The Halloween spirit comes alive in Winchester as the autumn chill creeps in and the nights grow longer. This historic city, rich with tales of the supernatural, is the perfect destination for those seeking Halloween adventures with a grown-up twist.
The Halloween spirit comes alive in Winchester as the autumn chill creeps in and the nights grow longer. This historic city, rich with tales of the supernatural, is the perfect destination for those seeking Halloween adventures with a grown-up twist. From haunted tours and eerie performances, to thrilling cocktails and moonlit cinema, Winchester has something for every thrill-seeker this spooky season. Here's your guide to the best adult Halloween experiences in the city...
Spooky cocktails at Incognito & The Cabinet Rooms
Start your night with an intoxicating blend of mystery and magic at Incognito or The Cabinet Rooms. Both bars offer immersive, theatrical cocktail experiences perfect for Halloween. At Incognito, you'll find yourself in a secretive world of trickery and illusion, think smouldering cauldrons, glowing potions, and glassware that defies expectations.
For a more intimate, classic vibe, The Cabinet Rooms offers elegant seasonal cocktails like spiced rum concoctions or absinthe-touched elixirs in a chic, speakeasy-style setting. During Halloween, both venues up the ante with themed cocktails that will send a shiver down your spine - delightfully spooky and delicious!
Theatre Royal Winchester: Dissecting Dracula
For a night of dark and dramatic entertainment, head to the Theatre Royal Winchester to catch Dissecting Dracula (on until 27 October). This immersive and insightful event will take you on a thrilling deep dive into the lore of Bram Stoker's Dracula, exploring the real-world inspirations behind the famous vampire. As Halloween approaches, there's no better time to explore the terrifying legacy of one of literature's most iconic monsters.
The Theatre Royal itself, with its rich history, provides the perfect gothic atmosphere for a night of chills. As the lights dim and the story of Dracula unfolds, you'll feel the centuries of history surrounding you - blurring the lines between the past and the paranormal.
Winchester's Haunted History: Halloween guided walking tour
Step out into the crisp autumn air and explore Winchester's darker side on a Halloween guided walking tour. This isn't your typical stroll through the historic city. Led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about the macabre, you'll hear spine-chilling tales of ghostly apparitions, local legends, and eerie occurrences that have haunted Winchester for centuries.
Discover the hidden stories behind the medieval streets, the spirits said to linger around famous landmarks, and the supernatural secrets only locals know. It's the perfect mix of history and haunting, making for a memorable Halloween adventure.
Image copyright Javaid Akhtar, (for illustration purposes only)
Starlight Cinema at Winchester Science Centre: Hocus Pocus & 28 Days Later
Are you in the mood for a cinematic experience under the stars? In that case, the Winchester Science Centre has the perfect Halloween double feature lined up. You can catch two vastly different, yet equally Halloween-worthy films, in their atmospheric Starlight Cinema.
Hocus Pocus (27 October) combines the light-hearted charm of witchcraft with a side of nostalgia. Grab a blanket and a hot drink and watch the Sanderson sisters stir up trouble on the big screen. It's the ideal film for those looking for fun, light-hearted frights.
28 Days Later (28 October) is for the adrenaline junkies who want something a little more intense. This post-apocalyptic horror classic about a deadly virus will have you clutching your seat as the terrifying plot unfolds.
Ghost Stories by Candlelight at The Great Hall
For a uniquely haunting Halloween experience, don't miss Ghost Stories by Candlelight at The Great Hall. Imagine being surrounded by centuries-old stone walls, illuminated only by the flickering glow of candlelight, as a skilled storyteller weaves tales of terror and suspense.
This event is steeped in atmosphere and takes place in one of Winchester's most iconic historical sites. With King Arthur's legendary Round Table as a backdrop, the Great Hall becomes the perfect setting for an evening of ghostly narratives. Expect shivers down your spine as the shadows play tricks, and the echoes of the past come to life in the candlelit hall.
Halloween cinema nights at Bombay Sapphire
Enjoy an intimate movie night at the award winning Bombay Sapphire distillery. Tickets include:
- A gin and tonic on arrival in the Turbine Bar
- Popcorn and sweets
- Showing of a film
Hocus Pocus is showing on Sunday 27 October and Beetlejuice is on Thursday 31 October.
With so many thrilling events and eerie experiences, Winchester is the ultimate destination for an adult Halloween adventure. Whether you're sipping devilish cocktails, unravelling the mysteries of Dracula, exploring haunted streets, enjoying outdoor cinema, or listening to ghost stories by candlelight, this historic city offers Halloween magic like no other.
So, conjure your friends, don your most stylish costumes, and prepare for a Halloween filled with spooky sophistication!
