Something wickedly good this way comes: Harewood House drops huge autumn half-term line-up & kids can go free
Packed with broomstick-making, outdoor cinema screenings under the stars, and spooky woodland trails, the iconic West Yorkshire estate is offering free entry for children this October
One of West Yorkshire’s most famous historic estates has unveiled a huge week of Halloween-themed events for October half term - and children are being offered free entry throughout the holidays.
Harewood House, located just a short drive from central Leeds, is launching its Spells + Sparkles season throughout the school break this year.
While the main house remains closed in preparation for its upcoming winter celebrations, the venue's 140 acres of grounds and gardens are being transformed into a magical autumn adventure zone.
Families visiting the estate can take part in the new Spells and Sparkles Trail across the North Lawn, helping Harewood’s resident witch, Bessie Broomstick, track down her missing magical belongings.
A second Spooky Tree Spot It Trail will also run daily, encouraging children to explore twisted trunks and mysterious hollows around the site.
For young witches and wizards keen to get hands-on, daily Broomstick Making workshops will take place at the Sylvascope treehouse, allowing children to construct their own natural broomsticks using fallen branches, twigs, and leaves, guided by Harewood’s team.
Other highlights set for the half term include an open-air screening of the iconic 1993 Halloween film Hocus Pocus on the North Lawn (October 24), and daily guided walks with the Harewood Garden Team exploring local folklore and tree legends.
There will also be a hands-on LEGO Club Spooky Special building session in the Education Suite where children can craft haunted houses and monsters and day camps for 7–11-year-olds featuring potion-brewing and costume-making.
Children receive free entry throughout the half-term holiday when tickets are booked online before 10am on the day of the visit. Online adult admission is priced at £22.55 (with higher rates applying at the gate), while entry is free for Harewood Members and children under four.
Discounted £3 access tickets are also available for visitors in receipt of Universal Credit, Pension Credit, DLA, or PIP.
The Spells + Sparkles October half-term season runs daily from October 24 to November 1, with the grounds and play areas open from 10am to 5pm. All advance tickets and individual event bookings can be secured online through Harewood House’s official website or by calling 0113 218 1000