Hengistbury Head has witnessed thousands of years of human history, but some of its most fascinating stories are hidden beneath the landscape rather than standing above it.
On Saturday 31 October 2026, a special Halloween event called The Walk of the Dead invites visitors to explore ancient burial practices, prehistoric beliefs and the relationship between the living, the dead and the night sky.
The Walk of the Dead at Hengistbury Head isn’t simply another spooky attraction. It’s an opportunity to discover the remarkable history of one of Bournemouth’s most important archaeological landscapes.
What Happens on the Walk of the Dead Hengistbury Head Event?
The guided evening walk explores the Bronze Age communities that lived around Hengistbury Head approximately 4,000 years ago.
Visitors will learn about ancient burial mounds, known as round barrows, and how prehistoric people understood death, ritual and the world around them.
The event also examines the importance of the sky and the beliefs that shaped ancient ceremonies.
With the walk taking place after dark on Halloween itself, the setting should provide plenty of atmosphere without needing artificial haunted-house effects.
It’s a particularly interesting event for anyone who enjoys local history, archaeology and discovering the stories hidden in familiar landscapes.
Date, Tickets and Practical Details
- Date: Saturday 31 October 2026
- Time: 7pm–9pm
- Adults: £5
- Children: £2.50
- Location: Hengistbury Head, Bournemouth, Dorset
- Activity: Outdoor guided historical walk
This is an outdoor event, so warm clothing and suitable footwear are essential. Paths may be uneven, muddy or difficult to see after dark.
The organisers suggest bringing portable seating if you’d prefer to sit during the final part of the evening.
Booking is available through the official Walk of the Dead event page.
Parking and Getting There
The main Hengistbury Head car park, accessed from Broadway in Southbourne, provides a practical starting point for visits to the area.
Parking charges apply, and visitors should check evening access arrangements and the precise meeting point on their booking confirmation.
Allow enough time to park and reach the group before the 7pm start.
For more historic experiences, explore One More Stop’s Events & What’s On page. For alternative weekend outings without an admission charge, see our free things to do near Bournemouth guide.
One journey. One story. One more stop.