Alternative Halloween Events in London

Bored of predictable fancy dress parties and ghost tours? Then we have rounded up some exciting alternative events for you this Halloween.

Jayne Robinson

Last updated: 16th Oct 2012

Halloween can conjure up images of bad costumes, budget decorations, and teeth cavities, yet it doesn’t have to be so drab. London is slowly catching up with our American friends for excitement and enthusiasm, and you can believe there is an experience for everyone.

So if you’re tired of the standard fancy dress parties and predictable ghost tours, then we have rounded up the top alternative Halloween events this year.

Lost Souls Halloween Party at London Aquarium
Taking the frights and fears underground, the famous London Sea Life Aquarium hosts its fifth Halloween Party using its mysterious coves to spook revellers on this Friday night. You can expect a live ‘scare maze’ courtesy of its petrifying residents, whilst the cast of the London Dungeons and the ghostface Skream killers from Madame Tussauds will be on hand to frighten you out of your wits.
Friday 26 October from 8.30pm-12.30 at Sea Life Centre, County Hall, Southbank (tickets from £10 if you’re quick – call 0871 2829201 to book or £20 on the door).

Die Freche Muse presents Stars of the Silver Screen
A film screening with a difference, Die Freche Muse plays homage to the dead stars of the silver screen from the 1920s to the 1960s. Think Marilyn, Judy, and Marlon, and dress to impress with a horror twist. Entertainment includes bands, burlesque and vintage tunes.
Saturday 27 October from 10pm-4am at a Secret Location in Hackney (tickets £20).

Up at The O2
Scared of heights? Trickery? Gruesome stories? Then this might not be for you! Climb of the Cursed is for brave souls itching to walk one of London’s most historical landmarks at the creepiest time of year. An infected guide will meet you at base camp, trick you on your way, and divulge in London’s dark history - a great way to see London’s debauchery from a bird’s eye view.
Climb of the Cursed at the O2 between 27 October and 4 November (tickets £22).

Halloween on the Canal
Hop on the London Canal Museum boat trip for an unnerving experience through Islington tunnels. Plunge 886m underground and explore the pitch black underworld in this hour-long trip peppered with surprises, expect entertainment from unsavoury staff and a ghoulish takeover of the museum itself; a perfect event for the family.
27th-28th October from 16.30pm-21.30pm at the London Canal Museum (£8 for children, £10 for adults).

Alice Cooper Night of Fear
Performing at Wembley this Halloween, it is hard to think of a performer weirder and more wonderful than Alice Cooper. His Night of Fear will see him play his best hits joined by a host of equally wacky performers, putting on a show that will both entertain and freak you out. Take part in the Britain’s Got Freaks competition to be in with a chance of joining Alice on stage.
Sunday 28th from 7pm at Wembley Arena (tickets £42.25).