This month Osterley Park is offering visitors the rare chance to run with ghosts and goblins rather than away from them.
Avid runners, gentle joggers, or just families looking for a Halloween adventure will be able to explore the gardens and parkland of the National Trust property like never before - after dark!
Night Run - the new night time trail takes place on Saturday October 25 at 6pm and is the latest in a number of sporting events being organised.
Participants will be able to choose between the 2km long Explorer Route, or the more challenging 7km Adventurer Route.
Both routes will be traffic free and spread across paths and trails, rather than tarmac.
Explorer is perfect for families, with the chance to discover the historical gardens by torchlight.
It’s also a great opportunity for those new to running to take part in their first organised event.
The pumpkin lit trail will take you past the Temple of Pan and round the Great Meadow.
The longer Adventure route, with the shadow of Osterley House looming in the background, sees brave souls deciding whether tou dare take on the tracks and trails by the light of a headlamp, as dusk turns to darkness.
Organiser Sheena Dickson, the sports development officer, said: “This is a unique opportunity to explore Osterley in a completely different light.
“When else are you let loose to experience one of the last surviving country estates in the Capital with only a torch to guide your way?
“We have trails for both the keen runners and those who just want a gentle jog or walk around a smaller route.
“If you are looking for something fun and different to do this Hallowe’en with your friends and family this is it!”
In addition to the Night Run event, Osterley will come alive with evening activities for everyone to enjoy.
Lyndsey Marshall, visitor experience manager, added: “This is a one-off chance to experience the property at night, well after the doors have been locked and the park gate closed.
“For the first time ever we’ll be running twilight tours of the House, and for families we’ll have pumpkin carving and craft activities for the little ones.
“Our fully licensed Stables Café will be open all evening serving warming pumpkin soup and rustic sausage baps; it’s the perfect place to get a drink and socialise whilst the runners head off into the darkness.”
To take part in the event, simply visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nightrunning and register. Tickets cost £17.50 per adult for adventure route and £15 per adult for explorer route (family/friends, group and early bird discounts available).
If night runs aren't your thing and you prefer a day time activity, Osterley can still cater for you.
On both October 25 and 26 there is a pumpkin festival featuring silly games, pumpkin carving and spooky craft activities happening in the grounds of the house.
You can also complete their terrifying trail (if you dare!) or get ghoulish by having your face painted.
Adult £4.50, child £2.30 some activities are subject to an additional charge.
For more information, call 020 8232 5050.
