Halloween in the Cotswolds 2026: Pumpkin Patches, Spooky Trails & Autumn Adventures
There’s something rather lovely about the Cotswolds at this time of year. The countryside turns golden, the villages become even more picturesque, and there’s a definite chill in the air that makes cosy jumpers, muddy boots and hot chocolates feel entirely necessary.
And with Halloween just around the corner, there’s plenty happening across the Cotswolds to get everyone into the spooky spirit.
Whether you’re planning an October half-term escape with the family, looking for somewhere to pick the perfect pumpkin, or fancy an evening of thrills and chills, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite Halloween events and autumn adventures for 2026.
Pumpkin Picking at Hayles Fruit Farm, Winchcombe
24–31 October 2026
Just outside Winchcombe, Hayles Fruit Farm is a firm local favourite when autumn rolls around.
This October, you can head along to choose your perfect pumpkin, enjoy a spooky walk around the lake and get involved in some family-friendly Halloween activities. There’s marshmallow toasting, Tractor Ted fun and plenty of opportunities for those obligatory pumpkin patch photographs.
It’s a particularly lovely choice for younger families who want to embrace Halloween without anything too frightening.
And being so close to Winchcombe, it’s an easy outing if you’re staying at our very own Fern Cottage.
The Pumpkin Patch at Cotswold Farm Park
16–18 and 21–31 October 2026
If there’s one place that really knows how to do pumpkin season, it’s Cotswold Farm Park.
Set in the beautiful countryside near Guiting Power, their pumpkin patch is back for 2026, with pumpkins of every shape and size waiting to be discovered.
You can pick your own, get stuck into pumpkin carving, enjoy face painting on selected days and soak up the atmosphere with seasonal food and drink. There are even live music evenings planned, giving the whole experience a bit of a festival feel.
And here’s something we particularly love: the pumpkin patch is dog-friendly, so your four-legged family members don’t have to miss out on the autumn fun.
Explore Cotswold Farm Park’s Pumpkin Patch
Halloween Discos and Family Fun in Cheltenham
Various dates throughout October half term
If your little monsters would rather dance than wander around a pumpkin patch, Cheltenham has plenty happening this Halloween.
At Pittville Pump Room, the Party Peeps Halloween Party on 28 October promises an interactive family rave, complete with music, dancing and plenty of not-too-scary Halloween fun.
Over at Leisure at Cheltenham, the Little Monsters Party on 29 October will bring together bouncy castles, crafts, face painting and games.
The Wilson Art Gallery & Museum is also getting involved, with a Halloween trail running from 24 October to 1 November, plus a special Halloween party on 30 October.
And for older children, Cheltenham Town Hall is hosting a K-Pop Fantasy Halloween Special on 1 November, packed with music, dancing and a spooky twist.
Perfect if the October weather decides not to play nicely.
Explore Cheltenham’s October Half-Term Events
Halloween Celebrations at Dunkertons Park
Friday 30 October 2026
Halloween isn’t just for the little ones.
If you fancy swapping pumpkin carving for a night out, Dunkertons Park near Cheltenham is hosting a Halloween celebration with live music from Tux Fizz.
Expect a lively atmosphere, fancy dress and the chance to enjoy some brilliant food and drink from the independent traders on site.
Dunkertons is always a great place to spend an evening, and with Halloween thrown into the mix, it’s a lovely excuse to get a group of friends together.
Find Out What’s Happening at Dunkertons
Pumpkin Picking at Jolly Nice Farmshop
Throughout October 2026
We do love a good farm shop, and Jolly Nice near Frampton Mansell is certainly one of our favourites.
This October, their pumpkin patch is open for seasonal adventures, making it a lovely stop for families wanting to get outdoors and choose their Halloween pumpkins.
But we’d recommend allowing a little extra time for this one.
With its fabulous farm shop, delicious local produce, café and rather excellent ice cream, Jolly Nice is the sort of place where you arrive for a pumpkin and somehow leave with a basket full of goodies.
And frankly, that’s our kind of autumn afternoon.
Discover Jolly Nice Pumpkin Patch
Halloween After Dark at Blenheim Palace
22 October–1 November 2026
For something a little more spectacular, Blenheim Palace near Woodstock is pulling out all the stops this Halloween.
Its famous after-dark trail returns for 2026, transforming the palace grounds into a world of atmospheric lighting, live performers and spooky surprises.
You’ll encounter everything from giant spider webs and ghostly pirates to vampire hunters and mysterious catacombs.
It’s theatrical, immersive and just the right amount of spine-tingling, particularly if you’re visiting with older children or looking for something a little different to do as a couple.
There are plenty of seasonal food and drink treats to enjoy along the way too.
Wrap up warm, book an evening slot and prepare for a Halloween experience that’s anything but ordinary.
Book Halloween at Blenheim Palace
Spooky Trails for Little Explorers
Throughout October half term
Not every Halloween adventure needs to involve jump scares.
For younger children, there’s something wonderfully exciting about following a trail, searching for hidden clues and discovering a few surprises along the way.
The Wilson in Cheltenham is hosting a Halloween trail through its galleries from 24 October to 1 November, with creepy creatures and mysterious objects to uncover.
Over at Cleeve Common, the Family Fun Friday Halloween Special on 30 October invites families to head out across the Common in search of a hidden pumpkin before getting creative with pumpkin carving and decorating.
It’s a lovely way to enjoy the fresh autumn air, particularly if you’re staying locally and want something fun to do without travelling too far.
Discover More Halloween Events in the Cotswolds
Halloween at Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe
Saturday 31 October 2026
A beautiful historic castle, a little mystery and a Halloween evening? Sounds rather intriguing to us.
Right here in Winchcombe, Sudeley Castle is hosting a Victorian Murder Mystery experience this Halloween.
Guests are invited to step into a world of suspicious characters, hidden clues and unexpected twists as they attempt to solve a rather chilling crime.
It’s a brilliant option for adults who fancy something different from the usual Halloween party, and the castle’s historic setting makes it all the more atmospheric.
Make a Little Halloween Holiday of It
Of course, the best part of an autumn adventure is having somewhere lovely to retreat to afterwards.
After a day spent exploring pumpkin patches, wandering through golden countryside or braving a spooky Halloween trail, there’s something rather wonderful about coming back to your own cosy Cotswold cottage.
Think slow mornings, long countryside walks, evenings by the fire and perhaps a Halloween film with a glass of something delicious.
Our collection of Tucked Away cottages makes the perfect base for exploring the Cotswolds in autumn, whether you’re bringing the whole family, escaping for a romantic weekend or simply enjoying a few days away with your dog.
And with 10% off when you book direct, plus dogs staying for free, there’s even more reason to stay a little longer.
Because Halloween in the Cotswolds isn’t just about ghosts, pumpkins and things that go bump in the night.
It’s about embracing everything we love about autumn. Beautiful countryside, brilliant local experiences and a little time to slow down.
Find your perfect autumn escape with Tucked Away and make yourself at home in the Cotswolds.
Please check individual event websites for the latest dates, ticket availability and booking information before travelling.
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Whether it's a cosy escape for two, a family get-together or a few days with your favourite people (four-legged ones included), there's a lovely little corner of the Cotswolds waiting for you.
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"Lovely stay and this beautiful property. The Interior was spotless and the rear garden being secure meant we could relax knowing that our dog could not escape. The end of the garden got full sun but the lower terrace provided shade if needed. The decor, soft furnishings and mood lighting inside sets this property apart from many others."
"A lovely cottage in a perfect location. Winchcombe is great as a base to explore the area and big enough to be entertaining on its own. The cottage is in a location where you can walk everywhere so the car stays at home. It is beautifully furnished and decorated an every appliance you could wish for is there. Really loved staying there and would definitely go back"
"We had a lovely and peaceful stay at the Cottage. You get the charming stone house on the outside, and a warm and tastefully decorated inside; perfect!We were able to explore the nearby area on foot (met some cows), and the Cottage is in a very convenient location to reach other villages and things to do and see. It was exactly the vacation we were looking for."