Photo: Stephanie Brookes
London’s sinister side always comes alive in October with lots of spooky Halloween activities. Little ones will enjoy ‘Boo at the Zoo’ which includes a chance to see the wild and wonderful animals at London Zoo. There’s also a brewing at Balthazar with delightful Balthoween treats and eerie surprises. However, don’t miss out on the ghoulishly good cocktails at Café Royal.
Get ready for a spooktacular Halloween…
Boo at the Zoo
Photo: London Zoo/ZSL
London Zoo is the place to take children this October with a fantastic array of Halloween-inspired activities. You can expect fun for all the family on the creepy Ghost Tour. Or, take a step back in time with the Extinction Trails, as London Zoo experts unearth six extinct species. You can also express your artistic side, as there’s a chance to carve out pumpkins. Parents, don’t forget to book ahead. Boo at the Zoo runs Saturday October 21st – 31st; prices online.
Balthazar
Photo: diggertomsen
Too old for tricks? Then, indulge in some treats. Located in Covent Garden, Balthazar is an all day bistro-style restaurant, serving up some delicious holiday-inspired dishes. From October 28th onwards, diners can tuck into some divine desserts. We heart the Ghostly Graveyard: a white chocolate mouse with spiced pumpkin cream, served on a pastry tart with a dose of salted caramel ganache. The macabre graveyard theme means it’s served with decorative bats, headstones and ghosts. Or, you may be tempted by their Balthoween cocktails including the Devil’s Claw, made with gin, Campari and Visciolata Di Cardinale (a cherry-infused dessert wine). Balthoween; prices online.
Café Royal
Photo: Paul Winch-Furness
For some of the most colorful and creative concoctions, head to the Green Bar at Hotel Café Royal to get your freak on. The impressive selection of absinthe cocktails here includes Le Jardin: a potent blend of La Fée absinthe and Tanqueray Export gin. Lillet Blanc includes fresh lemon and Maraschino Luxardo, while the classic French Prince is a magical mix of Hennessey Fine de Cognac, Chambord, Ramos Pinto, Campari, dry curaçao and orange bitters. This refined cocktail bar is a must-visit for a Halloween night out. Cocktails from £14; check the website for more details.
Highgate Cemetery
Photo: Tom Bennett
Feeling brave? Mysterious Highgate Cemetery is the famous resting place of Douglas Adams, Karl Marx, George Eliot and Christina Rossetti. Each year, you can come together to remember those who have passed with the annual Reflect and Remember – All Saints’ Evening. This event – located in the East Cemetery – costs just £4. Visitors will spot that some grave owners place candles around the headstones during this time. To learn more about Highgate Cemetery, book a tour and discover the rich (and hair-raising) history of this world-famous place. All Saints’ Evening is November 1st; price £4.
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