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Beautiful Scottish village that hosts a haunted Halloween duck race

The New Lanark duck races are such a popular event, that they have returned, this time with a Halloween theme, and they're heading straight for the lade.

A stunning Scottish village close is putting on a Haunted Duck Race this Halloween for families to enjoy.


Running this Halloween weekend (November 1 and 2), the New Lanark duck races have proved so popular that they've made a comeback, this time with a spooky twist, and they're racing straight down the lade.


A spokesperson for New Lanark said: "Something strange is happening... legend has it that on the day of the Autumn moon, the old mill's Halloween magic has awakened, and the lade is now a portal of power. Only the fastest duck can break the spell. Cheer them on in our first-ever Haunted Duck Race this Halloween weekend."


When the race kicks off, organisers reveal the water will turn an unsettling green, whilst the Halloween-themed rubber ducks appear to develop minds of their own, with some racing forward as though possessed, whilst others whirl in circles as if bewitched.

Word on the street suggests that one of the ducks contains the Halloween prize, and whichever duck crosses the line first will break the New Lanark curse, reports Glasgow Live.


They explained that the ducks in their creepy fashion may encounter "phantom gusts" (fans or water jets) that could create havoc, and "swamp fog" (bubble or smoke machines) drifts in to hide the finish line.

Spectators are encouraged to support their chosen duck to help give it a surge of "magic speed."

The victor will be greeted at the finish line with a prize, earning them the title of Keeper of the Lade for the following year, whilst the spectre of the Halloween Duck will materialise to either congratulate the winner or warn them that the curse is far from over.


Enthusiasts can anticipate the Haunted Hatchlings Duck Race, Pumpkin Decorating, the Annie McLeod Ride – Halloween Edition, and even a scavenger hunt.

The Daily Record

Scottish getaways

New Lanark Haunted Hatchlings Duck Race.

When: 1st and 2nd November, from 10 am until 4 pm.


Where: New Lanark.

Price: £8 per child · Adults enter FREE, Purchase Halloween Weekend Tickets online - New Lanark.

What's included:.


Haunted Hatchlings Duck Race

Each child ticket includes one duck entry into the race. Your chosen time is for the race itself, but you're invited to partake in all other activities throughout the day.

Prizes for winning ducks: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place!

Races at 12 pm and 2 pm.


Pumpkin Decorating

Unleash your creativity and design your own eerie pumpkin. Awards given for the best crafted designs!

Annie McLeod Ride

Halloween Edition Experience the classic ride with a chilling seasonal twist.


Ghost Tree Messaging

Leave a message for the spirit of Annie McLeod and participate in a unique Halloween tradition.

Cotton Trails Scavenger Hunt - Autumn Edition

Discover New Lanark with a seasonal spin on our popular self-guided trail.

Costumes encouraged Gather your family and friends for an enchanting autumn adventure filled with mystery, creativity, and Halloween merriment.

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