Get ready for a fun filled October and November in the Lake District
There’s a fantastic mix of indoor and outdoor events happening all across the region. So, bundle up and get ready to discover plenty of spook-tacular adventures this Halloween and Bonfire Night in the Lakes.
We’ve rounded up our top picks for things to do—read on to find out more!
Things to do for Halloween in the Lake District
Halloween at Muncaster Castle
Spooky Halloween Family Festival 24th October – 1st November 2026
Image credit: Muncaster
This year’s theme is Zombies and Boggles, bringing a monstrously good mix of spooky surprises, live entertainment, pumpkins and folklore to every corner of the castle.
What’s On:
- The Scary Maze
- The return of The Pumpkin patch – free pumpkin with the first 2500 child tickets sold
- Our Castle Show: Sherlock Holmes and the Curious Case of the Girt Dog
- Live entertainment in the gardens
- Spooky trails
- Parades
- The Weapons Hall
- Haunted Castle
- Costume Competition
- Torchlight March
- Plus… Bird of Prey Flying Displays, Walkabout Acts, Bar & Cafe… and more!
Walby Farm Pumpkin Picking
Walby Farm Park – 3rd October to 31st October 2026
Image credit: Walby Farm
Halloween isn’t Halloween without a pumpkin so head to Walby Farm Pumpkin Picking for some great family-friendly Halloween fun in the Lake District.
Wrap up warm, grab your wellies and go out on the great pumpkin hunt. When you’ve picked your favourite, there’s help on hand to assist with carving!
- FREE pumpkin for every paying child
- The Bewitched BooGaloo Disco & Game Show – half-term spooky fun for all ages (half term only)
- Pumpkin Carving Zone – leave the mess with us!
- Over 10 insta-worthy photo spots to capture your perfect pumpkin moment
- Corn & Pumpkin Cannons – ready, aim, fire!*
- The Cowshed Café serving homemade pumpkin soup & seasonal spooky treats
There’s plenty for little ones to see and do, including an indoor and outdoor adventure play area too!
Don’t forget Walby’s hugely popular Bonfire Bonanza returns this November.
Keswick Ghost Walks
Lakeland Hauntings – various dates throughout autumn 2026
Image credit Ironika
Be emersed in haunting tales this Halloween. Are you ready to take a haunted walk and hear stories of Keswick past history full of murder, intrigue and tortured souls. From slate-built houses to the surrounding lakes and fells this is an area steeped in legend and mystery. Follow “The Lady”… if you dare.
Things to do for Bonfire Night in the Lake District
Windermere RUFC Firework Extravaganza
Saturday 7th November 2026 – Gates open 5:30pm
Image credit PhotoChur
Enjoy a spectacular fireworks display choreographed to music, live bands, street food, mulled wine and family entertainment.
If you’re looking for something to do on Bonfire Night in the Lake District then be sure to add this Firework Extravaganza to your list!
Taking place on the 07th November, the event will see a magical firework display, along with live music, fire eaters, street food, real ale, mulled wine and more.
This is a ticketed event, with doors opening at 5:30pm and Fireworks at 7.00pm.
Hawkshead Village Bonfire
Saturday 7th November from 5.30pm
Traditional village bonfire night with local food and drinks. Cash donations upon entry.
Carlisle Fireshow – Bitts Park
Saturday 31st October 2026 – event starts at 6:30pm in Bitts Park, Carlisle
Image credit: Joko Alfin
Carlisle is set to sparkle with a series of unmissable events celebrating Cumberland’s rich maritime history and heritage. Here’s what’s happening:
Fireshow 2026
- Celebrating its 37th year and expected to attract more than 35,000 visitors
- The Fireshow starts at 6:30pm in Castle Car Park.
- Admission is free!
Taste Cumbria Food & Drink Festival
- Held in the Cathedral grounds, right in the heart of Carlisle.
- Dates: Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd November.
- Features include:
- Food and drink traders
- Live music on the festival stage
- Hot food stalls
- Children’s activities and face painting
- Street theatre and fire-themed entertainment
Whether you’re a local or visiting for half term, Carlisle’s autumn festivities promise fun, flavour, and fireworks for all ages!
Fancy something a bit different?
Image credit: visitlakedistrict.com
Looking for something a bit more leisurely? The Ullswater Steamers will be sailing atop the pristine waters of Ullswater throughout October and November, enveloped by the awe inspiring autumn colours of the surrounding landscape.
Holker Winter Market 2026 will feature over 140 artisan stalls, festive food and drink, live music and free entry to Holker Hall and Gardens.
A three day event, the Winter Market plays host to an enchanting variety of stalls, where you’ll find artisan gifts, crafts and textiles, along with a mouth-watering collection of food and drink.
There’s also live entertainment held throughout the day, sure to keep the little ones entertained. Why not stop by and enjoy a spot of live music performed by local bands and singers?
Make sure you have enough time to visit the magnificent Hall & Gardens too!
Thinking of heading to our wonderous region to experience Halloween or Bonfire Night in the Lake District? Secure one of these Autumn lodges and start planning your spook-tacular holiday itinerary today!
If you’re stuck on things to see and do, we’ve also created the ultimate guide to the Lake District, sure to help you come up with some ideas!
Images taken from Shutterstock
