As the crisp autumn air settles in and the trees begin to show off their fiery hues of red, orange, and gold, October is one of the most magical months in the UK. Whether you’re looking for spooky thrills for Halloween or simply want to embrace the beauty of autumn, there’s something for everyone during this vibrant time of year.
At Artsy Mats, we know that welcoming guests with a stylish doormat sets the perfect tone for the season, but once you’re out and about, here are some exciting activities you won’t want to miss this October!
1. Halloween-Themed Events and Attractions
For thrill-seekers and lovers of the supernatural, the UK has a host of spooky attractions to explore in October. From haunted castles to pumpkin patches, there’s no shortage of eerie experiences to get you into the Halloween spirit!
Visit a Haunted Castle: Britain’s rich history of ghostly legends makes it the perfect place to experience a haunted Halloween. Check out Edinburgh Castle or Chillingham Castle in Northumberland, both known for their eerie histories and paranormal activity. Guided ghost tours bring the legends to life and immerse you in the spine-tingling atmosphere.
Explore Spooky London: If you’re in the capital, take a London Ghost Tour or venture into the eerie depths of the London Dungeon. You’ll encounter stories of Jack the Ripper, haunted graveyards, and more, all while soaking in the city’s gothic charm.
Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes: Pick your own pumpkins at farms like Foxes Farm in Essex or Secretts of Surrey and navigate through their corn mazes. These family-friendly spots offer everything from hayrides to scarecrow contests, making for a perfect day out with kids.
2. Seasonal Walks and Autumn Colours
Autumn in the UK means stunning natural landscapes, perfect for peaceful walks and scenic drives. The UK countryside becomes a photographer’s dream, with golden leaves and soft, misty mornings.
Explore the Cotswolds: The rolling hills and charming villages of the Cotswolds are even more beautiful in autumn. Walking trails like The Cotswold Way offer breath taking views, and you’ll find cosy pubs along the way where you can warm up with a hot cider or tea.
Visit National Trust Gardens and Woodlands: Head to places like Stourhead in Wiltshire or Sheffield Park in East Sussex to see ancient trees in their autumn glory. Many National Trust locations also host seasonal activities like guided nature walks and harvest celebrations, so you can make the most of this beautiful time of year.
Forest Adventures: Take a day trip to The New Forest or Epping Forest to enjoy miles of woodland trails. In October, you’ll witness a palette of autumn colours as well as wildlife preparing for the winter months. Pack a picnic or stop by a local tea room for some hearty autumn fare.
3. Bonfire Night Preparations
Although it falls just after Halloween, Bonfire Night is a beloved tradition in the UK, celebrated on November 5th. Throughout October, many places start preparing for this night of fireworks, bonfires, and toffee apples.
Find a Local Bonfire Night Event: Large cities like London and Manchester host huge displays, but smaller towns and villages often have more intimate, family-friendly gatherings. The tradition dates back to 1605, when Guy Fawkes attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament. Expect effigies, crackling bonfires, and of course, stunning firework shows.
Create Your Own Bonfire Night: If you prefer something more personal, invite friends and family over for your own backyard bonfire. Stock up on marshmallows, sausages, and sparklers. Don’t forget to place a seasonal doormat by your door to welcome guests in style – whether they’re trick-or-treaters or coming to enjoy your cosy autumn gathering.
4. Seasonal Food and Markets
Autumn is also the season of comfort food. From hearty stews to indulgent pies, you’ll find no shortage of seasonal flavours to enjoy this October.
Visit a Harvest Festival or Food Market: Many villages hold traditional harvest festivals, celebrating the season’s bounty with fresh produce and homemade goods. Local markets are filled with pumpkins, apples, and squash, perfect for cooking up a storm at home. You can also visit the Abergavenny Food Festival or Ludlow Food Festival, both of which offer a fantastic range of autumn treats and local flavours.
Cosy up with Autumnal Drinks: After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than warming up with a hot drink. Many local cafés and coffee shops introduce autumn-themed menus with drinks like spiced apple cider, pumpkin spice lattes, and warming hot chocolates. Treat yourself after a day spent in the fresh, crisp air.
5. Halloween Movie Nights
Finally, for those who prefer to enjoy the season from the comfort of home, there’s nothing like a Halloween movie marathon to get into the spooky spirit. Whether you enjoy classics like Hocus Pocus or something more spine-chilling like The Haunting of Hill House, get your snacks ready, grab a blanket, and settle in for a cosy evening.
Make Your Home a Cosy Autumn Haven
October is all about embracing the season, whether you’re outdoors enjoying nature or inside snuggled up for a spooky movie. One way to set the tone for your autumn is to update your home décor with seasonal touches. A well-chosen autumn doormat can add a welcoming vibe to your doorstep, ready to greet guests and trick-or-treaters alike.
At Artsy Mats, we offer a range of autumnal and Halloween-themed doormats that are perfect for the season. Whether you love whimsical pumpkins, spooky designs, or simply a cosy autumn feel, we’ve got just the thing to make your home feel festive and inviting.
So, whether you’re braving the haunted castles or simply enjoying the beauty of autumn, we hope this season brings you all the joy and magic October has to offer! And don’t forget to take a look at our doormat collection to keep your home looking fabulous all season long.
