Halloween in Aberdeenshire 2026: Spooky Family Days Out
From haunted castles to pumpkin patches, discover some of the best Halloween activities in Aberdeenshire this October.
October is a wonderful time to explore Aberdeenshire. The countryside is full of autumn colour, historic castles have spooky stories to tell, and local farms are getting ready for pumpkin-picking season.
Whether you’re looking for a gentle Halloween adventure with little ones or a family day out with a few surprises along the way, there’s plenty happening around Aberdeen and Royal Deeside.
We’ve rounded up some of our favourite family-friendly Halloween events taking place this October, all within reach of Deeside Holiday Park.
Event dates, prices and availability may change. We recommend checking directly with organisers before travelling.
Frightful Forest at Crathes Castle
23–25 October 2026 | 10am–3pm (last entry)
The beautiful woodland surrounding Crathes Castle takes on a spooky twist this Halloween.
Follow the Frightful Forest trail, discover hidden clues and enjoy a few creepy surprises as you make your way through the grounds. There’s a prize waiting at the end for those who complete the adventure.
It’s a lovely choice for families with younger children, with buggy-friendly paths and dogs welcome on short leads.
Tickets: £6 per child, with accompanying adults free. Parking charges apply.
Halloween Family Trail at Drum Castle
22–31 October 2026 | 10.30am–3.30pm (last entry)
There’s something rather atmospheric about visiting an old Scottish castle at Halloween, and Drum Castle is getting into the spirit of the season.
Explore the spooky trail around the castle pond, follow the clues and solve a Halloween puzzle as you discover the grounds.
For families who prefer a quieter experience, relaxed sessions are available at 9.30am.
Family Halloween Trail at Castle Fraser
23–26 October 2026 | From 10.30am
Another of Aberdeenshire’s magnificent castles is joining in the Halloween fun.
Castle Fraser provides a wonderful setting for a family Halloween trail, with its impressive architecture and surrounding estate adding to the autumn atmosphere.
Why not combine the trail with a walk around the grounds and enjoy the beautiful seasonal colours?
Pumpkin Picking at Westerton Farm, Laurencekirk
9–25 October 2026
There’s plenty of autumn fun to be had at Westerton Farm near Laurencekirk, where the popular Pick Your Own Pumpkins event returns for its eighth year.
Head out into the pumpkin patch to find your perfect pumpkin, then see if you can conquer the giant bale maze. There’s lots more to keep little ones entertained, including an outdoor play area, bouncy castle fun in the barn and the chance to meet the farm’s goats, chickens and alpacas.
You can make a day of it too, with delicious food and drinks available from the farm’s Farm to Table café and farm shop, where you’ll find plenty of locally grown produce.
Booking information: Advance tickets are required, with admission charged per car rather than per person. Your ticket includes entry to the pumpkin patch and outdoor farm activities, including the bale maze. Pumpkins and indoor activities are charged separately.
