Spooky Halloween happenings

Why not celebrate October half term with a family friendly day out Pumpkin Picking?

Pumpkin picking is a firm family favourite and this year there are several places around West Sussex to get outside and have a magical family adventure.

Wander through the vibrant fields and choose your own pumpkins. You will definitely find a flawless carving candidate or even some delightfully odd looking ones or your doorstep.

Embrace the crisp, cosy spirit of the season at these local West Sussex pumpkin patches:

Somerley Fields PYO Pumpkins

Rogate Pumpkin Patch

Arundel Pumpkin Patch

From 25 October to 2 November 2025, Arundel Wetland Centre invites you to escape the ghouls and goblins and discover a truly family friendly Halloween adventure. Perfect for those who enjoy the super natural without the scares, this wetland wonderland near Chichester promises enchanting half term experiences: weave your own willow wand, mix magical potions, cast wetlands spells, examine an owl pellet to uncover what these magnificent birds have for breakfast, and set off on a fungi hunt in search of spotted tops and giant domes. Budding nature detectives can even capture their discoveries in a free Super Natural log book.

Whether you’re looking for half term family friendly fun in Arundel or searching for what’s on for Halloween in West Sussex, this is the perfect place to make magical memories and enjoy a spellbinding autumn adventure. Book now and let the wetlands work their magic!

Step into the magic this October half term at Petworth House's Academy for Witches and Wizards, where young spellcasters can embark on a week of enchanting adventures in the beautiful gardens. From testing your broomstick skills on a thrilling obstacle course to hunting for hidden potion ingredients and spotting magical beasts, every corner offers a chance to prove yourself a top student of the Academy.

For half term family friendly fun, pick up your trail map and let the mystical arts guide your way (magical robes and pointy hats are highly encouraged!)

There’s no need to book for this family friendly Halloween experience; the trail is free with standard admission to Petworth House and Park.

Discover an autumn adventure in the South Downs this October half term at Weald & Downland Living Museum’s sprawling 40-acre site, where history, folklore and fresh air collide for a family-friendly Halloween.  From 25 October to 2 November 2025, explore historic gardens, fascinating buildings and woodland trails while feeding the ducks on the mill pond or spotting Heavy Horses and sheep. Every day, families can follow the Ritual Marks and Hidden Objects Trail, a spooky journey uncovering centuries-old folklore and superstitions once believed to ward off evil spirits! It is the perfect day out for anyone planning a half term family friendly escape in the South Downs National Park.

There will be a range of onsite Halloween workshops and activities for all the family included in the price of entry. Design your own ritual mark with quill and ink, make a lucky talisman from clay, craft a nature wand to cast spells or mix a plague potion - there is something for everyone!

Warm up with breakfast, brunch or lunch at the waterside café, or pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic spots. Whether you’re visiting from Chichester or further afield, this event promises a spellbinding blend of history and Halloween magic.

Set sail on a spooky adventure this October 2025 half term with a Halloween Canal Boat Trip along the picturesque Chichester Canal. On 31 October 2025, families can climb aboard for a two mile journey through stunning waterside scenery between the Chichester Basin and Donnington. Operated by the Chichester Canal Trust, these canal boat trips offer a unique way to experience local wildlife, soak up the autumn atmosphere, and enjoy seasonal surprises that will delight children and adults alike.

Fully equipped with lifts for accessibility, these cruises promise an unforgettable blend of history, nature, and festive spirit. Why not stop for some light refreshments at the canal cafe?

Make the day one of the spookiest Halloween family activities in West Sussex.

Looking for family fun days out and exciting things to do this October half term? Head to Sky Park Farm in Hampshire, where a fantastic line up of Halloween half term events promises unforgettable memories and plenty of school holiday activities for all ages. From wildlife encounters and outdoor adventures to potion making, train rides, and even a silent disco, this farm is the perfect destination for farm family days filled with seasonal magic and discovery.

Don’t forget to explore the Deer Park, let the kids loose in the Adventure Playground, and enjoy seasonal dishes at the Bar & Grill to make your visit truly magical.

Get ready for spooky half term fun at West Dean Gardens, where young witches and wizards can explore the haunted Gardens Classroom! This eerie Halloween hideaway is packed with spooky crafts and enchanting activities. Conjure up spine-chilling spells and create fizzing potions in pumpkin cauldrons using foraged ingredients and eerie textures.

Venture through the 100ft Pergola for Halloween themed games among the shadows, and don your creepiest costume to join in the fun. Families can also enjoy the stunning 49-acre St. Roche's Arboretum, glowing with autumn colours, and take on the two and a half mile circuit walk with breathtaking views of the South Downs. Pop into the Gardens Shop for magical gifts, seasonal plants, and garden accessories, then treat yourself to home cooked delights in the Gardens Restaurant, featuring fresh produce from the kitchen garden and special Halloween treats.

Although not strictly a Halloween activity, there are many local bonfire events taking place around West Sussex - but with a variety of events starting in October and continuing throughout November, there's something for everyone. Across the county, families and friends can gather to marvel at spectacular fireworks displays whilst enjoying crisp autumn air and a warm, festive atmosphere. So if you're searching for an unforgettable Bonfire Night experience in Sussex, you're in luck.

Embark on a family walk with a twist this half term at Cowdray Ruins with their exciting activity trail in West Sussex. Step into the world of the eccentric Professor Cogsworth, a time traveller whose time machine has exploded, scattering magical pumpkins across the ages! Follow the pumpkin portals through thrilling eras by solving clues along the way to uncover the secret word and help set time right. From Dinosaurs and the Ice Age to the Tudors, Victorians, and the Wild West - Can you solve the secret?

This budget-friendly activity for half term is perfect for children aged 3–11, with tickets priced at just £5 per child, including a goody bag prize. Begin your self guided adventure by collecting your trail map from the Ruins Visitor Centre and enjoy a magical, educational day out that combines outdoor fun with imaginative storytelling. It is going to be an spellbinding family friendly half term experience in West Sussex!

Autumn is here, the nights are drawing in, and Stansted House is getting ready to embrace the spine-tingling spirit of Halloween. If you love a good scare, then October at Stansted has plenty in store for you. From candlelit tales to haunted undercrofts, there’s something for every thrill-seeker.

Halloween Under the House – 28th to 31st October 2025

For ages 8 and above, Stansted is opening the usually hidden South Undercroft for Halloween Under the House. This eerie space, steeped in shadows and whispers of the past, will set the stage for a spooky adventure that’s sure to get the goosebumps going. Think dim corridors, chilling atmospheres, and the thrill of stepping into a part of the house not normally seen.

Stansted After Dark – 28th to 31st October 2025

For the older ghost-hunters aged 14+, Stansted After Dark invites you to journey through the misty maze before venturing down into the haunted undercrofts of Stansted House, where darkness and history intertwine. Please be aware: the event features live actors, unsettling props, and jump scares.(Parental discretion is definitely advised here.)

Tales After Dark – 24th October 2025

For adults searching for some chilling scares, on 24th October, there is the theatrical tour of the house with Tales After Dark. It is Halloween and four mysterious strangers have arrived at Stansted House. As soon as the sun has set, they invite you into the Hall to recount tales of ghostly encounters and stories of dark intrigue. But as these tales are told atmospherically by candlelight, you realise that things are not quite as they seem.

Halloween Murder Mystery – 25th October 2025

If a spooky murder-mystery is more your thing, imagine being invited to a mysterious Country Estate by an enigmatic host… with a room of curious guests your host never appears… the clock is ticking, and you must work as a team to investigate what happened.  Arrive in your finest for the 1930s cocktail soiree, with bubbles and canapés... but someone will not make it to a second round of drinks.  Use your best sleuthing skills to reach your conclusion as tea and coffee are served.

Whether you’re after creepy tales, jump scares, or a Halloween mystery to sink your teeth into, Stansted House has something for everyone this October. Gather your friends, summon your courage, and step into the shadows… if you dare.

We’ve got some great, family friendly days out this half term for you to explore—including budget options that fit perfectly around the half term school dates. Make memories and enjoy exciting days out in October with the whole family!

From the magical Chichester950 Light Experience to Marine Ecology workshops, there’s something for everyone.

Let us inspire you to plan a family friendly week full of adventure in and around Chichester, West Sussex. Dive in and start planning your half term family fun today!