A frightfully fun half term with the National Trust at Nymans and Standen

Families looking for spooky seasonal adventures this October half term can enjoy two Halloween-themed trails at National Trust places in Sussex. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor play, exploration and autumn family fun at both Nymans, near Haywards Heath, and Standen, near East Grinstead.

At Nymans, young visitors can join We're Going on a Ghost Hunt™ Halloween Adventure from 10 October to 1 November. Inspired by the bestselling children's books, families are invited to help the bunnies of Hoppity Hill search for hidden ghosts around the garden, taking part in Halloween hoopla, broomstick races and stepping-stone challenges along the way before collecting a sticker at the finish. The trail is free with normal admission and is particularly suited to preschoolers and younger children.

Alongside the Halloween adventure, families can make the most of Nymans' popular Play Glade, with den building, balancing logs, musical play and plenty of space to explore the autumn garden and woodland. Under-fives visit free and picnics are welcome throughout the grounds.

A little further north at Standen, families can follow the ‘Spookiful at Standen’ trail from 3 October to 1 November. Designed to be spooky rather than scary, the trail winds through the garden with Halloween-inspired activities featuring creepy crows, Standen bats and magical encounters. Visitors can peek inside the Spookiful Bothy, get creative in the Witchard Den and complete the trail for a small gift. Trails cost £3 per child, plus normal admission.

Standen also offers plenty of opportunities to burn off energy, with woodland walks, natural play in Adventure Corner, a willow maze and hidden felted mice to discover throughout the house.

As autumn gives way to winter, both places will soon be welcoming families for their Christmas celebrations. Nymans will host The Gruffalo Art Adventure alongside its festive house displays, while Standen's Christmas programme includes the Merry Mice Christmas Trail and beautifully decorated Arts and Crafts interiors.

For more information and opening details, visit the websites.