If you want to head out and about with the family across County Durham and North Yorkshire this autumn, you’re in luck.

There are plenty of spooky events to join in with, including some Halloween trails to explore.

These festivities make a great alternative to visiting pumpkin patches if you fancy doing something a little different.

Grab your walking boots (and wellies) and let’s see what’s in store.

Some of the best Halloween trails in County Durham and North Yorkshire

Halloween at The Plotters’ Forest

Location: Staindrop, Darlington, DL2 3AH

Date: October 7 - November 5

The website says: “Dress up in your most spooktacular outfits and get into double the trouble this October in The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle.

“Look out for the spooky spiders, wicked witches and creaking skeletons through the pine tree plantation, as children collect the creepy clues this Halloween.

“Plus each ticket includes access to the stunning deer park which includes the micheivous mog Halloween trail for families to enjoy amongst the castle backdrop.”

The Northern Echo: Where will you be taking the children for Halloween fun in County Durham this year?Where will you be taking the children for Halloween fun in County Durham this year? (Image: Getty)

Please note, the trail is included in a standard Plotters’ Forest and Deer Park ticket which can be booked here.

This includes:

  • 2 hours of play in The Plotters’ Forest
  • Complimentary Plotters’ Forest Halloween Trail sheet
  • Full-day Deer Park access (10am – 4pm)
  • Complimentary Mischievous Mog in the Deer Park Trail Sheet
  • Plus kids go free into Raby Castle until November 5

High Force School of Wizardry

Date: October 7 – November 5

Location: High Force Waterfall, Alston Road, Forest-in-Teesdale, Barnard Castle, DL12 0XH

Another Halloween event from Raby Castle includes the High Force School of Wizardry.

The Raby Estate website says: “Join The School of Witches & Wizards for a magical potions class.

“Collect all the letters to pass your class with distinction and start your journey to becoming a powerful Witch or Wizard.”

It adds: “Running throughout October half-term week, this family trail is included with general admission to High Force Waterfall.

“Tickets can be purchased on the day or family tickets can be purchased online in advance.”

Halloween trail at Thorpe Perrow

Date: October 7 – November 1

Location: Thorp Perrow Arboretum, Bedale, DL8 2PS

The organisers said: “Spooky season is nearly upon us in the Arboretum marking the start of our Halloween trail.”

The Northern Echo:

“Put on your cloak, grab your broomstick and head out into the Arboretum in search of spooky creatures. You’ll stumble across tombs and skeletons and many more Halloween frights...”

Please note, all Arboretum entries must be pre-booked in advance (general admission), and trail maps can be purchased on the day.

Standard entry prices also apply - £2.50 per child for the trail which includes a gift.

Book tickets here.

Pumpkin Fest 2023

Date: Every weekend in October and all week from October 24-31

Location: Spilmans, Church Farm, Sessay, Thirsk, YO7 3NB

Although this is a popular pumpkin patch to visit in North Yorkshire, there are lots of activities going on throughout Pumpkin Fest at Spilmans.

From Fright Delight, a new family-friendly show to climbing up Bale Mountain and meeting Pumkinella as she entertains with her spooky stories and Halloween tales, you will be spoilt for choice.

The website explains: “Your ticket (book here) includes entry into the event and entrance to watch our new family-friendly show ‘Fright Delight’.

“Plus we will give you a £5 credit voucher per person on arrival to spend on your pumpkins and/or Spilmans activities.

“With a mixture of ‘Free’ and ‘To pay for’ activities on the farm to enjoy – there is something to suit all budgets. These can be paid for using your £5 credit voucher or with cash.”

Please check the websites of all listed Halloween events for the latest information as well as opening times.