The best Halloween experiences in West Sussex
Halloween is the perfect occasion to let your imagination run wild, whether you’re a seeker of chilling thrills or on the lookout for some crafting activities for all the family to enjoy.
With pumpkin patches springing up all over West Sussex, centuries-old pubs and hotels with ghostly happenings and murder mystery dining events, there is certainly something for everyone to get involved with the festivities.
As the evenings slowly turn darker and chillier, we’re already finding ourselves planning some spooky things to do. So, we’ve put together some ideas to help you get in to the Halloween spirit (get it?).
Please note: This round-up refers to events in 2018. You can find out what’s on this October half-term, featuring autumnal and Halloween-themed activities, or see our events pages for more.
Halloween fun for families and younger ones
Halloween Party at Field Place Manor House and Barns
Friday 26 October, Worthing
Take the whole family to Field Place and enter their creepy Halloween crypt for lots of ghoulish games, spooky music and dancing. There will be snacks and refreshments available throughout the afternoon and Halloween fancy dress is encouraged!
Slindon Pumpkin Festival
Throughout October, Slindon
This famous pumpkin display has gained international traction over the years, with over 50 varieties of pumpkin and 30 types of squash arranged into a stunning autumnal mural. Now in its 50th year, you can join thousands of visitors from all around the world to take part in the spectacular display, buy your own pumpkins and squash or even the Upton family’s pumpkin recipe book!
Tulleys Spookfest and Pick Your Own pumpkins
Saturday 13 – Sunday 28 October, Crawley
Although famed for its terrifying Shocktober Fest (scroll down for more), the Tulleys Farm team also host Spookfest, filled with family-friendly events and even a PYO pumpkin patch! From haunted fun houses and horrid hayrides to theatre and story shows, pumpkin throwing and face painting, there are activities and events to suit all levels of the fear factor.
Halloween at Fishers Farm Park
Saturday 20 – Sunday 28 October, Wisborough Green
Bring your little ghosts, witches and pumpkins along to Fishers Farm Park for an exciting pantomime-style ‘Spook Show’, join the spooky scavenger hunt to find the Halloween props hidden around the park and, of course, visit the cuddly animals in the barn! Perfect for families with younger children or those that prefer a treat over tricks.
Not for the faint hearted…
Shocktober Fest at Tulleys Farm
Friday 5 October to Saturday 3 November, Crawley
Known as a world class fright night experience, Tulleys Farm attracts thousands of visitors from all over the UK for its annual Shocktober Fest. Not for the faint hearted, the farm grounds come alive with nine themed attractions, all designed to give you the fright of your life as you wind your way around twisting mazes and eerie chambers – who knows what will be around the corner?
Museum at night
Friday 26 October (Saturday 27 October sold out), Weald and Downland Museum, near Chichester
By day, an open museum that explores the South’s agriculture and trade heritage. At night, however, there are whispers of something more sinister, with ghostly sightings around the Weald and Downland buildings. If you’re feeling brave enough, head to the grounds after dark where a guide will lead you on a lamplight tour with stories of smugglers past and some that will make the hair on the back of your neck stand up.
Arundel jailhouse ghost walk
Arundel Town Hall
Tucked along the High Street is one of Arundel’s hidden gems – but be warned, for this place is known for its resident ghosts and paranormal activity. Step into Arundel Town Hall prison and find yourself back in 1836. Book yourself a ‘cell’ and enjoy an evening of jailhouse jazz, comedy nights or even a three-course murder mystery dinner.
A night to remember at Amberley Castle
Amberley Castle Hotel
Originating from a timber-framed hunting lodge in 1103 and later transformed into the castle manor that still stands today, the splendid Amberley Castle Hotel is said to be haunted by the ghost of a young woman from several hundred years ago. Why not book yourself and a friend in for dinner at the castle’s barrel-vaulted dining room and see if you experience anything out of the ordinary?
What will you be doing this Halloween? We’d love to see what you get up to – send your photos to us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook! Don’t forget, you can use our hashtag #ExperienceWestSussex across Twitter and Instagram to share your adventures too.