30 Oct

Twilight at Rufford

Experience the magic of spooky season as twilight falls over Rufford Abbey Country Park with illuminated courtyards, evening trails, shows, and a mini courtyard market open until 7pm.

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Join us on Friday, 30th October 2026 for a special twilight celebration at Rufford Abbey Country Park! Explore the grounds in the evening air and experience our historic park and abbey ruins lit up especially for Halloween. Outlets remain open until 7pm. The perfect half term evening out – plus, enjoy our late parking rate of £2 per car entering after 3pm!

Event Schedule & Highlights

  • Halloween Trail (10am – 7pm): Venture through the ancient woods as dusk settles and tackle ghoulish challenges along the twisting twilit paths. Purchase your trail sheet in the Courtyard Gift Shop. Book your Trail Here!
  • Mini Courtyard Makers Market (12pm – 7pm): Browse a charming array of handcrafted Halloween gifts, spooky crafts, and local artisan goods.
  • Mischief & Magic Show (4pm – 6pm): A family-friendly show packed with wickedly good fun, followed by a special meet-and-greet with the green and pink witches. Find out more here!
  • The Curator’s Cabinet (5:30pm): Step into the historical Abbey Kitchen – one of the Abbey’s most haunted settings—for an intimate show combining eerie storytelling, mystery, and magic (Ages 15+ only; tickets £12, purchase your tickets on our website). Book your tickets here!
  • Makers Loft Paint-a-Pot (Open Late): The Makers Loft is keeping its doors open until late! Get creative and craft your own spooky masterpiece with a Halloween paint-a-pot activity. You can secure your spot by booking a session in advance, or simply walk in on the day and let your imagination run wild. Book your spot here!
  • Explore the Abbey Ruins After Hours (Open until 7pm): Take a rare opportunity to visit the majestic abbey ruins at a time when they are normally closed to the public. Wander through the atmospheric grounds as night falls – both the top deck and the undercroft will remain open for exploration until 7pm.
  • Late-Night Refreshments & Shopping: The Coach House Cafe and Gift Shop will stay open until 7:00 pm serving hot brews, seasonal food, and spooky treats.

Key Information

  • Date: Friday, 30th October 2026
  • Opening Hours: Outlets & Park remain open until 7pm.
  • Parking: Just £2 after 3pm (standard rates apply before 3pm).