Visit Newbury plans spooky Hallowe’en trail through Bartholomew Street

Visit Newbury has announced a thrilling free experience for families this October half term: the Ghost Town Shop Trail.

The market town is steeped in history – and home to many eerie tales.

In this spooky spirit, some of Newbury’s shops around Bartholomew Street are being transformed into haunting destinations between October 25 and October 28 for children to trick or treat as they hunt for Hallowe’en posters in shop windows.

The trail involves 10 local independent businesses including The Goan Caff, The Freakshow, The Dolphin, Willow & Blooms, Salon 46, Hethertons Bakery, La La Vintage, TaxAssist Accountants, The Ugly Duckling and The Rufus Coffee House.

Each shop will be offering chocolates and sweets to celebrate the spooky season – and costumes are encouraged.

Visit Newbury recommends starting off at the Kennet Shopping centre, where free Hallowe’en spooky makeovers will be offered at a face painting station between 10am and 2pm.

A number of prizes will also be on offer including Lego Star Wars sets, Vue Cinema family vouchers and a Nandos family meal voucher.

Operations manager at Newbury BID Alison Drummond said: “We can’t wait for the Ghost Town Shop Trail in October.

“With some fantastic local businesses involved, fun prizes and, of course, chocolate up for grabs, the four-day event promises to be great and provide a great showcase for our much loved Independents down in Bartholomew Street.”

The participating shops will be visibly marked, making it easy for families to plot their Hallowe’en adventure.

Visit Newbury’s other Hallowe’en events include the Spooktakular Window Competition where town-centre businesses are encouraged to dress up their windows as part of the Hallowe’en festivities.

Visit https://visitnewbury.org.uk/ for more information and to sign up for your trail card.