Things To Do in Autumn

by Mar Bitor

Autumn is one of the most magical times of the year. The air turns crisp, the trees explode with colour, and cosy nights in feel better than ever. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cosy indoor ideas, or fun activities to enjoy with friends and family, there’s so much you can do to make the most of the season.

In this post, I’ll share a variety of things we like to do in autumn inspired by some of the best seasonal guides. You’ll find simple, fun, and affordable ideas to help you embrace the cosy vibes of autumn. 

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Outdoor Autumn Activities

Spending time outside is one of the easiest ways to enjoy this season. Wrap up warm, step into nature, and let autumn’s beauty inspire you.

Go for an Autumn Walk

Head to a local park or forest and enjoy the crunch of leaves under your feet. You can even make it a scavenger hunt with kids by spotting acorns, pinecones, or colourful leaves. I find this guide really handy for choosing where to go for a walk in Leeds. 

Try Apple or Pumpkin Picking

Visiting a local farm or orchard is a classic autumn day out. Not only do you get fresh produce, but you also create memories with family or friends. We love apple picking to a point where we pick so many apples, we don't know what to do with it! 

Attend an Autumn Festival or Market Fair

From harvest festivals to window shop displays, autumn festivals are full of charm. Look out for local craft stalls, food trucks, and live music to make the most of it. We are regulars at Meanwood Market in Leeds, which happens every third Sunday of the month!

Enjoy a Bonfire Night

Nothing feels cosier than gathering around a firepit with marshmallows, hot drinks, and good company. Remember, remember the 5th of November! 

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Cosy Indoor Autumn Activities

When the days get darker and colder, there’s no better excuse to stay indoors and embrace all things hygge.

Cook or Bake Something Seasonal

Try a pork and apple casserole, an apple cake, or even caramel apples. We find that autumn is the time that we start inviting friends and family around for a meal. It is time to flex our culinary skills! 

Watch Autumn Films or Read a Book

Create a rainy-day ritual. Curl up with a blanket, your favourite drink, and a cosy book—or plan a movie marathon with seasonal classics. Lord of the Rings is always a must watch for us this time of the year! 

Try Autumn Crafts

From pumpkin carving to painting pinecones, small seasonal crafts can brighten up your home. Even making a harvest wreath with leaves, nuts, and cones adds instant autumn vibes.

Light an Autumn Candle

Scents like Pumpkin Spice, Gingerbread, Sweet Tobacco, Autumn Fruits bring autumn indoors. Pair this with a bubble bath or a good podcast for the ultimate cosy night in. Can't decide which autumn scent to choose? This may help The Ultimate Scent Guide for Autumn.

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Food and Drink Ideas for Autumn

Autumn is all about comfort food and warming drinks.

• Swap your usual coffee for pumpkin spice, chai, or maple-flavoured lattes.

• Make mulled cider or spiced hot chocolate.

• Treat yourself to a cinnamon bun or try seasonal pastries at a local café.

• Host a potluck or Friendsgiving with hearty dishes everyone can share.

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Family-Friendly Autumn Activities

If you’ve got kids—or you just want to tap into your inner child—these activities are perfect.

• Collect nature’s treasures like acorns, pinecones, and colourful leaves to display at home.

• Carve pumpkins together with silly faces, words, or patterns.

• Go on a family photoshoot in a park full of autumn colours.

• Spend a weekend baking cookies, pies, or toffee apples.

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Self-Care and Soulful Activities

Autumn is also a great time to slow down and care for yourself.

• Treat yourself to a new scarf or coat in autumn shades.

• Start a seasonal reading list or create a playlist of autumnal music.

• Strengthen your skincare routine with moisturisers and scented hand creams.

• Volunteer at a food bank or soup kitchen—it’s a lovely way to give back.

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FAQ About Things To Do in Autumn

What are the most popular autumn activities?

Pumpkin picking, apple picking, attending fall festivals, watching Halloween movies, and cooking seasonal recipes are some of the most loved activities.

What can I do at home in autumn?

You can bake, light scented candles, read, watch films, carve pumpkins, try new hot drinks, or relax with a bubble bath. Small things make a big difference.

What are fun outdoor activities for families in autumn?

Family favourites include scavenger hunts, bonfires, farm visits, jumping in piles of leaves, and attending fireworks displays.

What foods and drinks are best in autumn?

Think hearty meals and spiced drinks—soups, casseroles, apple pies, pumpkin treats, chai lattes, mulled cider, and hot chocolate with cinnamon.

How do I make autumn more cosy?

Focus on warmth, light, and comfort. Use blankets, candles, seasonal scents, and comforting food. Balance outdoor adventures with cosy evenings in.

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Final Thoughts

Autumn is full of opportunities to slow down, connect, and enjoy life’s little pleasures. Whether you’re out in nature, in the kitchen, or curled up at home, there’s always something special to do.

So grab your coat, light that candle, or pick up a book—it’s time to make this autumn your cosiest yet.