What's on at Stanwick Lakes during half-term including spooky family fun
Stanwick Lakes is set to come alive this October half-term with a programme of spooky adventures, creative workshops and outdoor fun for the whole family.
The Halloween activities are designed to encourage families to slow down and enjoy time together – from autumn crafts and seasonal treats to glowing trails and woodland adventures.
Billie Passchier, trust director at Stanwick Lakes, said: “Half-term at Stanwick Lakes is all about giving families the chance to spend quality time together without the pressure of rushing from one thing to the next, which is why it’s such a special place to visit.
"With affordable activities, autumn crafts, seasonal treats and plenty of outdoor fun, we want to offer a full day out where everyone – from little ones to grandparents – can make magical memories in nature.”
Half-term highlights include:
Halloween Trail (October 25 to November 2)
This half-term, join the woodland animals as they go trick or treating around the glowing Halloween trail.
Enjoy a spooky stroll, knock on tiny doors and discover glow in the dark secrets, before collecting your spooky toy and a sweet treat.
No advance booking needed, just turn up and buy tickets in the visitor centre.
Cræftiģ Makers – Exploring Heritage, sustainability and handmade artistry (October 27 to November 2)
This exciting exhibition, presented by the Northants Guild of Spinners, Weavers and Dyers, celebrates 45 years of the Guild and showcases the incredible talents of local artisans.
Visitors can discover decorative and practical pieces created using both heritage and contemporary hand skills, with a strong focus on natural dyeing and environmentally sustainable materials.
Alongside wearable and practical art, there will be striking one-off pieces on display and visitors will have the rare opportunity to see artisans at work during the exhibition and learn about their processes directly from the makers.
Open from Monday, October 27 in The Hideaway at the visitor centre.
Craft a Willow Lantern (October 28, 30 and 31)
Create your own spooky lantern using willow harvested by the ranger team.
With twinkling lights and imaginative decorations, this is a magical hands-on activity perfect for families.
Booking is required: https://stanwicklakes.org.uk/events/willow-lantern-workshop-oct-half-term-2025/
Den Building (Tuesday, October 28)
The ever-popular summer activity returns for the October half-term.
Learn essential survival skills in this hands-on session with the rangers.
Children will work together to build shelters and discover woodland know-how.
Harvest Mouse Explorers (Tuesday, October 28)
Step into the shoes of a real wildlife detective.
Help the Rangers search for the harvest mouse – the UK’s smallest rodent – by looking for their hidden nests and learning survey skills along the way.
The data gathered will then be shared with the Mammal Society’s National Harvest Mouse Survey so the adventure has a real purpose.
Booking required: https://stanwicklakes.org.uk/events/harvest-mouse-explorers-2025/
Forest Adventure Fun (Thursday, October 30)
Join the Rangers for a woodland adventure packed with fire lighting, outdoor crafts and nature-based challenges.
Booking required: https://stanwicklakes.org.uk/events/forest-fun-oct-half-term-25/
Halloween Pottery (October 25 to November 2)
Drop into the visitor centre any time during half-term to paint your very own spooky pottery creation.