Artistic rendering – Event may differ
October Half Term Activities at Stanwick Lakes
Stanwick, Northants
Week-long family fun with outdoor and indoor Halloween activities.
About
Stanwick Lakes hosts a week of exciting family activities during October Half Term. Visitors can explore a 'Spooky Half Term Trail' with glowing surprises, join ranger-led sessions for den building and nature crafts, or get creative with pottery painting. Outdoor adventures include exploring the playground and assault course, while indoor options feature willow lantern workshops.
Our Take
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Families seeking a mix of outdoor adventure and creative halloween-themed activities.
Vibe
Festive, outdoorsy, creative, family-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate (some activities are weather-dependent)
Special Events & Promotions
- Spooky Half Term Trail with toy and sweet treat
- Ranger-led sessions including fire lighting and den building
- Citizen Science: Harvest Mice survey
- Willow Lantern Workshops
- Drop-in pottery painting with seasonal options
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
Event Details
Duration
5 days
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Stanwick Lakes
Practical Information
Parking
Parking fees provide the charity with income to support the upkeep of the reserve, at a variable rate for each season. Up to 2 hours £3.70, up to 4 hours £4.90, all day £6.90. Minibus (9 seater +) £30.00, Coach (17 seater +) £60.00. Membership £48 per household per year. The site is free to those who walk or cycle in. ANPR system in use.
Accessibility
The majority of the site’s facilities are wheelchair accessible, including the visitor centre, toilets, rangers’ log cabin, bird hide, the network of footpaths and cycle paths, and areas within the central adventure playground. A lift is situated in the café area to allow disabled visitors to access the mezzanine seating area where the archaeological finds are kept, including the section of Roman floor mosaic.
Pet Policy
Dogs on leads welcome, off-lead in designated areas.
Food & Drink
Café available, with specific closing times for weekdays, weekends, bank holidays, and school holidays. Last hot food orders at 4pm on weekends/holidays.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Dress in layers and bring waterproofs and wellies, as many activities are outdoors and subject to the elements.
- Purchase trail packs from the Visitor Centre for the 'Spooky Half Term Trail' and allow 45 minutes to an hour for the eerie adventure.
- Book ranger-led activities in advance as spaces are limited.
- Young children should be supervised by an adult during the Willow Lantern Workshops, with a maximum of two children per adult for those under 10.
- Check the Visitor Centre's café closing times, as they vary between weekdays, weekends, bank holidays, and school holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Stanwick Lakes open?
From January to March, the site is open 7am – 5pm and the Visitor Centre 9:30am – 5pm. From April to September, the site is open 7am – 7pm and the Visitor Centre 9:30am – 5pm. From October to December, the site is open 7am – 5pm and the Visitor Centre 9:30am – 5pm. The site is closed only on Christmas Day.
Do I have to pay to get into Stanwick Lakes?
Admission is charged via variable car parking fees. The site is free for those who walk or cycle in. Coach parking is £30 for minibuses and £60 for coaches, and must be booked in advance.
Can I walk my dog at Stanwick Lakes?
Dogs on leads are welcome. They can be let off the lead along the former railway line north of the site, but are not permitted in the adventure play area.
Am I able to have a barbecue at Stanwick Lakes?
Barbecues are permitted only in a dedicated area behind the adventure playground on purpose-built brick stands. All rubbish must be taken home, and embers extinguished with water.
Can I fly a drone at Stanwick Lakes?
No, Stanwick Lakes is a 'no fly zone' for drones due to its status as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and Special Protected Area, to prevent bird disturbance. Special permission may be granted for environmental purposes.
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Contributors & Updates
Last updated: 9/17/2025