Halloween is just around the corner and Chelmsford is playing host to a wide variety of spooky events that are sure to suit any age.

From children’s Halloween crafts to a club ‘Fright Night’, celebrate All Hallows Eve in style this year

Spooky Secret Island

OK, so it’s a bit of a drive away from Chelmsford, but Royal Gunpowder Mills at Waltham Abbey is inviting you to enjoy October half term in style with an array of spooky activities taking place between Saturday 22nd – 30th October 2011.

Professor Nitrate has an evil twin – Dr Gore, who will be hosting science shows and cooking up some horrific experiments in his Mad Lab. From face painting monsters and witches to hat making, gruesome feely boxes and the stomach churning ‘make your own monster goo snot’ there are activities for children of all ages.

The Spooky Secret Island is open from 10am until 5pm (last entry 3:30pm). Tickets cost £8.50 per adult, £6 per child, £7.50 concessions and children under 3 go free.

Call 01992 707 370 for more information.

Children’s Halloween Crafts

On 27th October, Hylands House, Chelmsford will be playing host to a variety of children’s Halloween crafts.

Suitable for 8 to 11 year olds, this event is ideal for the more creative child, with the option of making Halloween decorations for trick or treat costumes or witches hats. All craft materials are included in the price; appropriate clothing is advised.

Sessions run from 10am until midday or 2pm until 4pm. Please call Hylands House on 01245 605 555 for further details.

Club Fusion’s Fright Night

This one’s not for the kids!

On Friday 28th October 2011, from 8pm until late, Club Fusion in Chelmsford is holding its first ever ‘Fright Night’ Halloween party! It promises to be a night like no other, and it’s ‘dead’ important that you dress to scare...

There will be prizes for the best and worst fancy dress costumes and the gorier the better!

There are only 150 tickets on sale at £5 each, so don’t delay – click here to buy your ticket.

Children’s Pumpkin Carving at Hyde Hall Gardens

What do you mean, you’ve never carved a pumpkin before? Come along to RHS Hyde Hall Gardens in Rettendon, Chelmsford on Saturday 29th October and have fun carving a pumpkin that can then either be placed on the doorstep or in the window to scare trick or treaters silly!

There will also be spooky stories and witch-shaped candle making. And if that wasn’t enough, if you come in fancy dress, you’ll receive an edible treat in return!

Pumpkins are on sale at the garden while stocks last. Booking is not required but normal garden admission applies.

Pumpkin carving takes place between 11am and 3pm

Please call 0845 612 1253 to find out more.