As the leaves begin to change colour and fall, we welcome the spooky season of Halloween. In London, Halloween takes on a life of its own, from haunted houses to fun family activities, there is something special for everyone in London.
Join us as we discover all the must-see places and activities for Halloween events London. No matter if you’re looking for a terrifying experience or a light-hearted celebration, London Halloween events in 2024 will be unforgettable!
Spooky attractions and haunted tours
London’s rich history makes for the perfect backdrop for an eerie night of Halloween. The city is full of ghost tales, murders and mystery, all waiting to be explored.
The London Dungeon is highly recommended for anyone looking to experience the dark and scary side of London’s history. Found on the South Bank, a visit to London’s Dungeon is a fun experience with live actors, special effects and a scary storyline. On your visit, you will meet infamous characters like Sweeny Todd and Jack the Ripper. The London Dungeon is open from 10 AM to 5 PM on weekdays and until 6 PM on weekends. Tickets start at £28 and we highly suggest reserving ahead of time, as Halloween in London is expected to be busier than other times throughout the year.
For a more relaxed experience, a Ghost Bus Tour is a great opportunity to visit the city’s most haunted locations. On board a vintage 1960’s Routemaster bus, explore the city while actors share tales of London’s dark history. Tours begin at 7:30 PM and tickets are priced at £25.
Another great London Halloween event is the Jack the Ripper Tour. This is one of London’s most iconic walking tours, no matter the season but comes to life during Halloween. The tour takes you through Whitechapel, where Jack the Ripper famously stalked his victims in 1888. You are accompanied by expert guides through the tour as they highlight the gruesome murders and the history of each victim. Tours begin in the evening and tickets are £15.
Halloween parties, shows, and nightlife
Halloween night sees London transform into a city of thrills and celebrations. Throughout the city are parties, shows and themed events perfect for groups of friends and families.
One of the most sought-after events in the city is the Halloween Ball at The Mansion. This is an exclusive party with a strict dress code of extravagant costumes. Each year, it is held in a secret location and has live performances and music, taking place in a stunning haunted mansion.
The Ministry of Sound Halloween Rave is the perfect place for anyone who prefers to dance the night away. Held in an iconic nightclub, the event is usually held on the Saturday before Halloween night and has a starting entrance fee of £20 and up with VIP options available.
Another popular event is The Woman in Black at the Fortune Theatre. This is a play based on a ghost story and is the perfect way to get into the Halloween mood.
Family-friendly activities
Halloween in London is not just for adults, there are plenty of Halloween events for kids in London that are not too frightening.
The Horniman Museum and Gardens is a great destination for a family-friendly Halloween experience. They hold an annual Halloween Fair where children can join in a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, costume competitions and scary storytelling sessions. Entry is free but donations are accepted. If you and your little ones are looking for a more traditional experience, go to the Garson Farm for pumpkin picking. Usually opening in mid-October, there is plenty of time to get into the Halloween spirit! Finally, there is an event called Boo at the Zoo at the ZSL London Zoo. This is a Halloween-themed event where kids can learn about the animal kingdom. From creepy crawly insects to pumpkin-themed animal attractions, the event runs through the autumn season.
Costume shops and Halloween shopping
Finding the perfect Halloween costume or decorations in London is a breeze! There is no shortage of options within the city to find modern costumes or vintage pieces. Even unique home decor can be found in a wide range of shops and markets throughout the city. A great place to start is Angels Costumes. Known as one of the oldest and most renowned costume shops in London, it is located in Covent Garden and has been operating since 1840. You can find a variety of costumes here from traditional outfits, like witches and zombies to more elaborate themed costumes.
For something more unique, visit Madame Tussauds’ Shop, found within the world-famous wax museum. This shop has a wide array of themed souvenirs and costumes that you most likely won’t find anywhere else. The shop is open while the museum is open, daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Take advantage of your visit to see wax figures of celebrities like Beyonce and Lady Gaga.
Camden Market is another excellent location for some Halloween shopping. The market has a mix of stalls and small shops where you can find vintage costumes, handmade decorations and one-of-a-kind Halloween items. The market is open daily.
Safety tips for Halloween events London
Celebrating Halloween in London is a fun and exciting experience. But, it can also be a hectic time in the city so prioritising your safety is essential. Whether you are with your family or partying with a group of friends, keeping the following tips in mind will surely help you:
For Families
- Keep a close eye on little children as the city is always crowded.
- Consider wearing reflective gear and ID bracelets, especially when trick-or-treating.
- Know emergency contact info.
- Stay in groups and remember that there is always safety in numbers.
- Drink responsibly.
- Only use licensed transportation, such as cabs and known ride-sharing apps.
Experience Halloween in London
London is the best place to celebrate Halloween for enthusiasts of the holiday. There is plenty to see and do for adults, along with free Halloween events for kids. As you plan for your Halloween adventure, book your stay with Urban Retreat Apartments. Located in the heart of London in the Mayfair district, Urban Retreat Apartments provides the perfect base for exploring all that the city has to offer.