Twist Stories

Top 10 Halloween Activities in London for Kids

Looking for spooky things to do in London this Halloween that are fun for kids (and grown-ups too)? From pumpkin trails and haunted hunts to dazzling light shows and family-friendly frights, the capital is packed with Halloween magic this October.

Here are ten of the best Halloween activities in London for kids, including a few tricks and treats from us here at Twist Museum!

1. Join The Haunted Hunt and Witness Wizards Casting Spells at Twist Museum 👻🧙

If you’re after Halloween fun that’s spooky and smart, head to Twist Museum on Oxford Street. This immersive world of illusions is transforming into a Halloween wonderland from 18 October – 2 November.

Kids can take part in The Haunted Hunt which is a free trail through the museum’s interactive exhibits, where they’ll solve puzzles, look out for clues and spot creepy crawlies hidden in the art. Complete the challenge to earn a special Halloween treat!

Plus, they have partnered with Marvin’s Magic to offer live magic shows four times a day from 25 October – 2 November!
🎟️ Book your Halloween visit now

2. Get Bewitched at the Harry Potter Studio Tour 🎩

Step inside the wizarding world this Halloween at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. Explore the Great Hall filled with pumpkins, floating candles and flickering cauldrons as part of their “Dark Arts” experience. Perfect for little witches and wizards!

3. Go Pumpkin Picking Near London 🎃

Nothing says Halloween in London quite like pumpkin patches. Head to Crockford Bridge Farm in Surrey or Belmont Farm in Mill Hill for family-friendly pumpkin picking, carving sessions, and plenty of photo ops.

4. Explore the London Dungeon (If You Dare!) 🏰 

For older kids and brave parents, the London Dungeon brings history’s creepiest characters to life. Expect jump scares, storytelling, and a few spine-tingling surprises, but it’s best suited for ages 10+.

5. Follow the Ghost Trail at Hampton Court Palace 🕯️ 

Hampton Court is one of London’s most haunted spots, and this Halloween it’s hosting twilight tours packed with ghostly tales and Tudor myths. It’s history with a haunting twist, ideal for curious kids and grown-ups who love a good story.

6. Trick-or-Treat at Covent Garden 🧛  

Covent Garden turns into a Halloween playground every October with themed decorations, spooky street performers and seasonal pop-ups. Many cafes and shops even hand out treats for kids in costume.

7. Discover Creepy Creatures at the Natural History Museum 🦇

Visit the Natural History Museum for a day of discovery with a Halloween spin. From dinosaurs to deep-sea monsters, it’s full of fascinating (and slightly frightening!) exhibits that kids will love exploring.

8. Take a Spooky Ride on the London Eye 👁️

See the city from above, if you dare! The London Eye often runs themed Halloween capsules or family experiences. Go at dusk for the best eerie views of London’s skyline.

9. Get Creative at a Halloween Craft Workshop 🎨

Lots of local museums and art spaces, from the Horniman Museum to Museum of London Docklands, host Halloween craft days where children can make masks, lanterns or decorations to take home.

10. Spot London’s Most Haunted Landmarks 🕵️

Take a family ghost walk and explore London’s spooky side. Guided tours in Greenwich, Highgate and The City reveal eerie tales of ghosts, graveyards, and mysterious happenings, which are usually family-friendly and great fun.

Suggested Halloween Family Day in London Itinerary 🎃🧭

🕗 Morning (9:30am) – Start in Covent Garden Piazza ☕️ 

– Begin your day with street performers, pumpkin-themed decorations and a warm drink at Whittard of Chelsea or Black Penny.
– Kids can spot Halloween window displays and pick up small treats at local shops.

🚇 Travel: Covent Garden station → Oxford Circus station (Around 10 mins on the Piccadilly line).

🕙 Late Morning (10:30am – 12:30pm) – Explore Twist Museum, 248 Oxford Street 🌀  

– Dive into an immersive world of illusions and Halloween fun!
– Join The Haunted Hunt (free all day) and enjoy live Marvin’s Magic shows (show times: 10:30am, 12pm, 1:30pm & 3pm).
– Perfect family photo ops and a great mix of playfulness and science.

🎫 Tip: Pre-book your tickets online to save 15% and to secure your Marvin’s Magic Show, as spaces are limited. Arrive 10 minutes early to make the most of your visit.

🕐 Lunch (12:30pm – 2pm) – Around Oxford Street 🍔  

– There are a wide range of great restaurants on and around Oxford Street or inside Selfridges.
– If you don’t mind a short walk, the best areas for food near Oxford Street are Soho for its high concentration of diverse restaurants and Marylebone for more upscale options.

🕒 Afternoon (2pm – 4pm) – Ghostly Sights & Scenic Strolls 🕯️

– Stroll down Regent Street towards Piccadilly Circus, then wander through St James’s Park to Westminster Abbey which is home to centuries of “ghost stories.”
– Older kids might enjoy a short family ghost walk (London Walks run gentle daytime versions).

🕕 Evening (5pm – 7pm) – Dinner & Dazzle – South Bank 🍕

– Take the Tube (Oxford Circus station → Waterloo station in 7 mins via the Bakerloo line OR Tottenham Court Road station → Waterloo station in 6 mins via the Northern line OR Westminster station → Waterloo station in 2 mins via the Jubilee line).
– Grab a bite to eat around South Bank, family friendly options include Pizza Express or Giraffe etc.
– End with a Halloween-lit ride on the London Eye which will be glowing orange for Halloween!

🚇 Getting Home 🏡

South Bank has easy access to several tube and train lines, with the closest being Waterloo station (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City lines) and Embankment station (District and Circle lines).

Final Thoughts 🧠

Whether you’re hunting ghosts, watching magic or posing with pumpkins, there’s no shortage of Halloween themed things to do in London for kids this October. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, the city is bursting with family-friendly fun and a few spooky surprises along the way.

So grab your costumes, pack your courage and get ready for a Halloween to remember!