Read A Spooky Book
A Helping Hand
Celia Dale
First published in 1966, this novel is a chilling psychological thriller dressed up as an ordinary domestic tale. The Times says it does what all of Dale’s books do, which is to examine ‘the rot that lurks beneath the surface of British suburbia’. Buy it.
Holly
Stephen King
If Halloween isn’t the perfect moment for the latest Stephen King, we don’t know what is. When female investigator Holly Gibney is drawn into the case of a missing girl in a Midwestern town, she must uncover the secret lurking beneath a local pair of creepy professors. Buy it.
Following Frankenstein
Catherine Bruton
Everyone knows the story of Frankenstein’s monster. Most, however, are not obsessed in the way that Maggie Walton’s father is. When he makes a last-ditch attempt to find the monster in the Arctic, Maggie secretly steals away with him. An epic adventure for 9-to-12-year olds that riffs on the classic gothic tale. Buy it.
Mr Men Halloween Party
Adam and Roger Hargreaves
A somewhat lighter read for tiny witches and warlocks, Mr Happy invites the other Mister Men and Misses in for a Halloween party – what Spooktacular events might unfold? Buy it.
Watch A Scary Show
The Enfield Poltergeist, Apple TV+
Between 1977 and 1979 a single mother reported multiple instances of paranormal activity at her council house in Enfield. Her poltergeist became the most famous in the world, with newspapers devoting inches to the story. This gripping new three-part docu-series uses original audio recordings made inside the house to enhance the latest dramatisation of the tale. Watch it.
The Chestnut Man
The Scandinavians famously have flair when it comes to making dark thrillers. The Chestnut Man, which comes from the creators of The Killing, is no different. When a woman is found murdered, all that’s left at the scene is a small man, made out of chestnuts. Shivers aplenty guaranteed. Watch it.
A Tale of Dark & Grimm
A wickedly witty animated retelling of the Hansel and Gretel story. The ideal Halloween viewing for younger ghouls. Watch it.
Spooktacular Activities
Halloween at Blenheim Palace
Blenheim, birthplace of Winston Churchill, is always an atmospheric place to spend an autumnal day, especially as the mists fall over its Capability Brown-landscaped gardens. This year, though, it is offering special thrills and chills for Halloween, with a fun-filled spooky trail that the whole family will enjoy. Book it.
Warwick Castle After Dark
Book now to experience Warwick Castle’s frightful festival of Halloween entertainment. The castle and grounds play host at this time of year to three thrillingly scary attractions. Wrap up warm and prepare for an unforgettable evening. Book it.
Halloween at the Eden Project
Halloween at the Eden Project – Halloweden, get it? – is an impressive undertaking. The imaginative programme of events includes a wand-making workshop, ice rink and magical walk lead by the legendary Tree Giants, who need your help to protect the world’s forests. Booking ahead is essential. Book it.
Cook Some Creepy Cuisine
Nigella Lawson’s Creepy Cookies
Children can go wild with the icing on these brilliant biscuits, which actually taste good, too. Cook it.
Jamie Oliver’s Spooky Snake Straws
Tickle the tastebuds of the whole family with these amusing cheesy snacks. Cook it.
Lucinda Miller’ Elderberry and Orange Jelly
These sweet little jellies look the part but are also packed with antivirals and Vitamin C. Cook it.
Dress ‘Em Up
Smiffys
Pumpkin Hooded Cape, £12.99
Have some non-scary fun with these pumpkin costumes for your kids from the UK's oldest online costume and fancy-dress retailer. Buy it.
Meri Meri
Velvet Witch Cape & Wand, £80
You can’t beat a classic and Halloween costumes don’t get much more classic than this beautiful velvet number. One for your daughter to wear year after year and then hand down. Buy it.
John Lewis
Glow in the Dark Neon Skeleton Onesie, £20
Does it actually get scarier than a glow-in-the-dark skeleton onesie on All Hallows’ Eve? We think not. Buy it.
Updated September 2023
By Nancy Alsop
