10 Halloween Things to Do in Essex with Kids in 2026
The costumes are coming out, the pumpkins are appearing in shop windows, and the question every parent is asking is: what shall we do with the kids this Halloween?
Whether your children love dressing up, searching for the perfect pumpkin or getting just a little bit spooked, Essex has plenty to offer in October 2026. We’ve picked ten family-friendly outings, from a train ride through the woods to animal encounters and autumn garden trails.
1. Meet the Pumpkin Queen at Audley End Enchanted Railway
Saffron Walden | 17–18 October and 24 October – 1 November
Climb aboard the Halloween train at Audley End Enchanted Railway and ride through the autumn woodland to the Pumpkin Queen’s Patch. There’s plenty to do after the train journey, too: meet the woodland characters, join an interactive stage show, make a potion pouch and explore the Adventure Playground and Little Acorn Village.
This is a good choice if you’re looking for a Halloween day out with younger children. The story is full of magic and mischief, with gentle spookiness rather than big scares. Costumes are welcome, so it’s an excuse for everyone to dress up.
Good to know: Booking is essential. Pumpkins, mini golf and marshmallow toasting cost extra. See what’s included in the Halloween Special.
2. Search for the perfect pumpkin at Cammas Hall
Hatfield Broad Oak | Selected dates, 3–31 October
For many families, Halloween starts with a trip to the pumpkin patch. At Cammas Hall Farm, children can hunt for a pumpkin worthy of pride of place on the doorstep. Its 2026 Halloween event also promises characters and plenty of photo opportunities.
It’s one to consider if you want to make an occasion of choosing your pumpkin rather than picking one up with the weekly shop.
3. Go wild for Shriek Week at Colchester Zoo
Colchester | 24 October–1 November
Animal lovers can combine a zoo visit with Halloween activities during Shriek Week at Colchester Zoological Society. Follow the treasure hunt, enjoy the seasonal atmosphere and see how many animals you can visit in a day.
It’s a useful half-term choice when the family wants plenty to explore alongside the Halloween fun.
4. Meet rescued animals at Hopefield’s Halloween Festival
Brentwood | 24 October–1 November
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary’s Halloween Festival brings together a pirate treasure trail, crafts, creepy crawlies and Halloween characters. Children can also pick up a pumpkin, while a visit supports the sanctuary’s work caring for rescued animals.
If your children are equally excited by animals and Halloween, this could be the outing that keeps everyone happy.
5. Discover the outdoors with Essex Wildlife Trust
Various Essex locations | Dates vary
Halloween doesn’t have to be all pumpkins and costumes. Essex Wildlife Trust’s Halloween events offer opportunities to explore nature, get creative and spend time outdoors during autumn.
Its events take place at different locations, so browse the programme to find an activity close to home and check whether you need to book.
6. Pick a pumpkin at Cobbs Farm
Near Maldon | 23–31 October
If your main mission is finding pumpkins to carve together at home, Cobbs Farm Pumpkins is another Essex option. Based near Maldon, the farm is open for its 2026 pumpkin-picking season from 23 to 31 October.
Make a family contest of it: who can find the biggest pumpkin, the smallest, or the one with the funniest shape?
7. Follow the autumn pumpkin trail at Beth Chatto’s Gardens
Near Colchester | 24–31 October
For a quieter Halloween outing, try the pumpkin trail at Beth Chatto’s Plants & Gardens. Children can look out for pumpkins as you explore the gardens together. It’s a lovely way to enjoy the colours of autumn without planning a whole day around Halloween characters or shows.
The trail is listed for 24–31 October; check the venue details before setting off.
8. Take little ones to Marsh Farm’s Halloween Toddler Takeover
South Woodham Ferrers | 19–23 October
If you have preschool children, Marsh Farm’s Halloween Toddler Takeover is worth a look. The programme includes a spooky disco and Pumpkin Village, with Halloween fun aimed at younger visitors.
Planning tip: These dates fall before the main October half-term week, so they may suit families with children who aren’t yet at school.
9. Dress up for Halloween at the Gardens of Easton Lodge
Little Easton, near Great Dunmow | 18 October
The Gardens of Easton Lodge are holding an autumn and Halloween open day on Sunday 18 October. Families can enjoy activities in the gardens, and there are prizes for Halloween costumes.
Pack the costumes, take a walk and make the most of an October Sunday outdoors.
10. Join the crowds at the Southend Halloween Parade
Southend-on-Sea | 31 October
Want something to do on Halloween night itself? Southend’s Halloween Parade returns on Saturday 31 October 2026. Expect costumes, creativity and a lively celebration along the seafront.
It’s a change of pace from a daytime pumpkin patch. If you’re taking younger children, check the parade route and timings before deciding where to watch.
Find your family’s kind of Halloween
The best Halloween plan depends on your children. Some want to dress up and meet characters; others would happily spend the afternoon choosing a pumpkin. You could make a full day of it at an attraction, then save a trail or pumpkin patch for another weekend.
If your family prefers magic to scares, we’d love to welcome you to Audley End Enchanted Railway’s Halloween Special. Pick your date, book your train time and get those costumes ready.
Event details can change, so check each organiser’s website for the latest times, availability and booking information before travelling.
