As autumn settles over Lancashire and the evenings draw in, Preston and its surrounding areas are preparing for a series of seasonal events that combine family fun with eerie entertainment. From pumpkin trails and costume parties to historic ghost tours, there’s something to suit every age and scare threshold this Halloween. So if you’re travelling to Preston in the near future, here are some events that you might like to enjoy.
Family-Friendly Halloween Events in Preston
If you’re visiting Preston with children or young ones, there’s plenty on offer to bring spooky, age appropriate, Halloween fun.
Dobbies Garden Centre – Little Scare-lings
Where: Blackpool Road, Clifton, Preston
When: 25, 26 and 31 October 2025
Dobbies Garden Centre will once again host its popular Little Scare-lings event, designed specifically for families with younger children. The sessions include Halloween-themed games, crafts and a relaxed party atmosphere. It’s spooky enough to be fun, but not too frightening for little ones. Costumes are encouraged, and places typically sell out early, so advance booking is recommended.
Ribble Steam Railway & Museum – Spooky Trains
Where: Chain Caul Road, Preston
When: 25 and 26 October 2025
For families who enjoy a mix of nostalgia and seasonal magic, the Ribble Steam Railway will transform its trains and museum into a Halloween wonderland. You can ride the “spooky” steam trains, take part in themed trails and enjoy interactive displays throughout the museum. This event is suitable for all ages, with plenty of photo opportunities and a welcoming atmosphere for children.
Brockholes Nature Reserve – Pumpkin Carving
Where: Preston New Road, Samlesbury, Preston
When: 25, 26 and 31 October 2025
Brockholes Nature Reserve offers a hands-on Halloween experience with its Pumpkin Carving sessions. You can select your own pumpkin and carve it in designated indoor and outdoor zones. This event is ideal for families looking to engage in a creative activity amidst the natural beauty of the reserve.
West Lancashire Light Railway – Halloween Special
Where: Station Road, Hesketh Bank (near Preston)
When: 31 October 2025
A short drive from Preston, the West Lancashire Light Railway will operate its annual Halloween Special evening service. You can enjoy a twilight train journey, complete with glowing pumpkins, costumed volunteers and gentle frights suitable for children. It’s an enjoyable outdoor experience that captures the traditional charm of Halloween without the jump scares.
Historic and Haunted Halloween Events in Preston
For those seeking a touch of Lancashire’s haunted history, Preston’s nearby heritage sites offer immersive ghost tours and after-dark storytelling experiences.
Hoghton Tower – Haunted Tours
Where: Blackburn Old Road, Hoghton, near Preston
When: Selected dates in late October 2025
Perched high above the Ribble Valley, Hoghton Tower is one of Lancashire’s most atmospheric landmarks, and reputedly one of its most haunted. This October, the historic estate will once again open its doors for a series of ghost tours. Guests are guided through dimly lit corridors and grand halls as storytellers recount centuries of eerie legends, ghost sightings and royal history.
While some tours are designed for adults and older teenagers, daytime family tours and heritage walks are also available. Given the venue’s popularity, pre-booking is strongly advised.
Samlesbury Hall – Torchlight Tours
Where: Preston New Road, Samlesbury
When: 26 and 31 October 2025
Samlesbury Hall, another of Lancashire’s most celebrated historic homes, is offering Halloween Torchlight Tours that combine Tudor history with ghostly folklore. The Grade I-listed hall, dating back to the 14th century, provides a fitting backdrop for tales of spirits, secret passages and mysterious happenings.
These tours are recommended for older children, teens and adults who appreciate a mix of storytelling and historical insight. The venue’s on-site café and grounds make it an appealing choice for a complete evening out.
Planning Your Halloween in Preston
Whether you prefer family-friendly fun or ghostly storytelling, a little advance planning will help you make the most of the season.
- Book ahead: Many Halloween events operate with limited capacity or timed entry, particularly those at heritage sites.
- Check age guidance: Some ghost tours may not be suitable for younger children; family-specific tours are often offered earlier in the evening.
- Dress appropriately: Costumes are welcome at most family events, but warm clothing is essential for outdoor tours and train rides.
- Travel and parking: Venues such as Hoghton Tower and the West Lancashire Light Railway offer on-site parking but may be busy; consider arriving early.
- Support local: Many of these events are run by local charities or volunteer organisations, so attendance directly supports Preston’s cultural and community heritage.
A Halloween for Everyone
Preston and the surrounding Lancashire countryside provide the perfect mix of light-hearted fun and historic intrigue at Halloween. Families can enjoy a pumpkin-filled day out at Dobbies, Brockholes, or the Ribble Steam Railway, while history enthusiasts can uncover the darker stories of Samlesbury Hall and Hoghton Tower.
Whether you’re carving pumpkins, boarding a haunted train or following a guide through centuries-old halls by torchlight, Halloween 2025 in Preston promises a memorable celebration of all things spooky.
If you’re visiting Preston this Halloween, why not choose the No.10 Preston Hotel? With a fantastic city centre location, our hotel boasts luxury apartments for a great night’s sleep, without the hauntings. Why not take a look at our rooms and availability today?