Cambridge is the place to be this October half-term, with a range of exciting Halloween-themed events for families, friends, and anyone seeking a spooky adventure. From haunted trails and outdoor cinema experiences to kid-friendly parties and ghostly punting tours, Cambridge offers something for everyone. Here’s a detailed guide to the best events around town, including dates, locations, and what to expect.
1. Nene Valley Railway’s Halloween Specials
- Location: Nene Valley Railway, Peterborough PE2 9NR (near Cambridge)
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
Climb aboard the Nene Valley Railway for a spooky ride through the countryside! Families can enjoy a themed train journey complete with ghostly decorations, onboard activities, and a few surprises along the way. This event is perfect for those who want a blend of adventure and seasonal fun as they journey through scenic landscapes on a heritage steam train.
2. Anglesey Abbey Halloween Trail
- Location: Anglesey Abbey, Lode, Cambridge CB25 9EJ
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
Explore the Anglesey Abbey Halloween Trail, where the beautiful grounds transform into a spooky walk filled with hidden surprises. This self-guided trail is ideal for families with young children, featuring themed activities along the way. Discover eerie statues, autumnal displays, and enjoy the atmospheric surroundings of the abbey’s gardens.
3. Skylark Maize Maze
- Location: Skylark Garden Centre, March, Cambridgeshire PE15 0PE
- Date: 21st October – 31st October 2024
Lose yourself in the Skylark Maize Maze, which takes on a Halloween twist during October half-term. This huge maze features spooky decorations and hidden clues, perfect for families looking for a fun challenge. After navigating the maze, kids can enjoy pumpkin picking, face painting, and other autumnal activities. It's a great outdoor adventure with a hint of Halloween magic.
4. Cuckoo Bridge Farm Shop Pumpkin Picking
- Location: Cuckoo Bridge Farm, Wisbech Road, Cambridge PE16 6SP
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
Head over to Cuckoo Bridge Farm Shop for a traditional pumpkin-picking experience. Stroll through the pumpkin patch to find the perfect pumpkin to carve at home, and enjoy a farm-fresh treat from the on-site café. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly activity where you can take in the beauty of autumn in the Cambridgeshire countryside.
5. Milton Maze Halloween Experience
- Location: Milton Country Park, Cambridge CB24 6AZ
- Date: 23rd October – 31st October 2024
Challenge yourself with the Milton Maze Halloween Experience. This event offers a haunted twist to the classic maze, with spooky surprises and interactive elements hidden throughout the paths. It’s a thrilling adventure for older kids and families looking for a bit of a scare while enjoying the beautiful setting of Milton Country Park.
6. Horror at Hinchingbrooke House 2024
- Location: Hinchingbrooke House, Huntingdon PE29 3BN
- Date: 27th October – 31st October 2024
Prepare for a spine-chilling experience at Horror at Hinchingbrooke House. This interactive horror maze leads you through the dark corridors of the historic house, where actors bring terrifying tales to life. Not recommended for young children, this event is perfect for those who enjoy a good scare and appreciate immersive experiences in a haunted setting.
7. Punting in Cambridge This Halloween
- Location: Various Punting Stations along the River Cam, Cambridge
- Date: 21st October – 31st October 2024
Experience Cambridge’s historic riverside with a spooky twist during a Halloween Punting Tour. Listen to tales of ghostly sightings, legends, and mysterious events as you glide along the River Cam. This guided tour offers a unique perspective of the city’s architecture and history, making it a great choice for families and visitors looking to explore Cambridge with a touch of Halloween charm.
8. Children’s Halloween Party at Minstrel Court
- Location: Minstrel Court, Ermine Way, Cambridge SG8 0AB
- Date: Sunday, 27th October 2024, 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Get ready for a spook-tacular time at the Children’s Halloween Fancy Dress Party! Bring the little ones dressed in their best costumes for an afternoon of dancing, games, and fun activities. The party includes sweet cones, drinks, and prizes, ensuring a delightful time for kids. Tickets are just £10, so secure yours today for a fantastic family-friendly Halloween treat!
9. The Lost Boys Halloween Outdoor Cinema Experience at Hylands Estate
- Location: Hylands Estate, Chelmsford CM2 8WQ (near Cambridge)
- Date: 29th October 2024
Catch a special screening of The Lost Boys under the stars at Hylands Estate. Bring your blankets and snacks for this outdoor cinema experience that combines a classic vampire film with the eerie ambiance of the autumn night. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a nostalgic movie in a unique and atmospheric setting.
10. Neon Moon Club Cirque: Halloween 2024
- Location: Secret location, Cambridge
- Date: 27th October 2024
The Neon Moon Club Cirque is a mysterious and captivating adult-only Halloween event in Cambridge. Combining circus acts, burlesque, and immersive theatre, this unique experience is for those looking for a Halloween celebration with a difference. Dress to impress, enjoy the vibrant performances, and let the magical, spooky vibes transport you to another world.
11. Fun & Phantoms – Halloween at the Museum of Cambridge
- Location: Museum of Cambridge, Castle Street, Cambridge CB3 0AQ
- Date: 26th October – 30th October 2024
Explore the Museum of Cambridge with a spooky twist during Fun & Phantoms. Families can enjoy themed activities, including storytelling sessions about local legends and crafting ghostly decorations. Discover the eerie history of Cambridge through exhibits and enjoy interactive displays that bring the city’s past to life.
Conclusion
Cambridge offers a wonderful mix of family-friendly fun and spine-tingling scares this October half-term and Halloween season. From immersive haunted house experiences to relaxed pumpkin-picking trips and outdoor cinema nights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So when planning your visit to Cambridge, book your accommodation with Pass the Keys, which offers a variety of well-equipped properties to suit all types of travellers. From cosy city centre apartments to spacious family homes, you’ll find the ideal spot for your stay. Simply visit the Pass the Keys website to explore your options and secure the perfect base for your autumn adventures in Cambridge. www.passthekeys.com/cambridge