Getting outside during autumn can be refreshing, invigorating and lots of fun, although a little planning might be needed to ensure you are prepared for all eventualities! Just as summer can usually be categorized by sun cream, hats and sunglasses (although this year has a lot to answer for!), autumn is a perfect time for jackets and wellies to ensure you can enjoy an epic adventure.
We've gathered our top 5 activities to enjoy during your autumn stay at one of our farms. Perfect for all ages, these ideas will help you make the most of the beautiful outdoors.
1. Night time nature walk
One of the unique perks of staying on a farm in autumn is the chance to encounter wildlife that you might miss in spring or summer. As the nights draw in, you can discover a host of nocturnal animals without staying up past your bedtime. Keep your eyes peeled for bats darting between the trees, listen for the distinctive hoot of a nearby barn owl, or, if you're lucky, spot a badger rustling through the meadow or a fox wandering around the fields.
2. Watch the sunset or sunrise
Autumn offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy breath-taking sunrises and sunsets. With a freshness in the air, you'll breath in the crisp morning air without feeling a winter chill, as you watch the warm glow appear over the horizon with promises of an adventurous day ahead.
If sunsets are more your preference, especially on the west coast, gather around a cosy campfire, toast some marshmallows, and enjoy the stunning array of colours as the sun sets and the moon takes over.
3. Make a nature picture from a scavenger hunt
Looking for a fun way to engage the kids while spending time together? A scavenger hunt is the perfect solution. You can explore various environments around you at the farm, from meadows to woodlands, and capture elements from each. Why not look for pinecones and twigs in the woods, a collection of stones and shells on the beach or blades of grass and autumnal wildflowers like teasels or yellow hawkbits in surrounding fields. And no autumn hunt would be complete without gathering an assortment of colourful leaves.
Once your collection is complete, use your findings to create a unique nature picture, perhaps recreating the farm itself or crafting something more imaginative, like your favourite meal or a self-portrait.
4. Conker hunt and competition
One of the top activities that brings smiles to both young and old alike is a conker competition. Gather up the best conkers from a nearby oak tree, grab some string and let the games begin! Armed with your prized conkers, you'll engage in friendly battles of skill and strategy, aiming to conquer your opponents' chestnuts with a well-aimed strike. Truly treasured moments together in the great outdoors, with laughter filling the air with this timeless game for all ages. For added fun, organize a tournament with a "winner stays on" format—just be sure to have plenty of spare conkers so everyone gets a turn!
5. Meet the animals
No farm stay would be complete without spending some time with the animals and learning about farm life. From cows and sheep to ponies and dogs, each of our locations is home to a variety of friendly creatures. As the weather cools, some animals are brought inside, giving you an up-close opportunity to meet them. Start your day by greeting the cows cosy in their shed as you pick up fresh eggs from the honesty shop, or visit the stables to meet and groom the ponies—a memorable experience for all ages.
Preparation is key for an autumnal farm stay but the joy and laughter that you experience will create treasured memories to last the whole year through. Embrace the season’s magic, soak in the vibrant beauty of autumn, and savour every moment of rural life during your stay.
