Hundreds of children dressed up as witches, devils and frightening figures to take part in a ghoulish night-time walk on Hallowe’en at historic Lauderdale House.

A zombie bride and groom were among performers who scared youngsters on the annual Spooky Trail through the darkened grounds of the 16th century mansion in Waterlow Park, Highgate, on Saturday. The event was the last to be held at the house until next summer while it undergoes a £2.3million transformation and refurbishment. More than 400 children and adults were set on a number of ghoulish missions, the last of which was to “magically” promise that they will look after Lauderdale House while it is being refurbished.

Director Katherine Ives said: “It was huge fun. We’ve closed the house to the public but the works have only just started, so it was a really nice way to say goodbye.”