Our guide to Halloween with bike rides, ghost trains and cult films

With Halloween almost upon us, there’s no end to the number of money-making, ghoulishly themed events to choose from. But for more of a twist, here’s our top three alternative Halloween events.

Spooky Bike Ride with Critical Mass 

This Friday’s Critical Mass will have somewhat of a spookier feel from the usual night rides. Make sure to bring lights and most importantly a Halloween mask. The mass-ride is open to all ages and cycling abilities. Following the ride around the city Pedal MCR will be hosting a special Halloween mass-querade ball at the boathouse in Platt Fields park. The ball is free and there will be food, drink and tunes. Fri 26 Oct, Meet outside the war memorial in St Peter’s Square, M2 3DF, 6pm for 6.30pm, FREE, www.ibikemcr.org.uk

Real-life Ghost Train 

The steam locomotive sets off along the East Lancashire railway from the station to Rawtenstall, with spine-chilling tales being told throughout the journey. Travel through dark tunnels and stop at abandoned stations for encounters with ghostly visitors and the supernatural. A ticket for the Halloween train journey also includes admission to the Bury Transport Museum and a free gift for youngsters. Sun 28 Oct, East Lancashire Railway, Bolton Street  Bury, BL9 0EY. Tel: 0844 686 9289, 5pm – 8pm, prices vary, www.quaytickets.com

Film freak out:  Junk Shop party with The Lost Boys, Halloween III & Monster Squad at 2022NQ 

The Northern Quarter’s upscale vintage palace, Junk Shop is hosting a fun day in store this Saturday with cakes, drinks, and a screening of Kiefer Sutherland vampire classic, The Lost Boys, on the back wall of the store. Shopping for that Halloween party outfit doesn’t get more fun. Over at 2022NQ fans of horror and hell raising can tuck into a bloody double bill with The Monster Squad and Halloween III. We also recommend the Braindead screening at the Cornerhouse on Saturday (27 Oct, tickets STILL available!). See our preview. Sat 27 Oct, Junk Shop, 2 Dale Street, Northern Quarter, M1 1JW. Tel: 0161 238 8517, 11am-6pm, FREE, www.facebook.com. Wed 31 Oct, 2022NQ, 20/22 Dale Street, Northern Quarter, M1 1EZ, 6.30-11pm, £5, www.skiddle.com

Image: Ottawa Critical Mass