Halloween is fast approaching, and with October half term on the horizon as well you could well be looking for some activities to do this spooky season.

If puzzling over where to go or what to do then you won't have to go far to find something appropriate for the season.

Our list of the best Halloween events and attractions in the county should be able to help you out.

From scary trails and walks to pumpkin festivals and more, you have a lot to choose from.

Family friendly Halloween events in Essex

Marsh Farm’s Halloween Festival

Where: Marsh Farm Rd, South Woodham Ferrers, CM3 5WP

When: October 16-17

You can come in fancy dress for this event and enjoy the devilishly decorated farm with pumpkin patch picking on offer.

Also available are funfair rides, spooky 3D cinema, adventure play and much much more.

You can book tickets at their website here.

Pumpkin Festival

Where: Lathcoats Farm, Beehive Lane, Galleywood, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 8LX

When: October 18-31

With pick your own pumpkins galore, visiting Latchoats Farm is an easy way to get in the spirit of the season.

There's even an undercover area for the inevitability of when it rains, along with pumpkin carving of course.

Additionally, there is a Halloween Hunt activity on location if you were looking for something else to do.

Colchester Zoo's Trail of Terror

Where: Maldon Rd, Heckfordbridge, Colchester CO3 0SL

When: October 15-16

This isn't one for the faint of heart, as you may your way along a trail in the zoo, with scares potentially coming from anywhere.

Under 5s won't be admitted to this event and under 16s must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

You'll have to hurry if you want to take part as it is only on October 15-16 where the event isn't sold out.

You can get your tickets here.

The Spider's Labyrinth at Mountfitchet Castle

Where: Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex, CM24 8SP

When: October 23-31

Perhaps the scariest event of them all this month is the Spider's Labyrinth at Mountfitchet Castle.

Huge spiders have taken over the historic grounds and have made a terrifying labyrinth of webs and nests inside one of the buildings.

You'll have to make your way through the trail collecting stamps along the way before facing off against the terrible leaping Giant Tarantula.

Plus there's no need to book.

Audley End Miniature Railway's Halloween Special 2021

Where: Audley End Road, Audley End, Saffron Walden, Essex,  CB11 4JB

When: October 23-31 

You'll be able to board the Halloween Express at Audley End Minature Railway.

Chugging deep into the Estate Woodland you will arrive at the witches’ house and be greeted by the coven of witches together with their cheeky monster friends.

You can book your tickets here.

Spooky Fest

Where: Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon, SS16 4UH

When: October 25-31

At Wat Tyler Country Park families can enjoy three chilling mazes, including Alien Attack, Pie Factory and Prison Break.

On top of that you can listen to some scary stories, meet some creepy creatures and join in on the annual spooky hunt.

You can buy tickets here.