8 September 2025
Halloween 2025 is almost here, and we’re preparing to cover as many UK events as possible throughout September and October.
Over the years, we’ve meticulously developed our exclusive rating system by selecting and expanding on key categories that define a great scare attraction and event. For 2025, we’re going more in-depth than ever, with 10 distinct categories for both attractions and events. Each category will be independently scored out of 5 by both members of Thrill Nation, before being brought together to give a total score.
Our scoring scale is simple:
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0 – Non-existent
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1 – Poor
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2 – Improvements needed
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3 – As expected
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4 – Good
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5 – Amazing
With a potential score of 100 for each attraction or event, the total will then be translated into a 1 to 5-star Thrill Nation rating. Every event and attraction we visit will be rated against these categories. We are committed to applying the same logic and mindset to every experience, whether it’s a complimentary or a paid-for visit. We understand that some experiences may not fit neatly into these categories (for example, a one-off maze without an event setup), so we may make a few exceptions by not providing a star rating if we feel it’s not appropriate.
2025 Scare Attraction Categories
Theming
Creating an immersive environment through the quality and detail of the theming. We’ll be looking for both big set pieces and small Easter eggs that enhance the experience.
Storytelling
A unique and coherent story that flows throughout the attraction is crucial for drawing you into the experience and maximizing its effectiveness.
Screams
Halloween is all about being scared, after all. This category focuses on the big scare moments, from jump scares and unnerving gore to chilling tension.
Enjoyment
Laughs and light-hearted moments are a welcome feature of scare attractions, providing enjoyment between scares and a false sense of security for what’s to come.
Actor Performance
No Halloween experience is complete without the team of actors behind it. We’ll be evaluating the quality of acting and the energy they bring to guide and scare you along the way.
Actor Utilisation
The volume and strategic placement of actors is vital to ensuring maximum impact. A large gap without actors is always noticeable.
SFX
Special effects, especially those triggered at key scenes, truly enhance the experience and add a “wow factor.” This can include animatronics, fog, pyrotechnics, moving floors, and more.
Audio & Lighting
Both lighting and sound make a huge difference in an attraction. We’ll be looking at audio soundtracks, sound effects, and lighting sequences that are carefully utilized to enhance the atmosphere.
Concept
We’re always looking for something new. This category evaluates elements that make an attraction stand out or offer a different overall experience.
Flow
No one wants to catch up with the group in front or be held waiting for an extended time. We’ll be mindful of how the maze is designed and batched, as this has a big impact on the overall experience.
2025 Scare Event Categories
Variety
We evaluate the variety and quality of the attractions on offer to ensure a well-rounded event that caters to different types of guests, with various themes, scare levels, and more.
Roaming Characters
Street theatre is a common feature at events, providing an interactive encounter with scare actors who roam the venue, from queue lines to bars and beyond.
Entertainment
Halloween events are also about being entertained when you’re not in an attraction. We’ll look at the atmosphere created by live bands, DJs, stage performers, fire shows, and more.
Side Shows
People often want extra opportunities for more thrills and fun. We’ll look at what else is on offer, from funfairs and shock chairs to game stalls and guest-triggered scares.
Uniqueness
With more Halloween events appearing all the time, this category focuses on what unique features the event has, whether it’s the venue itself, the types of attractions, or any other element that sets it apart
Operations
Events should operate in a way that is enjoyable for all guests. We’ll take into account entry procedures, staff engagement, and overall busyness, including attraction queue times.
Food, Drink & Retail
Guests will want to take a break for food and drink, as well as take a memento home. We will consider the variety of options, quality, prices, and queues.
Facilities
This category covers the core facilities needed at an event, which are certainly noticeable when insufficient. This includes parking, toilets, covered spaces, and navigation around the event.
Location
While many of these events are in isolated locations, it’s still important to consider accessibility. We’ll evaluate how easy it is to get to the event by car, public transport, or taxi, and whether there are nearby accommodation options.
Value For Money
Everyone looks for an event that is both affordable and offers a worthwhile experience. We’re grateful to receive complimentary entry to some events, but we rate every experience with the same mindset, focusing on the quality of the experience versus the ticket price.
WOOs & BOOs: Our Final Analysis
Using the scores for the highest and lowest-rated categories, we’ll be highlighting two “WOOs” and one “BOO” for each scare attraction and event in our reviews. This allows us to discuss in more detail the biggest strengths, as well as to outline an area that requires the most improvement.
Why do we do all of this? As huge advocates for the immersive scare industry, we want to see it thrive. We also want to provide customers with useful information on which events and attractions will suit them best. Following the conclusion of the Halloween season, we will reflect on our comprehensive list of ratings and shortlist nominees for our yet-to-be-announced Halloween Awards. This is a great way to celebrate all the hard work that goes into these incredible attractions and events.
Attraction Ratings
Event Ratings
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