I can just about feel the excitement building in our house! Both of our girls love Halloween, from the picking to the costume making and mostly but the idea of free sweets it’s a highlight of the year for us! Whether you’re visiting for a cozy stay at our Luxury Lodges or a live locally looking to soak up the Halloween spirit, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful corner of Scotland. From haunted ghost walks to family-friendly farm experiences, here’s a guide to the best Halloween events happening around Dumfries and Galloway this year.
1: Dumfries Ghost Walk
Dive into the darker side of Dumfries with the famous Ghost Walk. This eerie tour takes you through the town’s historic streets, where ghostly apparitions and spine-chilling stories of the past come to life. From haunted inns to ancient graveyards, the Ghost Walk is perfect for those who love a frightful evening adventure.
When: October 27-31
Where: Dumfries Town Centre
Perfect for: Adults and teens who love a good scare!
2: Pumpkin Picking at Drumlanrig Castle
Looking for some family-friendly fun? Head to Drumlanrig Castle for their annual pumpkin picking event. Stroll through the picturesque pumpkin patch, pick out the perfect gourd, and enjoy activities like pumpkin carving and face painting. The backdrop of the castle makes this a magical Halloween experience for all ages.
When: October 21-29
Where: Drumlanrig Castle, Thornhill
Perfect for: Families with kids
3: Halloween at Ernespie Farm
Ernespie Farm, located just outside Castle Douglas, is the place to be for family-friendly Halloween festivities. Their farm-themed Halloween events include a spooky scavenger hunt, pumpkin picking, and a haunted barn experience that’s great for kids. There are also plenty of Halloween-themed games, crafts, and delicious seasonal treats in the café. It’s a great way to get into the Halloween spirit while enjoying the beauty of the countryside.
When: October 28-31
Where: Ernespie Farm, Castle Douglas
Perfect for: Families with young children (Our two loved it last year!)
5: The Haunted Forest at Galloway Forest Park
For thrill-seekers, Galloway Forest Park’s Haunted Forest offers a heart-racing experience. Take a walk through the deep, dark woods, where ghostly figures, strange sounds, and eerie lights will keep you on edge. Perfect for those who love the outdoors with a dash of terror, this event is a must-try for adventure lovers.
When: October 28-31
Where: Galloway Forest Park
Perfect for: Nature lovers and thrill-seekers
5; Creepy Crafting at The Devil’s Porridge Museum
The Devil’s Porridge Museum is mixing history with Halloween for a family-friendly day of creepy crafting. Kids can make their own spooky decorations while learning about the local history of the area. It’s a fun and educational way to celebrate Halloween, offering plenty of hands-on activities for younger visitors.
When: October 28
Where: The Devil’s Porridge Museum, Eastriggs
Perfect for: Families and children who love to craft
6: Witchy Workshops at Logan Botanic Garden
Logan Botanic Garden invites you to their Witchy Workshops, where participants can make potions, spells, and Halloween-themed crafts. Learn about the folklore of the area and embrace your inner witch or wizard while exploring the garden’s beautiful surroundings. This event is a magical way to get creative and learn about local traditions.
When: October 25-29
Where: Logan Botanic Garden, Port Logan
Perfect for: Families and nature lovers
7: Halloween at Mabie Farm Park
Mabie Farm Park is bringing the fun with a haunted hayride, a spooky corn maze, and a variety of Halloween games. The park offers a perfect day out for families, with attractions suitable for all ages, and plenty of opportunities to dress up in costume and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
When: October 29-31
Where: Mabie Farm Park, Dumfries
Perfect for: Families with younger children
Stay at Gatehouse Luxury Lodge for a Cozy Halloween Getaway
Looking to make the most of the Halloween season in Dumfries and Galloway? Why not extend your visit and stay at Gatehouse Luxury Lodges. Our dog-friendly lodge is the perfect base for your spooky adventures. After a day of exploring haunted trails and picking pumpkins, return to the comfort of our cozy, peaceful retreat, where you can unwind with a cup of hot cocoa by the fire and enjoy the serenity of the countryside with your furry companion.
Book your Halloween getaway today, and experience the magic and mystery of Dumfries and Galloway this spooky season!
With so many exciting events taking place, Dumfries and Galloway is the ultimate Halloween destination this year. From ghostly tours and haunted forests to family-friendly pumpkin patches and spooky crafts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So dust off your costumes, gather your friends and family, and get ready for a Halloween to remember!
James
Ps for more ideas on what to do check out our things to do page!
