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Spooktacular Halloween at Alton Towers: A Family Guide to Scarefest 🎃

When October rolls around, there’s no better place to celebrate Halloween than Alton Towers Resort. Each year, the park transforms into a world of glowing pumpkins, eerie mazes, and hauntingly fun shows. Whether you’ve got little ones looking for light-hearted spooky fun or older kids (and brave parents!) ready for jump scares, Scarefest is the ultimate family Halloween event.

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of it – from family-friendly attractions to tips for booking the best Alton Towers tickets.


What Is Scarefest at Alton Towers?

Scarefest is the park’s annual Halloween spectacular, running on select October dates and into early November. The entire resort is decorated with spooky theming, extended opening hours keep the fun going into the night, and the line-up includes:

  • Family-friendly spooks – Think pumpkins, shows, and gentle fun in CBeebies Land.
  • Scare Mazes – Immersive, walk-through horror experiences for teens and adults.
  • Late-night rides – Experience roller coasters in the dark for an extra thrill.
  • Spooky shows & entertainment – From live street performers to eerie parades.

 

Family-Friendly Fun 👻

Scarefest isn’t all about frights – younger children can enjoy:

  • CBeebies Land Monster Ball – A spooky (but cute!) live show with dancing, music, and fun for preschoolers.
  • Trick or Treat Town – A walk-through adventure where kids collect sweets while meeting friendly characters.
  • Fancy Dress Competitions – A chance for your little ghouls and witches to show off their costumes.


For the Brave (Teens & Adults) 🕷️

If your family has older children or you’re thrill-seekers yourselves, Scarefest’s haunted mazes are the highlight:

  • Walk through spine-chilling sets with live actors.
  • Face terrifying scenarios designed to get your heart racing.
  • Pair with a night ride on Nemesis Reborn or The Smiler for the ultimate Halloween adrenaline rush.


Insider Tips for Scarefest Success

  • Book early: Scarefest tickets sell out fast – secure your Alton Towers tickets online to guarantee entry.
  • Arrive mid-afternoon: Spend daylight hours on family rides, then enjoy the spooky magic as night falls.
  • Dress for October: It can get chilly – pack layers (and maybe a poncho for the River Rapids).
  • Upgrade for Scare Mazes: Some of the most popular haunted attractions require an extra ticket – worth it if you want the full experience.

 

Why a Merlin Annual Pass Is a Game-Changer

If you’re planning multiple visits throughout the year, the Merlin Annual Pass is unbeatable value. Not only does it include entry to Scarefest, but it also covers Christmas at Alton Towers, summer adventures, and more – giving your family year-round fun for the price of just a couple of day trips.


Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss the Spooks!

Scarefest is one of the UK’s biggest and best Halloween events – and for families, it’s the perfect mix of fun, frights, and unforgettable memories. From pumpkin-lit pathways to heart-pounding night rides, there’s something for everyone.


🎟️ Don’t wait – book your Alton Towers tickets for Scarefest now and get ready for a hauntingly good time!

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