Top 10 things to do in York this October half term

Get ready for ghostly goings-on, magical mini-golf, and chocolatey treats! Whether you’re after eerie adventures or crafty creativity, York has something for everyone this October half term. Here’s Wheelwrights pick of the best family-friendly fun happening across the city.

1. Ghosts in the Gardens

19th September – 2nd November 2025
Take a spooky stroll through York’s green spaces and spot 60 ghostly wire-mesh figures hidden in plain sight! Created by Unconventional Design, this hauntingly beautiful trail is perfect for a daytime wander or, for extra chills, join the evening experience: ‘Ghosts: The Untold History’ –  an immersive twilight tour (5–9 November).

2. The Yorkshire Halloween Festival

23rd – 31st October 2025
Get crafty with hands-on Halloween-themed workshops run by local makers, perfect for little monsters (and grown-up ghouls). With artisan stalls, creative activities, and a calming Sensory Tipi, this festival is a fab mix of fun and inclusivity in the heart of York.

3. Ghost week with The York Ghost Merchants

25th October – 2nd November 2025
It’s the spookiest week of the year at The York Ghost Merchants! Head down to explore limited edition ghosts, secret ghost drops, and some surprise events along the way and tiny ghosts hidden throughout the city for participants to find and keep.

4. Wizard Walk of York

Join the wonderfully witty wizard of York on a magical adventure filled with spells, giggles and stories. It’s spellbinding fun for all the family (and no jump scares – phew!).

5. York’s Chocolate Story – Halloween edition

13th October – 2nd November 2025
Take a classic tour – then dive hands-on into chocolate truffle making with a spooky twist. Decorate and devour your own Halloween-themed treats. Delicious and a little bit chilling!

6. York Dungeon – The Little Peasants Walking Tour

Watch out – York’s smelliest peasant and cheekiest jester are on the loose! This family-friendly walking tour brings York’s haunted history to life with laughs, legends, and a few light frights.

7. The Hole in Wand – Wizard Mini Golf Adventure

Calling all witches, wizards and potion-makers! Take on 9 enchanted holes, search for clues, and uncover magical secrets. Complete your quest and earn a spellbinding potion reward!

8. Barley Hall’s Haunted Hall

27th – 31st October 2025
Step into one of York’s most atmospheric medieval buildings for a night of ghost stories, folklore, and spine-tingling storytelling. This immersive evening is ideal for brave young minds and curious families.

9. York Castle Museum

25th October – 2nd November 2025
Experience a museum of mysteries at York Castle Museum. Play judge and jury, deciding the fate of some of York Castle Prison’s most famous historical felons. Make soul cakes, a spiced biscuit traditionally made for Halloween and magical crafts.

10. Guild Coin Ghost Trail

25th October – 2nd November 2025
A mysterious coin trail awaits across the city… can you explore the city walls and collect rubbings from five brass Guild Coin plaques and uncover the secrets of York’s hidden ghostly past?

Whether you’re hunting ghosts, casting spells, or just after some frightfully good fun – York is packed with half-term magic this October. Don’t forget your warm layers, comfy shoes, and maybe… a torch.

Still looking for a place to stay?

Why not sleep somewhere with character… or a ghostly past?

If you really want to lean into York’s haunted reputation, we still have some beautiful options for accommodation with mood, history, and maybe even a friendly ghost or two.