Are you searching for the best Halloween events. Maybe looking to find the most spooktacular local fun and things to do in South Wales.

Here’s the SOUTH WALES LIFE guide to all that is spooky near you. If you want ideas on things to do at home, we have those coming very soon too. This guide will be expanding over the next few weeks so bookmark it and come back regularly for the latest spooky happenings.

ABERGAVENNY

SKIRRID MOUNTAIN INN GHOST HUNT

The oldest known reference to one of the Most Haunted Pubs in Wales, which nestles within the shadow of the Skirrid Mountain, is in 1110 when John Crowther was sentenced to death for sheep stealing and was hanged from a beam of the inn. The Beam is there to this very day.

Over the next eight hundred years 182 felons would meet a similar fate, dangling by the neck over the buildings stairwell at the Inn.

An unusual style of customer relations you may think, until you realise that, as well as serving up frothing tankards to thirsty travellers, the premises also doubled as a courthouse. Until, in the mid 19th century, it pulled out of the execution business altogether and has since dedicated itself to the sustenance of the living.

Needless to say, with such a sinister pedigree, The Skirrid Mountain Inn can offer many a ghostly tale to chill the blood. The spirits of those executed here, are said to make their presences felt in a rather direct and disturbing way.

Many Locals & Guests at the Inn have felt the overwhelming sensation, of an invisible noose being slipped around their necks and have been alarmed to feel it getting tighter & tighter. Although, they always manage to break free from the strange grip, they bear the distinct impression of the marks of the rope for sometime afterwards. Another ghost to haunt the old and, in parts, spooky property is that of woman who, although never seen, is both felt and heard by staff as she rustles invisibly past them, her progress marked by a distinct chill in the air. This lady is suppose to be an Victorian Landlady called fanny price. you can still visit her grave in the local graveyard.

Haunting Nights looks forward to welcoming you to this very haunted location. Take a look at their video HERE.

If you are brave enough to stay at the location overnight contact the team for more information. To Book yours, go HERE.

ABERYSTWYTH

TERROR MOUNTAIN

We think it’s fair to say this is Wales’ BIGGEST Halloween event and it’s back this year to scare the bejeebers out of us once again. They tell us, it’s bigger, better and scarier than ever. What are we talking about? TERROR MOUNTAIN. Set in a creepy Victorian silver mine just outside Aberystwyth (the Silver Mountain Experience), it boasts 5 LIVE ACTION HORROR ATTRACTIONS filled with a whole host of nightmare inducing creatures. Whether bringing your family, friends or colleagues, they guarantee it will be a terrifyingly fun night out! If you’ve got NO BODY to go with, they may let you stay.

They’ve got two new attractions this year –

HAUNTED LIVE – Join them for the latest instalment of HAUNTED: LIVE, where popular vlogger ‘Haunted4Lyfe’ is exploring one of the buildings in our the Victorian mine. You don’t have to be a believer to feel spooked, and you never know, you might just find something that goes ‘bump’ in the night!

SANCTUM
KILLERZ
WILD WOODS II
PROJECT X

If you’re still not convinced why not turn the lights out, turn up the volume, set your device to full screen and watch this video. Go on, we dare you TERROR

The times you can visit are – October 18th, 24th, 25th, 30th and of course, the 31st and 1st November. Tickets are on sale NOW, and they will sell out, so make sure you pre-book to guarantee your night of thrilling frights and fun.

As usual with these things you get the best deals if you book in advance and of course, for a lot of us, it may be a bit of a journey, so check they have space before you leave.

TERROR MOUNTAIN is part of the Silver Mountain Experience at Ponterwyd just outside Aberystwyth. For more details and get tickets go here MOUNTAIN

BARRY

HALLOWEEN AT FONMON CASTLE

They have plenty lined up at Fonmon Castle this halloween, with day and noght time events for the whole family.

Fonmon Castle Paranormal Investigations

Come and visit Fonmon Castle as you embark on a Paranormal Investigation of the interior of the castle at night. You will be guided by our own Paranormal Investigation Team who will take you through the various rooms of the castle and recount to you the experiences, findings and evidence that will have been gathered by our professional ghost hunting team – Ghost Watch Wales.

On each eveing you will engage in a series of ghost tours, ghostly tales and Paranormal Investigations.

You will be granted access to parts of the castle that are not available to the general public on a daily basis.

WARNING – These investigations are atmospheric and thrilling and can at times produce feelings of fear and dread, it is therefore advised that you undertake these investigations at your own discretion.

Halloween Daytime – Adults and Children

Halloween Family Event – Fun Without the Frights! Halloween. This is a Halloween Daytime Event packed full of spooky (but not too scary!) fun for the whole family!

Dates: 18th & 19th October, then daily from 25th October – 2nd November – Time: 10am – 3pm

Your ticket includes: – Halloween Story Trail – Beetlejuice’s Castle – Skeleton Gardens – Wednesday’s Hideout – Haunted Dinos – Pumpkin Village – PYO Pumpkins* – Frankenstein’s Craft Centre – Not-So-Scary Scare Run (no actors!) – Medieval Grange – Archery & Axe Throwing* – Hathaway Halloween Photography* – FREE Kids Stamp Trail – Face Painting* – Play Areas …and so much more! – Hot food & drinks served in our Castle Tearoom + tasty bites from vendors in the Square.

Halloween Scare Evenings

Fonmon Castle transforms after dark for the Halloween Evening Scare Event!

Dates: 18th, 19th & 24th October – 2nd November Time: 6pm – 10pm

Included in your ticket: – The SCARE RUN – 10 terrifying zones, unlimited runs! (Emergency exits available after 3 zones for the faint-hearted). Last run at 9:30pm.
Beetlejuice’s Castle
FREE Kids Stamp Trail
Skeleton Gardens
Wednesday’s Hideout
Haunted Dino’s Play Area
Maleficent’s Dome
Dracula’s Halloween Story Trail
Character Shows & Meet-and-Greets in the Dome
Pumpkin Village with Sally (no PYO in the evening)
Halloween Photography with Hathaway Photography*
Frankenstein’s Craft Centre
Tarot Card Readings in the Medieval House*
Archery & Axe Throwing
Marshmallow Roasting
Face Painting
Hot food & drinks served from the Castle Tearoom + food trucks in the Square!

Fonmon Castle is in the Vale of Glamorgan (Barry). To book tickets, with concessions in place, just go HERE.

CARDIFF

CARDIFF HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL

The Cardiff Halloween Festival has had a revamp, moving from the outskirts to a new waterfront home at Alexandra Head in Cardiff Bay. The HALLOWEEN ISLAND family festival will feature a ghostly boat ride from Mermaid Quay, live stage shows, immersive creative zones, and a twilight programme with glowing pumpkins, fire performances, and even owl encounters.

Once a year, when the tide turns and the mists roll in, an island rises from the waters of Cardiff Bay. Its shores glow with pumpkins, its paths twist past curious creatures, and its heart beats with laughter, music, and impossible magic.

Arrive by ghost ship and step ashore into a world of adventure: spell-binding shows, spooky games and curious activities waiting to be discovered.

By day, pirates stir and the island brims with laughter and play. By twilight, lanterns glow, music fills the air, and magic takes to the stage.

Every child takes home their own pumpkin — a keepsake from the island before it vanishes back into the mist.

The Halloween Island Festival runs from the 25th to 31st October. For more details go HERE.

TREETOP ADVENTURE GOLF

Swing by for an epic mini golf adventure with two indoor, 18-hole courses, plus cracking coffee, tropical cocktails and tasty jungle grub.

Not strictly Halloween, but very much half term fun and it will raise your SPIRITS (sorry).

Tackle the Tropical Trail and navigate your way through the rainforest. Visit Grandma Oak along the Mystic River, chat with cheeky toucans and listen out for our singing barbershop frogs during your stay at The Pitz Bug Hotel. Or maybe you’ll brave the magic of the Ancient Explorer, with its crumbling temples and scenic views. Learn all about the Legend of the Technicolour Toco Toucan Temple as you navigate your way around. The Sacred Mask can’t wait to meet you, but try and not wake Chief Slumber!

Whichever route you choose, don’t forget to step up to the challenge on the bonus 19th hole (if you’re feeling lucky).

The rainforest is open seven days a week, for everything from family days out to student hang-outs, date nights, work mate get-togethers and client celebrations.

There’s no need to book – just turn up and tee off! TREETOP ADVENTURE GOLF is in St David’s Cardiff – to see what’s on offer, go HERE.

GHOSTBUSTERS AT MERMAID QUAY

Mermaid Quay is the place to be on Tuesday 28th October, 11am – 4pm for a spook-tacular Ghostbusters Day!

Here’s what’s in store (all FREE, no booking required!):

Meet three Ghostbusters against a full-size backdrop – perfect for family photo ops!
Ghost-themed balloon model making
Glitter tattoos with spooky, ghostly designs
Green slime-making workshop (get hands-on fun supervised by our costumed host!)

It’s going to be frightfully fun for all the family – and you don’t want to miss it!

Mermaid Quay is where you have to call into on Tuesday 28th October between 11am and 4pm. It’s FREE entry, no booking needed.

PUMPKIN COCKTAIL AT FRIDAYS

Get yourself down to Fridays to try try the Zom-Bae cocktail this October if you dare. It’ll blow the cobwebs away!

Stripes Rewards members can get a free Zom-bae cocktail when ordering a main meal. T&Cs apply.

To find out more go HERE.

CASTELL COCH EVENING HALLOWEEN TOURS

Dare to explore Castell Coch after dark, with our spine-tingling Halloween evening tours. Discover the castle’s spooky legends and hidden secrets – if you’re brave enough!

Please note: the tours will take place in all weather conditions and, due to our Gothic spiral towers, will be full of stairs. The ground is uneven in places, so please wear appropriate shoes and clothing.

Bring a torch too, because we’ll be exploring some very dark places around the castle.

Suitable for adults only – please book your tickets in advance.

Castell Coch is currently undergoing extensive conservation work. During your visit there will be scaffold within the courtyard of the castle, however, this will not impact the tour experience.

Friday 31 Oct @ 6.30pm – SOLD OUT
Friday 31 Oct @ 8.30pm – 1 ticket remaining
Sunday 2 Nov @ 8pm – SOLD OUT

Full details HERE.

History of Castell Coch

Delve into the history of Castell Coch and it becomes very clear as to why this location is a ghost hunters dream. The land on which this majestic Red Castle sits has been used since as early as the 9th Century as a form of defence by the Normans.

The earth motte remains of the Norman fortification were used as the foundations for a stone castle which was constructed throughout the mid 11th Century and is believed to have been used until the early 1300’s before its demise.

The ruins remained dormant until 1848 when the new owner of the land, the 3rd Marquess of Bute, plotted a lavish plan to build an occasional retreat from his already extravagant Cardiff Castle. Architect William Burgess was employed to create the masterpiece we see today – Castell Coch.

Despite its opulent decor and rich furnishings, Castell Coch was rarely used and in 1950, his grandson who inherited the Castle, gave control of the estate over to the Welsh Heritage Agency.

RUMMER TAVERN

No event as such here, but if you’re out for a drink in the city, then this is a great place to go at Halloween.

This is a chance to visit the oldest pub in Cardiff, directly opposite the Castle. THE RUMMER TAVERN dates back to the early 18th century, making it well over 300 years old. Let’s be honest, that gives it the right to be classed as a spooky place to visit on Halloween and not only for the spirits (sorry).

The façade gives the building a Tudor appearance, its long narrow shape indicates it was built on a medieval burgage plot. There are many reports of ghostly presences, most often in the cellar and toilets, the most known is that of a jealous sailor who died in the building soon after finding his wife in bed with another man……. Was it murder, suicide or a broken heart that killed him? Perhaps this is your chance to find out?

The RUMMER TAVERN is on Duke Street in Cardiff. For more details go HERE.

A WICKED WITCHES BALL – WITH LIVE PERFORMANCES

Sing, dance and join Glinda, Elphaba and The Sanderson Sisters for a Halloween ball filled with live performances, games, and refreshments. Fancy dress is encouraged!

It’ll be another fantastic event at this lovely venue.

Cardiff Theatre Cafe at St Andrews is on Westfield Road in Roath. For details and to book tickets, go HERE.

CHEPSTOW

CHEPSTOW CASTLE GHOST TOURS

Learn of the residents who once lived inside these walls, and hear eye-witness accounts from castle custodians past and present of paranormal activity in the castle.

Adults only.

Numbers for this event are limited so advanced booking is essential.

The venue will open 10 minutes before the tour is due to begin, and tickets include a complimentary hot drink on arrival.

Please be aware that this is an outdoor event, so suitable clothing and footwear must be worn. In the event of bad weather, the event will be moved into one of our indoor spaces.

The tour costs £15 and take place on the 22nd and 29th October at 7pm.

For more details on the tours go HERE.

CWMBRAN

WITCHES BROOMS

Join local florist Kate, from Botanic Possessions, to craft a witches brooms from dried grasses, flowers, herbs and branches.

With step-by-step guidance from Kate you will learn floristry techniques and tips to help with your creation.

All tools and materials will be provided.

Places are limited and pre-booking is essential.

Cost: £35 + booking fee

Botanic Possessions provides locally grown flowers for any occasion. Follow them to find out more!

The Learning Room is located on our first floor. Unfortunately, they do not have disabled access to this floor.

FOOD AND DRINK

Enjoy a treat while you craft! Llantarnam Grange Café will be open, serving its seasonal specials menu of soups, cakes and winter warmers.

Food Served from 9.30am – 3.30pm, with last orders at 2.30pm.

The event is on Saturday 18th October from 1 to 3pm. For details and tickets go HERE.

FERNDALE

LLANELLI

LLANTWIT MAJOR

NEATH

NEWPORT

SPOOKTACULAR SLIME & HALLOWEEN FUN

Get ready for a frightfully fun session packed with ghoulish slime-making, creepy crafts, and spine-tingling games!

Please note: if you cannot make the event, please cancel your tickets or e-mail at youth.play@newport.gov.uk and we can cancel for you. If you have over-ordered and just need to cancel a selection of your tickets, please contact them.

The event is on Monday 27th October from 6pm to 7:30pm. For details and tickets go HERE.

PEMBREY

PEMBREY COUNTRY PARK

They have plenty of Halloween events at Pembrey, however, some are already sold out.

Rather than lots of words, we figured these links would help.

PENARTH

PONTYPOOL

BLAENAVON IRONWORKS HALLOWEEN

Head along to the Ironworks for a spooky trail, and storytelling about Welsh myths and legends!

Listen to spooky Welsh legends, tales, and ghost stories. And throughout the week there will be a free Halloween trail for children in the spookily themed cottages, with a chocolate prize.

Opening Times

Day	Times
Sat 25 Oct 2025	11:00 – 15:30
Sun 26 Oct 2025	11:00 – 15:30
Mon 27 Oct 2025	11:00 – 15:30
Tue 28 Oct 2025	11:00 – 15:30
Wed 29 Oct 2025	11:00 – 15:30
Thu 30 Oct 2025	11:00 – 15:30
Fri 31 Oct 2025	11:00 – 15:30

If you’d like more details just head along to their site here IRONWORKS.

PONTYPOOL PARK BAT WALK

oin Gwent Wildlife Trust and Pontypool Community Council for a walk around Pontypool Park to look and listen for bats and other nocturnal wildlife.

Using bat detectors provided, listen to their calls to help identify the different species and watch them fly while they hunt for insects. Learn about bat behaviour and their importance to habitats. We’ll be on the lookout for other nocturnal wildlife as we walk such as owls and moths.

The walk will be approximately one mile at a gentle pace on mixed terrain including paths, grass and uneven tracks. Please wear suitable sturdy footwear, clothing appropriate for the weather and bring a torch if you have one.

The walk is on Thursday 30th October from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. For details and tickets go HERE.

SWANSEA

SPOOKS IN THE CITY

Spooks in the City is back, and this year it’s going to be a Monster Mash-up! With two areas to explore and the event taking place at the later time of 3pm – 8pm, this is one for the whole family to enjoy!

St Davids Peculiar Place is perfect for families, this lively area features a main stage packed with children’s entertainment supported by Flying Start, games, music, a fancy dress competition, and performances by professional entertainers. But beware, creatures will be roaming the square, ready to startle and amuse our younger guests.

Across the ominous Troll Bridge lies Amy Dillwyn Dark Park, the new area that is not for the faint of heart. This zone is crawling with terrifying creatures and chilling sights that might just haunt your dreams…

Look out for The Invisible Man, Cycling Sloths, Dearly Beheaded, Zombie Zumba, Gentleman Chimps, a Giant Troll, a Demon, a Minotaur, Dr Fly, Long Armed Monsters, Bigfoot, Octopuss Hybrid and more, who’ll be roaming the park…dare you stick around after dark?

Look up! There’ll be a huge inflatable Octoplasm creature peeping over the top of the building next to the bridge, and don’t miss your chance for selfies with the giant inflatable tentacles in Amy Dilwyn Dark Park!

Mark Rees will be telling tales of terror with a ‘Halloween in Wales: Folklore, Monsters & Swansea’s Most Haunted Places’ talk at 4pm and 7pm

Take the Monster Mash-up Photo Trail around St David’s Peculiar Place, the ominous Troll Bridge, and Amy Dilwyn Dark Park. Discover all eight monsters for an entry into the prize draw which has a bumper set of prizes including a pair of tickets to a 2025-26 Swansea City AFC home league match, an Ospreys Jersey, Family Ticket to Swansea Council Fireworks Display and a Family Entry to the Christmas Parade VIP area.

There are more amazing prizes to win in the Fancy Dress Competition!

With 4 categories, all ages can enter and the prizes on offer include: Tickets to Comic Con at Swansea Building Society Arena, a Family Entry to the Christmas Parade VIP Area, Swansea Science Festival tickets, a Family Ticket to Swansea Council Fireworks Display, Laserzone przes, a Plantasia VIP Crocodile Feeding Experience..and a cuddly toy.

The categories are:

Best ‘Creature/Monster’ Adult
Best ‘Creature/Monster’ Junior
Best ‘Creature/Monster’ Group/Family
Best Halloween Outfit

The Fancy Dress Competition (hosted by Maleficent!) will take place at the main stage at 5.30pm, so head on down in your best gruesome get up for a chance to win!

SPOOKS IN THE CITY is at Castle Square on Saturday 25th October, for details, go HERE.

PUMPKINS AND PATCHWORK AT PLANTASIA

Meet the Pumpkin King and Patchwork Doll:
Step into the spooky world of Halloween with our Pumpkin King and Patchwork Doll characters from Glass Slipper Events! Pose for eerie and enchanting photos with your own camera or use our interactive photo kiosk for a spooky souvenir.

Chilling Balcony Performances:
Be captivated as the Pumpkin King and Patchwork Doll perform hauntingly beautiful songs from the tree-house balcony at half past every hour. Perfect for setting the Halloween mood!

Spooky Trail and Prizes:
Embark on a haunting Halloween trail through the zoo, solving eerie clues for the chance to win a fang-tastic prize! Fun for witches, ghouls, and little monsters alike.

Creepy Crafts:
Let your spooky creativity shine with Halloween-themed colouring sessions in the Grow Your Imagination room.

Explore the Wild Side:
Your ticket includes general admission to Plantasia Tropical Zoo, where you can discover over 40 fascinating species in a tropical jungle setting. A perfect Halloween twist to your visit!

It all happens on Friday, 31st October between 10 am – 5 pm (Last entry at 4 pm) at Plantasia Tropical Zoo, Swansea. For details, take a look HERE.

HALLOWEEN PARTY AT THE GOWER HERITAGE CENTRE

Tickets for the Halloween events MUST be pre-booked using this link HERE

SCREAM TIME AT MARGAM CASTLE

Welcome to your nightmares! Meet the Sandman ‘keeper of nightmares’ at a new spine-tingling experience returning to Margam Country Park this Halloween.

SCREAM TIME is a new Halloween trail, building on the success of last year’s event. Its return will be spooktacular with even more scare points and hair-raising moments.

You’ll need to keep your eyes wide open if you don’t want to join the Sandman’s victims, the Sleepwalkers. The terrifying trail will lead you into the 19^th century haunted castle where creepy nightmare characters lurk in every corner.

You can read our feature on the whole event HERE.

Margam Castle is certainly not for the faint hearted, Deep growls and groans are experienced in the many empty eerie rooms, strange unexplained lights and mists have been witnessed on the grand staircase. The gothic style building is said to be haunted by an extremely angry and violent spirit of the gamekeeper, there are also reports of visitors seeing his ghostly figure wandering through the woodlands. Margam Castle is situated in Port Talbot, South Wales . Can you face your fears and hold seances and vigils here ?

The Ghosts of Margam Castle

This is a truly eerie and spooky building that is said to house an extremely violent and angry spirit of a gamekeeper, reportedly murdered by a poacher. Many people have claimed that this extremely angry presence can be felt upon entering this huge Castle.

With its grand staircase, many rooms and dark corridors, ghost hunts at Margam Castle are frightening and this has become an extremely interesting location to investigate. Will you dare enter the castle doors with the paranormal eye team ?

Margam Castle is known for its paranormal activity, Over the years there has been many reports of dark shadows seen many people claim it appears to resemble a man, he has been seen in the grounds as well as the Castle itself.

This Location is a must for anyone wanting a real intense investigation.

History of Margam Castle

Margam Castle is a large Victorian era country house, built in Margam, Port Talbot, Wales, for Christopher Rice Mansel Talbot (1803–1890). It was constructed over a ten-year period, from 1830 to 1840, on a site which had been occupied for some 4,000 years and which from the 11th century until the dissolution of the monasteries was an abbey.

Although called a “castle”, the building is really a large comfortable country house, one of many “mock” castles built in the 19th century during the Gothic Revival.

After making a Grand Tour of Europe as a young man, Talbot returned to south Wales and from 1830 he set about redeveloping the family estate at Margam. The new castle was designed in a Tudor Gothic style by the architect Thomas Hopper (1776–1856), while Edward Haycock Snr (1790–1870) was supervisory architect and designed parts of the interior and exterior of the house, the stables, terraces and lodges. Talbot also took a keen interest in the project, encouraging his architects to borrow elements from Lacock Abbey in Wiltshire(ancestral home of the Talbots and home to his cousin William Henry Fox Talbot) and Melbury House in Dorset (home of his mother’s family, the Fox-Strangways, Earls of Ilchester).

William Henry Fox Talbot was a frequent visitor to Margam, and the castle featured as an image in some of his early photographic experiments. Margam’s links with photography also include being the location of the earliest known Welsh photograph, a daguerreotype of the castle taken on 9 March 1841 by the Reverend Calvert Richard Jones.

After the death of Emily Charlotte Talbot, the daughter of its first owner, the castle passed to her nephew and continued to be used by the Talbot family until 1941, when it was sold. David Evans-Bevan, who bought it, found it too large to live in, but could not find any public organisation interested in taking it on, and it fell into disrepair. For many years it belonged to the local authority, but was not open to the public. In 1977, a fire caused substantial damage, and it was only after this that a restoration project began in earnest.

Today Margam Castle is a Grade I listed building and is in the care of Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council.

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR

Swansea Uplands RFC Halloween Spooktacular. Put your best spooky costume on and join in the monster mash.

The party is on Friday October 31st between 5:30pm and 8pm. For details and tickets go HERE.

TO DO AT HOME

FAMILY STUFF

HALLOWEEN PICNIC (INDOORS)

If it’s all a little too scary out there for some members of the family, why not have a halloween themed picnic, indoors. Set out a picnic blanket and basket of food and eat your spooky dinner as though you were having a picnic. Things like this are often the catalyst for a surprisingly fun-filled evening.

A HALLOWEEN SCAVENGER HUNT

A little like the Easter Egg Hunt, only this time with all things Halloween. Sorry Mum & Dad, this will involve a lot of sweets. Everyone (kids & adults) loves hunting for hidden things. Write or type up a list (or print the one above) of things that need to be found and give a copy to everyone. Put a time limit on how long they have to locate the articles. You could even place the odd scary spider or plastic skeleton in appropriate, hidden places.

HALLOWEEN COOKING SHOW

You’ve seen these cooking shows on TV, now you could film your own, with the kids starring in it. Get them to pretend they are hosting their own cooking show and video it. Make sure the whole family participates, in one way or another. Watching it back while you all eat the ghoulish goodies they’ve made will be such a laugh.

MAKE A SCARY SCARECROW

Very easy this, get some clothes from the wardrobe (maybe Dad’s 80s classics would do) and make a suitably scary scarecrow. It’ll take a while if you spend time planning, designing and getting the materials. Of course, you also have a ready to go addition to your Bonfire activities as well.

A FEW FOR THE GROWN-UPS

HORROR MOVIE MARATHON

There’s nothing better than settling down, lights off and lots of junk food, to enjoy scary movies on the most horrifying night of the year. If you get Trick or Treaters you may be interrupted but if not, be brave and settle down. If you are feeling really brave, perhaps you could work through the 50 BEST HORROR MOVIES YOU’VE NEVER SEEN.

Here’s a few of our favourites for young and old to enjoy……

This film is an absolute classic, from a brilliant director (Robert Wise). THE HAUNTING was released in 1963 and ranked by The Guardian as the ranked it as the 13th-best horror film of all time. 13 is a great position to be placed for horror we reckon. Have a look at the trailer HERE and you’ll see what we mean. It’s so creepy.

HOCUS POCUS: It’s Halloween in Salem, Massachusetts. A teenager accidentally summons three evil witches from the 17th Century, and it’s not long before they’re terrifying the entire town. Disney’s spellbinding classic stars Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy.

SCREAM: “Do you like scary movies?” This is one of the defining films of the 90s, another classic from horror legend Wes Craven. The ‘Ghostface’ killer is stalking the residents of Woodsboro, and knowing the rules of the genre may not be enough to save them.

THE ADDAMS FAMILY: They’re creepy and they’re kooky, mysterious and spooky, they’re all together …… you get the idea. Anjelica Houston, RaulJulia and Christina Ricci star in the titular tribe’s first freaky feature, this screening is by popular demand!

E.T. THE EXTRA TERRESTRIAL: Elliott, a lonely suburban kid, discovers a lost alien in his shed. They soon become unlikely friends, and Elliott introduces ‘E.T.’ to trick-or-treating, Reese’s Pieces and the joys of BMX biking. But danger is coming, and E.T. needs to phone home. Steven Spielberg’s amazing adventure is one of the most beloved and successful films of all time and to see it at the Castle will bring a whole new life to the movie.

THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS: Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of HalloweenTown, discovers a portal to Christmas Town and decides to celebrate its traditions his own way. A dazzling animated feature from the crazy mind of Tim Burton.

GHOSTBUSTERS: The year is 1984. There’s something strange in your neighbourhood. Who you gonna call? Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd and Sigourney Weaver star in the original spooky blockbuster. For us, the original is without doubt the best.

HALLOWEEN: This is the latest in the HALLOWEEN series and they took a pretty good swipe at it we reckon. It’s October 31st. Exactly 40 years after their first bloody encounter in Haddonfield, Laurie Strode and Michael Myers must face each other again. Jamie Lee Curtis returns to her most iconic role.

THE LOST BOYS: Sleep all day. Party all night. Never grow old. Never die. It’s fun to be a vampire. Starring Jason Patric, a young Keifer Sutherland and both Corey Feldman and Corey Haim, this cult 80s horror comedy is a big audience favourite.

FRIDAY THE 13th: Again, original is the best scenario here. Welcome to Camp Crystal Lake! A group of young people arrive to start their new summer jobs, unaware of the site’s deadly history and the terrible danger they’re now in. One of horror’s most unkillable series begins, featuring a fresh-faced and imperilled Kevin Bacon.

THE CRAFT: Sarah is a troubled teenager. After moving with her family to a new city and enrolling at an intimidating new school, she falls in with a group of fellow outcasts. Rumours spread that they might be witches. This 90s cult classic stars Fairuza Balk and Scream’s Neve Campbell – her from Scream.

ELSA DRINKING GAME

This is a new one to us but we kinda like it. It’s been going around on Facebook and Instagram and I’m totally doing it. It’s not a tricky one, every time you see Elsa, have a drink. We’re not advocating large amounts of alcohol here. It could be a soft drink, alcohol free or something else. Your game, your choice.

HAVE A SPOOKY DINNER PARTY

If you’re staying home then why not do something other than a party. Have friends over for dinner. Now we dont mean eat them, like Hannibel Lecter would, have friends over to eat your food. We just want to clarify that.

There is so much you could do. Halloween Hummus. Pumpkin and Lentil Soup. Spiced Roasted Apples. You get the idea. Just have a look at Pinterest and you’ll find a ton of suitable recipes.

PLAY A SCARY VIDEO GAME

There are so many creepy video games out there these days. Our favourite is probably, RESIDENT EVIL. Same rules as the movies. Lights out, sound up and away you go.

TAKE A BLOOD BATH

We don’t mean real blood, of course. Draw a nice warm bath and throw in a red bath bomb or maybe even an eyeball bath bomb and BOOM! Perhaps a red bulb in your light or some suitable candles would add to the mood.

FOR COUPLES ONLY

Halloween is so good for cuddling up together and enjoying a spooky evening. It can though be so much more. So, here are the SOUTH WALES LIFE ideas for couples – once the kids are tucked up in bed.

Thing to do together…….

Carve a pumpkin – together
Bake a scary Halloween cake – together
Make a Bloody Mary cocktail, then drink it – together
Decorate your room – together
Get dressed up in matching costumes

Let’s make it romantic…….

Share scary stories with a sexy spin
We hear there’s a good range of Glow-In-The-Dark body paint
Try a Halloween-inspired romantic meal
Surprise your partner with a sexy costume
Experiment with edible clothing (you know what we mean)

I HATE HALLOWEEN

So, you are at the point in life where you are either all done with the Halloween thing or you are the proverbial Halloween Grinch. If that’s the case, here’s a a few alternatives to help you on your way.

SUPERMARKET SWEEP FOR REDUCED PRICE SWEETS Chances are Halloween candy will already be on sale. So you can stock your sweetie stash for the year at a fraction of the price. It happens at Easter so we’re certain Halloween will be the same.

GO ON A DATE WITH ANOTHER HALLOWEEN HATER Trust us when we say you won’t be the only Halloween Hater out there. This is a perfect ice-breaker and who knows where it might lead. It’s the ultimate anecdote to awkwardness.

GO SEE A MOVIE It doesn’t have to be a scary movie of course but going to the cinema gives you a chance to splash out on all the treats, sit in the dark, munching and watching. Perfect.

HIT THE GYM The older you get, the more likely you are to store all those sugary candy calories as fat. I know, I’m an expert. After you dig into whatever Halloween sweets you crave, put your sugar high to good use at the gym. It’s one place you don’t have to feel like a spoilsport for showing up undisguised.

TAKE YOUR NEPHEWS/NIECES TRICK-OR-TREATING Just because you don’t enjoy it doesn’t mean your loved one’s won’t. Bite the bullet, grab your phone for some spooky snaps and get out and become your nephews (or nieces) unofficial hero for the night.

STAY AT HOME AND EAT SWEETS Be like the Halloween Scrooge, stay at home and eat all the sweets yourself. I’ve done it. Not because I don’t like Halloween, I love it. I just love sweets even more. Trick or Treaters won’t be happy but you will.

GO SHOPPING If you’re not indulging in the Halloween thing just think of the money you’ve saved. Go out, get away from the knocking on the door, and buy yourself a little treat.

HAVE A CHRISTMAS PARTY You don’t like halloween so you must enjoy Christmas. Why not throw the first festive party of the season. Not as mad as you think. Just ask Mr Christmas. Yes, he really exists, we know him. His name is Andy Park and he celebrates Christmas every single day of the year. MR CHRISTMAS and we mean EVERY DAY without fail.

CLEAR THE SKELETONS OUT OF YOUR WARDROBE If you don’t enjoy wearing costumes anymore, why not use the night to clear out your wardrobe. If they’re anything like ours, most of the clothes are far scarier than anything you’d buy anyway.

WEAR AN UNSUITABLE HALLOWEEN COSTUME Or don’t is our advice. There are some unbelievably ridiculous, inappropriate costumes for sale on pretty reputable sites. No explanation, we’re sure you get what they’re supposed to be. Please don’t wear them.

CARVE A LANTERN – OUT OF SOMETHING DIFFERENT Nothing says ‘up yours Halloween’ than a lantern carved out of something strange. Pineapple is particularly good.

FREE PUMPKIN TEMPLATES

Our team have put together a bunch of pumpkin templates for you to download, print and use as you feel. Just click on the link below and they’ll download to your device.

PUMPKIN TEMPLATES

And if you want a bit of help with the carving, this video is easy to follow and fun – HERE.

PICK YOUR OWN PUMPKINS

Clearwell Farm – Michaelston-y-fedw, Cardiff
Pencoed Fach Organic Farm – Bedwellty Rd, Blackwood
Cantref Adventure Farm – Brecon,
Aberbran Fawr – Aberbran Fawr Farm, Aberbran
Forage Farm – Penllyn Estate, Llwynhelig, Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan
Penyfodau Fawr Farm – Swansea
Vale PYO Pumpkins – Bonvilston

100 Things To Do This Halloween