halloween at the headland halloween cornwall

Halloween in Cornwall

Experience a spooky Halloween in Cornwall at the home of Roald Dahl’s ‘The Witches’. The film has remained close to our hearts here at The Headland and we will be celebrating with a rather grand and spooky October half-term.

The book ‘The Witches’ was written by Roald Dahl and illustrated by Quentin Blake who famously contributed to many of the author’s books. It was published in 1983. The story follows the experiences of a young boy and his Norwegian grandmother in a world where child-hating evil witches secretly exist. In large parts, it was filmed here at The Headland and the cast were in residence for quite some time; Angelica Huston starred as the Grand High Witch, Rowan Atkinson played the hotel manager.

The Witches afternoon tea

“Devilishly delicious and ranked number 1 by The Telegraph”

“The Headland Hotel on the north Cornish coast was the main setting of the 1987 film adaption of Roald Dahl’s The Witches, and its special afternoon tea stars a medley of white chocolate and coconut mice, chocolate witches’ hats with pumpkin mousse, blackberry jelly shots and meringue ghosts. You’ll even be able to chat with the Grand High Witch herself (though sadly not Anjelica Huston) each afternoon.” The Telegraph

Our head chef is currently preparing the likely features for this year’s Witches afternoon tea. We are immensely excited as last year proved incredibly popular. Expect to see a spookier top-tier in October with sumptuous ‘trick or treats’, mighty homemade Headland scones and bite-sized finger sandwiches.

Book

Halloween activities schedule

Throughout October half-term, enjoy a fun schedule of children’s activities that are guaranteed to keep the little Headlanders (and big!) entertained. We ask that every child is accompanied by their parent.

COVID UPDATE: Provided equipment will undergo the same rigorous cleaning measures as our hotel. We may have to limit numbers in accordance with room size but this will be dependant on the current government guidelines surrounding social distancing. Please make yourself aware of the current announcement on the government website.

Spooktacular fun for all to enjoy

Meet the Grand High Witch in person as she takes her high tea on the stage in the Ballroom every weekend in October and every day throughout half-term
Black cat hunt for children – find the black cats that are dotted around The Headland throughout the week
Ride the broomstick – you and your family can hop on a broomstick and share a photo with the Grand High Witch herself
Storytelling
The Witches film will be shown for guests to relive the famous moments here at The Headland
Pumpkin carving the evening before Halloween
Spooktacular cocktails for adults to sample in The Terrace bar
Enjoy pumpkin lattes and hot chocolates in The Terrace