Free spooky half term fun at Fort Nelson 2026

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Families are invited to charge up to Fort Nelson this half-term for a packed programme of free Halloween-themed fun.

Fort Nelson will be transformed into a hub of spooky adventure, with a new 'Creepy Codebreaker' museum trail and a host of free daily activities for children and families from Saturday 24 October to Sunday 1 November.

Young visitors can take part in the creepy trail helping the Fort's caretaker, Mr Grimm, solve a strange mystery. A creature has been spotted creeping around the museum at night and visitors are needed to uncover its identity.

Families can explore the Portsdown Hill fort by following the clues on the trail, which is suitable for children aged six to ten years old, with younger children able to join in with help from adults.

Visitors can also enjoy a variety of free drop-in Halloween activities suitable for children aged three to eight years old, including:
• Ghoulish Game Zone - gruesome games and challenges.
• Creepy Creation Station - Halloween-themed arts and crafts (Monday to Friday).
• The Boo-tique - dress up in a creepy costume and get into character.
• The Haunted Hideout - build a den for witches, vampires or werewolves.
• Witch's Workshop - brew magical potions, discover the witch's crystal ball and strike a spooky pose for photos.
• Pumpkin Patch Party - dance along to spooktacular tunes, including favourites such as the Monster Mash and Thriller.

Children are welcome to get in the Halloween spirit and dress up in their best Halloween costumes or come as they are.

Pre-booking is essential as the site has capacity limits in place. Activities run between 10am and 4pm daily during half term. Car parking is £3 - payable on arrival.