Planning Halloween in London with kids or teenagers this October? Whether you're visiting during half term or looking for a spooky family day out, there are some brilliant Halloween events happening across London and the surrounding area in 2026.
From exploring the darker side of the Harry Potter Studio Tour and meeting the ghosts of the Tower of London to theme park adventures, illuminated trails and genuinely frightening experiences for older kids, there's something for just about every age.
If you're visiting with younger children, there are plenty of Halloween activities that focus on dressing up, exploring and having fun without anything too scary. But if you've got teenagers who are a little harder to impress, there are some great options too, including the London Dungeon and Halloween theme park events.
And the good news is that you don't need to spend a fortune. There are several free Halloween events in London during October half term, including nature activities, family trails and creative workshops.
I've rounded up 10 of the best Halloween events in London for families in 2026, with dates, prices, age recommendations and tips for getting there, so you can find something that suits your family and your budget.
October half term in London runs from 26 to 30 October 2026 for many schools, although dates can vary. Several Halloween attractions are running throughout October and into early November, so there's plenty of choice outside the school holidays too.
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Halloween in London 2026: At a Glance
Planning a Halloween day out with the kids? Here's a quick look at 10 of the best family-friendly Halloween events in London and nearby this October, including three free activities. Tap any event to jump to more details.
Standard admission View details ↓ LEGOLAND Brick or Treat 10–11 Oct, 17 Oct – 1 Nov
From £37pp View details ↓ Chessington Howl'o'ween 3–4, 10–11 Oct, 17 Oct – 1 Nov
From £34pp View details ↓ London Dungeon: Curse of the Mummy 17 Oct – 1 Nov
From £27pp View details ↓ Halloween at the Tower of London 24 Oct – 1 Nov
Included with admission View details ↓ Halloween at Hampton Court Palace 24 Oct – 1 Nov
Included with admission View details ↓ Halloween at Kew 16 Oct – 1 Nov
Adults from £19.50 View details ↓
Free Halloween Events in London
FREE View details ↓ London Museum Docklands Half-Term Activities 24–31 Oct
FREE View details ↓ High Street Kensington Halloween Trail 23–31 Oct
FREE View details ↓
Dates and advertised starting prices are for 2026 and may vary by ticket type. Check availability and event details before travelling.
1. Harry Potter Studio Tour: Dark Arts
Dates: 16 September to 8 November 2026
Location: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Leavesden, Watford
Nearest train station: Watford Junction
Price: Dark Arts included with standard Studio Tour admission
Best for: Harry Potter fans, older children and teenagers
If you've got Harry Potter fans in the family, visiting the Warner Bros. Studio Tour during Halloween is a great way to experience the attraction with a slightly spookier twist.
The annual Dark Arts event sees the Great Hall transformed with over 100 floating pumpkins above the tables, just like the Halloween feast in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.
As you explore the studios, you'll also encounter Death Eaters wandering around some of the famous sets, including Diagon Alley. There's an opportunity to practise your wand combat skills in the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, while Dementors are waiting in the Forbidden Forest.
New for 2026, there's a special focus on how sound effects were created for the darker moments in the Harry Potter films, along with a behind-the-scenes look at Nagini, Voldemort's snake.
You still get to explore all the usual attractions, including the Hogwarts Express, Platform 9¾ and the original film sets, so there's plenty to see beyond the Halloween additions.
If you're planning more Harry Potter activities while you're in London, I've also put together a guide to 12 Harry Potter things to do in London with kids and teenagers, including Platform 9¾, free filming locations and the West End show.
Is it suitable for younger children?
Although the Studio Tour is family-friendly, the Dark Arts event includes live Death Eater performances, flashing lighting effects, loud sounds and some pyrotechnics. Families with younger or more easily frightened children may prefer the usual Studio Tour experience outside the Halloween season.
Staff can advise on avoiding particular areas if needed.
Getting there: The studios are outside central London. Trains run from London Euston to Watford Junction, taking approximately 20 minutes on the faster services. From there, a complimentary shuttle bus takes around 15 minutes to reach the studios.
Booking tip: The Halloween features are included in the standard admission price, so you don't need to purchase a separate Dark Arts ticket. However, all Studio Tour tickets must be booked in advance, and I'd recommend booking early if you're hoping to visit during October half term.
2. LEGOLAND Windsor: Brick or Treat
Dates: 10–11 October and 17 October to 1 November 2026
Location: LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY
Nearest train stations: Windsor & Eton Central or Windsor & Eton Riverside
Price: From £37 per person
Best for: Families with younger children, particularly ages 3–12
If you're looking for a Halloween event that's more fun than frightening, LEGOLAND Windsor's Brick or Treat is a great option, especially for families with younger children.
Throughout October, the theme park transforms into a Halloween celebration, with spooky LEGO decorations, themed entertainment, character meet-and-greets and plenty of opportunities for family photographs.
The LEGO Monsters return for 2026, with some brilliant entertainment planned. Lord Vampyre's House Party is back, featuring music and dancing, while the Monster Jam show brings even more Halloween fun.
There are also some Halloween twists on the usual attractions, including Disco Dragon and the Haunted House Monster Party, where the whole house turns upside down!
Alongside the Halloween activities, families can still enjoy LEGOLAND's usual rides and attractions, so there's enough to fill an entire day.
Is it suitable for younger children?
Absolutely! This is probably one of the better Halloween attractions around London for younger children, as the focus is much more on dressing up, meeting characters and having fun rather than anything genuinely scary.
Children are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes, although full-face masks and imitation weapons aren't permitted.
Getting there: LEGOLAND is in Windsor, around 25 miles west of central London. You can travel by train from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central via Slough, or directly from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside. From Windsor, a local bus takes approximately 10–15 minutes to reach the park. The bus journey is an additional cost.
Booking tip: Brick or Treat activities are included with standard park admission on participating dates, with tickets starting from £37 per person when booked online. Children under 90cm can enter free. I'd recommend booking in advance, particularly during October half term, as ticket prices can increase closer to the date.
3. Chessington World of Adventures: Howl'o'ween
Dates: 3–4 October, 10–11 October and 17 October to 1 November 2026
Location: Chessington World of Adventures, Leatherhead Road, Surrey, KT9 2NE
Nearest train station: Chessington South
Price: From £34 per person
Best for: Families with children of mixed ages, including teenagers
If you're looking for a Halloween day out that combines theme park rides, spooky entertainment and activities for younger children, Chessington's Howl'o'ween is a great choice.
The park transforms for Halloween with themed decorations, live shows, trick-or-treating and the chance to experience some of its popular rides as darkness falls.
For 2026, there's a mixture of family-friendly entertainment and slightly scarier experiences, so you can plan your day around what your children will enjoy.
One of the highlights for younger visitors is Enchanted Hollow: Trick or Treat, where families can explore an underground village filled with friendly animal characters, knock on doors and collect sweet treats. This experience costs an additional £9 per person on top of your park admission.
There's also plenty of Halloween entertainment included with your standard ticket, including Dr Frankenfun's Haunted House Party, the musical Barnyard Boogie and Rising Flame: Shadows of the Tomb, which features mummified monsters, fire effects and dramatic performances.
For children who enjoy something a little scarier, the Stone Watchers: Vampire's Lair returns for 2026. This scare zone features stone statues and gargoyles that appear to come to life as visitors make their way through.
Another highlight is the opportunity to enjoy rides at dusk, including Vampire and Mandrill Mayhem. There's something particularly exciting about riding a roller coaster as it starts getting dark!
New for 2026, younger visitors can also meet Marshall and Skye from PAW Patrol dressed in their Halloween costumes.
And because this is Chessington, your ticket also includes the usual theme park attractions, zoo and SEA LIFE aquarium, making it a full day out rather than just a Halloween event.
Is it suitable for younger children?
Yes, particularly if you concentrate on the shows, character appearances and Enchanted Hollow experience. However, some of the scare zones and performances may be too intense for children who are easily frightened.
If you're visiting with teenagers, the combination of Halloween entertainment, scarier attractions and roller coasters at dusk makes this a good option for families with different ages.
Getting there: Chessington is around 35 minutes by train from London Waterloo, with regular services to Chessington South. The resort is approximately a 10-minute walk from the station.
Booking tip: Tickets start from £34 per person when booked online, compared with £66 at the gate. Most Halloween activities are included in your admission, but Enchanted Hollow costs an additional £9 per person. Children under 90cm can enter free.
I'd recommend booking online in advance, particularly for the October half-term dates, and checking the park's closing time if you're hoping to enjoy the rides after dark.
4. London Dungeon: Curse of the Mummy
Dates: 17 October to 1 November 2026
Location: County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London, SE1 7PB
Nearest Underground: Waterloo
Price: Adults from £27, children (5–15) from £22
Best for: Older children and teenagers, recommended for ages 12+
If your children enjoy a proper scare, the London Dungeon is one of the best Halloween attractions in London, and this year's event brings an unsettling new story to the experience.
For Halloween 2026, the London Dungeon is introducing Curse of the Mummy, a special show inspired by the legend of the Unlucky Mummy, one of London's most mysterious Victorian tales.
The story takes visitors back to a time when wealthy Victorians were fascinated by Ancient Egypt. When a group of friends brought the mummy-board of an Egyptian priestess back to London, a series of terrible events followed, leaving people convinced that they'd unleashed an ancient curse.
During the Halloween experience, you'll discover the sinister story behind the mummy and what happened to those who disturbed her resting place.
Alongside this year's special Halloween show, you'll still experience the London Dungeon's usual attractions, which bring around 1,000 years of London's darker history to life.
Expect live actors, atmospheric sets, special effects and plenty of jump scares as you encounter infamous characters including Jack the Ripper and Sweeney Todd.
There's also the Drop Dead: Drop Ride, which recreates the terrifying experience of a public hanging. The ride is optional, although there's a minimum height requirement of 1.4 metres.
The whole experience lasts approximately 75 minutes, making it easy to combine with other London attractions. The Dungeon is right beside the London Eye and SEA LIFE London Aquarium, so you could easily plan a full day around the South Bank.
Is it suitable for younger children?
The London Dungeon recommends the attraction for children aged 12 and over, and I'd definitely bear that in mind when booking.
Although children aged five and over are permitted to enter, the experience involves darkness, loud noises, unsettling stories and sudden scares. It's considerably more frightening than the family-friendly Halloween events at LEGOLAND or Chessington.
If you've got teenagers who enjoy horror films and being frightened, this could be right up their street. However, I'd probably choose something a little gentler for younger children, particularly those who don't like loud noises or unexpected scares.
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Getting there: The London Dungeon is on the South Bank, just a five-minute walk from Waterloo Underground and railway station. It's also within walking distance of Westminster and Embankment stations.
Booking tip: Curse of the Mummy is included with standard London Dungeon admission, so there's no need to purchase a separate Halloween ticket.
Online tickets start from £27 for adults and £22 for children aged 5–15, with prices varying depending on your chosen date. Booking in advance is generally cheaper than paying at the door.
If you're planning to visit the London Eye or SEA LIFE London Aquarium too, it's worth checking the combination tickets, as these can work out cheaper than booking each attraction separately.
5. Halloween at the Tower of London
Dates: 24 October to 1 November 2026
Times: 10.30am to 4pm daily
Location: Tower of London, London, EC3N 4AB
Nearest Underground: Tower Hill
Price: Adults £38, children aged 5–17 £19, under 5s free
Best for: Families with children of all ages
If you're looking for something a little different this Halloween, the Tower of London is bringing its haunted history to life with a family-friendly ghostly adventure.
With nearly 1,000 years of history, the Tower has plenty of spooky stories to tell. From royal prisoners and executions to mysterious disappearances, it's probably one of the most fitting places in London to celebrate Halloween!
For October half term 2026, visitors can explore the Tower while encountering some of the ghosts from its past. Keep an eye out for wandering spirits, including a queen, a pirate, a poet, an astronomer and even a ghostly bear.
There are several spooky locations to discover, including the Haunted Forge, Enchanted Wishing Well and Raven's Observatory. You never quite know who or what you might come across as you explore.
One of the highlights is the Haunted Forge, where ghosts gather at 11.15am, 12.45pm and 2.45pm each day. It's worth planning your visit around one of these performances so you don't miss out.
The Halloween activities are included with normal admission, so you'll also have the opportunity to explore the Tower's usual attractions, including the Crown Jewels, White Tower and the famous ravens.
You can easily spend several hours here, making it a great option for families who want a mixture of history, sightseeing and Halloween entertainment rather than a dedicated scare attraction.
Is it suitable for younger children?
Yes! Unlike the London Dungeon, the Tower of London's Halloween experience is designed to be entertaining rather than genuinely frightening.
There are costumed ghost characters, theatrical make-up and atmospheric sound effects, but younger children can watch from a distance if they're feeling a little nervous.
One important thing to know is that visitors aren't allowed to wear Halloween costumes at this event, so save the fancy dress for another day.
For families with older children and teenagers who fancy something scarier, the Tower is also offering evening Ghost Tours during Halloween. These take place after closing, are recommended for ages 12 and over, and require a separate ticket.
Getting there: The Tower of London is approximately a five-minute walk from Tower Hill Underground station, served by the District and Circle lines. You can also walk from London Bridge station in around 10–15 minutes.
It's right beside Tower Bridge, so you could easily combine your visit with a walk along the Thames or a trip across the bridge.
Booking tip: Halloween activities are included in the normal Tower of London admission ticket, so there's no additional event charge.
Standard admission costs £38 for adults and £19 for children aged 5–17, with children under five entering free. There's also a £1 admission scheme for eligible visitors receiving certain benefits, which is worth checking if you're planning a family day out on a budget.
I'd recommend allowing at least three hours for your visit, particularly if you want to see the Halloween characters and the Crown Jewels.
6. Halloween at Hampton Court Palace
Dates: 24 October to 1 November 2026
Location: Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU
Nearest train station: Hampton Court
Price: Adults from £30, children aged 5–17 from £15, under 5s free
Best for: Families with children of all ages who enjoy history, ghost stories and Halloween adventures
If your family enjoys a mixture of history and spooky adventures, Halloween at Hampton Court Palace is a brilliant option for October half term.
Once home to Henry VIII and his six wives, Hampton Court Palace has centuries of fascinating history, including plenty of ghost stories. And during Halloween, some of those stories are brought to life throughout the palace.
For 2026, the historic rooms and corridors are transformed with atmospheric projections, eerie sound effects and ghostly characters appearing in unexpected places.
As you explore, keep an eye out for spirits from the palace's past, including the ghost of William Shakespeare, who is said to be wandering the historic halls.
The experience is designed to be an adventure for the whole family, with plenty of opportunities to discover the palace's haunted history while exploring its impressive rooms and courtyards.
One of the best things about visiting Hampton Court Palace is that there's much more to see beyond the Halloween activities.
Your admission ticket also includes access to the palace's usual attractions, including Henry VIII's magnificent Great Hall, the Tudor kitchens and the beautiful gardens.
Families can also explore the famous Hampton Court Maze and the Magic Garden play area, subject to opening times. This makes it a particularly good choice if you're looking for a full day out rather than a short Halloween activity.
Is it suitable for younger children?
Yes, although there are a few things worth knowing before you visit.
The Halloween experience is intended to be family-friendly rather than genuinely terrifying. However, some characters wear full ghostly make-up, and visitors may encounter darker areas, loud sounds, flashing lights and occasional jump scares.
If you've got younger children who are easily frightened, you might prefer to spend more time exploring the palace grounds and gardens.
Unlike the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace does allow visitors to wear Halloween costumes, so children can dress up for their visit. Just be aware that masks, realistic weapons, fake blood and glitter aren't permitted.
Getting there: Hampton Court Palace is outside central London, but it's straightforward to reach by public transport.
Direct trains run from London Waterloo to Hampton Court approximately every 30 minutes, with the journey taking around 35–40 minutes. The palace is then just a five-minute walk from the station.
Hampton Court station is in Zone 6, and you can use Oyster or contactless payment for the journey.
Booking tip: The Halloween activities are included with normal palace admission, so you won't need to buy a separate event ticket.
Adult tickets cost £30 on off-peak days and £33 at peak times, while tickets for children aged 5–17 cost £15 or £16.50. Under 5s enter free.
There's also a discounted £1 ticket scheme for eligible visitors receiving certain benefits, which is worth checking if you're visiting on a budget.
I'd recommend allowing at least three hours to explore Hampton Court Palace, although you could easily spend longer here with children, particularly if you want to visit the Maze and Magic Garden too.
Check dates, prices and book Halloween at Hampton Court Palace7. Halloween at Kew Gardens
Dates: 16 October to 1 November 2026
Times: 6pm–10pm (16–24 October), 4pm–10pm (25 October–1 November)
Location: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, London
Nearest stations: Kew Gardens Underground or Kew Bridge railway station
Price: Adults from £19.50, children from £14
Best for: Families with children of all ages, with earlier sessions particularly suited to younger children
If you're looking for a Halloween experience that's a little different from the usual theme parks and haunted attractions, Halloween at Kew Gardens is a fantastic option.
Returning for its third year in 2026, the gardens are transformed into an illuminated Halloween trail, filled with spooky surprises, atmospheric lighting and live entertainment.
The experience takes place along a 1.5km outdoor trail, where you'll encounter everything from ghostly figures and legendary creatures to eerie woodland scenes.
For 2026, there are several new attractions, including Dracula's Lair, the Cursed Tomb, Medieval Dungeon, Forest Ritual and Monster Disco.
The famous Headless Horseman is also returning, alongside fire performers and live actors who bring the darker corners of the gardens to life.
One of the things that makes Halloween at Kew particularly appealing is the setting. Rather than walking through an indoor attraction, you're exploring the gardens as darkness falls, with spooky illuminations and surprises appearing around the next corner.
There are also food and drink stalls along the route, selling everything from hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows to warming food and Halloween treats. These cost extra, so it's worth factoring that into your budget.
The trail takes approximately 60–90 minutes to complete, depending on how often you stop for photographs, refreshments and entertainment.
Is it suitable for younger children?
Yes, and one of the best things about Halloween at Kew is that you can choose a time slot based on how spooky you'd like your experience to be.
There are three different sessions available:
- Daylight (before 6pm): The gentlest experience, particularly suitable for younger children.
- Twilight (6pm–7.30pm): A slightly scarier atmosphere as darkness falls.
- Moonlight (after 7.30pm): The spookiest experience, with the full effect of the darkness and illuminations.
All three sessions are described as family-friendly, but I'd definitely choose an earlier slot if you've got younger children who might be frightened by sudden scares.
Daylight entry is available from 25 October, when the earlier opening times begin.
It's also worth remembering that this is an outdoor walking trail, so wrap up warm and wear comfortable, waterproof footwear. The pathways can become wet and muddy during October.
Getting there: Kew Gardens is in southwest London and is straightforward to reach by public transport.
Kew Gardens Underground station is served by the District line and London Overground's Mildmay line, and is approximately a five-minute walk from Victoria Gate.
Alternatively, trains run from London Waterloo to Kew Bridge, which is approximately a 10-minute walk from Elizabeth Gate.
There are three entrance options for the Halloween event, so make sure you check which gate you've selected when booking.
Booking tip: Halloween at Kew requires a separate ticket and is not included with normal daytime Kew Gardens admission.
Off-peak tickets cost £19.50 for adults and £14 for children aged 4–15, while peak tickets cost £24 for adults and £18 for children. Children under four enter free.
Family tickets for two adults and two children are also available, costing £64 off-peak or £80 at peak times.
Tickets must be booked in advance, with timed entry slots throughout the evening. Popular dates, particularly during October half term, are expected to sell out.
If you're planning to explore Kew Gardens during the day as well, look out for the combined daytime admission and Halloween ticket option.
8. Hyde Park Halloween Discovery Days (FREE)
Dates: 27–29 October 2026
Times: 11am–3.30pm (last entry 3pm)
Location: Hyde Park Learning Centre, The Lookout, Hyde Park, London W2 2UH
Nearest Underground: Marble Arch
Price: FREE
Best for: Families with younger children, particularly ages 3–11
If you're looking for free Halloween events in London this October half term, Hyde Park's Halloween Discovery Days are a brilliant option, particularly for families with younger children.
Organised by The Royal Parks, this three-day event offers a mixture of spooky activities, nature trails and storytelling, all completely free.
Rather than the big scares and expensive tickets of some of London's Halloween attractions, the focus here is on getting children outdoors, exploring nature and having a bit of Halloween fun along the way.
There are several activities planned for 2026, including exploring the Witches' Den, where children can investigate mysterious feely boxes and guess what's hiding inside.
Families can also follow a Halloween-themed nature trail through the grounds, discovering interesting facts about the natural world, including the bats that live in London's Royal Parks.
There are spooky storytelling sessions at 12pm, 1pm and 2pm each day, so it's worth timing your visit around one of these if your children enjoy listening to stories.
And if the kids want to dress up as witches, ghosts or vampires, Halloween costumes are encouraged!
Most families spend around one to two hours enjoying the activities, which makes this a lovely addition to a day exploring London without having to spend money on another attraction.
Is it suitable for younger children?
Absolutely! The activities are mainly designed for children aged 3–11, although younger toddlers are welcome and there will be some sensory activities suitable for under-threes.
Older children can join in too, but I'd particularly recommend this for families with primary-school-aged children who enjoy exploring, outdoor activities and a little Halloween fun.
The event takes place within the enclosed grounds of Hyde Park Learning Centre, with accessible pathways, toilet facilities and a designated quiet space available if children need a break from the activities.
Getting there: The Halloween Discovery Days take place at Hyde Park Learning Centre, also known as The Lookout, in the centre of Hyde Park.
Marble Arch is the nearest Underground station, served by the Central line. From there, you'll need to walk through the park to reach the Learning Centre.
The venue can be a little tricky to find, so I'd recommend using the directions provided on The Royal Parks website rather than simply navigating to Hyde Park.
Booking tip: This event is completely free, and you don't need to book tickets in advance.
You can register online to receive event information and reminders, but registration doesn't guarantee entry or allow you to skip any queues.
During particularly busy periods, you may need to wait to enter the Learning Centre, although additional activities will be available outside while families wait.
There's a maximum of three children per accompanying adult, and all children must remain supervised.
If you're visiting London on a budget, this is definitely one to consider. You could bring a picnic to enjoy elsewhere in Hyde Park afterwards and make a lovely autumn day out of it.
9. London Museum Docklands: Halloween Half-Term Activities (FREE)
Dates: 24–31 October 2026 (some activities continue until 1 November)
Times: Museum open daily, 10am–5pm. Activity times vary
Location: London Museum Docklands, No. 1 Warehouse, West India Quay, London E14 4AL
Nearest station: West India Quay DLR
Price: FREE
Best for: Families with younger children, particularly ages 3–11
If you're looking for free things to do in London with kids this October half term, London Museum Docklands has a fantastic programme of activities planned for Halloween 2026.
Located in a historic warehouse near Canary Wharf, the museum is completely free to visit and explores London's fascinating history as one of the world's busiest ports.
For October half term, the museum is running a series of Halloween-inspired events based around London's legends, spooky superstitions and mythical creatures.
There's plenty to keep children entertained, with a mixture of storytelling, craft workshops and interactive performances taking place throughout the week.
One of the highlights is Superstitious Sailors, an interactive storytelling performance where children can meet Victorian sailors and discover some of the strange beliefs and superstitions associated with life at sea.
Families can also get creative during the Beastly Bookmarks workshops, making their own cats and bats to take home, or join the Clay Charms sessions to make a lucky charm inspired by historical superstitions.
For children who enjoy arts and crafts, the Make a Mythical Creature workshops are another great option. Inspired by stories of mysterious creatures living in the River Thames, children can design their own river monster.
There are also storytelling sessions exploring London's strangest animals, including a lonely griffin, alongside a special appearance from former Children's Laureate Joseph Coelho OBE on 27 October.
Younger visitors haven't been forgotten either. On 28 October, Little City: Spooky City offers Halloween-themed role play for children aged six and under, including pretend potion-making and pumpkin picking.
And because the museum's permanent galleries are free, you can spend more time exploring London's history once you've finished the Halloween activities.
Is it suitable for younger children?
Yes! This is one of the best options on the list for families with younger children who want some Halloween fun without frightening costumes or jump scares.
Most activities are aimed at children aged three or five and over, although there are dedicated sessions for younger visitors too.
The museum is indoors, making it a particularly good option if the October weather isn't great.
Getting there: London Museum Docklands is approximately a three-minute walk from West India Quay DLR station. You can also travel to Canary Wharf using the Jubilee line, Elizabeth line or DLR, followed by a seven-minute walk.
The museum is located beside the waterfront at West India Quay, where you'll also find cafés and restaurants if you want to stop for something to eat.
Booking tip: Museum admission and the Halloween half-term programme are free, but some individual activities require advance booking.
Most craft sessions are drop-in activities, while events such as Little City: Spooky City and the Joseph Coelho storytelling workshop require free tickets.
It's worth checking the programme before visiting, as different activities run on different days.
The separate Mudlarks family play gallery has an admission charge, so don't confuse this with the free half-term activities.
If you're planning a budget-friendly family day out in London, this is a great way to keep the kids entertained without spending money on expensive attraction tickets.
See the full programme of free Halloween activities at London Museum Docklands10. High Street Kensington Halloween Trail (FREE)
Dates: 23–31 October 2026
Times: During participating businesses' opening hours
Location: Kensington High Street, London, W8
Nearest Underground: High Street Kensington
Price: FREE
Best for: Families with younger children, particularly ages 3–12
If you're looking for another free Halloween activity in London this October half term, the High Street Kensington Halloween Trail is a lovely option for families with younger children.
For 2026, Kensington is celebrating Halloween with a whole programme of events, including a free trail through the area's shops and businesses, spooky decorations and plenty of family-friendly activities.
The Halloween Trail runs from 23 to 31 October, with children following a special map around High Street Kensington, searching for hidden clues and answering questions along the way.
You can collect a printed trail map from High Street Kensington Underground station or participating businesses, or download a copy online before your visit.
At each stop, you'll need to find a clue board and answer a question to complete your Halloween challenge.
Once you've finished, head to Bone Daddies at 1 Phillimore Gardens, where children can collect a Halloween treat bag.
It's a fun way to explore Kensington without spending money on expensive attraction tickets, and children will love having something to search for as you walk around.
More Halloween activities in Kensington
There's plenty more happening in the area during October half term, so it's worth checking what else is on when you visit.
From 26 to 31 October, Trotters on Kensington High Street is hosting a Halloween Grotto, with activities including potion-making, monster crafts and themed workshops. These require booking.
On 31 October, the Design Museum is also hosting a free Halloween family drop-in between 3.30pm and 7pm, featuring mask-making, creative activities and a search-and-find trail. It's particularly suited to children aged 5–11, and no booking is required.
For something even more unusual, Holland Park is hosting the Playful Park of Peculiar on Halloween itself.
Taking place on 31 October from 4.30pm to 7.30pm, this free evening event features strange characters, illuminated creatures, live performances and interactive entertainment.
Earlier sessions are designed to be particularly suitable for younger children, while later sessions have a slightly spookier atmosphere.
Unlike the High Street Kensington Halloween Trail, the Holland Park event requires a free ticket, and availability is limited.
Is it suitable for younger children?
Yes! The High Street Kensington Halloween Trail is one of the gentlest activities on this list.
Rather than jump scares or frightening characters, children can enjoy exploring the area, solving clues and spotting Halloween decorations.
It's particularly good for families with primary-school-aged children, although younger children can still join in with a little help.
And because the trail takes place around local shops and businesses, you can complete it at your own pace, stopping for refreshments or exploring somewhere else nearby whenever you fancy.
Getting there: High Street Kensington Underground station is served by the Circle and District lines.
The station is a convenient starting point for the trail, and the surrounding streets are easy to explore on foot.
Kensington Gardens, Holland Park and the Design Museum are also nearby, so you could combine the trail with other activities and make a full day of exploring the area.
Booking tip: The High Street Kensington Halloween Trail is completely free, and you don't need to book a ticket to follow it.
Simply download the official map or collect one locally and start searching for clues.
If you're hoping to attend any of the additional Halloween workshops or the Playful Park of Peculiar, check the individual booking requirements before travelling.
For families visiting London on a budget, this is a great way to enjoy some Halloween fun without spending a fortune.
Download the free High Street Kensington Halloween Trail mapSee all Halloween events happening in Kensington in 2026
Belgravia Pumpkin Trail: Is It Returning in 2026?
If you've seen photographs of Belgravia's incredible Halloween pumpkin displays and are hoping to visit this October, there's something worth knowing before you make plans.
In previous years, the Belgravia Pumpkin Trail transformed the area's beautiful streets into a Halloween wonderland, with shops, restaurants and florists creating spectacular pumpkin displays, autumnal floral installations and spooky decorations.
It became a popular free Halloween activity in London, particularly for families looking for somewhere to explore and take photographs without spending money on attraction tickets.
However, the official organised Pumpkin Trail hasn't yet been confirmed for 2026.
Can you still visit Belgravia for Halloween?
Yes! Belgravia is still a lovely area to explore during autumn, with independent shops, cafés and restaurants embracing the season.
There are confirmed Halloween displays for 2026, including an autumnal installation featuring pumpkins outside UNI on Ebury Street, alongside a special Halloween menu available from 27–31 October.
Elizabeth Street, Ebury Street and Motcomb Street are all worth exploring if you're already in the area, although individual Halloween decorations and displays may vary.
Getting there: Belgravia is within easy walking distance of Victoria and Sloane Square Underground stations.
Booking tip: You don't need tickets to explore the streets of Belgravia, but don't plan your day around the original Pumpkin Trail unless the organisers confirm its return.
Check the latest Halloween events and updates from Belgravia VillageMore Things to Do in London with Kids & Teenagers
Planning a family trip to London? There's plenty to keep kids and teenagers entertained throughout the year, whether you're looking for free activities, special treats or seasonal experiences.
Take a look at our other London guides for more inspiration:
- 12 Free Things to Do in London with Teenagers – From immersive digital art and colourful street art to rooftop gardens and incredible skyline views, these free attractions are perfect for a budget-friendly day out.
- 7 Best Spa Days & Pamper Experiences for Teenagers in London – Discover luxury facials, teenage-friendly spa treatments, floating saunas and hot tub boat experiences for a special day out.
- 10 Unique Afternoon Teas in London for Kids & Teenagers – Looking for a special treat? Explore themed afternoon teas, unusual experiences and luxury hotel settings.
- Christmas in London with Kids & Teens – Visiting later in the year? Discover festive attractions, Christmas lights, ice skating and magical experiences for the whole family.
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