After what was one of the longest, hottest summers I can remember, the ‘ber’ months have finally arrived.
I find October a lovely transition into the colder months and, since having kids, I really get into the spirit of Halloween.
So, just hours into the spooky month, we found ourselves at the opening weekend of Halloweenville, set in the tranquil surroundings of Partridge Lakes near Warrington.
Now in its third year, this was our first visit and we were promised an enchanted land where you can fully immerse yourself in all things weird, wonderful and witchy.
Arriving ahead of our trail slot, we had time to explore the food village, where everything from tacos to stonebaked pizzas was on offer. There was also a bar, so I washed my pepperoni slices down with a mulled wine (who says you have to wait until the ‘ber’ month of December for one of those?!).
Face-painting helped build the excitement before the trail, and my two left with adorable stencils of a pumpkin wearing a witch's hat and a bat to match his Batman outfit, of course.
We got in the queue for the trail and there was about a 20-minute wait but, once things got moving, it was so worth it.
This year's theme is The Rise of the Ancient Skeleton King and families are taken on an enchanting storybook adventure, meeting a colourful cast of live characters along the way.
The attraction really leans into the idea of 'spooky, not scary', which is brilliant for younger children. What sets Halloweenville apart is that it isn't just a walk around a decorated trail. The experience is built around a story, with live actors guiding families from scene to scene and encouraging children to take part.
My two were completely engrossed and eager to join in at every opportunity.
I've been on a fair few light trails over the years and, while some can feel like little more than a walk around a few lights, this one offers far more.
Every section feels carefully thought out, with interactive elements, imaginative sets and plenty of surprises along the way.
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The decorations are excellent, from towering displays and themed scenes to countless photo opportunities dotted throughout the trail, from swings for the kids to a spider's web tunnel.
I won't give too much more away because this is one that should definitely be on the must-visit list this Halloween.
As we were leaving, I said to my son: "That was good, wasn't it?"
His reply: "Better than good, amazing!"
For more information, visit halloweenville.co.uk
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