Things To Do in Kent: Halloween and October Half Term

* This blog has been updated for 2022

The most spooktacular time of the year is just around the corner! We can scarcely believe the end of October is fast approaching. 

The end of Term 1 of the academic year is in sight and half term is on the horizon for many schools across the country. Kent is a county teeming with fun and spooky things to do to get you in the Halloween spirit. Here is our guide to some of the amazing events taking place across the county. 

Days (and Nights) Out in Kent

Hever Castle – Halloween Half Term Fun

Hever Castle never fail to disappoint. Even without special events, Hever Castle is a brilliant, and educational, day out. Hours of fun are to be had exploring the Tudor Castle, navigating the mazes and strolling leisurely in the beautiful gardens. Hever Castle’s Halloween Half Term event is included in the prize of normal admission. Hever Castle are inviting you to come to the castle dressed in your spookiest outfits then keep an eagle eye out for Halloween decorations adorning the grounds. There will also be a Halloween Trail in the castle itself and free garlic bulb planting workshops to ward off stray vampires!

Leeds Castle: Halloween at Leeds Castle 

Leeds Castle is a wonderful day out for all ages! From the 22nd to 30th October, they are organising a spooky day out for children to enjoy. "Watch and listen as Halloween performers share eerie witches’ stories, join in fancy dress competitions, embark on our pumpkin trail and complete the Halloween activity booklet." The Halloween event is included in the price of admission and will be a fabulous day out for all the family this October half term. 

The Hop Farm: Half Term Fun

The Hop Farm have laid on a week of spooky fun this half term. Children can come dressed in their Halloween outfits if they would like to and then enjoy the rides, farm and entertainment the farm has to offer as well as a Halloween trail.

Dover Castle: Halloween at Dover Castle

You will be in store for a "phantomtastic" day out at Dover Castle this October half term. Follow comic book characters Dennis and Gnasher on their quest across the castle to solve creepy clues. You will meet a ghostly guide who will entertain you with ghost stories about the spooky goings on at the castle across the ages. With so much to see and do you will be spoilt for choice with all the ghoulish goings on!

Lullingstone Country Park: Halloween Magic

Why not pay a visit to Lullingstone Country Park for some Halloween fun? Celebrate the end of the season in style on Sunday 30th October, between 11am and 6pm you can take part in pumpkin carving and spooky garden tours!

Spa Valley Railroad: Trick or Treat 

Dr Frankenslime’s Trick or Treat Express is visiting the Spa Valley Railroad on the 29th and 30th October! You can expect to be entertained as Dr Frankenslime tries to build his own bride! Tickets are selling fast, so don't miss out on your ride on a terrifying train journey across Tunbridge Wells!

Walmer Castle: Spooky Woodland Walks 

Get some fresh air and enjoy a spooky woodland walk at Walmer Castle. Join Walmer Castle’s ghost-hunting storytellers on a "spinetingling" stroll to get you in the Halloween spirit. Suitable for adults and children aged 5-12 years the Woodland Walks are available to book from Friday 28th - Sunday 30th October 2022. 

Pumpkin Picking

We cannot neglect to mention pumpkin picking! This has become a firm favourite activity amongst all ages in recent years. There is nothing more satisfying than selecting your own pumpkin to carve Halloween-worthy designs into! There are many pumpkin picking locations around Kent, check out our list of the top places to PYO pumpkin in Kent!

If you are feeling autumnal and wondering how to use any leftover pumpkins, our blog ‘Warming Pumpkin and Butterbean Soup Bowl’ contains a delicious recipe, perfect for warming up after a day out in the chilly autumnal air.