Illustration of a holiday show scene (Caveat Emptor – A Ghost Story for Christmas)
Christmas Shows

Caveat Emptor – A Ghost Story for Christmas

'Caveat Emptor – A Ghost Story for Christmas' is a promenade performance at Samlesbury Hall. The 14th-century manor hosts a family-friendly ghost story by Edith Wharton, unfolding room by room.

What to Expect

Immersive promenade ghost play in a historic haunted hall

Event Details

Duration

40 minutes

Ages

Family-friendly, but may not be suitable for very young children who may get scared.

Timed Entry

Yes

Featured Performers

  • AtmosFEAR! Scare Entertainment

Organizer

Samlesbury Hall

Food & Drink

Maria's Tea Room and The Garden Room Eatery are available at Samlesbury Hall, though not explicitly mentioned for this event.

Get Tickets

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (4/5)

Best For

Fans of ghost stories and immersive theatre

Vibe

Spooky, atmospheric, historic, theatrical

Energy Level

Moderate (requires standing and moving)

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (2/5)

Weather Sensitivity

None (indoor event)

Location

Samlesbury Hall
Preston New Road
Samlesbury, Lancashire
PR5 0UP

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
  • Accessibility: The experience includes low lighting levels, uneven floors, steps up and down, strobe lighting, and sound effects. Visitors are advised to use facilities before entering as there are no toilets inside. Bags or anything disguising the face are not allowed.
  • Pets: No pets allowed

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive at least 15 minutes before your booked time slot, but no more than 30 minutes prior, to ensure a smooth entry.
  • Use the facilities before entering the performance, as there are no restrooms available once the immersive experience begins.
  • Turn off mobile phones and refrain from using any form of light, including phone screens, to avoid spoiling the atmosphere for others.
  • Be prepared for a standing-room-only experience; the 'promenade theatre' style means audiences move between scenes and remain standing throughout.
  • Consider the show's nature as a ghost play; while family-friendly, it may be too intense for very young or easily frightened children.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Sixth annual Christmas ghost play
  • Immersive promenade performance
  • Adaptation of Edith Wharton's 'Afterward'

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'promenade theatre' style?

It means the audience is guided from scene to scene by a performer and remains standing throughout the entire 40-minute performance.

Are there any age restrictions?

The play is designed for families, but it may not be suitable for very young children who might be scared by the ghost story elements.

Can I take photos or videos during the performance?

No, photography or recording of any kind is strictly forbidden to maintain the immersive atmosphere.

What should I do if I lose something during the experience?

Searches for lost items can only be conducted the following day, so it's best to keep belongings secure.

What are the accessibility considerations?

The venue has low lighting, uneven floors, steps, strobe lighting, and sound effects. Visitors should use restrooms beforehand as there are none inside the performance area.

Tags

theaterfamily friendlyholiday entertainmentseasonal activitiesghost storyhistoric houseinteractive displayscommunity celebration

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team