A WEEK of colourful activities is promised for the half-term holidays at East Riddlesden Hall as the grounds are carpeted with leaves of gold and brown.

Children can select their favourite fallen leaf and peg it onto a washing line to make a string of autumn bunting in the garden.

Marketing officer Carla Weatherall said: “There are lots of natural materials to collect which are perfect for creating wild art masterpieces throughout the gardens.

“Children can follow the coloured pumpkin trail to solve the spooky riddle and make paper bats to take away and hang in their windows.

“In the wild play area they can have a go at nature weaving and a making a mud pie. Following a revolting trail inside the house, building dens and running through a willow tunnel are just a few of the other things on offer.”

Carla said that with its blackened walls and tales of tragedy, the National Trust-owned hall was the perfect place to spend a spooky Hallowe’en.

There will be scary stories in the dimly-lit barn between Saturdays and Wednesdays, from October 21 to November 1, at 1.30pm.

There will be children’s Hallowe’en parties on October 29 and 31, with music, dancing, games, face painting, and crafts. Children’s tickets cost £6, including hotdog, scary bun and unlimited juice/water. Adult tickets are £2, and a bar will sell alcoholic and soft drinks.

Party times are 1-3pm and 5-7pm on the Sunday and 5-7pm on the Tuesday. Call 0344 2491895 for further information.

East Riddlesden Hall is open between Saturdays and Wednesdays, from 10.30am to 4.30pm. Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/riddlesdenhall or call 01535 607075 for further information.