Fireworks and Halloween fun

Castle ruins, historic towns, ghost trains, and fabulous fireworks to explore and attend in South Oxfordshire this half term.

There are plenty of seasonal activities taking place for children in South Oxfordshire during the half term weekend (28th and 29th October). Visit Wallingford and Cholsey railway's special Halloween weekend where the family can enjoy a ride on a steam train from Wallingford to Cholsey and back. This will be no ordinary journey, as children must watch out for ghosts, rattling bones and spiders of all sizes - as well as some spooky characters along both sides of the tracks. Children under eight should also watch out for a witch as she passes through the carriages distributing Halloween spooky bags. Tickets cost £8 for adults, £4.00 for children aged 5-16 and £2.00 for children under 5. Family tickets for two adults and up to three children cost £22.00. Booking is advisable, telephone 01491 826303 or visit www.cholsey-wallingford-railway.com for further information.

Whilst in the historic town of Wallingford visit the Castle Gardens where you can explore the ruins of King Alfred the Great's castle - built in the 10th Century and destroyed by Oliver Cromwell during the civil war. During its downfall the castle's stones were shipped along the Thames to help build Windsor Castle. Take a trip to the museum on Saturday 28th where you can learn all about the town's intriguing history. Opening times and prices are available at www.wallingfordmuseum.org.uk

For some autumn evening fun on Saturday 28th the Sue Ryder Care fireworks and bonfire party held in the magnificent Joyce Grove grounds at Nettlebed should not be missed! Gates open at 5pm for a 6pm start. Entrance is £15 for cars with five or more people, £12 for four or less people in. For pedestrians, entrance is priced at £3 for adults and £2 for aged 5-12. For more information telephone 01491 641070 or visit www.suerydercare.org/nettlebedhospice

On Sunday 29th rounding off the half term, the Halloween theme continues at Chinnor and Princes Risborough railway where the Spooks Express steam train and tunnel of doom awaits for the braver children. Children who come dressed in Halloween costumes will receive a present. Visit www.cprra.co.uk for booking, times and further information.