LONDON — The National Trust reported record attendance across its historic estates during the October half-term week, with pumpkin trails, lantern walks and ghost tours driving the strongest autumn turnout in the charity's history.

The Trust, which manages more than 500 properties across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, has expanded its seasonal programming in recent years to attract younger families and offset flat membership growth. Half-term bookings at flagship sites including Waddesdon Manor and Stourhead sold out days in advance, a National Trust spokesperson said.

Seasonal attractions have become a significant revenue source for heritage bodies facing rising maintenance costs and reduced public funding. Admission and catering income from autumn events now rivals the Trust's summer peak, with illuminated evening trails among the fastest-growing offerings.

The surge mirrors a wider commercialisation of Halloween in Britain, where consumer spending on the season has climbed steadily. Retail analysts at the British Retail Consortium have forecast UK Halloween spending above £1 billion in 2026, as families increasingly treat the period as a multi-day outing rather than a single night.

The Trust said the strong figures would help fund conservation work heading into winter, when visitor numbers typically fall sharply.