As the weather changes and the days get shorter, weve listed our top 5 activities to enjoy with your children during autumn:

1. Woodland Walk and Wildlife Spotting

Why it’s fun: The UK boasts beautiful forests and woodlands, especially in autumn when the leaves turn golden and red. Go on a nature walk through your local woodland area. Encourage your children to spot native wildlife such as squirrels, deer, and birds. They can collect leaves, acorns, and conkers for crafts later.

Bonus: Many woodland areas have accessible paths, making this a great activity for all ages.

2. Pumpkin Picking and Carving

Why it’s fun: Visiting pumpkin farms is becoming increasingly popular. Take your kids to a local pumpkin patch, where they can pick their own pumpkins. Afterwards, set up a cosy space at home for a pumpkin-carving session.

Bonus idea: Use the pumpkin flesh to bake delicious autumn treats like pumpkin scones or soup.

3. Leaf Art and Conker Creations

Why it’s fun: For those rainy autumn days, bring the outdoors inside with a creative craft session. Collect fallen leaves and conkers during your outdoor walks and use them to create fun autumn-themed art. Try leaf printing with paint, or string conkers to make decorations.

Craft Ideas: Create autumn leaf garlands, and conker animals, or even use leaves to make decorative wreaths for your home.

4. Explore a Corn Maze or Halloween Event

Why it’s fun: Many farms and country estates offer family-friendly corn mazes and halloween events along with harvest festivals. Harvest festivals are also a big autumn tradition, with activities like apple pressing, cider tasting (for adults!), and tractor rides.

Tip: Many farms also feature petting zoos and playgrounds for younger kids, making this a whole-day event.

5. Cosy Indoor Movie Night 

Why it’s fun: As the evenings get darker earlier, have a family movie night at home with some cosy autumn vibes. Watch family-friendly autumn or Halloween movies, like “Wallace and Gromit,” “Paddington,” or something fun like “Room on the Broom.” Serve warm drinks like hot chocolate and seasonal snacks such as baked apples, spiced biscuits, or toffee apples.

Bonus Idea: Let your children help prepare the snacks as a mini kitchen adventure before settling in for the movie.

And don’t forget we will be running our Halloween Fun Weeks during this October half term