The best Halloween activities in the North East

By Ania Askwith

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Halloween in the North East gets bigger, spookier, and more fun every year. From terrifying scare mazes like Nightmare in Rainton and Psychopath Newcastle, to pumpkin picking and seasonal treats, there’s so much going on.

The region really comes alive with Halloween magic.

Here’s my guide to the best Halloween things to do in the North East this year.

1. Nightmare in Rainton & Psychopath Newcastle

If you’re into live action horror and adrenaline pumping scares – you need to check out those two Halloween activities.

What to expect at Nightmare in Rainton AND Psychopath Newcastle

• Immersive scare mazes that throw you straight into a world of terror.
• Atmospheric lighting, realistic props, and live actors
• Creepy characters jumping out, eerie sound effects, and incredibly detailed sets that feel like a real horror movie.
• Terrifying atmosphere – pitch-black corners, sudden loud noises, moving props, and yes, chainsaws! Even if you’re normally not scared, these mazes will test your nerves.
• Book early – these events sell out fast!
• Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be walking through uneven terrain, so it’s best to come prepared. Waterproof is a must.
• Check admission age – some age restrictions apply
• Bring friends – it’s more fun (and less scary) in a group!

Is it worth it?

I must admit, I did scream quite a bit! It’s intense but the thrill of not knowing what’s around the corner is unmatched.

Tickets aren’t cheap, but absolutely worth it if you love Halloween and scares.

Location

• Nightmare in Rainton: Rainton Business Park, Houghton-le-Spring, DH4 5PH.
• Psychopath Newcastle: Lintz Hall Farm, Newcastle upon Tyne

2. Pumpkin patches in the North East

Pumpkin picking has become one of the North East’s most loved Halloween traditions. I really think there’s something super special about wrapping up warm, grabbing a wheelbarrow, and searching for the perfect pumpkin (or a few).

Over the years we’ve visited a few patches ourselves, and each one brings its own little bit of magic.

Here are some of the best spots to check out across the region this year:

• Brocksbushes Farm, Northumberland – pick your own pumpkins, carving tent, food village, and funfair-style rides.
• East Grange Farm, Durham – one of the biggest patches in the area with over 100,000 pumpkins and 17 varieties to choose from.
• Tweddle Farm, near Hartlepool – family-friendly with garden games, face painting, and fairground rides
• Whitehouse Farm, Morpeth – part of their annual spooky season celebrations with plenty of themed activities
• Down at the Farm, Houghton-le-Spring – a lovely countryside spot perfect for families.
• Baydale Pumpkin Patch, Darlington – a friendly farm with loads of pumpkin varieties

Is it worth it?

We’ve done a few pumpkin patches over the years and prices have gone up quite a bit.

It’s all about the experience and making a day of it. We love a day out and the atmosphere, but if you’re just after a few pumpkins to carve – we now get ours from Aldi.

3. Halloween treats in the North East

And of course, it wouldn’t be Halloween without trick and TREATS.

You can get your pumpkin spice basics from Greggs, coffee shops, or a supermarket, but local small businesses like Queen of Patisserie are levelling up the Halloween treats game.

The themed cupcakes are always incredible – beautifully decorated, delicious, and so much fun to open. Every design is handmade with amazing attention to detail, from ghosts and pumpkins to cute little monsters. And even some very cheeky cupcake toppings. There is something for everyone.

If you fancy treating yourself this season, Halloween orders are open until Saturday 25th October – and trust me, these are too good to miss!

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4. Night with the Spirits at Lumley Castle

If you’re into a spooky and sophisticated Halloween activities in the North East, this one is for you. You can join GhostWatchers UK and take part in paranormal experiments in and around one of England’s most haunted castles – Lumley Castle! Face your fears, step out of your comfort zone, and explore parts of the Castle few have seen before! Make sure to wear sensible shoes – with uneven floors, narrow corridors, and steps, this isn’t suitable for anyone with mobility issues. 18+ only.

5. Halloween but make it a party

There is a lot of Halloween fun going on in town this October, the 2 things that caught my eye are:

Manahatta Newcastle – Nightmare on Wall Street
A haunted trading floor full of scares and surprises. And unreal cocktails, as we come to expect from Manahatta.

Banyan Newcastle – Halloween Paint Party
Get creative with a bloody paint class, sip on cocktails, spin the Wheel of Doom, and enjoy a fun, ghoulish night out with friends.

Halloween in the North East

No matter your style of spooky fun, the North East has it all this Halloween. Scream your heart out in scare mazes, pick the perfect pumpkin, enjoy seasonal sweets, or explore haunted

Don’t forget to book your tickets early – the scares (and sweets!) wait for no one!

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