Budget-friendly Halloween fun

Budget-friendly Halloween fun
October is here, and Halloween is just around the corner. For many families, it’s a time for dressing up, carving pumpkins, and making memories together. But with the cost of living making budgets tighter, it’s understandable that Halloween might feel a little more frightful than festive this year.
To help, we’ve pulled together a list of free and affordable Halloween events across the South West, so you can enjoy the spooky season without the extra financial stress.
Whether it’s picking pumpkins, following a spooky trail, or cosying up at home for a scary movie night, there are plenty of ways to celebrate that won’t break the bank.
Bristol and surrounding areas
Farrington’s Pumpkin Patch and Witch’s Wood, Farrington Gurney
Spend a day outdoors choosing your perfect pumpkin at Farrington’s Farm. Tickets start at £3.95 and include entry to the Pumpkin Patch, Witch’s Wood, themed displays, and a carving area, as well as parking. Pumpkins are sold separately, so you can pick one that suits your budget. It’s a lovely day out for all ages.
Find out more and book your tickets here
Halloween House Displays Map, Bristol and Gloucestershire
For a fun and free evening adventure, the ‘Halloween Displays in Bristol and South Glos’ Facebook group is creating a map of the best-decorated homes in the area. Wrap up warm, grab a hot chocolate, and head out for a spooky stroll to see what you can find!
Check out the map here
Old Down Estate Halloween Half-Term, Bristol
Old Down Estate is running a week of Halloween fun, including slime making, cupcake decorating, arts and crafts, and much more. One child goes for just £1 with every full-paying adult, and pumpkin carving is available for £4, which you can take home. Activities vary by day, so it’s worth checking the schedule before you visit.
Gloucestershire
Spookyard at Over Farm, Gloucester
From 25 October to 2 November, Over Farm’s Spookyard Festival returns with live shows, fancy dress competitions, tractor rides, and plenty of Halloween fun. It’s designed to be more fun than frightening, making it perfect for younger children.
Tickets start at £14.99 and include access to all farm attractions, check out their website for more details.
Primrose Vale Halloween Trail, Cheltenham
Head to Primrose Vale for a gentler Halloween adventure. Follow the family-friendly trail filled with puzzles and challenges or stop by the Pumpkin Patch to find your perfect pick! Tickets start from £6.25 for children and £3.25 for adults, with discounts for off-peak visits, book here.
Somerset
Grand Pier Halloween Fun, Weston-super-Mare
This October half-term, the Grand Pier is getting a spooky makeover with ghost hunts, face painting, and a chance to meet the Wicked Witch. Entry costs £2 per person, or you can get an unlimited activities wristband for £20. There’s even 10% off online bookings with the code SPOOKY. View the full list of activities and see what each wristband includes
Bath
American Museum & Gardens Halloween Half Term, Bath
From 25 October to 2 November, enjoy an American-style Halloween in a stunning setting. There’s a pumpkin trail, scarecrow photo spots, and lots of themed activities.
Highlights include:
29 October: Pay What You Can Day- a fun filled day to suit your budget, simply make a donation to the museum and enjoy all the activities they have to offer
31 October: Big Trick or Treat event, dog costume competition, and a separately ticketed kids’ Halloween rave
Find out more details here and see what’s on during the week
Halloween fun at home
If you’re staying in this Halloween, there are still plenty of ways to keep the fun going. Why not try some of these easy Halloween DIY crafts, a costume challenge using clothes you already own, carve pumpkins together, or set up a scary movie night with some spooky homemade snacks.
Halloween doesn’t have to come with a scary price tag. With a little creativity and planning, you can make this half term special without spending much at all.