October in Rhuddlan: what's on and what's happening this month

Rhuddlan sits three miles inland from Rhyl on the banks of the River Clwyd, and it has a way of making October feel like its natural season. The castle takes on a different atmosphere when the leaves turn, the countryside around the town is at its most dramatic, and there is plenty going on for residents and visitors alike. Here is a look at what is happening in and around Rhuddlan this October.

Rhuddlan Castle open for autumn visits

Rhuddlan Castle, managed by Cadw, is open Thursday to Monday throughout October. Built from 1277 on the orders of Edward I, it remains one of the most remarkable medieval fortresses in Wales. The castle introduced the concentric "walls within walls" design that was revolutionary for its time, and it sits beside the River Clwyd in a setting that looks particularly striking in autumn light.

Entry is ticketed, and Cadw members get in free. The castle car park has electric vehicle charging points, and light refreshments are available on site. It is a good outing for families, and Twthill, an eight-minute walk away, offers views over the river and the Clwydian hills.

Ffear Fforest at Zip World, Betws-y-Coed

Running from 9 October to 1 November 2026, Ffear Fforest at Zip World Betws-y-Coed transforms the woodland into a Halloween experience for older children and families. The programme includes a cursed coaster ride, trapdoor drops, a screamride swing and a Halloween Paintball Range through the trees. Aimed at ages 9 and above, it is around an hour's drive from Rhuddlan and makes for a memorable half-term day out.

Tickets should be booked in advance through the Zip World website.

Pumpkin picking at Manorafon Farm, Abergele

Manorafon Farm Park in Abergele, just a short drive from Rhuddlan, runs its popular Pumpkin Fest each October. Visitors can pick their own pumpkins, take part in a pumpkin carving tent, watch the Trick or Treat Show and meet some of the farm's animals. Child tickets include a free pumpkin, and there are evening sessions with separate entertainment.

This is one of the most family-friendly October events in the area, and tickets tend to sell out, so booking ahead is advisable.

Welsh Museums Festival over half term

The Welsh Museums Festival runs across October half term each year, offering free and low-cost events at museums throughout Wales. Activities include history trails, storytelling sessions, craft workshops and behind-the-scenes experiences for families. Several venues within easy reach of Rhuddlan take part. It is worth checking the Museums Federation Cymru website for details of what is happening at your nearest participating museum.

Autumn walking along the Wales Coast Path

October is one of the best months to walk the Wales Coast Path, and the stretch around the North Wales coast near Rhuddlan offers easy access to miles of well-maintained path with sea views and autumn scenery. The free Wales Coast Path app adds augmented reality features, bringing local legends to life along the route, which can make a walk feel more like an adventure for younger visitors.

Rhuddlan Nature Reserve in autumn

The nature reserve on the edge of town comes into its own in October, with the changing colours of the trees and increased activity from migratory birds. The Rhuddlan Nature Reserve Management Action Group has been active in improving and caring for the site, and it received recognition in the Wales in Bloom awards earlier this year. A walk through the reserve is free, quiet and well worth an hour of anyone's time.

Council news: second consecutive council tax freeze

Rhuddlan Town Council has confirmed that council tax will remain at £116.28 per annum for a Band D property for the 2026 to 2027 financial year. This is the second year in a row that the council has held the rate steady, a decision that will be welcome news for residents at a time when household costs remain a concern for many.

Mayor re-elected at the 2026 AGM

At the town council's Annual General Meeting in May, Councillor Jackie Burnham was re-elected as Mayor of Rhuddlan for a second consecutive year. Cllr Burnham said she was "honoured to have been re-elected" and looks forward to continuing to serve the community over the coming year. Both she and the Deputy Mayor keep busy diaries, representing the town at local events and community gatherings throughout the year.

October is a good time to make the most of what this part of North Wales has to offer, from the medieval stones of the castle to the farmland paths and woodland walks just beyond the town. Whether you have lived here for years or are exploring the area for the first time, there is no shortage of ways to get involved and enjoy what the community has to offer.