Halloween Creepy Critters

ZooLab UK are bringing their Halloween Creepy Critters workshop to Newhailes House & Garden on Saturday 31 October, with the session starting at 10:00. It's a 45-minute indoor session aimed at children aged 5 to 12, and the whole thing is built around meeting and handling real live animals. The critters on the table are exactly what the name suggests: snakes, giant snails and tarantulas.

During the session, the kids get to learn about how these creatures behave, and if they're brave enough, they can actually hold one. It's an interactive setup rather than a talk, so the animals are the main event. The 45-minute window is short enough to keep things moving without losing a younger crowd, and it's held indoors, which is a relief given the weather we usually get in Edinburgh around Halloween.

There are a few practical bits to keep in mind before you head over. Children have to be accompanied by a responsible adult, and that adult needs their own ticket too — only ticketholders get in, so make sure you've sorted both. Dogs aren't allowed, and buggies and pushchairs have to be left outside, so if you're coming with a pram, you'll want to plan for that. There's a £5 car park charge for all non-Trust members, and that doesn't change for National Trust for Scotland members, so it's one of those things to factor into the morning. The session runs for 45 minutes, starting at 10:00 on Saturday 31 October at Newhailes House & Garden, Newhailes Road, Musselburgh, EH21 6RY.