With Halloween fast approaching where better to spend a day out on your doorstep than at one of one of Britain’s most haunted castles – Muncaster.

All this week, up until October 30, the Cumbrian castle will be displaying it’s spooky side with its famous Halloween Festival.

As ever, during the day, it’s a perfect place for families to wander the extensive gardens with fun activities for all ages.

You could try out the Trick or Treat Trail, dampen down a few zombies with a water pistol or have your face painted to match whatever spooky costume you decide to arrive in.

Then there’s the Big Top with Halloween circus shows and circus skills workshops. And if all the spooky fun builds up your appetite there are always plenty of food stalls for you to call at.

From 6pm it gets dark and the day out gets a little more scary and is not for the very young or faint hearted.

The Super Scary Maze rarely disappoints thrill seekers with zombies, goblins and more released into the maze.

Alternatively, you could take the Legends from the Shadows tour of the castle. This immersive theatre performance leads you through the ancient castle in the footsteps of ghosts. It’s recommended for those aged 7 or above.

There is also the chance to enjoy the enchanting Twilight Owls show at 7pm each evening – where you can see the winged wonders of Muncaster after dark and in their natural environment. Just watch and appreciate the natural creatures of the night majestically appearing and disappearing into the darkness.

This popular performance sell outs every year so it’s always good to book ahead on the Muncaster Castle website.

Muncaster Castle is a natural home for Halloween with tales of ghostly goings on stretching back centuries.

So, for a day out on your doorstep with a few frights thrown in – take a trip to Muncaster Castle. The festival this year is the Castle’s biggest ever.

There’s also spectacular fire juggling to enjoy and a spooky silent disco if you like a bit of music along with your Halloween mayhem.

And the great thing about this Halloween themed day out on your doorstep is that all of Muncaster Castle’s usual daily activities like the spectacular Sky Hunters bird of prey display continue throughout the Festival.

This year’s famous Halloween Festival runs from October 22 - 30th.

For full details see www.muncaster.co.uk/.