Halloween Lake Light Trail at Partridge Lakes, Warrington

AD: Updated for 2024. Please always check the website in advance of attending any events for the most up to date information.

Partridge Lakes in Culcheth, Warrington describe themselves as hosting the UK’s first Halloween Lakeside Light Trail this year. Making use of the lakeside environment, as the sun fades and the dark nights draw in, seems a great use of the space. We were pleased to be invited to the preview evening this weekend to see exactly what a Halloween Light Trail is all about.

The Halloween Lake Light Trail is open to the public from Friday 4th October through to Halloween on Thursday 31st October. See at the bottom of this post for details on how to pre book tickets and parking.

We weren’t sure what to expect from a Halloween Light Trail, having mainly attended Christmas Light Trails in the past. We presumed that with this being billed as a family event, it wouldn’t be too scary with haunted creatures popping out in surprise and spiders webs dangling in your face. Pleasantly surprised to be correct – This was a great event for young children and if you are slightly nervous of Halloween events.

What age is the Halloween Lake Light Trail suitable for?

We saw toddlers in prams that were engaged with the twinkly lights and Halloween displays. I would say that perhaps 12 ish is the maximum age for full engagement though. Although, Tara did enjoy walking around with us and very much enjoyed the crepe from the many food and drink stalls at the end.

The course is suitable for prams and plenty wide enough but was starting to get muddy underfoot in some areas so be prepared for muddy wheels!

How long does the Halloween Lakeside Light Trail take?

The information we got before arriving said it would take around 1 hour to walk around the whole light trail but it took us just over 40 minutes.

Can I toast marshmallows at the Halloween Trail?

Yes, there are fire pits around 1/3rd of the way around where you can buy marshmallows to toast (or you can take your own marshmallows and skewers if you are counting the pennies).

What is there to see at the Halloween trail?

The organisers at Partridge Lakes have worked incredibly hard to make sure there is plenty to see. Some of the displays are more subtle than others – There are small skeletons at the side of the lake in inflatables and plenty of hanging Halloween creatures, like witches hats. Some of these could be quite easy to miss so our advice is to look up!

There were some parts of the Halloween trail that could have been better lit and easier to spot but this could also be due to the lights not arriving in time. (See parking at Partridge Lakes below).

I really like the idea of using lights to celebrate Halloween. Yes, there are plenty of references to ghosts and ghouls but nothing too scary for little ones (or sensitive 50 year olds – I’m not a fan of Halloween, really). I also like the idea of celebrating the event with a family trip, rather than trooping around the neighbourhood for trick or treat with endless sweets and plastic tat.

For braver visitors, over 14’s can experience the Terror Trail each Friday evening in October. (Not recommended for young children or pregnant women). Tickets booked separately through the Halloween Trail website (details below). Limited availability – Book in advance.

What to wear at the Partridge Lakes Halloween Trail?

We were really warm when we went around the lakeside trail. You are fairly sheltered as there are loads of bushes and trees, so we would advise layers that can easily be removed if you get too hot.

Wellies or walking boots are advisable – the ground was starting to get quite muddy and slippy with the rain and sheer amount of people.

Are there toilets at Partridge Lakes?

Yes, toilet facilities are available at the start or end of the Halloween trail.

Is there seating available around the Halloween Trail?

We didn’t see any benches (other than at the marshmallow toasting station) so if you have mobility problems, you may need to take your own chair.

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What time does the Halloween Light Trail start and finish?

There are several time slots each day available to book. The first time slot starts at 6.30PM and the last time slot is 7.45PM. After the 18th October when it starts to go dark earlier, there is an earlier time slot at 6PM.

If you are running late for your booking, you are fine to arrive up to 15 minutes after.

The entire site closes at 10pm so plenty of time to get around and have some time to explore.

Is parking available at Partridge Lakes for the Halloween Trail?

Yes, there is some parking available on site and also at Black Sheep Wools about 50m down the road. Parking is £5 when bought in advance (£7 if not precooked). Partridge Lakes is situated on a country lane with no on-road parking so for safety reasons, we would advise pre-booking your parking.

We did find ourselves getting slightly lost leaving Partridge Lakes but were quickly assisted by one of the many friendly helpers (There are stewards all over the place and at regular intervals as you walk through the trail). Apparently, more lighting had been due to arrive before the preview evening but it had not turned up. Hopefully, this will be in place by the time the trail is fully open.

Is there any food and drink available at the Halloween Trail?

Yes, there was a selection of food stalls and drink stalls. Tara opted for the Crepe van (with maple and marshmallows, if you are interested) but we could have chosen from burgers and Thai dishes too. There is a huge covered open marquee for you to enjoy food and drinks either before or after you do the trail. A wide selection of drinks stalls are also available – Hot Chocolate, Pumpkin Spice latte, & alcoholic drinks.

How much does a ticket to Partridge Lakes’ Halloween Light Trail cost?

A family ticket costs £60 (2 adults and 2 children). 1 adults and 2 children cost £45 so not a cheap event. I would advise going as early as possible to get the most out of your time there.

Individual tickets cost £18 per adult and £14 for children (aged 3-15). Under 3’s go free. Family bundles available. Visit Halloween Lakeside Trail website to book.

Where to find Partridge Lakes?

Glaziers Ln, Culcheth, Warrington WA3 4AQ

Junction 12 of the M62 (Worsley) or J23 of the M6 then up the A580 (East Lancashire Road) until you get to Culcheth.

What else is happening at Partridge Lakes?

Sadly this year, Partridge Lakes have cancelled their Pumpkin Patch but signpost you to nearby Bates Farm who have plenty of Pumpkins available every weekend for visitors.

Other North West Posts you might enjoy:

Where to have Breakfast with Santa around Crosby

Where to have Breakfast with Santa in Warrington and St Helens

Where to find scarecrows in the North West this Autumn