Hey guys! 🎃 Can you believe Halloween is just around the corner? If you’re anything like me, you’re already dusting off your witch's hat, rehearsing your spooky laugh, and eyeing up the pumpkin section at the supermarket. But if you’re wondering how to make Halloween 2024 one for the books, I’ve got you covered with a ton of ideas. London is brimming with spine-chilling experiences and eerie events, and I’m here to spill all the tricks (and a few treats). Whether you’re a family looking for kid-friendly fun, or someone who craves a good fright, there’s something for everyone. So grab a cuppa (or a goblet of blood—your choice), and let’s dive into the best Halloween celebrations London has to offer this year.
1. Get Lost in the Ghostly Halls of Hampton Court Palace
If you’re after something rich in history and ghostly tales, Hampton Court Palace is a must-visit. This stunning Tudor palace was home to Henry VIII, and trust me, it has more than a few skeletons in its closet—literally! 👻
From 26th October to 3rd November, the palace will transform into a Halloween wonderland (or nightmare land?). Expect eerie projections, spooky sounds, and some of the palace’s most famous ghosts popping up to say hello. The haunted tours take you through the dark, winding corridors and vast courtyards, where the chilling atmosphere will make you wonder if Henry VIII himself is still wandering about, looking for his next wife (kidding, I hope!). This is one for the whole family, as the frights are just enough to get your heart racing without sending you running for the hills. More details here if you dare to visit!
2. Scream Your Heart Out at The London Dungeon: Sinister Séance
Next on my list is for the adrenaline junkies and horror lovers. The London Dungeon is a classic Halloween spot, but this year, they’re going all out with their Sinister Séance event. Running from 18th October to 3rd November, this terrifying interactive experience will have you sweating and screaming as you delve into London’s darkest history.
Think live actors, immersive sets, and horrifying surprises around every corner. The séance part? It’s a ghostly meeting where you might encounter spirits who have more to say than just "boo." And let's be honest, who wouldn't want to try communicating with the beyond on a dark October night? Check it out here for a truly frightful experience.
3. Solve Mysteries on the Jack the Ripper Walking Tour
Fancy yourself a detective? Then you can’t miss the Jack the Ripper Walking Tour. This one's not just spooky, it’s downright eerie. Walk through the same streets where London’s most notorious serial killer, Jack the Ripper, once lurked, and follow in the footsteps of investigators as they try to piece together one of history's greatest unsolved mysteries.
Whitechapel takes on a whole new life at night—dark alleys, foggy streets, and plenty of atmosphere. You’ll get all the gory details about the murders, but also some insight into the Victorian underworld that Jack the Ripper terrorised. This isn’t for the faint-hearted, but for true crime buffs, it’s an absolute treat! You can book your tour here.
4. Embrace Your Inner Wizard with Harry Potter Hallowe’en at Warner Bros. Studios
If you’re more into spells than screams, the Harry Potter Studio Tour should be at the top of your list this Halloween. From the 1st to the 31st of October, the sets of Hogwarts will be transformed into a Hallowe’en dream. Expect to see the Great Hall decked out with pumpkins, special effects that make the Forbidden Forest even more sinister, and maybe even a Death Eater or two lurking around.
This is a perfect outing for families or anyone who’s a Potterhead (come on, I know you’ve got a wand somewhere!). It’s all the magic of Hogwarts but with a spooky, seasonal twist. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like wandering through Diagon Alley under the glow of flickering jack-o’-lanterns. Find out more here.
5. Take a Haunted Walking Tour of Highgate Cemetery
For a truly spine-chilling Halloween experience, why not visit one of London's most famous and haunted cemeteries? Highgate Cemetery is the resting place of many notable figures, but it's also known for its eerie atmosphere and ghostly sightings. This historic cemetery offers guided tours, and during Halloween, they ramp up the spooky factor with tales of hauntings, vampires, and strange occurrences. Walking among the grand, overgrown tombstones at twilight is guaranteed to send shivers down your spine. Check it out here.
6. Get Your Spooky Groove On at The Clapham Grand Halloween Screenings
Looking for a more laid-back Halloween experience? How about a movie night? The Clapham Grand, one of London’s most iconic venues, is hosting Halloween movie screenings from the 26th to the 31st of October. Expect cult classics like The Rocky Horror Picture Show and Hocus Pocus.
But this isn’t your average movie night. The Clapham Grand goes all out with themed cocktails, costume contests, and a venue decked out like a haunted Victorian theatre. So, throw on your best costume, grab some popcorn, and enjoy a night of spooky nostalgia. More details here.
7. Explore the Natural History Museum’s Dino Nightmares
For a spooky spin on science, the Natural History Museum is hosting Dino Nightmares from 27th to 31st October. Imagine exploring the dinosaur exhibits by night, with low lighting, creepy sound effects, and a few surprises lurking in the shadows.
This one’s a great mix of education and entertainment, so if you’re looking to do something different this Halloween, it’s a solid choice. Plus, it’s indoors, so no need to worry about the unpredictable London weather! Check it out here.
8. Escape Reality at Avora Immersive Cocktail Experience
Feeling adventurous? Then the Avora Cocktail Experience is something you have to try. This Halloween-themed immersive experience is like nothing else in London. You’ll enter a sci-fi fantasy world where you forage for ingredients and craft magical cocktails. The setting is a futuristic forest, and the storyline has you making moral decisions that affect the outcome of your experience.
It’s a bit of a mind-bender but so much fun, especially if you want to escape the traditional haunted house vibe. Grab tickets here.
9. Enter the Terrifying London Tombs
For hardcore horror fans, the London Tombs is your go-to. Voted one of the scariest attractions in the UK, this immersive experience takes you deep beneath London Bridge, where the city’s dark history comes to life—along with a few of its more gruesome inhabitants.
This year, they’re stepping it up with a Halloween special called "Ci-Curse," which promises to be even more terrifying than usual. Enter if you dare, but be warned—this one is not for the faint-hearted! Find out more here.
10. Wander Through a Pumpkin Patch at Hobbledown Heath
If you’ve got little ones in tow or just want a chilled-out Halloween experience, head over to Hobbledown Heath. It’s London’s largest indoor and outdoor adventure playground, but during Halloween, it transforms into a spooky wonderland with pumpkin patches, animal encounters, and kid-friendly workshops.
There’s even a spooky science workshop conducted by "Einstein." It’s the perfect spot for a wholesome Halloween day out that the whole family will love. More details here.
11. Take Part in the Sinister Séance at Alcotraz
For those who love immersive experiences with a side of cocktails, Alcotraz’s Sinister Séance is the perfect Halloween event. You’ll step into a prison-themed bar where you have to smuggle in your own booze while avoiding the terrifying warden.
This Halloween, the experience gets even creepier with ghostly encounters and spooky surprises. Definitely one for a night out with friends! Check it out here.
12. Discover London’s Haunted Pubs
Did you know London has some of the most haunted pubs in the world? If you’re a fan of ghost stories (and a pint), take a haunted pub tour around the city. Some of these pubs have been around for centuries and are said to be home to more than just tipsy patrons.
This tour combines two of London’s greatest loves: history and pubs. You’ll learn about the ghosts that haunt these old establishments and might even spot one yourself. Find more info here.
13. Experience Halloween at the London Zoo: Boo at the Zoo
If you’re looking for a family-friendly Halloween event with a bit of an animal twist, head over to London Zoo for their special Boo at the Zoo event. From creepy crawly encounters to pumpkin carving and spooky animal talks, this event offers a great mix of fun and education. Kids can dress up in costumes and enjoy various Halloween-themed activities while learning more about the zoo's residents, from the cutest critters to the more fearsome creatures lurking in the dark!
It’s a great way to spend Halloween with family while soaking in a festive atmosphere. More details here.
14. Halloween at Kew Gardens: Dark Arts and Spooky Trails
For a more magical and nature-themed Halloween experience, head to Kew Gardens for their special Halloween events. Kew's stunning gardens transform into a mysterious wonderland with after-dark spooky trails, where you can encounter eerie sculptures and art installations hidden among the trees. There are also family-friendly activities, including pumpkin carving, ghostly storytelling, and guided walks through the atmospheric grounds.
It’s a perfect mix of beauty and spookiness, ideal for both families and those seeking a calmer, enchanted Halloween vibe.More details here.
15. Brave the Ci-Curse at London Tombs
I know I’ve already mentioned the London Tombs but believe me, this deserves a second shout-out! For those of you looking to test your limits, the Ci-Curse Halloween Special is a horrifying, immersive experience that promises to deliver all the scares you can handle (and probably a bit more!). Located beneath London Bridge, this experience takes you through a terrifying maze populated by all manner of gruesome characters, from zombies to evil dentists (yes, it’s as scary as it sounds!).
This Halloween, the Ci-Curse has upped the ante with even more hair-raising scares, so if you're up for it, this will be an unforgettable night. Find more details here.
16. Get Magical at the Arcane Afternoon Tea at Wands and Wizard Exploratorium
Looking for something a bit more magical this Halloween? How about an Arcane Afternoon Tea at the Wands and Wizard Exploratorium? This enchanting experience combines a traditional afternoon tea with a wizarding twist. You’ll be handed a wand and tasked with solving magical puzzles to unlock your sweet and savoury treats.
It’s a perfect way to add a bit of mystery and magic to your Halloween celebrations, especially if you’re looking for something less terrifying but equally as immersive. It’s family-friendly, too, so you can bring the kids along for an afternoon they won’t forget. Get your tickets here.
17. Party with Shrek at Shrek’s Spooktacular Adventure
For families and especially younger children, Shrek’s Spooktacular Adventure at Shrek's Adventure! London is the place to be this Halloween. This family-friendly event runs throughout October and features themed activities, character meet-and-greets, and spooky surprises around every corner.
It’s light-hearted Halloween fun at its best, with just enough spookiness to keep the kids excited without any real frights. Expect some silly scares, fairy-tale fun, and the chance to meet Shrek and his friends in their Halloween costumes! Find out more here.
18. Halloween Potion Cocktail-Making at The Cauldron
For a unique and immersive Halloween cocktail-making experience, you can try Potion Making at The Cauldron in London. This limited-edition event runs throughout October and offers a magical evening where you’ll don a witch's hat, wield a magic wand, and create bubbling, glow-in-the-dark drinks. One of the featured potions this year is called "Stingy Jack's Doom," inspired by the legend behind the Jack-O'-Lantern. This event is perfect for adults looking to enjoy a hands-on, mystical, and fun Halloween celebration.
The Cauldron provides separate sessions for adults and families, so you can pick the vibe that suits you best. It’s an exciting mix of science, magic, and mixology, creating a truly memorable experience.
You can book your spot and find more details on their website: Halloween at The Cauldron.
19. The Halloween Special at The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
For a thrilling and physically engaging adventure, head to The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience in London. This Halloween, the iconic game show-inspired event turns up the spook factor with a Halloween-themed maze. In teams, you’ll navigate through different zones, solving puzzles and challenges under the pressure of a ticking clock—while also encountering spooky surprises along the way. It’s a perfect option for groups looking for a high-energy, immersive Halloween event.
Great for adults and groups of friends, this experience combines teamwork, problem-solving, and fun in a unique, spooky setting. More details here.
20. Dance the Night Away at Boomtown x Elrow Halloween Weekender
If you’re someone who likes to party hard during Halloween, the Boomtown x Elrow Halloween Weekender at The Drumsheds is the event for you. Expect a wild, immersive rave with crazy decorations, spooky performers, and electrifying music. Elrow is known for throwing the best immersive parties in the world, and this Halloween event will be no exception.
So, throw on your most outrageous Halloween costume and get ready to dance the night away in a truly spooky (and fun) atmosphere. Get tickets here.
Bonus: Attend a Screening of ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’
Finally, what’s Halloween without a viewing of The Rocky Horror Picture Show? This cult classic will be showing at The Clapham Grand from 26th to 31st October, so if you’re in the mood to do the Time Warp again, make sure to grab your tickets. It’s the perfect way to end your Halloween celebrations with a bang, complete with sing-alongs, costume contests, and all the glitter you could ever need. More details here.
So there you have it, my top 20 Halloween activities for 2024 in London! Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing, an immersive scare-fest, or just a unique way to celebrate, London has something for everyone this spooky season. Now, all you need to do is start planning, grab those tickets, and maybe dust off your costume because Halloween is about to get seriously fun!
And if you want to add a creative twist to your celebrations, consider hosting or joining a themed Halloween Paint Party! Picture yourself painting a spooky scene, from haunted houses to ghostly forests, all while sipping a witchy cocktail that bubbles and smokes like a potion. It’s a perfect way to unwind with friends or co-workers, get creative, and enjoy a few laughs in true Halloween style. Who knows? You might even award a prize for the spookiest artwork! 🎨🍸Book your office Halloween party here or private fun experience with family and friends here.
Whatever you decide to do, have an absolutely spooktacular time, and don’t forget to send me a pic of your costume! 👻🎃
Mariella