Bolton Castle Announces Halloween Extravaganza with Spooky Events from 18 to 31 October 2026

As October approaches, the excitement for Halloween begins to build, and there’s no better place to celebrate than at the award-winning Bolton Castle, located near Leyburn in North Yorkshire. This historic site is set to transform into a spooky extravaganza from 18 to 31 October 2026, promising thrills and chills for visitors of all ages.

Spooky Attractions

Bolton Castle is renowned for its fascinating dungeon, but this Halloween, the entire castle will be filled with eerie decorations and activities. Guests can expect to encounter a variety of spooky sights including:

• Rats, bats, and skeletons lurking in the dungeons

• A coffin and a cauldron filled with a brew so potent that even witches avoid it

• Ghostly figures and decorations throughout the courtyard

• Costumes and props available for fun family photos

With pumpkins dotting the grounds and autumn trails leading into the gardens, there’s plenty to explore for both young and old. Visitors might even get a chance to spot the elusive figure of Death as he makes a mysterious appearance.

Historical Re-enactments

Adding to the Halloween atmosphere, historical re-enactors will be present on select days, bringing the castle’s haunted history to life. They will be on site on:

• Saturday 24 October

• Sunday 25 October

• Monday 26 October

• Friday 30 October

• Saturday 31 October

These enthusiastic performers will share stories from when the castle served as a family home and a fortress, complete with tales of defending against marauding invaders. Each day will feature story time at 1pm and a witches’ trial at 2.15pm, all included with the price of entry.

Lanternlight Experience

For those looking for a unique experience, Bolton Castle will host a special event called Castle by Lanternlight on Monday 26 October from 6 to 8pm. This event allows guests to explore the castle in the dark, guided only by their lanterns. It promises to be a thrilling experience as the shadows of the medieval walls come alive with stories of the past. Tickets for this event are priced at £23.00 per person, and the minimum age is 18, making it a perfect spooky outing for adults.

Family-Friendly Halloween Fun

Younger children can also enjoy a Halloween evening designed just for them on 29 October from 4.30pm to 6.30pm. This event will offer family-friendly fun with a sprinkle of spookiness that’s sure to delight. Tickets for this event are £12.50 per adult and £5 per child, ensuring a fun night out for families.

Visiting Information

Bolton Castle is a beautiful place to visit in October, especially with the stunning views across Wensleydale as the leaves change colour. The castle will close for the winter season at the end of the day on 2 November, so now is the perfect time to visit. The gardens will be in their autumn glory, and guests can also enjoy homemade cakes and freshly made dishes at the tea room.

Ticket prices remain the same as last year, making it affordable for families looking for a day out. Here’s a quick breakdown of the ticket prices:

Car parking is available for £5 per vehicle, and entry includes access to various events running from 10am to 5pm, unless otherwise noted. With all these activities lined up, Bolton Castle is sure to be a memorable destination this Halloween season.