As the days grow shorter and the mists begin to curl around the fells, there’s no better place to soak up eerie autumn vibes than the Lake District. Whether you're after family-friendly fun or a spine-tingling thrill, here are some of the best Halloween (and half-term) events and ideas across the Lakes.
1. Muncaster Castle Halloween Festival
This is one of the highlights of the season. The Castle hosts a Halloween Family Festival, complete with spooky trails, live entertainment, a pumpkin patch, and castle shows. For those brave souls aged 16+, there’s also Scarecaster — a more intense fright-fest for adults.
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2. The Brockhole Halloween Experience
Set on the shores of Windermere, Brockhole’s Halloween event is packed with over 15 activities. Expect things like the Forest of Fear live scare experience, paranormal tours, haunted houses, zombie archery, graveyard golf, and more. Costumes are welcome (and encouraged).
Brockhole
3. Pumpkin Picking at Walby Farm Park
Running from October 4th to 31st, this is a more relaxed but still festive option. Stroll the pumpkin patch, pick your own, get involved with pumpkin carving (they clean up after you!), and enjoy themed entertainment.
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4. Festivities in Keswick & Surrounds
Pumpkin trails & spooky skeleton circles: On 31st October, Keswick’s parks host pumpkin trails and fun skeleton-themed displays, plus meet a witch and sample some spells.
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Wordsworth Grasmere: From late October, enjoy Halloween crafts, hot chocolate in the cosy learning space, Georgian costume experiences, and twilight ghost story sessions at Dove Cottage.
keswick.org
Halloween at Keswick Museum: Make spooky tealight holders from clay on select days (e.g. 29th and 31st)
keswick.org
5. Spooky Spa Party Night (Adults Only)
A gentler kind of chill: yoga, cocktails, and a “spa-rty” atmosphere with Halloween flair. Great if you want something festive but not terrifying.
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Create your own pumpkin trail – In smaller villages like Grange-over-Sands, carved pumpkins are put on display for a stroll along the promenade.
Windermere Marina Village
Nature + Spooks – Walk at dusk along woodland trails and keep an eye out for owls, bats, or rustling branches. Bring torches or lanterns for ambience.
Storytelling by the fire – In your own cottage, or at a local venue, host spooky stories (classic or local legends) with hot chocolate and marshmallows.
Decorate and dress up – Encourage guests to bring or borrow costumes, provide small pumpkin decorating kits, and run a “best costume” contest.
Film nights – Screen Halloween classics (family-appropriate or scarier ones for older groups) in your lounge or communal area.
Book early many of the themed events (Brockhole, Muncaster) sell out or limit numbers.
Check opening times & age recommendations — some events (like Scarecaster) are suited only for older teens/adults.
Weather matters — Autumn in the Lakes can be unpredictable. Dress in layers, waterproofs, and have flexible plans.
Combine with local walks — schedule a spooky event in the evening and enjoy a crisp walk in the dales earlier in the day.