Witches, Wands & Whistles

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Witches, Wands & Whistles at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway

Get ready for a spooktacular October half term on our island as the Isle of Wight Steam Railway transforms Havenstreet into a world of witches, wizards, pumpkins and Halloween surprises.

Running from 17 to 31 October 2026, Witches, Wands & Whistles is packed with family-friendly entertainment, creative activities and plenty of seasonal fun. Entry to the Halloween activities at Havenstreet is free, while the specially themed spooky train ride can be booked separately.

All aboard the Halloween Express

The star attraction is the Halloween Express, a spooky steam train ride through the Isle of Wight countryside. Look out for Halloween displays along the route and keep your eyes peeled for creepy surprises as you travel.

The railway’s heritage carriages will also be given a Halloween makeover, with decorations and themed touches helping to bring the adventure to life from the moment you step aboard.

Up to three children can travel free with every full-price adult ticket purchased, making it a brilliant half-term day out for families. Train tickets also include a small pumpkin from the pumpkin patch and a children’s goody bag with a Halloween activity sheet.

Pick and carve your own pumpkin

Head to the Great Halloween Pumpkin Patch, grab a wheelbarrow and choose your perfect pumpkin to take home. Pumpkins are priced according to size, and once you’ve picked yours, you can take it to the free pumpkin carving station and turn it into your own Halloween creation.

Carving materials and decorations are provided, although the carving station is subject to availability and capacity.

Witches, wizards and Halloween fun

There’s plenty more happening around Havenstreet throughout the event, with live performances, a resident magic wizard, circus skills workshops, potion making and giant bubble displays.

Look out for spooky stilt walkers roaming the site, then head to the craft marquee to get creative. Activities include making witches’ broomsticks and magic wands, as well as decorating your own spooky cake creation. Craft activities are available for an additional charge.

Plan your visit

Entry to the Halloween fun at Havenstreet is free, with spooky train rides and craft activities charged separately. Online booking is recommended for the train ride, with cheaper fares available in advance.

A new Route 33 bus service also connects Newport and Ryde with Havenstreet, making it easier to enjoy a car-free day out on our island.

Whether you’re coming for the steam trains, the pumpkin patch, the magic or simply a brilliant family Halloween day out, Witches, Wands & Whistles promises plenty of half-term fun at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.