Hauntingly Good Half Term Family Activity Guide

It can be hard to feel inspired when the forecast turns a little grey, but fear not, we’ve compiled a guide to hauntingly-good fun for all the family this half term across East Anglia. From pumpkin patches and spooky evenings to fireworks and escape rooms, there’s something for everyone.

And when the day’s done? Warm up in one of our pubs or Big House hotels.

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Cambridgeshire

Bury Lane Pumpkin Patch

Open from the end of September until 31st October, Bury Lane offers a great pick-your-own pumpkin experience. Wander the patch choosing the perfect gourd, then head inside to browse their farm shop. Their Halloween Shop will also be open with decorations and spooky treats to take home.

Huntingdon’s Spooktacular Fireworks

Saturday 25th October sees Huntingdon Racecourse transform into a Halloween spectacle. Expect fairground rides, entertainment, and a family-friendly fireworks display beginning at 7pm. Plan ahead and enjoy an early dinner at The Old Bridge Hotel beforehand to make the evening extra special.

Clip ‘n Climb, Cambridge

If the skies turn grey, head indoors to Clip ‘n Climb in Cambridge. With climbing walls of all shapes and heights, fun challenges, and a family atmosphere, it’s a great way to burn energy, whatever the weather.

Cambridge Ice Arena

Get into the winter spirit early with a trip to the ice. Whether you’re gliding in circles or learning (falling) your first moves, Cambridge Ice Arena offers a fun break from trick-or-treating and spooky trails.

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Essex

Marsh Farm Pumpkin Village Dog Nights

Calling all dog lovers: Marsh Farm is opening late this year for dog-friendly pumpkin-picking nights. Bring your four-legged friend and explore the pumpkin patch after dark; ideal for capturing those autumnal snaps by lantern light.

Fireworks in Essex - Saffron Walden & Marsh Farm

On 8th November, Saffron Walden will light up its historic common with a bonfire night display. Make a day of it and head to Bridge End Gardens, looking splendid in its autumn colours, before dinner at The Eight Bells.

Halloween Half Term at Audley End

Step through the doors of Audley End House and explore their Halloween half-term events from 25th October until 2nd November. You’ll find ghost trails, storytelling, spooky decorations, and family-friendly surprises around the stately home and gardens.

Go Ape, Chelmsford

For those who crave height and adventure, Go Ape in Hylands Park delivers just this. Zip-lines, rope bridges, and treetop crossings make for an adrenaline-filled day out amidst some of Essex’s loveliest woodland.

Hedingham Hall Painting Class

Swap pumpkins for paintbrushes this half term! Join local artist Ginny Carter at Hedingham Castle for a relaxed painting class. You’ll create your own keepsake while surrounded by history - ideal for a creative escape.

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Suffolk

Bury St Edmunds Fireworks

The Abbey Gardens will be lit up once again for a local favourite: a fireworks night on Saturday 1st November with fairground rides, food & drink stalls and live music. Proceeds go towards St Nicholas Hospice Care and it's set against the historic backdrop of the cathedral.

Sutton Hoo

With its famous burial mounds and sweeping views, Sutton Hoo makes for a great morning stroll. Wander the public footpath or head along the banks of the River Deben before entering the visitor centre to find out more and discover the mystery.

Halloween Film Night at The Ship

For a cosy evening, join The Ship at Dunwich for a movie night on Thursday 30th October. Tickets are available in the pub for a spooky screening of 'Hocus Pocus'.

Escape Room at the National Horseracing Museum, Newmarket

“Accumulated” is an immersive escape room challenge where you and your team take on the role of fraud squad agents uncovering a plot in the horse racing world. It’s thrilling, clever, and perfect for older children or adults looking for a half-term experience with a twist.

Moyse’s Hall Presents: Sci-Fi & Action – The Art of Cinema

This half-term exhibition dives into the legends of film - think props, behind-the-scenes stories, posters, and more from all your favourite science fiction and action films. Moyse's Hall The Art of Cinema is a highlight for film buffs of all ages.

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Norfolk

The Pumpkin House, Thursford

Open daily from 23rd until 31st October, The Pumpkin House is part farm, part adventure zone. Pumpkin picking, maize maze, mud kitchens, sand pits, and adventure golf all await for all the family.

Hunstanton Cliff Top Fireworks

Few displays can match fireworks over the sea. Join the bonfire and firework show high on the cliffs in Hunstanton on Saturday 8th November - and stop by The Dune Bar & Café for a warming drink before the show. Although it's not strictly half term, we think this is a display not to miss.

Spooky Spokes & Autumn Archery at Blickling Hall

For a twist on autumn adventure, head to Blickling Hall. Enjoy bicycle rides through golden woods and spooky trails, learn archery on the lawns, and discover the house and gardens with an autumnal flair.

Dippy’s Halloween Days at ROARR! Dinosaur Adventure

Even dinosaurs join in the Halloween fun! Expect dressed-up trails, themed events, and plenty of dinosaur-sized surprises at this adventure park near Norwich.

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What's More

Whether you’re wandering through pumpkin fields in Suffolk or watching fireworks on the Norfolk coast, East Anglia has something for everyone this half term. And across our collection, we’ll always have a welcoming fire, seasonal food, and a comfy bed to come back to. After a day of adventures, unwind, and let us take care of the rest.

Murder Mysteries Across the Chestnut Collection

Throughout our pubs and Big Houses, we're running murder mystery suppers. Picture a three-course supper, costumed characters weaving clues, and your own detective instincts put to the test. It’s immersive, entertaining, and perfect for groups (or those who love a twist in their evening).

Ghost Stories by the Fire

If you prefer to settle in with a ghost story by the fire, have a read of some of the ghost stories located in our very own pubs.