Alton Towers prepares for Scarefest

Alton Towers has begun preparations for its annual Halloween Scarefest event, which will take place from October 17 - November 1.

The park has closed off the ruins of the Towers in order to transform them into a special Halloween attraction - "Terror of the Towers: What Lies Within". Returning this year will be The Boiler House and Field of 1000 Screams, while guests will be able to enjoy some of the park's famous rides in the dark as the park remains open until 9pm.

Alton Towers is also offering Halloween-themed short breaks for families, with its on-site hotels being dressed up with a Trick-or-Treat theme. Access to free scary films and dressing-up costumes for children is also included. Rooms start from £170 per night based on four people sharing.

Scarefest was first launched in 2007, as Alton Towers looks to emulate the success that parks in the US have had with Halloween events.