10 ideas for fun autumn activities

You may be able to access discounts as part of your employee benefits. These allow you to save money on restaurant meals, cinema tickets, travel, and family days out. Many are available as e-vouchers on your mobile phone, making it quick and easy to save while you shop. Don’t forget to check if you could save! 

1. Go for a country walk

Studies have shown that there’s a connection between spending time in nature and reduced stress, anxiety, and depression. Just 90 minutes in a natural environment lowers blood pressure, soothes the mind and decreases levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

Head out into your local green space to get some free eco therapy. The forest is a good choice at this time of year – you can see the trees change colour and kick up fallen leaves. There’s also the chance to spot wildlife before they hibernate for the winter.

2. Halloween

Go all out this year with our spooktacular suggestions:

• Hand out spooky sweets for trick or treaters
• Create costumes for little monsters
• Pick your own pumpkin for carving
• Decorate your not-so-haunted home
• Share a monster feast with family and friends.

3. Join the cosy club

Rainy day? No problem - dig out a blanket and snuggle up on the sofa with a film. Other ways to unwind include soaking in a warm bath, sipping a hot chocolate, and relaxing in front of a blazing  fire.

4. Family adventures for half term

Check your employee benefits app to see if you can access discounts on family days out.

• Animal lovers of all ages will be delighted by a trip to the zoo, aquarium, nature reserve or safari park. It’s a great way to learn about the natural world and the amazing creatures that inhabit it.
• Give your kids a chance to be king or queen of the castle with a historic day out. Many castles run special events for half-term, offering everything from dressing up to jousting!
• Daredevils can enjoy thrills and spills at theme parks, or swing through the treetops at an outdoor adventure course.

5. Fireworks

Fireworks are popular at events like Guy Fawkes’ Day or Diwali. Enjoy a spectacular show at a large public display or host your own in the back garden. If you’re having a firework party at home, be sure to make the occasion fun and safe for everyone by following the Firework Code, as well as some sparkler and bonfire safety tips.

6. Cycling

Get active and explore scenic countryside on your bike, gliding past historic landmarks, seeing epic scenery and feeling fresh air on your face.

Plus, it’s fantastic for your mental and physical health. Regular cycling is proven to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke. It can help keep your weight under control, strengthen your bones, and boost your immune system so you are less likely to fall ill. 

7. Food

Farewell summer salads – as the weather turns it’s all about hearty warming food that’s made for sharing with family and friends. Check out recipes here for comfort food like casseroles, pies, and indulgent puds. 

8. A day at the seaside

Autumn is a great time to visit the beach. The summer holiday crowds are gone so you can enjoy a peaceful walk or run. If you’re feeling brave, you can pull on a wetsuit and dive into swimming and surfing along the British coast.  

9. Take in a show

Live events are back! There’s so much to enjoy, from the magic of live theatre to watching new releases at the cinema. Music concerts are also back so you can catch up with all your favourite artists.

10. Gardening

Gardening is not only rewarding but it gets you exercising in the fresh air, positively impacting your wellbeing. Whatever the weather, get stuck in with these top tips for autumn in your garden:

• Now is the best time to plant trees as they are able to get their roots settled and established through the winter.
• Brighten things up with some winter bedding plants. They are ideal for tubs, containers and window boxes, and include a variety of plants, from pansies to heathers and small bulbs. They’ll keep you going right through to next spring.
• Just a small amount of tidying can bring satisfying results. Trim branches, sweep up fallen leaves, clear brambles, and carry out repairs.