Fireworks and Halloween at half term

There are plenty of seasonal activities taking place for children in South Oxfordshire this half term (22 to 28 October).

On Friday 26, children aged 7-11 can enjoy a 'spooky lanterns' workshop at the River and Rowing Museum in Henley, where they can make glowing lanterns from willow and paper. Visit the museum and its fantastic Wind in The Willows exhibition whilst you are there and you can return for free at anytime over the next 12 months. Visit www.rrm.co.uk for more information.

Visit Wallingford and Cholsey railway's special Halloween weekend on the 27th and 28th where the family can enjoy a ride on a steam train from Wallingford to Cholsey and back. This will be no ordinary journey however 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 track! Children under eight should also watch out for a witch as she passes through the carriages distributing Halloween spooky bags. Booking is advisable, telephone 01491 826303 or visit www.cholsey-wallingford-railway.com

Whilst in the historic town of Wallingford pay a visit the Castle Gardens where the children can explore the ruins of William the Conquerors 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 town's museum on Saturday 27 where the whole family can learn all about the town's intriguing history. Opening times and prices can be found at www.wallingfordmuseum.org.uk

For some autumn evening fun on Saturday 27, the Sue Ryder Care fireworks and bonfire party held in the magnificent Joyce Grove grounds should not be missed. For more information telephone 01491 641070 or visit www.suerydercare.org/nettlebedhospice

Rounding off the half term Halloween and firework fun on the Sunday the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway's Spooks Express steam train, where a tunnel of doom awaits for the braver children. Children that come in fancy dress will receive a present. Visit www.cprra.co.uk for booking and times.

For more ideas on where to go and what to see in South Oxfordshire this half termvisit the Family Fun pages.