Halloween events and activities in Devon 2023

What better way to enjoy the crisp autumn months ahead than with an October half-term escape to Devon? Autumn in Devon is one of the best times to go on a country adventure and enjoy the dreamy peacefulness that Devon has to offer at this time of year. 

There’s nothing like taking a break to spend some quality time with loved ones, and now is the time to do it. The weather is still glorious, and the countryside is starting to turn a lovely shade of golden.

We have put together a list of some of the best Halloween events in Devon including pumpkin patches, attractions for the whole family and chilling experiences not for the faint-hearted.

Pumpkin patches

Pennywell Farm, near Totnes

Photo credit: Pennywell Farm

Pennywell Farm, near Totnes, is the biggest activity farm in the South West with over 150 animals and has something for everyone from pig racing to tractor rides. This autumn, from 30 September to 29 October, the Pennywell Pumpkin Festival is back!

There’s so much for visitors to see and do – you’ll be spoilt for choice! Pick your own pumpkins at the pumpkin patch, explore the farm and complete Paddy the Pumpkin’s Trial, live music, marshmallow toasting, as well as all the usual animal activities, farm rides, shows and displays.

Jolly Pumpkin, near Exeter

With over 50 varieties of pumpkin, squash and gourd available, all in an array of different shapes and sizes, Jolly Pumpkin really does have something for everyone. 

Every Saturday and Sunday throughout October, as well as every day during October half-term week, Jolly Pumpkin will be open to keep the little pumpkins busy with a spooktacular maize maze, bale mountain, vintage tractor and much more! 

Braunton Pumpkin Patch, Braunton

During October half term (between Saturday 21 and Saturday 28 October), Braunton Pumpkin Patch will be open for visitors to enjoy! There’s no entry fee, you just pay for what you pick!

Dogs are also welcome but must be kept on leads, and don’t forget your wellies too!

Family friendly

Crealy Theme Park, near Exeter

Spook-Fest returns to Crealy on 14 and 15 October as well as every day throughout October half term. Trick or treat yourself to a Crealy spooky day out and discover the most rides in Devon and their frightful Halloween attractions. 

The Scarecrow Scare Maze is back, and Dino Jeepers Creepers, new for 2023, is an immersive dinosaur experience with a roar-some trip through the prehistoric jungle – oh and there’s a free pumpkin for every child too!

Kents Cavern, Torquay

Photo credit: Kents Cavern

Kents Cavern near Torquay is one of Europe’s top Stone Age sites with an extensive maze of caverns. Discover the 400-million-year-old story of Kents Cavern brought to life by one of their guided tours.

Between 21 and 31 October, things are turning a bit batty at Kents Cavern for Halloween! Head over to take part in some bat-astic activities including the bat challenge, craft bats, pumpkin hunt, batty joke trail and much more all included within the Cave Tour ticket price. 

The Big Sheep, Bideford

Photo credit: The Big Sheep

Set in 40 acres of parkland, The Big Sheep is an award-winning family attraction including Devon’s largest roller coaster, thrilling rides and sheep races. You will adore the animal magic plus enjoy a brilliant selection of indoor and outdoor play, and activities to keep everyone in the family entertained.

This October half term, enjoy their frightfully good rides, take part in a pumpkin carving masterpiece as well as all the usual animal shows, rides, outdoor fun and indoor play – there’s lots for ewe to do!

Not for the faint hearted

Berry Pomeroy Castle, Totnes

Believed to be one of the most haunted places in England, Berry Pomeroy Castle was started in the late 15th century as the home of the de Pomeroy family. The land was sold to the Seymour family in the mid-16th century with the intent to create the most spectacular home in Devon, but work was never completed and by 1700 it had been abandoned. 

Nowadays the site is managed by English Heritage and all that remains is the shell. Over the years, tales of ghosts and ghouls have enveloped the Grade I-listed building and it even featured on the television show ‘Most Haunted: Live’.

Chambercombe Manor, Ilfracombe

This Norman Manor House in Ilfracombe dates back to the 11th century. The residence is said to be haunted by a woman who, after suffering injuries in a shipwreck off the North Devon coast, sought refuge but died – her skeleton being discovered years after her death. Rumour has it the cradle in the chamber where she was found moves on its own, while a ghostly face has also been photographed…

Buckland Abbey, Yelverton

Now owned by the National Trust, Buckland Abbey was once the home of Sir Francis Drake, who is now believed to haunt the Abbey.

Drake was sold the Abbey in 1580, however, he was out of favour with locals in the area who believed he possessed supernatural powers granted to him through a pact with the devil.

According to reports, Drake’s ghost is said to travel across Dartmoor in a black coach driven by several headless horses, followed by a pack of howling hounds. The National Trust has several attractions in Devon, for more information, read our guide about some of our favourite National Trust places to visit in Devon.  

Stay with us in Devon

If you haven’t booked your October half-term holiday to Devon yet, what are you waiting for? Browse our excellent range of self-catering holiday homes and cottages throughout Devon and pick out the perfect retreat for you. Whether you are travelling to the area with your loved one for a romantic break or a break with friends and family, we have accommodation large and small to fit your chosen occasion.