Halloween 2026 (Into the woods)

Halloween 2026 (Into the woods) takes over Bestwood Lodge Hotel on Saturday 31 October, with the afternoon running from 12:00 and doors open from 11:30. It's put on by Jolly Gardener Events and billed as a family fun day, so it's one of those things you can drag the whole lot along to rather than splitting the day between the kids and yourself.

The hotel itself is one of Nottingham's most Gothic buildings, which fits the Halloween theme without needing much help. The afternoon mixes live music with a long list of children's activities: a 'Trick or Treat' treasure trail, bouncy castles, face painters, food stalls, and a craft market. There's fancy dress on the go, and a bring-your-own-carved-pumpkin competition for anyone who's spent the morning with a knife and a gourd. For the adults, there are two licensed bars on site, so you can keep a drink in hand while the kids run through the treasure trail.

It's a family day, so it's built for a slow afternoon rather than a quick stop. You've got the music, the bouncy castles, and the craft market to drift between, and the pumpkin competition gives you a reason to actually bring something from home. Between the food stalls and the bars, there's plenty to keep you fed and watered while the kids work through the activities.

Entry is £2.50 per person, with no booking fees, and parking is free. The hotel is at Bestwood Country Park, Nottingham, NG5 8HT, and the whole thing kicks off at 12:00, with doors open from 11:30.