SANDY KITCHING goes looking for ghouls and ghosties this Halloween.

WICKED walks and creepy crafts are just some of fun activities taking place at Holker Hall & Gardens at Cark-in-Cartmel over the October half term holiday, October 28 -31. Remember to book sessions in advance, to avoid disappointment.

Visitors can take part in a number of Halloween themed activities including guided Wicked Walks within the award-winning gardens. Dare to wander amongst the trees and glades, through the Pagan Grove and Labyrinth to the witches’ house deep in the magical garden. Wicked Walks take place Friday & Saturday at 2pm (£3.50 per person).

Bring your own carved lantern to enter the Loathsome Lantern Competition (held daily at 12.15pm and 3.15pm). And don’t miss the drop-in craft sessions from 10.30am – 12.30pm and 1pm to 3pm daily (£3.50 per child).

The grand finale Halloween Party with Heather the witch takes place on Thursday 29 October from 3.30pm-5pm for children aged 3-10 years (£11 per child). For more information telephone: 015395 58328 or visit: holker.co.uk

THE LAKES Aquarium is holding a Witches and Wizards week from Monday 26 October to Sunday 1 November, where youngsters can meet creepy creatures including snakes, cockroaches, giant millipedes, creepy mealworms and more. There will be a Magic Runes quiz and Cringe Worthy Crafts sessions making bats and other creepy creatures to take home. Start the day by travelling to the aquarium on board the Lakeside and Haverthwaite ghost train - A combined Aquarium and Steam Train can be purchased online or on the day. Visit: lakesaquarium.co.uk

SCREAMLANDS at Greenlands Farm Village near Carnforth (Saturday 24 October - Sunday 1November) will involve Spooky Dips, Slime, Creepy Critters, a Halloween Treasure Hunt and a fancy dress Halloween Disco in the Playbarn (Friday 30 & Saturday 31 October, 5-7pm).Normal Farm Admission applies - £5 per person, Family of 4 for £15. Visit: greenlandsfarmvillage.co.uk

THE WORLD of Beatrix Potter at Bowness is hosting a Halloween Special on October 31 with spooky crafts, face painting (£2) and magic pumpkins. Kids in fancy dress go free (if accompanied by paying adult). Visit: hop-skip-jump.com

VISIT the Rheged Centre, near Penrith and join in one of the Pumpkin Carving Workshops on 29 October (11am and 2pm). Artist John Stokes will lead a fun session carving your very own pumpkin lantern. Draw on a face, then with help from a grown-up carve out your design. Parental Supervision required, Ages 4+, £5 including tealight and lantern to take away. Booking essential on 01768 868000. Visit: rheged.com

THE National Trust have lots of half-term activities planned at its many properties in the North West. Enjoy Halloween activities at Sizergh Castle on October 31 (11am – 4pm) and discover the legend of The White Lady (Normal admission applies). £2 for pumpkin carving. Booking essential for the special Legend of the White Lady house tour (£5 adult, £3 child). Visit: nationaltrust.org.uk