Looking for the spookiest things to do in Derbyshire this Halloween? From haunted castles and creepy ghost walks to family-friendly pumpkin trails and scary after-dark events, Derbyshire is full of eerie experiences perfect for October.
Known as one of the UK’s most haunted regions, Derbyshire offers everything from chilling ghost hunts in historic jails to fun Halloween days out for kids. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker hunting for real scares or a family after a more light-hearted adventure, this guide covers the best Halloween events, haunted attractions and ghost tours in Derbyshire this spooky season.
1. Go Pumpkin Picking
For a family-friendly Halloween activity, pumpkin picking in Derbyshire is the perfect autumn day out. Local farms open their gates in October with huge pumpkin patches where you can wander the fields and choose your own.
Many also offer themed activities like spooky mazes, tractor rides, pumpkin carving stations and Halloween treats in the farm shop or café. Whether you’re looking for the perfect pumpkin to carve at home, or just want to soak up the seasonal atmosphere with the kids, pumpkin picking in Derbyshire is a must-do Halloween tradition.
My favourite places to pick pumpkins include Stretton Manor Farm, Village Pumpkins PYO at Barlow, and Ashover Family Farm.
2. Visit Punnydukes in Matlock
Address: Unit 1, The Courtyard, 2 Dale Rd, Matlock DE4 3LT
Head to the Courtyard on Dale Road where you’ll find one of the most magical shops in Matlock, Punnydukes. Inside, there’s a mixture of witchcraft and wizardry inspired by magical fantasy.
Home to the cutest illustrations, an assortment of spellbinding trinkets, and plenty of spots to get some quirky photos, you’ll find yourself lost in its treasures. Outside, you can see a blue Ford Anglia, a replica of the car that Harry and Ron fly into Hogwarts at the beginning of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
3. Visit The Lost Cauldron in Matlock
Address: 75A Matlock Green, Matlock DE4 3BT
The Lost Cauldron is a magical little shop that feels like stepping straight into a witch’s apothecary. Specialising in crystals, herbs, spell kits, incense and other mystical treasures, it’s a favourite haunt for anyone with a love of the supernatural or a curiosity about witchcraft and folklore.
The shelves are packed with potions, charms and unique gifts that make it a perfect stop during a Halloween visit to Derbyshire. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or simply looking for something a little unusual, The Lost Cauldron is a spellbinding addition to any spooky day out in Matlock.
4. Get a ghost from the Matlock Ghost Emporium
Address: Unit 405, Via Gellia Mill, Via Gellia Rd, Bonsall, Matlock DE4 2AJ
A visit to the Matlock Ghost Emporium is a must this Halloween. Immerse yourself in the legend of Professor Baranabus Ravenwood and his extensive collection of haunted artefacts in this historic mill.
Set in an historic mill, each of these cute little ghosts has a story, and the theatrical staff are perfect to tell them. If you’ve been to the York Ghost Merchants then this is a similar vibe but right on our doorstep.
5. Visit Malfoy Manor
Address: Doe Lea, Chesterfield S44 5QJ
One of Derbyshire’s most famous stately homes, Hardwick Hall is a must-visit for Harry Potter fans. The historic Elizabethan mansion was used as the filming location for Malfoy Manor in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
Its striking architecture, tall windows and dramatic setting made it the perfect choice for the sinister home of the Malfoy family. Visitors can explore the hall and gardens, imagining scenes from the wizarding world while also discovering the fascinating real history of Bess of Hardwick and her grand designs.
This Halloween, Hardwick Hall is home to a magical new digital adventure. Stranger Folk is played on a mobile app and designed for children aged 7-12 – although bigger kids will love it too!
You’ll need to seal the rift between the spirit and the human worlds before the spooky creatures take over. Watch out for sneaky goblins and cunning beggars along the way.
You can also take part in the adventure at Ilam Park and the Longshaw Estate.
6. Indulge in a pumpkin spice latte
My favourite treat to indulge in at Halloween is a pumpkin spice latte and you can pick one up at one of the gorgeous independent cafes in Derbyshire. Some of the best places to get one include:
- The Batch House in Chesterfield
- The Two Hares in Glossop
- Host at Clay Cross and Chesterfield
- The Old Smithy at Beeley
- Vanilla Co at Clay Cross
- Stretton Hall Farm Shop
- Bottle & Thyme in Chesterfield
7. Visit the plague village of Eyam
A visit to Eyam, the famous Plague Village of Derbyshire, offers one of the most hauntingly fascinating experiences in the Peak District. In 1665, when the plague struck the village, the community made the brave decision to quarantine itself to prevent the disease spreading, a sacrifice that cost many lives but saved neighbouring towns.
Today, visitors can walk through the village and see the plague cottages, the Boundary Stone where supplies were left, and the parish church with its moving plague memorials. Eyam’s story is steeped in history and tragedy, making it a powerful – and slightly eerie – destination, especially for those seeking something atmospheric and thought-provoking at Halloween.
If you’re feeling active then there’s a gorgeous circular walk from Eyam to Stoney Middleton which is perfect in autumn.
8. Lady Ember Ghostly Walks of Castleton
Dates: 29th – 31st October 2025, 6.30pm – 8pm
Lady Ember rejoins the land of the living this Halloween to lead some ghostly guided walks around the beautiful village of Castleton. Discover spooky tales of ancient inns and hear about a gruesome double murder in this hour-long walking tour.
This walk is unsuitable for children or anyone who might feel nervous. Tours must be booked in advance.
9. Discover MAGIC at Haddon Hall
Address: Haddon Hall, Bakewell DE45 1LA
Dates: Various dates throughout October
Haddon Hall in Bakewell has a special exhibition running throughout October. MAGIC: charms, rituals, and superstition in Elizabethan England is a fascinating display about witchcraft in the 15th century.
The hall has been filled with objects and stories, along with a magical atmosphere to bring this world to life. Entrance to the exhibition is included in general admission to the hall.
10. Halloween Barbecue Feast at Amber Valley Vineyards
Address: Amber Valley Vineyards, Back Ln, Wessington, Alfreton DE55 6DL
Date: 31st October, 5pm
Cost: £35 per person
Tickets: Must be booked in advance through Amber Valley Wines
Enjoy a night of good food and a little bit of Halloween mischief all by firelight at Amber Valley Vineyards’ Halloween Barbecue Feast. Dine on a howling hot dog, witch’s wedges, pumpkin patch salad, and toffee apple pudding, all washed down with spiced and spooky mulled cider.
Fancy dress is optional.
11. Fright Night 2 – The Mills Have Eyes at Cromford Mills
Address: Cromford Mills, Mill Lane, Derbyshire, DE4 3RQ
Date: 1st November, 6pm – 10pm
Scare yourself silly with the all-new scare maze at Cromford Mill. Try to escape the Z Walkers zombies as they hunt for humans in the Mill Yard and visit the Cinema of Horrors for some classic horror films.
There will also be live music from Dustbowl Orphans and a silent disco until late. Enter the cosplay competition and watch out for the other creepy cosplay characters.
If brains aren’t your thing then there will be some delicious street food to chow down on instead and drinks are available from the bar, including some themed cocktails. Please note: this event is intending to be scary and is not suitable for children under 15 years of age.
12. Trick or Treat Brunch at Remarkable Hare, Matlock
Address: 77 Dale Road, Matlock DE4 3LT
Date: 31st October 2025, 9am – 12pm
This is one for the families with children. Enjoy activities like face painting, pumpkin carving, and games at the Remarkable Hare’s Halloween Brunch. Feast on spooky pancakes and get a frightful goodie bag, plus you’ll get to meet Spider-Man and Wednesday Addams.
13. Dead Famous Bottomless Brunch at Remarkable Hare, Matlock
Address: 77 Dale Road, Matlock DE4 3LT
Date: 1st November 2025, 12pm – 3pm
Now, this is one for the adults! Enjoy unlimited drinks and themed food for 90 minutes with three hours of live entertainment including music from Alex Wallhead.
14. Halloween walk around Stoney Middleton and Eyam
Address: The Dl, Hope Valley S32 4TF
Dates: October
Tickets: No need to book
If you love getting outside then this one is for you. Pop into The Cupola in Stoney Middleton to pick up your Halloween-themed walking map for £3.
The map has a shorter walk if you’ve got little legs with you and a longer walk, taking you around the historic destinations of Stoney Middleton and telling you a few dark tales along the way.
15. Death on the Slopes at Bank House Hathersage
Address: Bank House, Main Rd, Hathersage, Hope Valley S32 1BB
Dates: 31st October 2025, 6pm – 11pm
Tickets: Free entry
A spooky Halloween party is taking place to launch The Apres Bar at Bank House Hathersage. The outdoor tipi will be frightfully decorated and there’s a free cocktail available for everyone in fancy dress.
16. Halloween Sip & Paint at The VanillaCo, Clay Cross
Address: 75 High St, Clay Cross, Chesterfield S45 9DZ
Dates: 18th October 2025, 5.30pm – 7.30pm
Paint your own decorative pumpkin to take home in the relaxed environment at The VanillaCo. Enjoy a pumpkin spice latte, toasted marshmallow hot chocolate, or white pumpkin hot chocolate, and some handcrafted autumn nibbles while you paint. Tickets cost £23.
17. Spooky swim at the Lido, New Bath Hotel
Address: New Bath Road, Matlock Dale, Matlock DE4 3PX
Dates: 31st October 2025, 6pm – 9pm
Take the plunge with a 30-minute swim in the refreshing waters (read: cold!) of the Lido at the New Bath Hotel in Matlock Bath. Carved pumpkins will surround the pool, giving it a spooky atmosphere. Hot drinks and soup will be available to buy to warm you up afterwards.
Bring along your own carved pumpkin to enter the competition where you can win a prize for the best design. Tickets cost £10 or free for members.
18. The Dolphin Ghost Walk, Derby
Address: Ye Olde Dolphin Inne, 5 Queen Street, Derby DE1 3DL
Dates: 23rd October & 13th November 2025, 7pm
Dare yourself to walk the haunted streets of Derby after dark on this chilling ghost walk. The walk starts at the historic Ye Olde Dolphin Inne and visits some of the most haunted locations in the city including Bridge Chapel and Seven Stars. Tickets cost £29 and include supper at the inn.
19. Matlock Farm Park’s Fang-tastic Halloween Festival
Address: Jaggers Lane, Matlock DE4 5LH
Dates: 25th October – 2nd November 2025
As well as there pumpkin patch where you can pick and carve your own pumpkins, there’s also a spooky trail through the Forbidden Forest, appearances from the Headless Horseman, and on the spot prizes for the best fancy dress outfits.
During October half term (25th – 31st October), there will also be the following:
- Live characters on the spooky trail (fun, not scary)
- Slime making with Frankenstein
- Broomstick flying lessons with Witch Wanda
- Scarecrow fun at the pumpkin patch
On the 1st and 2nd November there will be ghostbusting fun sessions throughout the day. Make proton packs, your own slime, and go on a ghost hunt with the experts (again, not scary, suitable for children).
20. Halloween on the Green, Stonebroom
Address: Pavilion Field, DE55 6LD
Dates: 31st October 2025, 5pm – 7pm
Tickets: No need to book but donations are requested.
An evening of spookilicious fun in Stonebroom. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Activities include:
- Fancy dress competition
- Apple bobbing
- Scary maze
- Feely boxes
- Spooky crafts
- Mummy wrap
- Guess the sweet jar
21. Matlock Halloween Psychic Shuffle
Address: Matlock Imperial Rooms, Imperial Road, Matlock DE4 3NL
Dates: 31st October 2025, 6.30pm
If you’re seeking connection and insight then this is the event for you. Skilled psychics, mediums, and tarot readers will rotate around the tables providing personalised readings in a unique format.
22. Dark Derby walk
Address: Derby Uncovered Heritage Centre, 11 Sadler Gate, Derby
Dates: Various dates including Halloween
Join a 90 minute walk full of revelations, curses, deaths, superstitions, evil doers, and more. Tickets are £10 per person.
23. An Evening of Ghost Stories at Kedleston Country House
Address: Kedleston Road, Quarndon, Derby DE22 5JD
Dates: 29th October 2025, 7pm – 10pm
A night of mystery, history, and haunting tales with Richard Felix, Derby historian and star of TV’s Most Haunted. Richard will be sharing eery stories of Derbyshire’s past by candlelight. Tickets include a hearty seasonal stew.
24. Halloween Gothic Market, Derby
Address: Derby Market Hall, Market Place, Derby DE1 2DB
Dates: 31st October 2025, 5pm – 10pm
Tickets: No need to book
Head to the Halloween Gothic Market at Derby’s Market Hall to discover a selection of local makers and creators. Each stall will be offering unusual and magical trinkets and gifts at this night market. Enjoy a browse and grab some food and drinks from one of the vendors here.
25. Halloween Cabaret Extravaganza, Matlock Bath
Address: The Grand Pavilion Matlock Bath, 196 South Parade, Matlock Bath, Matlock DE4 3NR
Dates: 1st November 2025, 7pm
A high octane and high vibes Halloween Cabaret Extravaganza featuring some of the biggest stars in burlesque, circus, comedy, and drag. This event is to raise money for the Pride in the Peaks event and tickets cost £35 or £95 with a VIP pre-dinner experience.
