Kids Go Free this October half term

Things to do this October half-term, rain or shine!

Leave the car, take the bus and take advantage of Kids Go Free this half term! From 24 October– 1 November 2026 up to 3 children aged 11 and under can travel for free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. This includes ENCTS, and excludes U22 products, student tickets and GNE's 5-25 products.

As we head into the colder months, our half-term activity guide has you covered, whatever the weather. Whether you're pumpkin picking, hosting a spooky party or heading to the best trick or treat spot, now's the perfect time to leave the car at home and hop on board.

All of these activities and locations are easily accessible by bus, use our handy journey planner here. 

Newcastle Castle Halloween activities and events

Throughout October, explore Newcastle Castle, and the city that bears its name, like never before… Meet Jane Martin from Newcastle’s very own witch trials and take part in Halloween Drawing Competition for a chance to win an exciting prize and have your artwork on display in Newcastle Castle's Museum Room.

During October Half Term, take part in some extra spooky activities, perfect for families, day trippers and history lovers!

Explore their Trick or Treat Trail: Hunt for clues, complete terrifying challenges and uncover a secret message left behind by the ghosts of the Castle!
Gory Tours: Ready to discover the darker side of Newcastle Castle? 

After Hours Events: 29th, 30th & 31st October 5pm & 6pm

When the doors close and darkness falls, the Castle’s ghosts come out to play… A 60-minute immersive ghost tour through Newcastle Castle, where dark tales, local legends and centuries of history come to life.

• Enter the Castle after dark
• Hear chilling stories from the Castle’s past
• Explore the Gaol, Chapel, Great Hall, Rooftop and Lower Hall
• Expect spooky storytelling and fascinating local history.

Washington Hall family trail

Let the Halloween spirit lead you on a self-guided family trail through the historic hall, where curious minds can discover mysterious markings once believed to ward off witches and spirits. Then venture outdoors for witchy fun in the gardens, like broomstick racing and learning about spells.

The trail is free with regular admission. Use your trail sheet to explore both inside and outside the hall for a magical experience.

17 October 2026 to 1 November 2026 on 12 selected dates. 

Discovery Museum Halloween events

Dress in your best Halloween costume and join the Discovery tam for a frightfully fun evening packed with family-friendly thrills. You'll have two hours to dance beneath the iconic Turbinia, explore a haunted museum after dark, and enjoy a host of spooky activities for all ages.

What's included?

• Haunted Gallery
• Devilish Disco beneath Turbinia
• Bewitching tales and storytelling
• Creepy crafts
• Ghoulish games
• Fancy Dress Competition for little monsters and grown-up ghouls alike
• Treats for all (no tricks here!)

Whether you're brave enough to enter the haunted spaces or simply want to enjoy some Halloween fun with family and friends, there's something for everyone.

30 October | 4:30pm to 6:30pm  -  Suitable for families with children aged 4+ | 7:30pm to 9:30pm  -  Recommended for families with children aged 9+

Kynren Pyromusical

The North East’s biggest Pyromusical returns on Saturday 31 October 2026, lighting up the night sky above Bishop Auckland with 25 minutes of spectacular fireworks choreographed to an epic soundtrack.

As this year’s event falls on Halloween, expect a few subtle seasonal touches to add to the atmosphere as darkness falls. With glowing fire pits, warming food and drink and a few surprises along the way, it promises to be a memorable autumn evening for the whole family.

30 October | 4:30pm to 7:30pm

Some service exclusions apply, including Toon tour, match day services, Scholars services, Whitby P&R, Dales bus and Moors bus. T&C's apply