Horrible Histories Halloween – Silly Ghosts and Ghastly History
This October half term, Horrible Histories is once again invading Leeds Castle – bringing all of history’s nastiest, ghostliest secrets with it. From 17th October to 1st November 2026, the Castle grounds become a ghost getter’s trail, crawling with royal spirits, witch trials and superstitions gruesome enough to make your skin crawl (in a good way).
Grab your trail booklet*, brave ghost getters – you’ll need it. Along the way, you’ll meet queens who came back from the dead, witches who probably didn’t deserve their fate, and enough spooky nonsense to keep you looking over your shoulder. Live performers will show you the way… if you dare.
Did you know? Medieval folk thought a candle could stop a ghost snatching your soul? Or that salt on your doorstep was basically ghost repellent? And when Catherine of Aragon died, Henry VIII celebrated with a jousting tournament – only to be thrown clean off his horse and knocked out cold. Coincidence? Catherine’s ghost certainly didn’t think so. It is history with all the gruesome bits left in, Horrible Histories-style: silly, spooky and surprisingly gruesome. Intriguing rather than frightening – perfect for the whole family, even the easily spooked ones.
*Trail book available at a small additional cost, includes a gold coin prize per trail booklet.
But wait…There’s more:
Beyond the quest this Halloween, make the most of your visit and immerse yourself in thrilling activities and seasonal attractions. From captivating falconry displays at the Birds of Prey Centre to enchanting autumnal strolls through the grounds, there’s so much to explore.
MEET THE MAJESTIC BIRDS
Visit the Birds of Prey Centre to get up close and personal with these magnificent birds.
EXPERIENCE SPECTACULAR AUTUMNAL STROLLS
Once you have completed your Halloween quest, enjoy a peaceful stroll through the estate’s stunning gardens, each offering unique charm and vibrant autumn colours. Take a moment to appreciate the rich history and beauty of Leeds Castle and its enchanting surroundings this autumn.
EXTEND YOUR ADVENTURE
Extend your visit this Halloween half term with a unique getaway at Leeds Castle. Options include our Knight’s Retreat Lodges, bed and breakfast, holiday cottages and an exclusive manor house escape. Enjoy exclusive out-of-hours access to the grounds during your stay, allowing you to experience the enchanting atmosphere in a whole new light.
GO APE LEEDS CASTLE’S SUNDOWN ADVENTURES
Take your Halloween to new heights with Go Ape’s Sundown Adventures. From 16 October to 1 November, experience the thrills of the high ropes course after dark. With glowing lights and illuminated trees, it’s a fun way to add an extra adventure to your visit to Leeds Castle.
For something a little different, join us for adults-only Sundown Adventures, taking place for the first time ever on Friday 16 and Friday 23 October.
GO APE HALLOWEEN POTION HUNT
From 24 October to 1 November, take on Go Ape’s Halloween Potion Hunt, an optional add-on to Treetop Adventure and Treetop Adventure Plus. Help the Woodland Wizard find his missing potion ingredients, solve the puzzle and earn a magical prize. Expect climbing, balancing and zip-lining fun for the whole family.
