Spooky Season in East Lothian
As the leaves turn and the nights grow longer, East Lothian transforms into a playground for ghosts, ghouls, and Halloween lovers of all ages. Whether you're after family-friendly fun or chilling adventures, here’s your guide to the best Halloween events and haunted spots across the region.
Pumpkin Festival at East Links Family Park
Get ready for a frightfully fun day out at the Pumpkin Festival at East Links Family Park, running from 11th to 31st October. Every child visiting the park receives a free pumpkin, which they can carve at the dedicated carving station. The park transforms into a Halloween haven with a Haunted House, shadowy street scenes, and creepy corridors that promise thrills for brave little explorers. Daily fancy dress contests invite both kids and adults to show off their costumes, while the Halloween Hunt challenges families to solve clues and earn treats. With themed music, eerie decorations, and plenty of photo ops, this is a full day of festive fun for all ages.
Pumpkin Picking at Balgone Estate
For a truly magical autumn experience, head to Balgone Estate, home to Scotland’s largest pumpkin patch. Open on selected dates from 11th to 26th October, the estate offers over 60,000 pumpkins across 27 varieties, ideal for picking and posing in front of vibrant seasonal backdrops. But the adventure doesn’t stop there. Brave the 2km Haunted Trail around Balgone Lake, where costume characters and theatrical frights await. Toast marshmallows by the Crooked Cauldron and refuel at the catering village with local food and drink. With hay bale play areas and plenty of spooky surprises, Balgone is a must-visit for Halloween enthusiasts.
Haunted Halloween Trail at Newhailes House & Gardens
Step into the atmospheric grounds of Newhailes House & Gardens for their Haunted Halloween Trail on Saturday 1st November. This family-friendly event invites visitors to follow a themed trail through the estate, solving clues and finishing on the front lawn with fun games and activities. It’s a light-hearted yet immersive way to celebrate the season, perfect for younger children and those seeking a gentler Halloween experience. Adults go free with accompanying children, and dogs on leads are welcome too. Don’t forget to dress warmly and bring your sense of adventure, it’s going to be a memorable night.
Beyond the pumpkin patches and family-friendly festivities, East Lothian holds a darker, more mysterious side. With centuries of history, folklore, and eerie legends, the region is home to some truly spine-tingling spots. If you're brave enough, these haunted locations offer a glimpse into East Lothian’s ghostly past, perfect for thrill-seekers and history lovers alike.
Dunbar Townhouse and Museum
Dunbar Townhouse and Museum has hosted ghost hunting events. Beneath the chamber lies a grimly atmospheric jail with its original iron door and is a popular spot for paranormal investigations.
Tantallon Castle
Tantallon Castle is perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the North Sea, this 14th-century fortress was once home to the powerful Douglas family. A mysterious figure in period costume has been photographed in a doorway, adding to the castle’s eerie reputation. There is photographic evidence! A photograph taken in 2009 shows the mystery unnamed figure standing in an old doorway. Spooky!
Nungate Bridge, Haddington
This 16th-century bridge is steeped in ghostly lore. One tale claims the devil built it for an old woman in exchange for her soul, but was tricked. He now seeks revenge by pushing people off the bridge at night. A ghostly coach driven by a headless Sir Thomas Boleyn is also said to cross annually.
Newhailes House, Musselburgh
Newhailes House is Home to the Dalrymple family for nearly 300 years, this 18th-century estate has a rich history of paranormal activity. Visitors have reported whistling, ghostly music, footsteps in empty rooms, and shadowy figures.
Dirleton Castle
Surrounded by beautiful gardens, Dirleton Castle hides spectral knights and mysterious sounds within its medieval walls. It’s a perfect blend of beauty and spine-tingling legend.
Whether you're picking pumpkins with the kids, solving magical riddles in enchanted gardens, or uncovering centuries-old legends in haunted ruins, East Lothian offers a rich mix of autumn adventures. So grab your costume, charge your camera, and get ready to make unforgettable memories this spooky season. There’s no better time to explore the magic and mystery waiting right on your doorstep.
Author: Jackie Gardiner
Visit East Lothian
