Looking for half-term plans? Ushaw’s got you covered! Enjoy creative workshops, family crafts, and the spooky illuminated trail - find out more below.
Thursday, 30 October, Friday, 31st October & Saturday, 1 November 2025
Step through the stone gates and leave the everyday behind . . . if you dare. This spooky season, Ushaw’s historic grounds transform into a haunting illuminated trail, filled with wonder, mystery, and a touch of fright.
Ushaw's Illuminated Trail is back! Step through the stone gates and leave the everyday behind . . . if you dare. This spooky season, Ushaw’s historic grounds transform into a haunting illuminated trail, filled with wonder, mystery, and a touch of fright.
An All-New Trail of Terrors
This year’s trail is brimming with playful frights and unexpected surprises. Witches stir their bubbling potions, giant pumpkins cast an eerie glow, and gravestones shimmer with ghostly light. Spiders spin their webs in the shadows, and strange, glowing figures appear when you least expect them. Every turn brings something new – sometimes magical, sometimes monstrous.
Spooky characters will haunt the gardens with immersive performances. Witches, spirits, and strange figures stir in the darkness, leading to a finale that will leave you spellbound.
Choose Your Fright Level
Twilight (4:30-5:30pm) - A gentler adventure, perfect for younger families. The start of this timeslot will still be in daylight, making it a good option for families with young children.
Moonlight (6:30-7:30pm) - Shadows deepen, and so does the suspense.
Witching Hour (8:30-9:30pm) - For the boldest souls, where thrills are at their peak.
Will you brave the All Hallows’ Eve: Illuminated Trail, or turn back at the gates? Join Ushaw for a mesmerising evening, where the grounds brim with both wonder and terror. Secure your tickets now and immerse yourself in an experience you’ve never seen before!
Event Details
Dates: Thursday, 30th and Friday, 31st October & Saturday, 1st November 2025
Trail lasts approx. 1 hour
Wheelchair accessible - Dogs welcome on leads
There will be a spooky performance at the front of Main House before each slot ends
Parking must be booked in advance
Tickets are non-refundable, but timeslots can be changed via your confirmation email, if availability of other timeslots allow.
Entry is only at your chosen start time; trail remains open until the end of your slot
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult (18+)
Admission to Ushaw (Grounds & Gardens) included in ticket price
There will be no strobe lighting at this event
Entry free with Membership or Day Pass
Seasonal food & drink will be available from The Lady Grey Bar & SpudGun Loaded Fries
Tuesday, 28th October 2025 - 10:00 - noon
Enjoy a morning of Japanese Culture with students from Teikyo University in Durham. Learn about Origami, Japanese Calligraphy, chopstick games and discover Japanese traditional dress. Entry free with Membership or Day Pass.
For more information, click here.
Monday, 27th, Wednesday, 29th & Thursday, 30th October 2025
Celebrate the beauty of autumn at Ushaw with two creative, family-friendly workshops! Join Ushaw for Leafy Lanterns to craft your own glowing lantern inspired by our gardens and historic chapels, and Autumnal Animals to make woodland creature crafts inspired by the wildlife around Ushaw.
Booking is required for both sessions. Click here.


