The leaves are changing colour, the air is chilly, and the nights are drawing in. Autumn’s here – hooray! The UK transforms into a scenic landscape of golden hues, crisp air, and a host of exciting activities and events.
It’s time to wrap up warm, tuck into your favourite comfort food, and enjoy as the leaves crisp up and fall from the trees. Autumn is one of the best seasons, so here are a few things to look forward to over the next couple of months…
The kaleidoscope of colour
A very distinct feature that marks autumn season is the leaves changing colour. From fresh green leaves to vibrant reds, oranges and yellows, the trees transform the landscapes, making autumn the perfect season to take some scenic snaps and spend time in the great outdoors. We recommend a trip to the New Forest or Sherwood Forest to immerse yourself in seasonal splendour.
The autumn shades can brighten up your mood. Yellow is associated with cheerfulness and red can boost confidence and improve attention span.
Indulgent roast dinners return
During the summer months, roast dinners are sometimes forgotten about. But now there is a chill in the air and the nights are drawing in fast, it’s time to say goodbye to fresh salads, hot dogs and burgers and welcome back hearty meals, just like the British roast dinner. Does a yorkie belong on all roasts?!
Pumpkin pickingÂ
Pumpkin picking has become very popular across the UK, offering a fun activity for families and friends. Visiting a pumpkin patch not only gives you the chance to pick the perfect pumpkin for Halloween carving but also a lovely autumnal day out amidst the pretty scenery. Popular spots include Ashover Family Farm and Maxey’s Farm Shop.
Autumn walks
Autumn has got to be the most picturesque season, and we’re fortunate that there are many autumn rambles to explore when the season begins to change. The Lake District, with its mirror-like lakes and rugged fells, is mesmerising at this time of year, as is the dramatic coast of Cornwall.What’s better than wrapping up warm, venturing out into the beautiful landscapes and stopping off for a tipple at the pub? Ahh – we can’t wait.
YHA Festival of Walking takes place this autumn. And you can get involved by taking part in one of our guided social walks or taking the festival at your own pace by using one of our self-guided maps. The perfect way to discover the beauty around us.
Remember, remember the fifth of November
What event just screams autumn? You guessed it – Bonfire Night. Watching glittering balls of fire shoot through the skies, the smell of sizzling burgers, sweet candy floss and bonfire toffee and the roaring bonfire. What more could you want on an autumn evening with loved ones? Bonfire Night is a perfect way to warm up the cool November evenings.
Sunrises and sunsets
As the days are getting shorter and colder, the skies are getting brighter and bolder. From orange and red to pink and purple, it’s such a pretty sight seeing the sky full of spectacular colour. Where’s your favourite sunrise and sunset watching spot? We recommend Mam Tor in Castleton for sunrise and Broad Haven beach at sunset!
Moons and starry skies
Look out for the glorious Harvest Moon which marks the beginning of autumn. This wonderful spectacle falls around two weeks after the autumn equinox and traditionally aided farmers to harvest crops into the night. Accompanied by clear, starry skies, it’s a wonderful sight on an evening stroll.
Wildlife watching
Autumn is an interesting time for wildlife enthusiasts. As the leaves fall, it becomes easier to spot animals in their natural habitats. The UK’s forests and nature reserves are buzzing with life, from deer rutting in the Peak District to migrating birds in Norfolk. October is also prime time for seal watching along the coast, especially in Norfolk, where you can see adorable pups being born. Something for the whole family to enjoy!
Discover more autumn escapes with YHA.
Photo credit: denis_333 / Leigh / I-Wei Huang / Brent Hofacker / rdonar / grki / worranam2w / Adobe Stock
