There’s a historical twist to Halloween at York Castle Museum this October half term, with prison escapes, Victorian traditions and storytelling for families.

Brand new for 2026, an immersive adventure takes visitors into the Georgian Prison Cells to uncover the stories of people once held at York Prison. Follow clues hidden in the cells and piece together tales of daring escapes and secret plots. There are two versions of the experience, one for younger children and another for older teens and adults.

Over on Kirkgate, discover how Victorians marked All-Hallows’ Eve, including the tradition of guising. History Riot will bring those customs to life in Nut-Crack Night, a family storytelling performance running throughout the day from 24th to 31st October.

📍 York Castle Museum, Eye of York, York YO1 9RY
🗓 24th October to 1st November 2026
💻 yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk