halloween fun, from spooky trails and haunted houses to carving pumpkins and crafty activities.
Whether your kids are little pumpkins or thrill-seeking teens, there’s something for everyone. This guide covers the top Halloween events in the city, perfect for a spooky day out or an exciting evening adventure.
Key Takeaways
- Top Halloween Events in London: Discover the best Halloween events around London, including spooky trails, theme parks, and more.
- Pumpkin Patches and Creative Crafts: Find places to pick your own pumpkin and enjoy spooky crafts with the family.
- Family-Friendly Frights: From interactive haunted houses to free creepy crawly activities, there’s something for all ages this October.
Family-Friendly Halloween Attractions in London
London has plenty of Halloween events that are perfect for families with kids of all ages. From theme parks to historical sites, these events provide the right mix of spooky fun without being too scary. Here’s a look at some of the best family-friendly Halloween events in London.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
Address: Kew Gardens, Kew, Richmond, London, TW9 3AE
Dates: 18th October – 3rd November 2024
Get ready for a magical experience at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. This Halloween, the studio will be transformed with floating pumpkins in the Great Hall, live-action wand duelling, and encounters with the dreaded Death Eaters. The Dark Arts are in full swing, with plenty of spooky surprises and creepy sound effects throughout the tour. Perfect for Harry Potter fans and anyone up for some wizarding world fun.
What to Expect:
- Great Hall Decorations: The Great Hall will be decked out with floating pumpkins, cauldrons of magical potions, and eerie lighting that sets the perfect tone for Halloween.
- Live-Action Experiences: Learn how to duel with wands against Death Eaters and see a live demonstration of how the magical effects in the films were created.
- Forbidden Forest: Venture into the Forbidden Forest to encounter giant spiders, magical creatures, and spooky surprises hidden among the trees.
- Dark Arts Theme: This year’s theme is all about the Dark Arts, so expect everything from creepy sound effects to dark mark sightings, making the experience thrilling but still suitable for families.
Kew Gardens
Address: Kew Gardens, Kew, Richmond, London, TW9 3AE
Dates: 18th October – 3rd November 2024
Kew Gardens is turning into a Halloween trail this Halloween, filled with glowing pumpkins, neon cobwebs, and flickering lights. This event offers a gentle introduction to Halloween, making it great for younger kids or families who want a magical evening without the frights. Wander through the gardens, enjoy the autumnal displays, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
What to Expect:
- Enchanted Trail: Follow the illuminated path through the gardens, where you’ll encounter glowing pumpkins, neon cobwebs, and larger-than-life giant spiders.
- Interactive Installations: Along the trail, there are interactive elements for kids to enjoy, like pressing buttons to trigger creepy sound effects or uncovering hidden surprises in the foliage.
- Food and Drink: Enjoy seasonal treats from food stalls along the trail, offering everything from hot chocolate to pumpkin-flavoured snacks.
- Photo Opportunities: There are plenty of spots perfect for taking Halloween selfies, including themed backdrops with witches, ghouls, and other spooky characters.
Hampton Court Palace
Address: Hampton Court Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU
Dates: 26th October – 3rd November 2024
Take a trip back in time at Hampton Court Palace, where the infamous haunted halls come to life with ghostly projections and spooky stories. Young ghost hunters can explore the eerie corridors, learn about the palace’s haunted history, and enjoy some Halloween treats along the way. This event strikes a good balance between history and Halloween fun, making it a great outing for families.
What to Expect:
- Ghostly Encounters: Wander the halls of this historic palace and keep an eye out for the spectres that are said to haunt the corridors. With atmospheric projections and eerie sound effects, the ghosts of Hampton Court are more present than ever.
- Spooky Stories: Gather around to hear tales of the palace’s most famous ghosts, including the tragic figure of Catherine Howard, whose spirit is said to roam the gallery where she was arrested.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Younger children can get involved in spooky crafts or take part in a spooky trail designed especially for them, offering a gentle introduction to ghost hunting.
- Food and Refreshments: After exploring the haunted palace, relax with some Halloween treats at the on-site café, offering themed snacks and warm drinks to keep the chill away.
The London Dungeon
Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB
Dates: 1st – 31st October 2024
The London Dungeon brings the darker side of London’s history to life with interactive exhibits and special Halloween performances. This year, don’t miss the chance to explore the recreated attic of 50 Berkeley Square, said to be one of the most haunted spots in England. With tales of tragic souls and spooky stories that span centuries, it’s the perfect choice for families looking for a thrilling yet manageable scare.
What to Expect:
- Live Shows and Performances: Actors bring to life some of London’s most notorious characters, from Jack the Ripper to Sweeney Todd, in a series of chilling performances that are both educational and entertaining.
- Interactive Experiences: Engage with the exhibits through interactive elements that let you participate in the spooky action. Whether it’s solving a mystery or helping a character escape their fate, there’s plenty to keep the kids engaged.
- Themed Areas: Explore various themed areas, each highlighting a different aspect of London’s haunted past. From the medieval torture chambers to the streets of Victorian London, there’s something new and exciting around every corner.
- Halloween Specials: During October, the Dungeon hosts special shows and events tailored to the Halloween season, ensuring a unique and memorable experience.
Pumpkin Picking and Halloween Crafts in London
Pumpkin picking and Halloween crafts are perfect ways to get into the spooky spirit while keeping it fun and hands-on for the kids. Here are the best places in London to pick your very own pumpkin and enjoy some creative crafting sessions.
Hobbledown Heath
Address: Staines Road, Hounslow TW14 0HH
Dates: Thursdays to Sundays, 27th September – 3rd November 2024
Hobbledown Heath offers a fantastic pumpkin patch right in London, so you don’t have to travel far to find the perfect pumpkin. Kids can pick their favourites, take some seasonal photos, and bring their own pumpkin home for carving. It’s a fun, easy-going outing that’s perfect for families looking to add a bit of autumnal cheer to their Halloween celebrations.
What to Expect:
- Pumpkin Picking: Grab a wheelbarrow and choose from a variety of pumpkins scattered across the patch. With plenty of sizes and shapes to pick from, you’re sure to find the perfect pumpkin for your Halloween decorations.
- Photo Opportunities: The patch is set up with plenty of spots to take great family photos. From hay bales to scarecrows, the themed backdrops add to the fun and make for some memorable snaps.
- Seasonal Snacks: After picking your pumpkin, enjoy a hot drink or snack from the nearby stalls, which offer everything from hot chocolate to pumpkin pie.
- Family Activities: The venue also offers additional activities like face painting and mini petting zoos, adding to the day’s excitement.
Chelsea Physic Garden
Address: 66 Royal Hospital Road, London SW3 4HS
Dates: 28th October 2024
For a crafty twist on pumpkin decorating, head to Chelsea Physic Garden, where you can paint a pumpkin instead of carving. This event is perfect for younger kids or anyone who prefers a safer, mess-free option. Plus, you’ll get to explore the beautiful gardens and learn about different pumpkin plants while you’re there.
What to Expect:
- Pumpkin Painting: Kids can get creative with paint, glitter, and other decorations to transform their pumpkins into spooky or funny faces. It’s a great way to get into the Halloween spirit without the mess of carving.
- Educational Talks: Learn about the different types of pumpkins and gourds, how they’re grown, and their uses both in cooking and as decorations. It’s a fun and educational twist on traditional Halloween activities.
- Explore the Garden: While you’re there, take a stroll through the Chelsea Physic Garden, which features a wide variety of plants and trees. The autumn colours are on full display, making it a beautiful backdrop for your Halloween outing.
- Refreshments: Enjoy some light refreshments from the garden’s café, which offers seasonal drinks and snacks that are perfect for a crisp autumn day.
Spooky Trails and Haunted Walks
London’s rich history and atmospheric streets make it the perfect backdrop for spooky trails and haunted walks. Here are some of the best family-friendly options for a little light-hearted fright.
The Tower of London
Address: London EC3N 4AB
Dates: 26th October – 3rd November 2024
Step inside the historic Tower of London for a journey through its thousand-year-old past. Families can explore the ancient walls, uncover the stories of restless spirits, and participate in a special ghost-spotting trail. Keep an eye out for characters from history, like a Roman soldier or a medieval queen, lurking in the shadows of the White Tower.
What to Expect:
- Ghost-Spotting Trail: Follow the clues and explore the Tower as you try to spot some of its most famous ghostly residents. It’s a fun way to learn about the history of the Tower while enjoying some Halloween-themed excitement.
- Eerie Installations: Experience the Tower like never before with eerie soundscapes and atmospheric lighting that set the scene for a spooky exploration.
- Historical Re-enactments: Watch as actors bring to life some of the Tower’s most infamous events, from royal executions to medieval battles. It’s a captivating way to learn about London’s history in a truly unique setting.
- Family-Friendly: While there are plenty of chills to be had, the Tower’s Halloween events are designed to be suitable for all ages, making it a great choice for families with younger kids.
Hyde Park Learning Centre
Address: Hyde Park, London W2 2UH
Dates: 29th – 31st October 2024
The Hyde Park Learning Centre hosts a range of spooky fun for younger kids, including a hair-raising nature trail and creepy feely boxes in the Witches’ Den. Learn about the bats that live in the Royal Parks and listen to spooky stories. This is a fantastic option for families with little ones looking for a fun and educational Halloween experience.
What to Expect:
- Nature Trail: Follow the spooky trail through Hyde Park, where kids can learn about the different animals and plants that live there. It’s a gentle, educational adventure that’s perfect for younger children.
- Witches’ Den: Brave the feely boxes in the Witches’ Den, where you never quite know what you’re going to touch! From slimy textures to prickly surprises, it’s a fun way to add a bit of thrill without being too scary.
- Story Time: Gather around to listen to spooky stories about the creatures that call the park home. It’s a great way to engage kids’ imaginations and get them into the Halloween spirit.
- Crafts and Activities: After the trail, kids can take part in some spooky crafts to make their own Halloween decorations or souvenirs to take home.
London Bridge Experience
Address: 2-4 Tooley Street, London SE1 2SY
Dates: 1st – 31st October 2024
The London Bridge Experience offers an interactive journey through the creepy legends of London Bridge. Meet historical characters, solve creepy clues, and uncover the dark secrets of the city’s past. This event is great for older kids and families looking for a more engaging and slightly scarier experience.
What to Expect:
- Interactive Storytelling: Actors bring to life the legends of London Bridge, weaving tales of ghosts, ghouls, and historical mysteries. It’s a captivating way to learn about one of London’s most iconic landmarks.
- Themed Rooms: Explore different themed rooms, each with its own unique scare factor. From plague-ridden streets to haunted crypts, there’s plenty to keep the adrenaline pumping.
- Family Challenges: Take on the challenge of solving creepy clues as you make your way through the experience. It’s a fun way to get the whole family involved and adds an extra layer of excitement to the event.
- Photo Ops: Don’t forget to capture some spooky memories with the themed photo backdrops throughout the experience. Whether you’re posing with a ghost or standing in a medieval dungeon, the photos are a great way to remember your Halloween outing.
Halloween Parties and Family Raves
For those who love to dance and celebrate, London’s Halloween parties and family raves are the perfect way to get the whole family moving to some spooky tunes.
Raver Tots Halloween Party
Address: Ministry of Sound, London
Date: 27th October 2024
Get the kids moving at the Raver Tots Halloween Party at the Ministry of Sound. With a huge effects show, dancers, confetti blasts, and face painting, it’s an exciting way to celebrate Halloween with little ones. It’s all about having fun, so get those costumes on and enjoy a party filled with colour, music, and lots of spooky fun.
What to Expect:
- DJ Sets: Enjoy family-friendly DJ sets playing all the hits, with plenty of Halloween classics to get everyone in the mood.
- Interactive Entertainment: From bubble machines to parachute games, there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained. Look out for special guest appearances from costumed characters, too!
- Face Painting: Get into the Halloween spirit with some face painting. Whether it’s a simple bat or a full-on zombie makeover, the face painting station is always a hit with the kids.
- Refreshments: There’s a licensed bar for the grown-ups and plenty of snacks for the kids, so everyone can refuel after dancing their hearts out.
Big Fish Little Fish Monster Ball
Address: Various locations across London
Date: 26th October 2024
Dance the day away at the Big Fish Little Fish Monster Ball, where families can enjoy a monster party with DJs, crafts, bubbles, and foam. This family rave is designed with kids in mind, so you can expect a fun, friendly atmosphere that’s perfect for all ages. Don’t forget to wear your spookiest costume for a chance to win some cool prizes!
What to Expect:
- Family Rave: With top DJs playing everything from drum and bass to house, the music is guaranteed to get everyone on their feet. It’s all about having fun, so don’t worry if the kids (or adults) aren’t the best dancers!
- Craft Activities: When the kids need a break from dancing, there are plenty of craft activities to keep them busy. From making monster masks to decorating glow sticks, the craft station is always buzzing with creativity.
- Chill-Out Zones: If the excitement gets too much, there are chill-out zones with quieter activities like colouring and puzzles. It’s a great way to let the kids wind down without leaving the party.
- Prizes for Costumes: Make sure to come in your best Halloween costume, as there are prizes for the most creative, spooky, and fun outfits. Whether you’re a classic witch or a homemade monster, everyone has a chance to win.
Theme Park Fright Nights
Theme park fright nights are a fantastic way to spend a spooky evening with your family. Many theme parks in and around London offer special Halloween events, featuring thrilling rides, spooky decorations, and frightening attractions.
Thorpe Park’s Fright Nights is a must-visit for thrill-seekers, featuring terrifying mazes, scare zones, and live shows. The park transforms into a haunted haven, with actors in creepy costumes ready to give you a fright at every turn. For those who love a good scare, this is the ultimate Halloween adventure.
Chessington World of Adventures offers a more family-friendly experience with its Howl’o’ween event. The park is adorned with spooky decorations, and there are Halloween-themed rides and attractions suitable for younger children. Don’t miss the costume competition, where kids can show off their creative outfits and win exciting prizes.
LEGOLAND Windsor’s Brick or Treat event is perfect for younger kids. The park features a monster-themed trail, where children can collect treats and enjoy interactive LEGO builds. There’s also a 4D movie experience that adds an extra layer of fun to your Halloween day out.
Overall
From spooky trails to pumpkin picking, London has something for everyone this Halloween. Whether you’re after gentle fun or a thrilling experience, these events are sure to provide plenty of Halloween adventure for the whole family. Get out there, enjoy the festivities, and make some spooky memories with your loved ones this October!
FAQs
What are the best family-friendly Halloween events in London?
Some of the top family-friendly Halloween events in London include the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, Kew Gardens’ spooky trail, and Hampton Court Palace’s ghostly encounters. These events offer the perfect mix of fun and frights for all ages.
Where can we go pumpkin picking in London?
Hobbledown Heath is a great spot for pumpkin picking right in London. They have a lovely pumpkin patch where you can pick your own and enjoy some seasonal fun with the family.
Are there any Halloween events in London that are free?
Yes, Hyde Park Learning Centre offers free creepy crawly activities and spooky trails that are perfect for younger kids. It’s a great way to enjoy Halloween without spending too much.
What should we wear to Halloween events in London?
Dressing up in fancy dress is always a good idea for Halloween events! Whether it’s a full costume or just a spooky accessory, it adds to the fun and many events have costume contests with prizes for the best outfits.
How can we find more Halloween trails in London?
Check out places like the Tower of London and the London Bridge Experience for some of the best Halloween trails. These events often include interactive elements like solving creepy clues and encountering spooky characters.
Are there any Halloween events suitable for toddlers?
Kew Gardens and Hyde Park Learning Centre offer gentle Halloween fun that’s suitable for toddlers. These events are designed with younger children in mind, featuring light scares and lots of interactive elements.
What can we expect at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour during Halloween?
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London transforms into a magical and spooky wonderland with floating pumpkins, Dark Arts activities, and encounters with Death Eaters. It’s a great way to experience the wizarding world in a new, thrilling way.
Can we attend Halloween events in fancy dress?
Absolutely! Most Halloween events encourage visitors to dress up in fancy dress. It adds to the fun and many places even hold contests for the spookiest costume or the most creative outfit.
Are there any outdoor Halloween events in London?
Yes, Kew Gardens and the Hyde Park Learning Centre offer outdoor Halloween events that are perfect for enjoying the crisp autumn weather while getting into the spooky spirit. There are plenty of trails and activities designed to be both fun and educational.