Families are invited to step into a ghoulish garden adventure at RHS Garden Harlow Carr this October half term, where mysterious plants, creepy crawlies and magical discoveries await.
From 24 October to 1 November 2026, visitors can enjoy a packed programme of Halloween-themed activities as the Yorkshire garden reveals the fascinating world of plants with legendary powers, poisonous secrets and surprising stories.
At the heart of the half term offering is a brand-new Spooky Plant Trail, taking families on an interactive journey through the garden. Along the way, visitors will encounter strange-looking species, uncover tales of medicinal and poisonous plants, collect rubbings and design their own spooky plant to take home. With plenty of potion-making inspiration and frightfully fun photo opportunities, the trail promises entertainment for children of all ages.
Young explorers can also get up close to some truly unusual creatures in special ZooLab Animal Encounters, running from 26 to 30 October. Led by a ZooLab witch or wizard, these immersive sessions combine animals and magic as participants help create a bubbling potion using ingredients such as “Eye of Newt”, “Lizard’s Tail” and “Elephant’s Ear”, while meeting snakes, snails and spiders along the way.
For budding gardeners, Monster Hair Planting on 28 October offers the chance to decorate a monster-themed pot, sow seeds and take home a creation that will soon sprout its own edible green hairstyle.
Meanwhile, aspiring scientists can join the Garden Detectives on 29 and 30 October as they transform into plant investigators. Through hands-on experiments and potion-making activities, children will uncover the secrets behind some of nature’s most amazing plants in a fun, educational experience.
Sarah Mullan, Public Programming Manager said;
“October half term is a fantastic opportunity for families to discover a different side of the garden. From fascinating plants with surprising stories to hands-on activities and close encounters with creepy crawlies, we’ve created a programme that combines fun, learning and a little Halloween magic. Whether you’re following our Spooky Plant Trail, creating a monster planter or joining a potion-making adventure, there’s something to spark curiosity and imagination in visitors of all ages.”
Alongside the half term activities, visitors can enjoy the stunning autumn colour throughout RHS Harlow Carr’s 60 acre garden, making it the perfect seasonal day out for families.
Event Highlights
Spooky Plant Trail
- Saturday 24 October to Sunday 1 November
- Included with garden admission
- Suitable for all ages (children must be accompanied by an adult)
- ZooLab Animal Encounters *
Monday 26 to Friday 30 October
- Sessions at 11am, 12 noon, 1.15pm and 2.15pm
- Sunley Room, Learning Centre
- £2.50 per person (babies and toddlers on laps free)
- Advance booking recommended
Monster Hair Planting
- Wednesday 28 October
- Drop-in, 11am to 3pm
- Wolfson Room, Learning Centre
- Included with garden admission
Garden Detectives
- Thursday 29 and Friday 30 October
- Sessions at 11am, 12.30pm and 2pm
- Wolfson Room, Learning Centre
- Included with garden admission
Visitor Information
October Half Term at RHS Garden Harlow Carr runs from 24 October to 1 November 2026, from 9.30am to 4pm daily. Activities are included with garden admission unless otherwise stated.
Entry is free for RHS members and children under five.
Visitors are encouraged to book ahead online to save on admission.
