Kiplin Hall and Gardens is once again embracing the spooky season with the return of its popular Crowe’s Wood Halloween Trail, which opens on Thursday, 17 October.
This year’s theme – “400 Years of Scares” – celebrates the historic hall’s upcoming 400th anniversary in 2025, transforming four centuries of world events into a series of eerie, imaginative displays.
From the Millennium Bug to the first journey of Locomotion No. 1, staff and volunteers have reimagined key moments in history with a Halloween twist, creating a trail that’s equal parts spooky and fun.
Curator Alice Rose said: “We work very hard each year to create a unique and original Halloween Trail. The scenes are months in the planning, and families will recognise moments from both recent history and centuries long past.
“It means a lot to us to see people enjoying the trail and exploring the woodland. We especially love it when visitors come in fancy dress – it’s such a fun time of year. We’re keeping our fingers crossed for some mild weather!”
In addition to the Halloween trail, visitors can explore Kiplin’s Thanksgiving displays inside the hall and enjoy games and activities in the Family Activity Room upstairs.
Kiplin Hall and Gardens is open six days a week (closed on Thursdays). The Crowe’s Wood Halloween Trail runs from 17 October to 5 November.
The trail follows woodland paths made of earth and bark chippings, which can become muddy – visitors are advised to wear sensible footwear and expect prams or pushchairs to pick up a bit of dirt.
Those who prefer to avoid Halloween festivities can still visit, as the spooky displays are confined to the woodland area.
For more information, visit www.kiplinhall.co.uk.
