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Throughout October
Discover the UK’s spookiest traditions with a Halloween getaway at The Resident, from Edinburgh’s ancient Samhuinn Fire Festival to the sinister side of London, or a whole host of unusual goings on in Liverpool.
Halloween has deep roots in the UK, going back to when the ancient Celts roamed this land. On October 31st and November 1st, Celtic folk celebrated Samhain, a festival to mark the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter.
According to Celtic tradition, this was when the line between the world of the living and the land of the dead blurred. People would light big bonfires to ward off evil, dress up in animal skins and leave out food and drink to appease the spirits.
Fast-forward several centuries, and the Romans conquered much of Europe. Christianity spread across the Celtic lands, and the Catholic Church established All Saints’ Day on November 1st. All Hallows’ Eve became the night before, and the folklore and beliefs of all these cultures combined to create the Halloween we know today.
Halloween in the UK is a mix of traditions. Costumes, pumpkin carving, and bonfires are still popular, while trick-or-treating—an import from the USA—has become widespread in recent decades. Expect Halloween-themed events across the country, from pumpkin trails to hair-raising parties.
Open All Year Around
Embark on a spine-chilling journey through London’s dark history onboard a vintage Routemaster bus. Scare yourself with eerie tales of ghostly encounters and learn about the sinister side of the capital’s iconic landmarks.
Open All Year Around
The gruesome London Dungeon is even more terrifying at Halloween. Discover the capital’s most horrible history, from Sweeney Todd to Jack the Ripper. This unique walk-through experience features live actors, thrilling rides and scary special effects.
During October Half Term
For a family-friendly pumpkin trail, head to Belgravia, which will be full of spooky displays and Halloween-themed goodies. While there, pop into London’s most haunted pub, The Grenadier.
Throughout October
Not for the faint-hearted, this scare attraction offers a terrifying, interactive, live-action experience exclusively for the Halloween season. Expect the unexpected, including four main scare houses and a zombie warzone.
Friday 25th of October 2024
Set sail on a chilling Halloween cruise with a live DJ and blood-curdling beats from the 60s to the present day. Expect spooky tunes and peculiar passengers on this boat trip—costumes are encouraged.
Sunday 27th of October 2024
Celebrate Halloween at the races. Kids go free to this family event, which features entertainment, face painting, eerie costumed characters, and a ghost train.
The 25th & 26th of October
Terminal V’s Halloween event is a two-night electronic music festival with an international lineup featuring more than 30 artists across two stages. It’s a massive production welcoming 10,000 party-goers each night.
The 27th of October
This afternoon concert by the Royal Scottish National Orchestra is the perfect introduction to classical music for little ones. Enjoy supernatural movements from one of Europe’s leading symphony orchestras, accompanied by a Children’s Chorus.
The 31st of October
This dazzling fire parade celebrates the ancient ritual of Samhuinn, the original Halloween. Mark the Celtic New Year with live fire, drumming, acrobatics, and immersive theatre.
Stay with The Resident and uncover the authentic essence of Halloween this autumn, from the ancient Celtic roots of Edinburgh’s Samhuinn Fire Festival to the sinister side of London or a spooky take on some of Liverpool’s best-known attractions. Our collection of city centre hotels offer a sanctuary at the heart of the unearthly action.