What’s New for Halloween 2026 at Audley End Enchanted Railway
A new queen, a mysterious pumpkin patch and a story waiting to be told. This Halloween, something rather special is coming to the woods at Audley End Enchanted Railway.
If you’re planning a Halloween day out in Essex with younger children, join us near Saffron Walden for an autumn adventure filled with train rides, playful characters and hands-on fun. Our Halloween Special returns on 17th and 18th October and from 24th October to 1st November 2026.
This year, we’re welcoming the brand-new Pumpkin Queen and introducing an interactive stage show that reveals her magical story. Here’s what your little adventurers can look forward to. Check dates and book your Halloween tickets
Meet our new Pumpkin Queen
Every adventure needs a little mystery. Ours begins at the station, where a playful pumpkin character will welcome you aboard for a train ride through the autumn woodland.
Watch for spooky surprises along the track as you travel towards the Pumpkin Queen’s Patch. Hidden amongst the trees, this special place is said to be where the very first pumpkin grew and where Halloween magic began.
Waiting to greet you is the Pumpkin Queen herself, joined by the Wizard, Witch and Pumpkin. It’s a chance for little imaginations to step inside the story, with a special gift for each child included in the visit.
Join in a brand-new Halloween stage show
There’s more to discover about our newest woodland arrival. For the first time, our interactive Halloween Stage Show brings the Pumpkin Queen’s story to life.
Join Pumpkin and Witch as they reveal the origins of the magic found throughout the woodland. With plenty of opportunities for children to get involved, your little monsters can join in the storytelling too.
Explore, play and make a little magic
Beyond the train ride, Fulfen Forest is waiting to be explored. Wander through the cobweb arch, find the Pumpkin Tree and challenge your family in the games area.
At the Craft Lodge, little potion-makers can create their own potion pouch to take home. Then there’s time to explore Little Acorn Village and let off some steam in the Adventure Playground.
Halloween costumes are encouraged, so bring your witches, wizards, ghosts and pumpkins along. There are plenty of photo opportunities to capture everyone dressed up together.
What’s included in your Halloween ticket?
- Halloween train ride through the ancient woodland
- Visit to the Pumpkin Queen’s Patch, character encounters and a special gift for each child
- Interactive Halloween Stage Show
- Fulfen Forest activities, family games and photo opportunities
- Potion pouch craft activity
- Little Acorn Village and the Adventure Playground
You can also visit Pumpkin Village to choose a pumpkin, toast marshmallows or play mini golf. Pumpkin picking, marshmallow toasting and mini golf are optional extras and cost an additional amount.
Is it suitable for younger children?
Yes. Our Halloween Special is designed especially for families with younger children, with gentle spookiness, playful characters and magical storytelling. There’s plenty to spark their curiosity as you explore the woodland together.
Plan your Halloween visit
You’ll find Audley End Enchanted Railway near Saffron Walden, on the Essex/Cambridgeshire border.
Choose from 17th and 18th October or 24th October to 1st November 2026, whether you’re planning an October weekend adventure or a half-term treat.
Explore our Halloween Special event page
Booking is essential. Tickets will not be available to buy on the day, so book ahead and give your little monsters a woodland adventure to look forward to.
