Events around Windermere this October 2026

Ghost stories @ Dove Cottage

21st, 26th and 27th October

Are you ready for a spooktacular Halloween? Enjoy hot chocolate, gingerbread, and Halloween crafts in our cosy Learning Space. Children will have fun dressing up in Georgian costumes while learning about the Wordsworths and hearing some of their writing. At twilight you will head over to Dove Cottage and listen to some spooky Cumbrian stories – perfect for a special Halloween in the Lake District!

Please note, pre booking is essential.

Nearest Pier: Waterhead Pier
Take a cruise to Waterhead Pier in Ambleside, then continue your journey to Grasmere on the Stagecoach 555 or 599 bus service. Both routes run between Ambleside and Grasmere, stopping at Dove Cottage on the A591, just a short walk from the attraction. It's an easy, car-free way to enjoy a scenic lake cruise before immersing yourself in some spooky Cumbrian storytelling this Halloween.

Halloween trail at Orrest Head

24th & 25th October, 31st October & 1st November | 10am - 4pm

Get ready for a spooky woodland adventure at Orrest Head! Follow the Halloween trail through the woods, keeping an eye out for creepy characters, spooky surprises and seasonal scares along the way. Brave explorers who make it to the end will be rewarded with a trick-or-treat surprise. Visitors can also enjoy toasted marshmallows around the fire, hot dogs, and warming drinks and treats from Blacksmiths Café. Fancy dress is highly encouraged, making this a fun-filled Halloween day out for the whole family.

Location: Orrest Head, Windermere

Nearest Pier: Bowness Pier
Enjoy a walk to Orrest Head, where this popular Halloween event takes place. With woodland trails, family-friendly activities and plenty of autumn atmosphere, it's the perfect way to combine a Lake Windermere cruise with some spooky seasonal fun.

Pumpkin Carving @ Allan Bank, Grasmere

25th - 31st October 2026

Have a go at carving a spooky pumpkin this half-term at Allan Bank.

Join the team at Allan Bank and get creative with their pumpkin carving sessions.

They will provide the pumpkins, clear out the inside, and have all the tools you need to carve them. All you need to do is get creative, carve out a spooky design, then take your pumpkin home ready for Halloween.

Nearest Pier: Waterhead Pier
Take a cruise to Waterhead Pier in Ambleside, then hop on the Stagecoach 555 or 599 bus to Grasmere village. Both services stop in the centre of Grasmere, from where Allan Bank is approximately a 10-minute uphill walk. It's a simple, scenic journey that combines a relaxing cruise on Windermere with one of the Lake District's most family-friendly autumn attractions.

"Monster Mash" Kids Halloween Party! @ The Swan Hotel, Newby Bridge

26th & 29th October 5-7 pm

Are you ready for a night of ghoulishly good fun? Gather your little monsters and head to The Swan Hotel on October 26th or 29th for their thrilling "Monster Mash" Kids Halloween Party! ‍

• Kids UV Mini Disco – Let your little ones dance the night away under eerie UV lights!
• Spine-Chilling Treats – Enjoy a delicious array of Halloween-themed goodies!
• Frighteningly Fun Games – Test your bravery with our exciting games and challenges!
• Pizza and Chips – Satisfy those monstrous appetites with scrumptious pizza and chips!
• Spooky Cocktails – For the grown-ups, we've got a selection of chilling cocktails to get you in the Halloween spirit!

Please note, pre booking is essential.

️Tickets: £12 per child

Nearest Pier: Lakeside Pier
Located at the southern end of Windermere, The Swan Hotel in Newby Bridge is just over a mile from Lakeside Pier. Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk between the pier and the hotel during daylight hours via the nearby West Windermere Way. As this is an evening event, we recommend planning your return journey by car, taxi or local bus after the festivities. Combining a lake cruise with this family-friendly Halloween event makes for a memorable autumn day out