As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, South Oxfordshire transforms into a Halloween haven filled with fun, spooky activities, and enchanting adventures for families. From thrilling castle experiences to pumpkin picking, there’s something for everyone during the October half-term. Here’s a guide to some of the best events, complete with detailed descriptions, locations, and dates.
1. Halloween at Blenheim Palace
- Location: Blenheim Palace, Woodstock
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
Experience Halloween in grand style at Blenheim Palace. This year’s theme features a host of spooky activities including guided ghost tours, a pumpkin trail throughout the stunning grounds, and children’s Halloween crafts. The historic palace provides a majestic backdrop for a memorable day filled with thrills and chills.
2. Halloween Hunt at Waterperry Gardens
- Location: Waterperry Gardens, Near Wheatley
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
The Halloween Hunt at Waterperry Gardens invites families to embark on a fun treasure hunt through the beautiful gardens. Children can search for hidden spooky items and enjoy seasonal crafts in the charming garden centre. This event promises to be both fun and educational, offering a great way to enjoy the autumn scenery.
3. The Moon Witch’s Halloween Adventure at Tumblestone Hollow
- Location: Tumblestone Hollow, Chinnor
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
Join the Moon Witch’s Halloween Adventure at Tumblestone Hollow, where families can immerse themselves in a magical world. This enchanting experience includes storytelling, themed trails, and fun games that will engage children’s imaginations. Perfect for younger children, this adventure is sure to delight little witches and wizards!
4. Ghost Fest at Kenilworth Castle
- Location: Kenilworth Castle, Kenilworth
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
Prepare for spine-tingling tales at the Ghost Fest hosted at Kenilworth Castle. Families can explore the haunted grounds while listening to ghostly stories that bring the castle’s rich history to life. This eerie experience is perfect for older children and adults seeking a thrill in a historic setting.
5. Warwick Castle Haunted Castle and Castle After Dark
- Location: Warwick Castle, Warwick
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
Warwick Castle transforms into a haunted experience with its Haunted Castle and Castle After Dark events. Explore the castle grounds by day with family-friendly activities and take part in the spooky after-dark experiences featuring live performances and eerie storytelling. It’s an ideal outing for those looking for a mixture of history and Halloween fun.
6. Millets Farm Centre: Pumpkin Patch
- Location: Millets Farm Centre, Frilford
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
Visit Millets Farm Centre for a delightful day at the Pumpkin Patch! Families can wander through the fields and pick their perfect pumpkin. In addition to pumpkin picking, there are plenty of farm activities, a café, and seasonal treats to enjoy, making it a fantastic family day out.
7. Sprouts Play Barn Spooktacular Disco
- Location: Sprouts Play Barn, Abingdon
- Date: 28th October 2024
Dance the night away at the Sprouts Play Barn Spooktacular Disco! This fun event is perfect for little ones to enjoy an evening of dancing in their Halloween costumes. The play barn features soft play areas, ensuring that kids can have a great time in a safe environment.
8. Pumpkin Patch at the Earth Trust
- Location: Long Wittenham, Earth Trust
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
At the Earth Trust, families can explore the stunning landscapes while visiting the Pumpkin Patch. Children can choose from a variety of pumpkins, perfect for Halloween carving. The site also offers workshops and seasonal activities, making it a wonderful place to connect with nature during the autumn months.
9. Perry Tree Farm
- Location: Adderbury
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
Perry Tree Farm hosts a variety of activities during the Halloween season, including pumpkin picking and animal encounters. It’s a lovely spot for families to enjoy the outdoors while experiencing the festive spirit of Halloween.
10. Glebe Farm Pick Your Own
- Location: Banbury
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
Head to Glebe Farm for a Pick Your Own experience, where families can gather pumpkins, apples, and more. This delightful farm experience allows children to learn about food sourcing while having fun outdoors.
11. The Witch’s House at Cogges Manor Farm
- Location: Cogges Manor Farm, Witney
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
Cogges Manor Farm presents The Witch’s House, an interactive experience filled with storytelling and magical activities. Children can explore the whimsical house while engaging in crafts and fun games that bring the witch’s world to life.
12. The Wild Witch’s Half Term Trail
- Location: Various Locations
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
Join the Wild Witch’s Half Term Trail, which takes families through various local parks and nature reserves. This trail encourages children to connect with nature while completing challenges and finding hidden treasures along the way.
13. Hogshaw School of Witchcraft & Wizardry
- Location: Hogshaw, Bucks
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
Enroll at the Hogshaw School of Witchcraft & Wizardry, where children can attend fun-filled classes in potions, broomstick flying, and spell-making. This immersive experience is perfect for young Harry Potter fans looking to embrace their inner wizard or witch.
14. Halloween Spooktacular at Bucks Railway Centre
- Location: Bucks Railway Centre, Quainton
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
The Bucks Railway Centre hosts a Halloween Spooktacular, featuring ghost trains, spooky displays, and themed activities for families. This fun and interactive event is perfect for train enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy a uniquely themed Halloween experience.
15. The Story Museum
- Location: The Story Museum, Oxford
- Date: 21st October – 29th October 2024
Celebrate Halloween with stories at The Story Museum. During the October half-term, there will be special storytelling sessions, craft activities, and Halloween-themed exhibitions that inspire creativity and imagination in children of all ages.
Conclusion
When planning your visit to South Oxfordshire for the October half-term and Halloween festivities, 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: www.passthekeys.com/south-oxfordshire