Hidden Surrey: Spooky adventures await the brave

From top right to the bottom left; image Polesden Lacey, the Guildford Castle. Bottom left is Waverley Abbey, then Chinthurst Hill tower.

Ghostly spectres, haunted abbeys and frightfully good fun this half term

As autumn’s golden light reaches over Surrey's hills and woodlands, some of the county's most beautiful places look even more spectacular. However, the shorter days and longer nights mean that they take on a more mysterious character. Ancient ruins, hidden caves and mansions from days gone by, are also places where the un-explained happen.

Whether you love the paranormal or are simply looking for an atmospheric seasonal walk, these eerie locations are sure to send a shiver down your spine.

Chinthurst Hill

Chinthurst Hill folly, with a picnic bench next to to it.

Looking for an atmospheric autumn walk with a panoramic view and storybook folly that could feature in a ghost story? Visit Chinthurst Hill, outside Wonersh. It has a large car park with a natural play area and picnic benches at the base of the hill. Follow the signed Bluebell or Tower trails that take you up through woodland to the open space at the top with lovely views all around.

Guildford Castle

Guildford Castle view from a tunnel

Built after the Norman conquest in 1066, Guildford Castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a peaceful spot for a picnic. However when the sun sets, it takes on a haunting atmosphere, because of it’s dark history as it was used as a prison. People say they see ghostly figures in chains. Would you dare to stay after dark?

Waverley Abbey

Photo credit: Les Millar

Waverley Abbey, a ruined 12^th century monastery is one place you can’t miss. Start in Tilford Green, a free car park and take in the sweeping views of the South Downs in this six mile circular walk. At dusk, the beautiful ruin takes on a haunting atmosphere. It is said that you can hear chanting and see shadowy cloaked figures near the chapel.

Reigate Caves

Image of the lights along the ceiling of Reigate Tunnel, with daylight coming from the other end.

Just a few minutes from Reigate Castle, lies Reigate Caves. The caves were thought to be the cellar of the Castle when it was built, it was converted into a beer cellar for the Mellersh Neil Brewery until at least 1914. During World War Two the caves became an air raid shelter for schoolchildren during the Blitz. People have reportedly heard whispers and footsteps around the cave when no one else was around, would you dare to explore it?

Polesden Lacey

Image of the outside of Polseden Lacey in the autumn.

This beautiful Regency mansion once had lavish parties and balls for members of high society. However, once the sun sets and darkness creeps in, the place takes on a ghostly atmosphere, fit for the paranormal hunters. A mysterious hooded figure is seen to be wandering the grounds on foggy nights, some people hear keys jangling around the hallways and foot steps seemingly hurrying around.

Half term family fun

Surrey Outdoor Learning (SOLD)

A young child holding a rope while crossing a rope. The young boy is smiling and wearing a helmet.

Fancy a genuine outdoor adventure for the kids this October half term? The Adventure Zone (TAZ), run by Surrey Outdoor Learning and Development, is offering families 20% off adventure days from 19–30 October — climbing, archery, challenge courses, bushcraft, team games and more, all led by qualified, DBS-checked instructors.

Choose an adventure at Dorking, Guildford or Richmond Upon Thames. October half term dates go fast, so don't delay. Book your TAZ half term place now and use the code OCTTAZ26 at the checkout.

Surrey Libraries

There are plenty of fang-tastic activities for the whole family during October at Surrey Libraries near you. Check out our top 10 library events taking place this month, that you won’t want to miss. Head to the Events and Activities page and select the library near you to see more fun events and workshops taking place.

Halloween fun

Looking for more light-hearted Halloween fun for the whole family?

Picture of a row of pumpkins that are different sized layed out for sale.

Pumpkin patch at Merrist Wood

Wear your favourite Halloween costume and head to the Merrist Wood pumpkin patch for a howling good time! There will be a huge range of pumpkins to see, from monster sized giants to pocket sized gourds. Plus there will be plenty of furry friends, waiting to say boo!

Ghost hunting at Hatchlands

This Halloween, join the Bunnies of Hoppity Hill on a ghost hunt around Hatchlands Park. Search for hidden ghosts, enjoy spooky surprises. The trail is perfect for younger children, runs everyday from 10 October to 1 November. This event is free, as part of normal entry tickets to Hatchlands.

Bocketts Farm Halloween fun

Perfect for your little ones, Bocketts Farm are hosting ‘Little Pumpkins Week’ from 17 – 23 October. Walk through the Pumpkin Village and stop by the craft corner to make something to take home. Boo-gie on down at the disco and throw some shapes with the whole family as well.

Autumn Magic at Hobbledown Farm

Two new-born Capybara babies, Chip and Piper at Hobbledown Farm in Epsom.

Just in case you're after a bit of magic, you might want to visit Hobbledown Farm in Epsom. Not only are there pumpkins for picking, you can even catch a glimpse of the farm's new residents! Two baby capybaras, Chip and Piper might be there to play Trick or Treat on you.

Check out Visit Surrey for more fang-tastic events

Looking for more events? Check out Visit Surrey’s website for monster clay making workshop, potion hunting in the woods and a midnight sleepover where you might hear things that go bump in the night.

Our county offers many spine-tingling adventures and activities for the brave and curious. Although a cautionary reminder, if you hear footsteps behind you, feel a sudden chill in the air or see a shadow in the corner of your eye – it might not just be the autumnal breeze.