Nottingham is getting ready to host a series of spooky events as Halloween draws closer. It's the perfect season to take part in a bit of spooky sightseeing across the city, with everything on offer from ghost walks to pumpkin picking.
There are so many events on that it's difficult to know where to start to get the best of out the spooky season. We've found six of our frightful favorites which are guaranteed to get your pulse racing.
1 - Enter a haunted maize maze by torchlight
Lime Ln, Arnold, Nottingham NG5 8PW
Not one for the faint-hearted but if you have ever felt like being chased around a maize maze in the dark by witches, ghouls and goblins then this is perfect. The maize maze hosts a series of challenges that visitors have to crack by working together, but, as always, there is a twist in that it is in the dark and the place is full of hidden terrors.
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The event does need to be booked in advance but visitors who need a bit of Dutch courage before entering the maze will be happy to note there is a full bar on site. It's advised to bring a torch with you as the maize can grow so high that it can tower over your head.
The challenge finishes with a walk through the haunted forest attached to the maze. It's one for those who don't mind a good jump, scare or scream, just don't say we didn't warn you!
2 - Pick your own pumpkin
Oaks Lane, Oxton, Nottinghamshire, NG25 0RH
This is one of the more family-friendly Halloween activities and definitely one you will see all over Instagram. The Oxton farm in Nottingham opens its fields of pumpkins for visitors to come and grab one for carving.
The family-run farm has a variety of pumpkins from small to large ready for picking and the team estimate there are more than 40,000 on-site to choose from. It's worth noting there is no need to book in advance so you can just turn up when you want to pick up a pumpkin. It is open from Friday, October 14 and runs different sessions throughout the year including lavender and sunflower picking in the summer.
3 - Experience a ghoul in gaol
National Justice Museum, High Pavement, Nottingham NG1 1HN
The National Justice Museum has several different events from ghostly adventures for children to a step back in history where visitors can walk in the steps of the incarcerated. The 18-century gaol is rumoured to be one of the most haunted buildings in the UK with a number of paranormal experiences taking place there.
From Saturday, September 17 until Saturday, November 19, visitors can uncover the spooky tales of these experiences through a walk in the former prison. There will also be a Halloween special from Saturday, October 22 until Monday, October 31, when visitors will be able to stand on the docks where prisoners learned their fate before being sentenced. The museum also invites you to step into the cells where they spent their final hours and visit where they were laid to rest on a guided evening tour.
Children will also be able to help track down the Ghost Hunter and take part in crafty activities and spooky games. The event is suitable for children ages five to ten from Saturday, October 22 until Monday, October 31.
4 - Catch a scary film
Broad Street, Nottingham
Nothing beats dinner and a movie for date nights, especially if it's a scary one. It gives you the perfect excuse to snuggle up close so you can hide behind your partner.
Broadway Cinema is showcasing the very best in independent scary films as part of its annual Mayhem Festival. The festival is now in its 18th year and plans to run for four days from Thursday 13 - Sunday, October 16.
5 - Go ghost hunting
Newstead Village NG15 8NA
Newstead Abbey was built in the 12th century and has more than 800 years of history. The team is asking for visitors to help them find the ghosts that hide within its walls, especially the white lady who has been seen walking the gardens or the rose lady.
The walk will take viewers through the chilling rooms at night where you can soak up the atmosphere of the eerie building. There will also be a paranormal investigation for anyone feeling particularly brave. You will also be able to try the paranormal equipment for yourself and take part in a truly unique spooky experience from October 29 to 30.
6 - A Victorian Adventure
Nottingham Castle
In October 1877, three experienced workmen installing new handrails and lighting in the caves beneath Nottingham Castle mysteriously vanished. When they didn’t return, two maids working in the Ducal Palace looked down the stairs and saw ‘a red, fiery glow, a noise akin to a baying hound, and toxic, sulfurous smells’ emanating from the depths.
Nottingham Castle invites visitors to join the famous Paranormal Investigator Dr Abraham van Helsing to investigate the caves But beware.....you might not be alone!
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