Kent is known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful landscapes, and rich history. But during the month of October, this charming county transforms into a spooky wonderland as Halloween approaches. From haunted tours to horror films and masquerade parties, there are plenty of Halloween events for adults to enjoy in Kent. So, get your costumes ready and let’s explore the top Halloween events this county has to offer.
1. Ghost Tours
What better way to get into the Halloween spirit than by embarking on a haunted tour? Kent is filled with ghostly tales and haunted locations, making it the perfect place for spine-chilling tours. The Canterbury Ghost Tour takes you on a journey through the city’s oldest and most haunted streets, while the Dover Ghost Walk brings to life the eerie history of this ancient port town. Book your tickets and prepare to be spooked!
2. Horror Film Festivals
For all the horror movie lovers out there, Kent has some fantastic film festivals lined up this Halloween. The Dead by Dawn Horror Festival in Canterbury brings together the best of horror cinema from around the world for a weekend of scares and thrills. The FrightFest in Ashford features a range of classic and contemporary horror films, along with Q&A sessions with industry experts. Get ready for a frightfully entertaining movie experience!
3. Masquerade Balls
For a more glamorous Halloween celebration, dress up in your finest attire and head to one of Kent’s masquerade balls. The Grand Halloween Ball at Leeds Castle is an annual event that promises an evening of mystery and enchantment. The Chilston Park Hotel’s Masquerade Ball is another popular choice, with its beautiful 17th-century surroundings providing the perfect setting for a night of dancing and revelry.
4. Scary Escape Rooms
Escape rooms have become a popular trend in recent years, and Kent has some of the best ones when it comes to Halloween-themed challenges. The Escapement in Margate offers a spooky escape room experience called “The Pit”, where you and your team must solve clues to escape from a cursed cave. The Panic Room in Gravesend has a variety of Halloween-themed escape rooms, including “The Dollhouse” and “The Crypt”. These thrilling games are not for the faint-hearted!
5. Halloween Festivals
For a day of family-friendly Halloween fun, head to one of Kent’s Halloween festivals. The Spooky Folkestone Festival brings together spooky themed activities, entertainment, and food for a day of fun for all ages. The Halloween half-term festival at Kent Life in Maidstone offers pumpkin carving, scary storytelling, and a terrifying tractor ride. It’s the perfect way to get into the Halloween spirit with your loved ones.
6. Pumpkin Picking
What’s Halloween without a pumpkin? Instead of buying one from the store, why not head to one of Kent’s many pumpkin patches and pick your own? The Pick Your Own Pumpkin Patch in Maidstone offers a variety of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes, perfect for carving or decorating. The Pumpkin Moon Farm in Maidstone also offers a range of fun activities for families, including tractor rides, a maize maze, and a pumpkin slingshot. It’s a great way to spend a day outdoors and get in the Halloween spirit.
7. Haunted Houses
For a truly terrifying experience, visit one of Kent’s haunted houses this Halloween. The Chatham Dockyard’s Fright Night offers a spine-tingling tour of the historic naval buildings, rumored to be haunted by ghostly figures. The Screamland at Dreamland in Margate promises an evening of screams and scares with its multiple horror mazes and terrifying characters. Not for the faint of heart, these haunted houses will leave you with a lasting impression of Halloween in Kent.
So, there you have it – Kent’s top Halloween events for adults. With so many options to choose from, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this October. Whether you prefer a spooky ghost tour, a glamorous masquerade ball, or a heart-pounding escape room, Kent has got you covered. So, put on your costume, grab your friends, and get ready for a Halloween to remember in this charming county. Happy Halloween!