Castles by mid-morning. Woodland by lunch. A cosy pint by dusk.

Sunday is the one to circle for families, as the National Space Centre transforms into a place of wonder for Spooky Space: The Science of Magic. Expect science shows, magical demonstrations and hands-on workshops wrapped in a Halloween atmosphere that will have young visitors absolutely captivated. It is the kind of day out that gets talked about all the way home, so booking ahead is well worth doing if you want to secure your spot before half term excitement takes over. Friday evening offers a genuinely lovely choice of ways to spend your time. The Meridian Wind Quintet opens the new concert season at Emmanuel Church in Leicester, bringing warmth and elegance to a lunchtime that could easily stretch into an afternoon. Over in Loughborough, Charnwood Museum hosts a fascinating talk on the Shelthorpe Estate centenary, perfect for curious minds who enjoy local history with real depth. And if laughter is the priority, Aurie Styla brings his acclaimed Maverick show to Leicestershire, promising sharp wit and effortless charm from one of the most engaging comics currently touring. Saturday turns the dial up beautifully. Leicester Cathedral hosts Vivaldi's Four Seasons and The Lark Ascending by candlelight, a programme that also includes Mozart's sparkling Marriage of Figaro overture and his Flute Quartet in D. The atmosphere alone is worth the trip. Meanwhile, Loughborough Town Hall welcomes Luther Live and Velvet Voices for a soulful evening of rich, velvety performance, and Hinckley's Halloween Family Treasure Hunt gives younger adventurers a brilliant reason to explore the town's streets with a map and a mission. For your base or your between-event breathing space, Highcross Leicester delivers fashion, food, tech and a rather entertaining round of indoor mini golf, making it the ideal spot for a relaxed Saturday afternoon with the family. A short drive away, the beautifully restored 1620s House and Garden in Ashby de la Zouch offers period gardens, a charming barn tearoom and a genuinely peaceful step back through the centuries. And if you are staying overnight, Novotel Leicester puts you right in the heart of the city, with comfortable rooms and a stylish restaurant to settle into after an evening at the cathedral or a show. Friday brings partly cloudy skies and a comfortable 17 degrees, ideal for getting out and about as the weekend begins. Saturday stays dry but cooler, while Sunday turns overcast with temperatures around 12 degrees, so pack a layer and perhaps a brolly for Saturday evening. A warm tearoom at 1620s House or a relaxed drink at Novotel's bar will feel very welcome indeed. Whatever pace suits you best this weekend, Leicestershire has something genuinely worth showing up for.