5 spooky National Lottery funded castles to visit this Halloween

Leeds Castle, Kent

Step into 900 years of history this Halloween at Leeds Castle as they host their Halloween adventure from 18th October to 2nd November. Embark on a letter‑hunt quest around the estate with the Final Spell to help lift a magical curse and meet mischievous characters along the way.

Leeds Castle makes for an unforgettable spooky adventure that the whole family will enjoy this Halloween

To book, visit the Leeds Castle website; booking in advance is required.

Hillsborough Castle, County Down

Celebrate Halloween at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens from 25th October to 2nd November. The castle has a wide variety of exciting activities on offer, from spooky storytelling walks to autumnal games. They also have a selection of fun outdoor workshops like clay crafting and the chance to create your own birdbox.

Explore the Halloween maze or take a stroll around the 100 acres of enchanting gardens. There’s something for everyone at Hillsborough Castle this Halloween.

Advance booking is required, visit the Hillsborough Castle website to book and for more information.

Cardiff Castle, Cardiff

Uncover spooky secrets and a haunting history at Cardiff Castle this half‑term. Discover the Black Tower Tales, where chilling stories and ghostly legends echo through the centuries, or experience the Underground Cinema in the 15th‑century Undercroft.

If you’re feeling creative, take part in one of the hands-on workshops inspired by the castle’s haunted past.

Advance booking is recommended, visit the Cardiff Castle website to book your place.

Lincoln Castle, Lincolnshire

Visit Lincoln Castle this spooky season for a spine-tingling family day throughout October. It offers a captivating storyteller sharing eerie tales, from the ancient legend of King Herla and his fateful encounter with a mysterious hooded figure, to the tragic tale of Victorian Admiral Tryon.

Expect ghostly drummers and gruesome discoveries as you collect your spooky castle activity sheet and explore the grounds, including the Medieval Wall Walk and the Victorian Prison.

Visit the Lincoln Castle website for more information.

Colchester Castle, Essex

Experience a spooktacular Halloween at Colchester Castle until 2nd November. The castle has an array of exciting activities on offer, from spine-chilling guided tours to interactive games throughout the galleries.

Join the Haunted History Family Tours running until 31st October, where you'll embark on a 40-minute journey through the shadows of the past, uncovering eerie tales of ghostly legends and supernatural occurrences.

Visit Colchester Castle website to book and for more information.