This October half term in York, step inside a museum of mysteries at York Castle Museum and uncover a world of curious stories, crafts and performances that bring York’s past to life. From hands-on creative sessions to live music and immersive theatre, it’s the perfect place for a family day out. Here are our highlights.

Step into the courtroom: Judge York’s most famous felons

Brand new for October 2025, families are invited to take part in immersive performances in York Castle Prison, where visitors become judge and jury! Meet some of York’s most notorious historical characters – including highwayman Dick Turpin and the so-called “Yorkshire Witch” Mary Bateman – and help decide their fate.

Performances take place on Saturday 25 October, Thursday 30 October, Friday 31 October and Saturday 1 November 2025, led by Eden from Stories Alive, who’ll share spine-tingling tales within the atmospheric prison cells.

Get crafty at Halloween

On Friday 31 October, artist Lendita will lead a day of magical Halloween-themed crafts, perfect for little makers of all ages. It’s a drop-in session, so families can pop in anytime and stay as long as they like to create their very own masterpiece to take home.

Enjoy the sounds of history

The popular Sunday Sounds return to York Castle Museum on Sunday 26 October and Sunday 2 November, featuring live music from The Ran Tanners. Expect foot-tapping tunes from Georgian and Victorian England played on traditional instruments like fiddles and bagpipes as the duo wander the museum’s historic streets.

Tuck into traditional treats

The Castle Kitchen will be open on Saturday 25 October, Monday 27 October, Thursday 30 October and Saturday 1 November, serving up freshly baked soul cakes – a spiced biscuit once made for Halloween. Try one and take home the recipe to recreate your own.

Meet the Victorians on Kirkgate

The ever-energetic History Riot return to Kirkgate, the museum’s famous Victorian Street, for another round of silly and surprising performances on Monday 27, Tuesday 28 and Wednesday 29 October. You’ll also meet real-life Victorians every day, happy to share tales of York’s bustling 19th-century life.

Plan your visit

🗓 Saturday 25 October – Sunday 2 November 2025
📍 York Castle Museum, Tower Street, York YO1 9RY
🎟 All activities are included in your 12-month general admission ticket. York resident kids and all under 5s go free.
👉 Visit yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk for full details and timings

Don’t forget to return later in the year for York Castle Museum’s magical Christmas displays, launching 15 November 2025!