6 of the best half-term days out (no tricks, just plenty of treats).

26th October 2021

If you’re looking for some last-minute ideas to keep you entertained this half-term, we’ve pulled together some spooktastic Halloween themed days-out for you to sink your fangs into.

SEA LIFE London

Creep into SEA LIFE London’s ‘Ascarium’ and follow a spooky trail through an amazing underwater world of glittering scales, humongous tentacles and razor-sharp teeth. Adults get 2FOR1 on admission when travelling by train, but make sure you plan in advance to avoid disappointment. https://www.daysoutguide.co.uk/sea-life-london-aquarium

Getting there.
Nearest train station is London Waterloo. From the station, follow the exit signs for the South Bank and walk towards the London Eye. SEA LIFE London Aquarium is in County Hall, next to the London Eye.

Leeds Castle, Maidstone

Bones, the skeleton, is on the loose and Leeds Castle needs your help to find him. Clues and riddles scattered around the castle will help you to uncover his hiding place. Whilst you’re searching, you’ll get the chance to explore the rest of the fantastic castle grounds, enjoy a round of adventure golf, visit the magnificent falconry display and much more. Tickets are priced from £19.50 and give you free repeat visits for 12 months from your day of visit. https://www.leeds-castle.com/.

Getting there.
Nearest train station is Bearsted or Hollingbourne. Check Spot Travel services for information and times for the Leeds Castle Shuttle Service.

Life Science Centre, Newcastle

Ever wondered what scares us and why? At the Life Science Centre, you’ll get the opportunity to find out first hand with live shows, mesmerising illusions and a trick or treat pop-up science and skeleton trail. You can also learn how to create a spooky shadow puppet and test it out in the Shadow Theatre before you take it home to scare your friends. There are lots for all ages to enjoy, including fantastic pop-up play stations and a new Play Zone which is perfect for little ones to explore. Children aged four and under are free. Prices start from £8. https://www.life.org.uk/.

Getting there.
Nearest train station is Newcastle Central. Life is located in Times Square, just a 2-minute walk from the station.

Tower of London

Help the Ghost Raiders solve a spooky mystery at the Tower of London this October half-term. The spirits of the Tower of London have been inadvertently released and are roaming the castle. Among them, an unknown force is hellbent on taking the Tower and threatening the Realm itself. Whilst there, don’t forget to check out the Crown Jewels, meet the famous ravens and experience the ceremony of the keys - an ancient tradition that has taken place every night for at least 700 years. Adults get 2FOR1 on admission when travelling by train, but make sure you plan in advance to avoid disappointment. https://www.daysoutguide.co.uk/tower-of-london.

Getting there.
Nearest train station is London Bridge Station. From the station, it’s just an 11-minute walk over the bridge.

Warner Bros Studios, Watford

The making of Harry Potter Tour sees the return of the Dark Arts for a Halloween special. Undergoing a spooky makeover, the Great Hall is filled with a hundred flickering and flying pumpkin lanterns, literally insta heaven. Focusing on the symbol of Lord Voldemort, with roaming Death Eaters and Dark Mark projected throughout the studio for you to follow. Get your little wizards down there for a spellbinding treat. Prices start from £47 and tickets must be booked in advance. https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/.

Getting there.
Nearest train station is Watford Junction. A 15-minute shuttle bus runs every 30 mins from the station to the studio tour.

BeWILDerwood, Cheshire

If you enjoy outdoor forest adventures, then BeWILDERwood is just the thing for you. This half-term, you’ll be able to experience The Glorious Glowing Lantern Parade, which lets you experience beautifully lit woodlands from twilight. You’ll need to keep your eyes peeled as you craft your lantern to help you light up your way, so you can try and spot the BeWilderwood characters peering out when you might least expect them! Oh, and don’t be afraid to dress up in your spooky costumes when you visit; all the weird and wonderful are welcome. Children under 92cm are free. Prices start from £12.50. https://cheshire.bewilderwood.co.uk/.

Getting there.
Nearest train station is Whitchurch train station. The station is just a 10-minute drive from BeWILDerwood and is serviced by local taxi companies.