Hertfordshire has plenty to send a shiver down your spine, and here, Visit Herts picks out the events not to miss – and the places to stay to sleep off the effects.
A chill is entering the air, people old and young gather round to hear haunting stories, and pumpkins are making their way into every window and hot drink – yes, Spooky Season has arrived. And where better to spend it than in Hertfordshire, where ghosts have been said to walk the streets and those fiery reds have never looked better? Here are some of our favourite places to visit and spend the night that will make for a scarily good autumnal break right here on our doorstep.
What To Do
St Albans Cathedral by Night
With Gothic architecture and centuries-old history, St Albans Cathedral is a must-visit for Halloween enthusiasts. At the start of October, the Abbey by Night tour sets the eerie mood with candlelight, wine, and stories of the cathedral’s ghostly past. On Halloween night, the cathedral offers screenings of horror classics like Nosferatu and family-friendly Night at the Museum.
Highlights: Gothic architecture, historical tales, Halloween film screenings.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter brings back its Dark Arts experience this Halloween. Step into the Great Hall, where over 100 floating pumpkins add a spooky twist, and uncover the haunting Dark Mark as you explore the sets from the iconic films.
Highlights: Explore Harry Potter sets, hunt for the Dark Mark, and experience a magical Halloween.
Natural History Museum: Tring
This Halloween, the Natural History Museum in Tring invites visitors to see eerie exhibits by torchlight. During half-term week, families can don Halloween costumes, admire animal exhibits, and take on the Museum by Torchlight haunted trail for a thrilling experience.
Highlights: Haunted torchlight tour, animal exhibits, Halloween costume dress-up
Ashridge House : Whodunnit Murder Mystery Weekend
Embrace mystery and luxury at Ashridge House, where the annual murder mystery event immerses guests in a suspense-filled weekend. You’ll join other “suspects” to solve a thrilling whodunnit over breakfasts, evening parties, and discussions with the police as the plot thickens.
Highlights: Interactive murder mystery, luxurious surroundings, historical ambiance.
St Albans Tour Guides – Ghost Walks
Explore the haunted history of St Albans with the Ghosts and Ghouls tour, where experienced guides reveal ghostly legends and historical mysteries that have lingered in this ancient town. Tours run throughout October, making it a perfect addition to any Halloween itinerary.
Highlights: Guided ghost tour, historical insights, spooky storytelling.
Where to Stay
Bethnal & Bec Luxury Stays
Located in rural Hertfordshire, Bethnal & Bec provides luxury boutique hideaways perfect for a relaxing yet spooky retreat. These adult-only accommodations feature private hot tubs, plush king-sized beds, and fully stocked pantries, making it an ideal spot for unwinding under the autumn stars.
Highlights: Countryside luxury, private hot tubs, adult-only retreat, dog-friendly options.
Aubrey Park Hotel
Tucked between St Albans and Hemel Hempstead, Aubrey Park Hotel offers a peaceful escape ideal for cozying up after a day of Halloween thrills. Guests can enjoy a comfortable stay, delicious dining options, and scenic rural surroundings that enhance the autumnal feel.
Highlights: Comfortable beds, on-site brasserie, countryside views.
Hanbury Manor
Set on 200 acres of picturesque grounds, Hanbury Manor Marriott Hotel & Country Club offers a stately Halloween retreat with Jacobean architecture, 5-star amenities, and a serene autumnal landscape. Through December, families can enjoy the Kids Stay & Eat Free offer, making it a perfect family getaway.
Highlights: Historic ambiance, family-friendly offers, luxurious amenities.
Home Farm Glamping
For a Halloween experience with a rustic twist, head to Home Farm Glamping. This luxury glamping site offers bell tents and campfire cooking to let you fully embrace the outdoors and celebrate Halloween under the stars.
Highlights: Bell tents, outdoor cooking, countryside location.
Tewinbury Farm Hotel
Tewinbury Farm is a 700-acre estate that combines rustic charm with luxurious amenities. With Halloween events like the Kids Halloween Disco and a Murder Mystery Night, Tewinbury is ideal for families and friends looking to celebrate the spooky season in comfort.
Highlights: Kids Halloween Disco, Murder Mystery Night, farm-to-table dining.
