Halloween is coming to National Trust Cymru properties with fun for all the family this half term.
From exciting family trails and harvest celebrations to Halloween crafts and natural play areas; there are a whole host of family adventures to be had.
Most offers begin on October 21 unless otherwise stated. Normal admission applies (National Trust members for free).
Here are the events this October:
Chirk Castle and Garden, Wrexham
A spokesperson said: “Marked on 31 October, Nos Galan Gaeaf or ‘winter’s eve’, was considered the last of three annual Ysprydnos, or ‘spirit nights’.
“On this night the veil between us and the spirit world was believed to be at its thinnest, and from 21 October to 5 November Chirk Castle needs your help to protect it from evil spirits that were thought to thrive at this time. Find the secret doors and complete the tasks to discover which ingredients you’ll need to cast a protection spell from the dungeon.
“Afterwards, explore Chirk’s medieval history in the Adam Tower, complete with dungeons, medieval toilets and murder holes, soak up the spectacular autumn colour and hunt for fantastical fungi on the 480-acre estate, tick off some '50 things to do before you’re 11 and ¾’ activities, or let off steam in the natural play area at Home Farm.”
Erddig, Wrexham
From 14 October, you can discover where the witch has hidden her poison apple with clues or, on selected days join an art workshop and have a go at spooky sketching and finger painting.
On 14, 15, 21 and 22 October, Erddig’s annual Apple Harvest Celebration will return, celebrating the formal garden’s rich orchards and espaliered fruit trees that hang heavy with over 180 different varieties of apple.
You can explore the huge display of apples, compete in the longest peel competition, join a craft session, and of course, take part in a tasting session.
Spot the colourful historic trees on the 1200-acre estate or visit Wolf’s Den, the natural play area, where you can fly on the rope swing, climb over obstacles, balance across beams, and enjoy hours of family fun.
Penrhyn Castle and Garden, Bangor
This October half term they’re inviting you to celebrate the autumn harvest and step into the world of folklore as you take part in some magical local traditions.
A spokesperson said: “Discover the harvest feast in the Walled Garden, mark Nos Galan Gaeaf or ‘winter’s eve’ by finding the bonfire and placing your name in it for good luck, hunt for the witches hidden amongst the ivy, and find out how different animals prepare for winter.
"Before letting loose in the two play areas, don’t miss taking a quiet moment to soak up everything autumn has to offer too, from the vibrant red Virginia Creeper covering the dramatic castle walls to the peaceful paths that wind beneath a canopy of golden trees.”
Plas Newydd House and Garden, Anglesey
A spokesperson said: “Autumn is one of the most beautiful times of the year to explore Plas Newydd’s 150-acres of garden, woodland, and parkland, and with stunning views across the Menai Strait to the mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia), its location is impossible to beat.
“In October 2008, six red squirrels were released into the woodland here and now over 100 of them call this place home. Celebrate these adorable creatures this half term by following the Red Squirrel Trail from 23 October and seeing how many acorns you can find. Will you spot a real red squirrel preparing for winter along the way?
“If you still have time to spare, run wild in the outdoor play area, visit the tree house, or go head to head with family and friends in a game of Frisbee Golf. “
Read more:
- Covid-19 woodland memorial plan is approved
- National Trust gardener retires after more than 40 years at Chirk Castle
- Mindful Meadow developed at Chirk Castle for all to enjoy for free
Bodnant Garden, Conwy
A spokesperson said: “Bodnant’s collection of native and exotic trees are at their very finest at this time of year and with 80 acres to explore, there’s plenty of space for your little explorers to run wild.
“Take in a spectacular kaleidoscope of autumn colour in the Acer Glade as you spot local artist Jess Wheeler’s display of bronze and copper autumn leaves. Set into Welsh stone and glistening amongst the fallen leaves, how many will you find?
“If you still have energy to burn, visit the Play with its zig-zag walkways, or enjoy a family adventure as you head through the Old Park Meadow and down to The Dell to jump over steppingstones, visit the living Willow Maze and build dens at Far End, and stop off at the scenic waterfall for a family photo.”
Powis Castle and Garden, Welshpool
28 October to 5 November sees the ever-popular family pumpkin trail so hunt high and low in both the castle and the garden. The decorated arbour in the Formal Garden is the perfect spot for an autumnal family photo.
From rom 30 September to 30 November you’ll also be able to learn more about why leaves change colour as you adventure through the garden on the Colour and Compost Trail.
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