Hemel pumpkin trail could help families discover preloved books and gifts before Christmas

A free Halloween pumpkin hunt around Hemel Hempstead town centre offers families more than a half-term outing this October. Its route includes charity shops where parents can look for affordable books and second-hand finds, just as many households begin thinking about Christmas presents. Kidora, the UK marketplace for preloved baby and children's items, is encouraging families to consider what can be enjoyed again rather than assuming every gift has to be new.

Organised by Hemel Hempstead BID, the Halloween Pumpkin Trail runs from Saturday 24 October to Sunday 1 November 2026. Ten pumpkins decorated by local primary schools will be displayed in participating businesses. Families can collect a leaflet and entry form from Riverside, Marlowes or a participating shop, write down the pumpkins' names and submit their completed form at Riverside for a chance to win a £50 town-centre shopping voucher. The trail is free to take part in.

Two of the official stops are the Lions Charity Bookshop and Barnardo's Charity Shop. For parents planning ahead, the Lions Bookshop is worth exploring beyond the pumpkin hunt itself. Run by volunteers from six local Lions clubs, it sells second-hand books, including a dedicated children's section, alongside jigsaws and other donated items. Purchases support charitable causes, and the range changes as stock is donated.

There are further family-focused options in town, although they are not official stops on the trail. Alternatives runs a Mother & Baby Charity Shop at Unit 3, 160 Marlowes, offering good-quality second-hand clothes, equipment, toys and books for babies and children up to eight years old, as well as maternity items. The National Animal Welfare Trust shop at 135 Marlowes also lists preloved children's clothing, toys and books among its goods, with proceeds supporting its animal welfare work. Families should check opening hours and availability before making a special journey.

These shops and the Halloween event operate independently of Kidora. Together, however, they show how much choice can exist outside the full-price toy aisle. A small stack of age-appropriate storybooks, a complete jigsaw or a carefully chosen toy can be just as welcome at Christmas as something bought brand new.

For families wanting to browse beyond what happens to be available in one shop, Kidora lets UK parents search listings from other parents for children's books, toys, clothing and baby essentials. Sellers can also list unused or unwanted new gifts. Prices and availability depend on individual listings, and there is no guarantee of a particular product being available in Hemel Hempstead. Some items may be offered free for local collection; delivery choices and any buyer-protection charges should be checked before paying.

A little care is worthwhile when buying preloved. Check the item's age suitability, ask about any missing pieces and inspect the photographs for wear. For baby equipment, verify safety guidance and recalls rather than choosing solely on price.

This half-term, the free pumpkin trail could be a fun way to discover the town's shops together. And as Christmas approaches, taking time to compare new, unused and preloved choices may leave more of the family budget for days out and shared experiences.

Explore preloved baby and children's items on Kidora: https://kidora.uk