This October half term (25 October – 2 November), The Roman Baths invites families to step into a web of myth and mystery with its brand-new Spooky Spider Hunt—a Halloween adventure inspired by the ancient tale of Minerva and Arachne.
Visitors will uncover the story of Arachne, a gifted mortal weaver who dared to challenge Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom and craft. As punishment, Arachne was transformed into a spider, destined to weave forevermore. The legend is brought to life through a fun and educational trail that winds through the historic site, where Minerva’s presence still lingers. Her gilt bronze statue head, discovered in 1727, remains one of the museum’s most iconic treasures.
Young explorers can follow the spider-themed trail, find coloured spiders, and even come face to face with Minerva herself. The trail is free with admission and runs until 2 November.
The Halloween fun continues throughout the half term with a host of themed activities. Children can get hands-on in drop-in craft sessions, creating mosaic pumpkins and spooky spiders to take home as Halloween keepsakes. Budding archaeologists can dig for replica artefacts in the Investigation Zone, where Archaeology Adventures runs twice daily from 27 to 31 October. And for older children (14+) and adults, there’s the chance to create a needle felt pumpkin in a one off workshop on 25 October.
Visitors can also meet costumed Roman characters who bring history to life with stories from ancient Britain, while the children’s audio guide offers an interactive journey through the site’s rich past. After exploring, families can enjoy a frightfully fun Halloween afternoon tea at The Pump Room Restaurant, and browse The Roman Baths Shop for cuddly spiders, spooky chocolates, and children’s books on the ancient world—perfect for curious young minds.
Councillor Paul Roper, Cabinet Member for Economic and Cultural Sustainable Development, said:
“The Spooky Spider Hunt is a fantastic way for families to experience The Roman Baths this half term. It’s imaginative, educational, and full of seasonal fun—bringing ancient myths to life in a way that’s both engaging and memorable. It’s history with a twist, and a few extra legs!”
Whether you're a history lover, a Halloween enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable day out, The Roman Baths offers a unique blend of ancient legend and seasonal fun.
Listing details:
Spooky Spider Hunt / 1 October – 2 November / Included with admission price
https://www.romanbaths.co.uk/event/spooky-spider-hunt
Mosaic Makes: Free Family Crafts / 2-4pm, 27 – 31 October / Included with admission price
https://www.romanbaths.co.uk/event/mosaic-makes-free-family-crafts
Archaeology Adventures / 11am & midday, 27 – 31 October / £6 (in addition to admission to The Roman Baths) / Ages 6 – 12
https://www.romanbaths.co.uk/event/archaeology-adventures
Needle Felting Workshop: Pumpkins / 10.30am-12.30pm, 25 October / Ages 14+ / £40 per person / The Roman Baths Clore Learning Centre (entrance to The Roman Baths is not included)
https://www.romanbaths.co.uk/event/needle-felting-workshop-pumpkins
The Spooktacular Children’s Afternoon Tea at The Pump Room Restaurant / Daily 24 October – 2 November / £14.95 per child
https://thepumproombath.co.uk/whats-on/spooktacular-childrens-halloween-afternoon-tea/
