Join the Witch Academy for a spooky ride on the London Eye!

Halloween has always been my favorite holiday, and I’ve been pleased to observe that this year New York City has embraced it more than ever with the Upper East Side townhouses seemingly in a competition as to who can add more cobwebs. But, as an article in the New York Times pointed out today, Britain is also have a huge Halloween this year. Despite their love of Fancy Dress (which we call costumes), candy (hello Willy Wonka) all things haunted (places like Rufford Abbey are practically a dime — I mean a quid —  a dozen), the Brits were slow to warm up to this very American holiday. While some may bemoan that Halloween celebrations are eclipsing traditions like Guy Fawkes Night, I applaud our friends across the pond for joining in the fun.

Carved pineapples — instead of pumpkins — at Trader Vics at the London Hilton on Park Lane.

London has turned into a fabulous Halloween city, and I think it’s putting NYC to shame.  Here are some of the Halloween events in London that I’d love to go to — if you’re not lucky enough to have a flat in London, then look for a room at Hotel Direct. But make sure you get to at least one of these events:

Halloween Storytelling Experience on the EDF Energy London Eye: If you don’t like heights, then riding the London Eye can be a scary experience any day of the year. But for most, the London Eye is very cool experience to see amazing views of London. All week, you can join the Witch Academy and ride with Priscilla the High Witch and hear spooky stories at this special event aimed at kids.

Voodoo Spell III at Trader Vic’s in London Hilton on Park Lane: For those who want a more adult Halloween experience, head to this Polynesian-themed bar for a costume contest and carved pineapples instead of the usual pumpkins.

The London Dungeon: Could there even be a more perfect place to spend Halloween in London than in the dungeon? Scaredy cats need not enter the dungeon, where there will encounter the likes of Jack the Ripper. There are two underground rides and over 1,000 pumpkins. For those who want to take the experience home with them, there is a Graveyard-themed shop. Although you may be so terrified you might prefer to leave without the memories!

Ham House Halloween Ghost Tours: A more highbrow yet entertaining option is this tour by National Trust Guides of an opulent Stuart mansion on the Thames. It’s been over 300 years since her death, but the ghost of the Duchess of Lauderdale still stalks the corridors of Ham House with her silver-tipped cane. And after seeing what a magnificent house this is, who could blame her? The one-hour tour finishes with drinks and canapes in the 17th century Orangery. A drink will hopefully calm your nerves after being in this haunted house.

Looking for more Halloween fun? Check out these videos of Haunted Houses across the USA!