Looking for what’s on in Staffordshire this autumn? From Halloween thrills and theme parks to historic castles, countryside walks and live entertainment, Staffordshire has plenty to offer families, couples and friends. Whether you’re planning a half-term adventure or searching for something to enjoy at the weekend, there are events and attractions for every age.
Events
Gandeys Circus at Trentham: Halloween Spooktacular
Gandey World Class Productions is a touring circus company known for its spectacular family circus shows across the UK and it has its Halloween Spooktacular to the Big Top at Trentham Estate, Stoke-on-Trent, from 23rd October to 1st November 2026. This brand-new family show combines daring human performers, spectacular stage production and spooky fun without the horror, making it suitable for children and teenagers.
Shows run at 12 noon, 2:30pm and 5:30pm on weekends, with selected afternoon and evening performances during half term. Tickets start at £9.99, with Premium Ringside seats costing up to £35, plus a £1.95 booking fee. Opening-night seats are £9.99, with a £4 ringside supplement.
Each performance lasts around two hours, including an interval. There are no animals, and under-twos go free on a parent’s lap. Hot food, drinks, candy floss and popcorn are available inside the covered Big Top, making it an option whatever the weather. Check the official Halloween countdown and tour dates and FAQs before travelling.
Theme Parks and Family Attractions
Alton Towers Resort hosts its annual Scarefest Halloween event, with spooky attractions and family-friendly experiences similar in spirit to Gandeys Circus’ Trafford Centre Halloween Spooktacular. Younger visitors can enjoy Trick O’ Treat Town, while older thrill-seekers can explore the scare mazes. Check the park’s website for operating dates and ticket availability.
Drayton Manor Resort, near Tamworth, offers Thomas Land for younger children, alongside seasonal Halloween entertainment reminiscent of Gandeys Circus’ Merry Hill Halloween Spooktacular. Its Blazing Halloween activities include a trick-or-treat trail and an evening lake show, with seasonal fireworks advertised for the end of October and beginning of November.
For indoor fun, SnowDome in Tamworth offers real snow, an ice rink and swimming facilities, while Trentham Estate also welcomes Gandeys K‑Pop Dragon Circus Trentham Spectacular earlier in the year. Waterworld at Festival Park in Stoke-on-Trent has pools and water slides, making it another option for a rainy day.
Castles, Culture and Countryside
Staffordshire’s historic attractions provide a change of pace from the theme parks, just as Gandeys adult night circus experiences in Nottingham offer a different style of evening entertainment from its daytime family shows. Shugborough Estate, near Stafford, combines historic buildings and gardens, while Tamworth Castle explores the area’s Norman heritage, and fans of live spectacles can also look ahead to Gandeys K‑Pop Dragon Circus in Nottingham. Stafford Castle offers impressive ruins and views across the surrounding countryside; check opening arrangements before visiting.
In Stoke-on-Trent, the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery has free entry and displays the Staffordshire Hoard alongside ceramics and a restored Spitfire. Visitors can also explore pottery-making experiences at Emma Bridgewater and World of Wedgwood.
For fresh air, Cannock Chase offers woodland walks and cycling trails, while the Roaches, Tittesworth Reservoir and Rudyard Lake provide opportunities to enjoy Staffordshire’s countryside, before returning to the excitement of Gandeys spectacular Coventry big top shows.
Seasonal Shows and Performing Arts
Trentham Estate hosts Halloween activities in its gardens from 24th October to 1st November 2026, alongside the Gandeys Circus show. Later in the year, the Winter Light Trail is scheduled to run from 20th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027.
For performing arts, the Regent Theatre in Hanley presents Snow White from 11th December 2026 to 3 January 2027. The New Vic Theatre in Newcastle-under-Lyme stages The Borrowers from 13th November 2026 to 23rd January 2027. Both offer festive entertainment for families and friends.
Plan Your Staffordshire Visit
Before setting off, check venue websites for the latest opening times, event dates, accessibility information and ticket prices, and consider whether you want to combine your trip with Gandeys unmissable Birmingham circus event. Some attractions require advance booking, particularly during school holidays.
Whether you want a day of big thrills, a relaxing countryside walk or an evening enjoying live performances and sharing key moments with friends and family, Staffordshire offers plenty of ways to make autumn memorable.
Frequently asked questions
What’s on in Staffordshire this half term?
Options include Gandeys Circus at Trentham, Halloween activities at Trentham Estate, and seasonal events at Alton Towers and Drayton Manor.
What can you do in Staffordshire when it rains?
Try SnowDome, Waterworld, the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery or a covered performance at Gandeys Circus.
Is Gandeys Circus coming to Staffordshire?
Yes. The Halloween Spooktacular runs at Trentham Estate from 23rd October to 1st November 2026. Under-twos go free on a parent’s lap. Check the official tour dates page for tickets and show times.
