Autumn has arrived in Norfolk, bringing crunchy leaves, cosy jumpers, pumpkin patches and plenty of spooky adventures! If you’re wondering what to do with the children this Halloween, there are some fantastic family events taking place across Norfolk throughout October 2026.
From magical woodland walks and pumpkin picking to ghost trains, Halloween parties and spectacular circus shows, there’s something for every age and every level of bravery.
Whether you’re planning a day out with toddlers, looking for ways to keep the children entertained during the school holidays or hoping to find something suitably terrifying for your teenagers, we’ve gathered some of the best Halloween events in Norfolk for 2026.
So dig out the wellies, get those Halloween costumes ready and start planning some autumn family fun!
When Is October Half Term in Norfolk 2026?
For most Norfolk County Council schools, October half term runs from Saturday 24th October to Sunday 1st November 2026, with children returning to school on Monday 2nd November.
Some schools and academies have different holiday dates, so it’s worth checking your child’s school calendar before making plans.
Many Norfolk attractions begin their Halloween celebrations earlier in October, meaning there’s plenty to enjoy before the school holidays even start.
Family-Friendly Halloween Events in Norfolk 2026
If you love a Halloween celebration that’s more magical than frightening, Norfolk has plenty of lovely options. These events are particularly good for families with younger children, although older siblings will find plenty to enjoy too.
BeWILDerwood Halloween Adventures – Hoveton
Dates: 3rd–4th, 10th–11th, 17th–18th October and 24th October–1st November 2026
There’s something wonderfully atmospheric about BeWILDerwood in autumn. The woodland becomes a magical Halloween setting, with mysterious characters, colourful decorations and adventures around every corner.
Children can enjoy all their favourite BeWILDerwood activities, including enormous slides, treetop walkways and exciting play structures.
The Halloween celebrations include Twig or Treating and a Glowing Light Trail, adding an extra touch of magic to a day in the woods.
It’s a great choice for families who want to embrace Halloween without anything too frightening.
Where: Horning Road, Hoveton, Norfolk NR12 8JW
More information: BeWILDerwood Norfolk
Stranger Folk at Blickling Estate – Aylsham
Dates: 3rd October–8th November 2026
For children who enjoy solving mysteries and discovering unusual creatures, Blickling Estate has something a little different this autumn.
Stranger Folk: Volume 1 – Crone Calling takes families on an interactive adventure inspired by British folklore.
Using a special app, visitors follow a mysterious message from an Old Crone and explore a world of goblins, boggarts and other strange characters.
It’s an imaginative way to explore one of Norfolk’s most beautiful historic estates, particularly for families who enjoy stories and puzzles.
Where: Blickling Estate, near Aylsham
More information: National Trust – Blickling Estate
Halloween Trick or Treat at Banham Zoo
Dates: October half term 2026
A day at the zoo is always a popular family outing, but Halloween brings an extra helping of excitement to Banham Zoo.
Alongside seeing the animals, families can look forward to themed entertainment and activities, including the Stories & Spells Live Show, Boo Rangers, a Spooky Ghost Train, a Trick or Treat Trail and a Monster Mash Bubble Party.
With plenty of family-friendly Halloween activities, it’s a good option for children who enjoy dressing up and joining in the fun.
Where: Banham Zoo, Banham, Norfolk
More information: Banham Zoo
Pensthorpe Pumpkin Festival – Fakenham
Dates: 24th October–1st November 2026
If your family enjoys being outdoors, Pensthorpe is a lovely place to spend an autumn day.
During October half term, the nature reserve celebrates the season with its Pumpkin Festival, bringing together Halloween activities, pumpkins and seasonal fun.
There’s also a spooky transformation planned for the maize maze.
When you’ve finished the Halloween activities, there’s still plenty of time to enjoy the wildlife, explore the grounds and make the most of the outdoor play areas.
Where: Pensthorpe Road, Fakenham NR21 0LN
More information: Pensthorpe
Halloween at Thetford Forest
Dates: October half term 2026
Thetford Forest is a brilliant place for families who love exploring the outdoors, especially when the trees begin changing colour.
Halloween activities are planned for the October school holidays, although full details have yet to be announced.
In the meantime, families can still enjoy woodland walks and the forest’s usual outdoor activities.
Keep an eye on the Forestry England website for updates.
More information: Forestry England
Pumpkin Picking and Autumn Festivals in Norfolk
One of the best things about Halloween with children is the excitement of choosing their own pumpkins.
And let’s face it, a visit to a pumpkin patch often involves far more than simply picking a pumpkin!
From muddy fields and giant pumpkins to carving tents, farm animals and family activities, these Norfolk attractions are worth adding to your autumn plans.
Halloween Hoot at Hirsty’s Family Fun Park – Hemsby
Dates: 17th–18th and 24th–31st October 2026
Hirsty’s Family Fun Park is a favourite with families looking for a traditional countryside day out near Great Yarmouth.
Its Halloween Hoot gives children the chance to choose their own pumpkins, get creative with pumpkin carving and enjoy the park’s activities.
There’s also the maze to explore, making it easy to turn a pumpkin-picking trip into a much longer family adventure.
Don’t forget the wellies, particularly if there’s been plenty of October rain!
Where: Great Yarmouth Road, Hemsby NR29 4NL
More information: Hirsty’s Family Fun Park
Wroxham Barns Pumpkin Patch and Get Me Out of Here
Dates: 10th–11th, 17th–18th and 23rd October–1st November 2026
Wroxham Barns is bringing a jungle-inspired twist to its autumn celebrations.
Alongside visiting the pumpkin patch, families can take part in Get Me Out of Here challenges, meet Ranger Rita and test their skills with riddles and activities.
There’s also the chance to see the animals and enjoy the attraction’s other family activities.
This is a good choice if you’re looking for a Halloween outing that combines pumpkin picking with lots of entertainment for the children.
More information: Wroxham Barns
The Pumpkin House at Thursford
Dates: 10th–11th, 17th–18th and 23rd–31st October 2026
Looking for somewhere to take those lovely autumn family photographs?
The Pumpkin House at Thursford provides a beautiful seasonal setting, with a fairytale-style house decorated with pumpkins.
There are also special activities on selected dates, including a Medieval Weekend on 10th and 11th October, owl appearances on 24th and 25th October, and a Halloween fancy dress competition on 31st October.
It’s a lovely option for families who enjoy autumn traditions and capturing seasonal memories.
Where: Thursford, North Norfolk
More information: The Pumpkin House
Halloween Events in Norwich 2026
Norwich has plenty to offer families during October half term, particularly if you’re looking for creative activities, Halloween parties or something to do when the weather isn’t ideal.
Halloween Family Imagination Day at Dragon Hall
Date: Monday 26th October 2026
If your children love getting creative, Dragon Hall in Norwich is hosting a Halloween Family Imagination Day.
Organised by the National Centre for Writing, the event invites children to use their imagination and create their very own Wicked Witch.
It’s a fun opportunity to enjoy some seasonal creativity in one of Norwich’s fascinating historic buildings.
More information: National Centre for Writing
Halloween at Whitlingham Country Park
Dates: Monday 26th and Wednesday 28th October 2026
Whitlingham Country Park has a mixture of Halloween entertainment and outdoor activities planned for half term.
On Monday 26th October, there are outdoor film screenings of Hocus Pocus and The Lost Boys.
Wednesday 28th October brings free family activities, including Halloween crafts, a pumpkin hunt, spooky stamper trail and recycled games.
It’s particularly worth considering if you’re looking for something affordable to do during the school holidays.
More information: Whitlingham Country Park
Magic Potions Workshop at YALM Norwich
Date: Wednesday 28th October 2026
Little witches and wizards can put their magical skills to the test at this Halloween workshop.
Children will have the opportunity to mix their own potions and create magical keepsakes to take home.
A fun choice for children who enjoy hands-on activities and imaginative play.
More information: YALM Norwich
Children’s Halloween Party at The Maids Head Hotel
Date: Thursday 29th October 2026
Get the Halloween costumes ready!
The Maids Head Hotel in Norwich is hosting a children’s Halloween party, with entertainment from Norfolk Kids Party.
It’s a lovely opportunity for children to dress up, celebrate with other families and enjoy some Halloween fun.
More information: The Maids Head Hotel
Halloween Events in Great Yarmouth 2026
Great Yarmouth has some fantastic Halloween entertainment this October, from circus performances to spooky seaside attractions.
Halloween Spooktacular at Great Yarmouth Hippodrome
Dates: 22nd October–1st November 2026
If you’re looking for something exciting to do as a family during half term, the Hippodrome’s Halloween Spooktacular is definitely worth considering.
This historic circus venue combines impressive performances, spectacular stunts and Halloween-themed characters in a lively seasonal show.
It’s a great alternative to outdoor Halloween events, especially on those chilly or rainy October afternoons.
Where: St George’s Road, Great Yarmouth NR30 2EU
More information: Hippodrome Circus
SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth A-Scarium
Dates: 3rd October–1st November 2026
There’s something fishy going on at SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth this Halloween!
During A-Scarium, children can join the Sea Witch and Warlock on a magical underwater adventure.
Families will be challenged to complete activities around the aquarium while discovering fascinating sea creatures.
It’s a good choice for younger children and a handy indoor option if the weather turns wet.
Where: Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth NR30 3AH
More information: SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth
Fairground Frights at Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach
Dates: 24th–25th and 27th–31st October 2026
For families with older children and teenagers who prefer their Halloween celebrations a little scarier, Fairground Frights brings an entirely different atmosphere to Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach.
Expect fairground rides, Halloween decorations and live scare entertainment as darkness falls.
This is one to consider for thrill-seekers rather than very young children, so check the recommended ages before booking.
Where: South Beach Parade, Great Yarmouth NR30 3EH
More information: Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach
Halloween Adventures in North and West Norfolk
There are also some wonderful Halloween activities taking place beyond Norwich and Great Yarmouth.
Halloween Garden at Holkham
Dates: 27th–31st October 2026
Holkham is beautiful throughout the year, and the Halloween season brings a different atmosphere to its gardens.
Families can explore the seasonal Halloween Garden experience while enjoying the surroundings of the historic estate.
It’s a lovely option for those spending October half term along the North Norfolk coast.
Where: Holkham Hall, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1AB
More information: Holkham
Mid Norfolk Railway Halloween Express
Date: Saturday 31st October 2026
All aboard for a Halloween adventure!
The Mid Norfolk Railway Halloween Express offers families the chance to experience a special spooky train journey through the Norfolk countryside.
For children who love trains, combining a railway journey with Halloween entertainment makes for a memorable seasonal outing.
More information: Mid Norfolk Railway
Creepy Cruises on the Norfolk Broads
Dates: 25th–31st October 2026
Fancy celebrating Halloween on the water?
Broad Tours is offering Creepy Cruises aboard the Vintage Hauntsman, with spooky stories, atmospheric commentary and trick-or-treat activity packs for children.
It’s a different way to experience the Norfolk Broads and could be a fun choice for families looking for something beyond the usual Halloween trails.
Where: The Bridge, Wroxham NR12 8RX
More information: Broads Tours
Halloween Nature Activities in Norfolk
Not every Halloween event needs witches, ghosts or scary costumes. Some of Norfolk’s wildlife organisations are offering seasonal activities that help children discover the fascinating creatures that come out after dark.
Crafty Creatures of the Night at Hickling Broad
Date: Friday 30th October 2026
This family activity offers children the chance to learn more about Norfolk’s nocturnal wildlife.
After discovering some of the creatures that become active at night, children can get creative using natural materials to make their own spooky seasonal creatures.
A lovely choice for families who enjoy wildlife and outdoor learning.
Spooky Species at Sweet Briar Marshes
Date: Friday 30th October 2026
Spiders, webs and creepy crawlies are all part of the Halloween atmosphere, but they’re also fascinating creatures to discover.
Norfolk Wildlife Trust is offering a family activity at Sweet Briar Marshes exploring some of these wonderful minibeasts.
It’s a fun way to combine Halloween with nature and learning.
More information for both activities: Norfolk Wildlife Trust
Scary Halloween Events in Norfolk for Teenagers and Adults
As children get older, friendly pumpkins and cheerful ghosts might not provide quite enough excitement!
Fortunately, Norfolk also has Halloween attractions designed for visitors who enjoy a proper fright.
PrimeEVIL at ROARR! – Lenwade
Dates: 16th–18th, 21st–25th and 27th–31st October 2026
PrimeEVIL is one of Norfolk’s big Halloween scare experiences, bringing together live actors, frightening encounters and immersive horror attractions.
This is definitely one for those who enjoy being scared rather than families looking for gentle Halloween entertainment.
Check the organiser’s age recommendations and content warnings before booking for teenagers.
Where: Lenwade, Norfolk NR9 5JE
More information: PrimeEVIL
Norwich Ghost Walks Halloween Specials
Dates: 23rd–31st October 2026, excluding Sunday 25th
Norwich has centuries of history, making it the perfect setting for a spooky evening walk.
The Halloween Ghost Walk specials bring together eerie tales, atmospheric locations and ghostly performers.
These walks are worth considering for older children and teenagers who enjoy a little local history mixed with Halloween entertainment.
More information: Ghost Walks Norwich
FEAR in the FENS Festival – King’s Lynn
Dates: 23rd–25th October 2026
For older horror enthusiasts, FEAR in the FENS offers a weekend celebrating the genre.
The festival features vintage horror films, guest speakers and locally produced horror shorts.
It’s more suited to horror fans than younger children, with individual film classifications worth checking.
More information: FEAR in the FENS
Free and Budget-Friendly Halloween Activities in Norfolk
With the cost of family days out adding up, it’s always good to have a few affordable Halloween ideas ready.
Not every autumn adventure needs an expensive attraction ticket. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the season without spending a fortune.
Here are a few ideas:
- Visit a local library: Look out for Halloween story sessions, colouring activities and seasonal crafts.
- Explore a Norfolk woodland: Collect colourful leaves, spot interesting fungi and enjoy a family autumn walk.
- Try a Halloween nature hunt: Search for spiders’ webs, fallen conkers, colourful leaves and other autumn treasures.
- Decorate pumpkins at home: You don’t need an elaborate pumpkin patch experience to enjoy some creative Halloween fun.
- Look for community events: Village halls, local groups and community centres sometimes organise inexpensive Halloween parties and trails.
- Visit Whitlingham Country Park: Free Halloween activities are scheduled for Wednesday 28th October 2026.
It’s worth checking local community Facebook pages and library websites for smaller events that may not be widely advertised.
Best Halloween Events in Norfolk for Toddlers
If you’re celebrating Halloween with a baby or toddler, you probably want something fun and seasonal without too many frightening surprises.
Pumpkin patches, animal attractions, gentle trails and creative activities are often ideal.
Some of the events worth looking into include BeWILDerwood, Wroxham Barns, Hirsty’s Family Fun Park, Banham Zoo and Pensthorpe.
For very young children, consider visiting during daylight hours when possible, and check whether events include loud sound effects, flashing lights or characters that might be a little overwhelming.
Remember, toddlers don’t need an elaborate Halloween adventure to have a wonderful time. Sometimes choosing a pumpkin, splashing in muddy puddles and enjoying a hot chocolate afterwards is more than enough!
Tips for Planning a Halloween Family Day Out in Norfolk
October weather in Norfolk can be unpredictable, so a little preparation can make all the difference.
Book popular attractions in advance. Halloween shows, special train rides and pumpkin events can be particularly busy during half term.
Check what’s included in the ticket. Some pumpkin patches charge separately for pumpkins, carving or additional activities.
Dress for the weather. Wellies, waterproof coats and spare clothes are always useful for outdoor attractions.
Think about your children’s ages. Some Halloween events are designed to be fun and friendly, while others are deliberately frightening.
Allow plenty of time. Attractions with multiple activities can easily fill a whole morning or afternoon.
Double-check event details before travelling. Opening times, ticket availability and activities can change.
Halloween in Norfolk 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best Halloween events in Norfolk for families?
Popular family options for 2026 include BeWILDerwood, Banham Zoo, Wroxham Barns, Pensthorpe Pumpkin Festival and the Great Yarmouth Hippodrome Halloween Spooktacular.
The best choice depends on the ages of your children and whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, creative activities or live entertainment.
Where can we go pumpkin picking in Norfolk?
Hirsty’s Family Fun Park near Hemsby and Wroxham Barns are two options for families who want to combine pumpkin picking with other autumn activities.
The Pumpkin House at Thursford is another lovely seasonal destination, particularly for autumn photographs.
What can we do in Norwich during October half term?
Norwich has several Halloween activities planned, including the Family Imagination Day at Dragon Hall, Magic Potions Workshop at YALM, a children’s party at The Maids Head Hotel and events at nearby Whitlingham Country Park.
Are there Halloween events in Norfolk suitable for younger children?
Yes! Family-friendly attractions such as BeWILDerwood, Banham Zoo and Pensthorpe are worth considering. Look for daytime sessions and events specifically designed for younger visitors.
What are the best scary Halloween attractions in Norfolk?
PrimeEVIL at ROARR!, Fairground Frights at Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach and Norwich Ghost Walks are among the options for those looking for something scarier.
Always check age restrictions and event guidance before booking.
Enjoy a Spooktacular October Half Term in Norfolk!
Halloween is such a lovely time to get out and explore Norfolk as a family.
Whether you’re wandering through a pumpkin patch, watching a spectacular Halloween show, discovering spooky creatures in the woods or simply enjoying an autumn walk together, there are plenty of ways to make special memories this October.
You don’t have to spend a fortune or plan something elaborate. Sometimes the simplest autumn traditions become the ones children remember most.
We hope this guide helps you find some fantastic Halloween events in Norfolk for 2026.
Have we missed your favourite Norfolk Halloween event? We’d love to hear about it! And don’t forget to save this guide so you can come back to it when planning your October half term adventures.
Please note: Event information is based on published 2026 listings. Dates, activities, prices and availability may change, so always check directly with the organisers before travelling.