When the fog rolls in and shadows stretch longer, you know Halloween in Kent is stirring once more. The veil thins and mischief creeps through the streets, with ghosts, ghouls and eerie tales lurking around every corner. Whether you fancy a scream, a spooky stroll or a rock-fuelled fright night, Kent’s got Halloween covered, from cursed castles to city-wide hauntings.
Guardians of the Grounds
Prepare for an enchanting adventure as The Guardians of the Grounds return to Leeds Castle this October. From mysterious witches to mischievous goblins, young spell seekers are invited on an immersive, interactive Halloween quest through the majestic castle grounds.
Children will solve riddles, meet magical beings, and gather clues on their journey, all while soaking up the beauty of the autumnal estate. Fancy dress is highly encouraged with a daily competition and the chance to win the title of ‘best dressed’. Add to the fun with falconry displays, autumn walks, and all the usual Leeds Castle charm. Ideal for a full day of half-term excitement. It’s the perfect magical day out for families who love Halloween with a whimsical twist.
Dreamland Turns Dark
The air thrums with anticipation at the Margate Rock Festival on Saturday 25th October 2025. Taking over Dreamland’s Ballroom from 1pm to 11pm, this all-day, indoor rock fest is not for the faint-hearted. Expect mosh pits, hard riffs, and headbanging vibes in this standing-only event for ages 14+. So grab your boots, leather jackets, and earplugs-and prepare to rock with the undead. Just don’t try to sneak back in after 7pm… the doors close, and who knows what might be waiting behind them?
Chilling Tales
Canterbury may be known for its cathedrals and cobbled streets, but after dark, the city whispers much darker stories. The Chilling Tales guided tour by Canterbury River Tours (running throughout October 2025) unveils a gothic underbelly of ghost sightings, beheadings and gruesome medieval punishments.
Not for the faint of heart, this atmospheric walk through the city’s bloodied past is ideal for lovers of history with a sinister twist. Tours are tailored to suit, and available as shared or private bookings, just don’t go alone.
Ghosts, Ghouls & Ghostbusters
If you hear the faint whir of proton packs, it must be Spooky Saturday! On 26th October the city of Canterbury comes alive with costumed chaos, trick-or-treat trails, zombie runs along the riverside, ghost hunts, and a citywide takeover make this a brilliant day for adults, teens and families alike. Expect appearances from the Ghostbusters, street entertainment, and late-night shopping as the whole city leans into the spirit of the season.
Need a place to stay after Halloween activities?
Castle Cottage is the perfect pick, not haunted, but steeped in history and character, and just moments from Canterbury’s city centre. Tucked inside the ancient city walls on charming Castle Street, it's ideally placed for all the spooky goings-on and within easy walking distance of both train stations.
With timber beams, an inglenook fireplace and winding stairs, Castle Cottage has all the storybook features you'd expect, plus modern touches like a spacious open-plan kitchen-diner and bi-fold doors to a private, enclosed garden. It sleeps four, welcomes children and dogs, and makes a cosy base to return to after an evening of pumpkin trails or ghost walks.
Upstairs, the bedrooms are snug and full of charm, and when morning comes, grab a takeaway coffee from the café next door or enjoy a relaxed brunch before wandering the cobbled streets. The Cathedral, riverside punts, shops and restaurants are all within a five-minute stroll.
Stay central, stay cosy, and enjoy Canterbury at its most atmospheric.
Powell-Cotton Museum, Quex House and Gardens
Step into the shadowy paths of Quex this October with the Pumpkin Paths at Powell-Cotton Museum. Running from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 October, this spooky trail through the gardens promises autumnal fun with a little fright sprinkled in.
Keep your eyes peeled for more event details on their website.
Magical Hallowe’en Storytelling
Calling all young witches and wizards! Join Larry Leeching, a flustered student at the Penshurst School of Sorcery, as he attempts to pass his Halloween diploma. With your help (and a few clever spells), Larry just might impress Professor Wandsworth.
Performances take place on 22-24 and 27-29 October throughout the day, and every child leaves with their very own magical diploma.
A perfect choice for families with little ones who love fantasy with a giggle at Penshurst Place, check their website for details.
Astor Theatre, Deal - Dracula, The Panto
On 30 October, head to the Astor Theatre for a hilarious Halloween pantomime with a bite! Dracula, The Panto is a family-friendly spoof packed with laughs, surprises, and a few well-timed “He’s behind you!” moments. Expect a fang-tastic evening.
More details and tickets on the Astor Theatre website.
Halloween hunt at Dover Castle
While the kids can hunt for clues and enjoy storytelling at Dover Castle from 25 October to 2 November, adults will appreciate the eerie setting and brooding battlements that come alive with history and hauntings. It’s a family-friendly day out that still satisfies lovers of drama and legend, book online in advance to save 15%.
