Bigger, badder and scarier – dare you Descend into Darkness this October?

Prepare for a bigger, darker and more twisted experience than ever before as Watermouth Castle unleashes its popular Descend into Darkness event this October.

Now a firm favourite for local fear-seekers and horror fans, the immersive and utterly bone-chilling scare event is back bigger and more gruesome than ever, running on selected nights from Friday, October 17 to Saturday, November 1.

With five immersive zones filled with live actors, shocking special effects and pitch-black terror, guests will navigate a nightmare world of gore, suspense and hair-raising encounters.

Above and below: What horrors await at Watermouth Castle this Halloween? Some things are best left unseen! Credit: The Escapade Group

Two brand new scare zones have been added to the line-up this year, with a zombie plague infesting The Z-Factor – can you make it to the other side while avoiding the undead?

Bad Barnyard will see nightmare-inducing farmyard creatures lurking in the shadows - step carefully as every creak, squeak and squeal is a monstrosity waiting to consume you.

These new horrors join three fan favourites – the Cursed Forest welcomes foolhardy visitors to the depths of its ancient evil, with whispering trees and unseen horrors at every turn.

The Haunted Castle offers a glimpse into a twisted nightmare while Carnival of Clowns sees a feral fairground freak show of twisted laughter and manic menace make its blood-curdling return.

Above: Join the Carnival of Clowns and stay there forever, if they catch you! Credit: The Escapade Group

Organisers warn this event is not for the faint-hearted - children under 12 are not permitted and those aged 12 to 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Expect jump scares, gore, total darkness and intense live performances designed to push you to your limits.

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If all that sounds a bit much for the nerves or the ages of visitors, there is also an opportunity to enjoy Daytime Spooktacular Family Fun, running daily from October 25 to November 2, from 10am to 4pm.

It is packed with fang-tastic fun for all ages - follow a spooky Halloween Trail, hunt for mischievous gnomes and collect magical crystals in the gardens. With all activities included in castle admission, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a spell of spooky fun without the blood-curdling screams.

For more information and to book your scarefest, please visit http://www.watermouthcastle.com/events/descend-into-darkness