Three young women in Halloween costumes and makeup pose for a photo outdoors. The woman on the left wears a witch hat and a ghost-themed shirt. The middle woman has elaborate skull face paint and a witch hat. The woman on the right wears a hooded costume with pumpkin-like face paint and goggles.
family_friendly

Artistic rendering – Event may differ

Halloween Family Fun Day

Free entry with diverse family entertainment

About

Get ready for a day packed with spooky surprises and ghost-busting giggles at Hopetown Darlington's Halloween Family Fun Day! This event features a family fun run, exciting costume competitions for all ages (including pets!), face painting, live music, and a captivating spooky juggling illusionist. Don't miss the return of the popular FitLab X Spooktown dance-along for a day of frightful fun.

Our Take

Scare Factor

👻 👻 (2/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (5/5)

Best For

Families and children

Vibe

Festive and spooky

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

FREE

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Special Events & Promotions

  • Family Fun Run
  • Costume competitions with petrifying prizes
  • FitLab X Spooktown dance-along

Tags

family friendlyhalloween festivaltrick or treatcostume contestpet costume paradelive musiccommunity event

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Location

McNay Street
Darlington, Durham
DL3 6SW

Event Details

Pricing

Free of charge

Duration

8 hours

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Hopetown Darlington

Practical Information

Parking

Parking is available in Skerne Bridge Car Park (DL1 1LG) for £1 per hour or £4 for a day ticket (charges apply daily 8am-6pm). There are 202 bays, including limited accessible parking. Electric charging points are available. Additional accessible parking is on McNay Street (DL3 6SW). Coach drop-off is on Station Road; nearest coach parking is on Chesnut Street.

Accessibility

Accessible toilets are located within the Goods Shed, North Road Station Museum and the Carriage Works buildings. There is also an accessible toilet near to The Kiosk. A Changing Places toilet is within North Road Station Museum. Ramps and lifts are available for access to various buildings and areas. A hearing loop is installed at the welcome desks. Assistance dogs are welcome.

Pet Policy

Dogs are welcome on site except in specific exhibition areas (Railway Pioneers, Wagon Woods, Experiment!, Playtown on the Platform). Assistance dogs are welcome everywhere. Dog stations provided.

Food & Drink

You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to consume in picnic areas. Hot and cold food and drinks are also served in Clocktower Café and The Kiosk. Alcohol (wine, local beers, spirits) is served in Clocktower Café.

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early or pre-book tickets online, especially if visiting during school holidays, as the site may reach capacity.
  • Bring your own food and drinks to enjoy in the designated picnic areas, or explore the on-site café and kiosk options.
  • Check the specific areas where dogs are not permitted before planning your visit with pets.
  • Utilize the public transport options, including the bus stop directly outside and the adjacent North Road Station, to easily access the venue.
  • Consider the costume competition categories when preparing your outfit, ensuring it fits one of the age groups or the dog category.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the opening hours for the Halloween Family Fun Day?

The event runs from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Friday, October 31st.

Is there an entry fee for the Halloween Family Fun Day?

No, admission to Hopetown Darlington and the Halloween Family Fun Day is free of charge.

Are pets allowed at the event?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Hopetown Darlington, with specific areas where they are not permitted. Assistance dogs are welcome everywhere.

What kind of entertainment can I expect?

Expect a spooky juggling illusionist, live music, a dance-along, face painting, and a family fun run.

Where can I park?

Parking is available at Skerne Bridge Car Park (DL1 1LG) or on McNay Street (DL3 6SW), with charges applying during certain hours.

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Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Nov 11, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Halloween Events Near Me editorial team

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