Speke Hall reveals spooky Tudor Hallowtide half term activities

This October half term, Speke Hall is giving visitors the chance to experience the dark and creepy side to Tudor life with a new outdoor trail based around sixteenth century superstitions, as well as plenty more spooky half term activities running between 26 October and 3 November.

For one week only, visitors will be able to explore the grounds of the National Trust property to find cursed spirits who fell foul of Tudor superstitions such as walking under ladders or spilling salt.

Once all the spirits have been found, and families have collected their exclusive sticker reward, they can join storytellers to hear historic spooky tales or roam the house to learn how to live like a Tudor.

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For crafty kids, there are Superstitious Smells crafts sessions where they can make their own scent charm to ward off evil spirits or try Tudor Transformations face painting for the chance to be turned into something suitably scary.

“October half term is always a really magical time for our visitors,” says Michele Brennan, Visitor Experience Officer. “The pumpkins have been picked from the Kitchen Garden, the leaves are turning golden and everyone gets the chance to experience the spooky side to Speke Hall’s past. We’re especially excited to reveal the ‘Into the Dark Woods’ trail – we know families are going to love it.”

As always, there will be the usual family favourites at Speke Hall to enjoy. Solve the mystery of the hedge maze, explore the Giant Childe of Hale play trail or let off some steam in the property’s two play areas, including a woodland play area filled with nature obstacles and a zip wire.

This half term is also the last chance to enter the house before it closes for the winter period (except during Christmas weekends) from 4 November, as well as explore Speke Hall’s current exhibition about Catholic persecution and the life or death secrets of the Hall’s Tudor residents.

Home Farm restaurant is open 10.30am-4.30pm every day for tasty lunches, kids lunchboxes and warming treats. The property’s shop also provides a great alternative to the high street, with everything from Halloween treats and decorations to locally-made gifts and National Trust exclusives.

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Normal admission prices apply. Entry is free for National Trust members and children under 5. The house will be closed on Monday 28 and Tuesday 29 October but there is always plenty to do in the grounds and gardens.

For more information, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/spekehall or call 051 427 7231.

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