Edge of the Forest Too Scary for Kids? Parents’ Guide to Scarefest

Every October, Alton Towers Scarefest brings spooky fun for all ages, with family-friendly rides after dark, dazzling entertainment, and creepy mazes for the bravest guests. But with the brand-new Edge of the Forest maze launching for Scarefest, many parents are asking the same question: is it too scary for kids?

Here’s a complete guide to help families decide what’s right for them.

What Is Edge of the Forest?

Edge of the Forest is Scarefest’s headline new maze. It takes visitors into the cursed woodland of Alton Towers’ Dark Forest, where the mythical creature The Leshman lurks in the shadows. Expect eerie sounds, live actors, sudden scares, and a setting that blurs the line between real woodland and staged horror.

It’s designed to be intense, atmospheric, and deeply immersive — a very different experience to the more playful Halloween activities available elsewhere in the park.

Age Restrictions for Edge of the Forest

Alton Towers has confirmed that Edge of the Forest is recommended for ages 15+. The scares are strong, the atmosphere is dark, and the story of The Leshman is intentionally unsettling.

• Under 15s will not be admitted.
• Older teens and adults can attend, but should be prepared for jump scares and psychological tension.
• Younger kids can still enjoy Scarefest, with plenty of child-friendly activities available (more on that below).

This makes Edge of the Forest one of the more mature attractions at Scarefest — similar in intensity to previous mazes like Sub Species or The Attic.

Family-Friendly Alternatives at Scarefest

If your children are too young (or simply not ready for something as terrifying as Edge of the Forest), Scarefest still has lots to offer:

• Trick O’ Treat Town: A playful, interactive experience perfect for little ones.
• CBeebies Land Monster Ball: Fun, not frightful entertainment for toddlers and preschoolers.
• Rides in the Dark: Many of the park’s major rides, from Wicker Man to Runaway Mine Train, operate after dark — a thrill for older children without the fear factor.
• Spooktacular Live Shows: Family shows with Halloween music, dancing, and light-hearted fun.

So, while the new maze may be off-limits for younger kids, Scarefest itself is still very much a family event.

Tips for Parents Visiting Scarefest

1. Check the maze age ratings before booking extras like Edge of the Forest.
2. Use daylight hours for the youngest guests, when the park feels less intimidating.
3. Split the group if needed: parents can take turns experiencing the scarier mazes while others stay with the kids at family attractions.
4. Bring warm clothes: Even in October, evenings can get cold.
5. Book early: Scarefest tickets and maze passes sell out quickly.

Final Verdict: Too Scary for Kids?

Yes — for most children, Edge of the Forest is too scary. With its dark woodland setting, immersive scares, and the terrifying presence of The Leshman, this maze is deliberately designed for teens and adults who want a serious fright.

But that doesn’t mean families should skip Scarefest. With a mix of kid-friendly fun and spine-chilling attractions for adults, Alton Towers has made sure there’s something for everyone.

So, if you’re visiting Scarefest with children, rest easy: while the Edge of the Forest may be off-limits, there’s still a whole park full of spooky fun waiting to be discovered.