What is the event?
Halloween Fun is designed for families and children to enjoy some spooky fun over the half-term holidays. We have carved pumpkins through the Castle, with a crossword trail for children to fill in. We also have a trail through our formal gardens and some other halloween activities to enjoy.
We do not aim to frighten children and do not have loud noises or people jumping out. There is low light, UV Lights and flashing lights through the Castle. We have halloween decorations and fake cobwebs throughout. Our guides are in fancy dress and will tell spooky tales if asked. If you, or your children need any extra reassurance before visiting, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the estate office team.
When does the event run?
Halloween Fun runs on Saturday 25th, Sunday 26th, Tuesday 28th, Wednesday 29th & Thursday 30th October.
The event begins at 11am. The Castle itself opens at 11.30am.
Last entry to the Castle is 3pm and the gardens, grounds and event close at 4pm.
Can I arrive at any time during the day?
Yes. However, please allow yourself enough time to fully enjoy the event. The last entry to the Castle is 3pm and the gardens, grounds and event close at 4pm. We recommend at least two hours to visit.
Can I take photos during my visit?
Photography is not permitted within the Castle itself. The Castle is a private family home and the family ask that no photos are taken inside. You are more than welcome to take photos in the Castle itself.
Can I purchase tickets on arrival?
Yes, you can purchase tickets on arrival but, as tickets are limited we are advising everyone to pre-book in advance. We may not have space left if you arrive without pre-booking your tickets.
Do I need to print my tickets?
No, you can either show them on your mobile device or printed. We do need to see the confirmation barcode on arrival to scan you in.
I am an Historic Houses member, can I use my membership for this event?
Historic House memberships are not accepted at this event.
Is there parking on site?
Yes, there is parking which is included in your ticket price. Parking is on grass but we have mesh underneath the top layer to stop anyone getting stuck.
There are also a small number of accessible parking spaces on site.
I am sensitive to light changes or loud noises, do I need to worry?
We use a series of coloured lights throughout the Castle, some change colour but we do not have rapidly flashing lights. In some spaces we use UV lights too. We do not have any loud music or noises in the Castle or in the grounds.
If you have any concerns before your visit, please contact the estate office who will be very happy to assist: estateoffice@rockinghamcastle.com or 01536 770240
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, well behaved dogs are allowed in the grounds as long as they are kept on a lead and picked up after them. With the exception of assistance dogs, we do not permit dogs into the Castle itself.
There is outdoor seating for our tea room, and a small indoor area where dogs are permitted. Please speak to staff if you are not sure where you can go.
Are pushchairs allowed inside the Castle?
We are afraid that we do not allow pushchairs through the Castle itself. A small number of storage spaces are available for pushchairs whilst you are in the Castle.
Is Walkers House tea room open?
Yes, the tea room is open where you can purchase a range of light lunches and treats. We do not take bookings in the tea room.
Please note: No food or drinks are allowed to be taken into the Castle.
When is the Walkers House tea room open?
The Tea room opens at 11am and final orders are at 3pm. The tea rooms closes at 4.00pm.
I have a question regarding accessibility, what should I do?
You can find our more information regarding accessibility arrangements on our website here
If you still have a question, please contact the Estate Office team who will be able to help.
I am a carer/I am bringing a carer with me, do they get a free ticket?
Yes, carers get free entry to the event. We ask that all paid-for tickets are purchased first and the conformation/order number is sent through, by email, to the estate office with proof of the carers status. We will then add the additional carers ticket on. Please allow 2 working days for this to be completed.