10 Fun Autumn Family Days Out
What says Autumn more than the sound of crunching leaves under your feet, searching for conkers and the beautiful red and gold hues of the leaves? We love this time of year and there are plenty of places around the UK to visit and take it all in.
The colder weather is setting in so before embarking on a family day out, make sure to put on plenty of warm layers and a pair of warm socks and wellies. Looking for somewhere to go this weekend or over half term? We've put a list of places to visit with the family to inspire an adventure this autumn. Make sure to check booking requirements before travelling.
1) Blickling Estate, Norfolk
Nestled in the Norfolk countryside and with over 4,600 acres of woodland, parkland and farmland to discover, Blickling Estate is a gem and particularly attractive at this time of year. Grab a map of the gardens and look out for the secret tunnels, perfect for a family game of hide and seek! You can even bring your bikes and explore the estate on two wheels or bring a picnic to enjoy in the peaceful surroundings.
2) Richmond Park, London
Escape the hustle and bustle and take in the glorious autumnal colours with a walk or cycle around Richmond Park. The park is a national nature reserve so keep an eye out along the way for wildlife, plants and trees. The park is also famous for red and fallow deer which roam freely throughout so keep your eyes peeled and see how many your little ones can spot!
3) Sheffield Park, East Sussex
Explore the beautiful gardens and soak up the colours at Sheffield Park this Autumn. The kids can run wild at Ringwood Toll, the natural play area nestled in the woodland, where they can climb trees, build dens and have a go at orienteering. Make sure to book your trip ahead as you'll need a booking before you can explore.
4) Cardinham Woods, Cornwall
Embark on your own woodland adventure with the family at Cardinham Woods in central Cornwall. Explore on foot or take your bikes as there's plenty of walking and cycle trails to be investigated. Don't forget plenty of tasty snacks for hungry little tummies after all that fresh air!
5) Westonbirt National Arboretum, Gloucestershire
With more than 16,000 types of trees and shrubs in over 600 acres of woodland, there's plenty of opportunities to soak up the beautiful colours of Autumn and you might even bump into a Gruffalo or one of his friends! Why not see if your children can find all the sculptures and then head to the natural play trail and keep an eye out for the mystical troll bridge. Don't forget to book before visiting.
6) Cragside, Northumberland
There's over 1,000 acres to explore at Cragside and there's plenty of walks to suit all. Young explorers will love the newly extended play area with plenty to climb and play on. The landscape at Cragside is naturally rocky and hilly so make sure to bring sturdy footwear with you. Did you know, the house at Cragside was the first to have electricity?
7) Wicken Fen, Cambridgeshire
There's plenty to keep the family occupied with a trip to Wicken Fen this Autumn. There's lots of walking options available - take a stroll around the all-weather Boardwalk, embark on an adventure on the woodland walk or enjoy a longer walk on the Adventurers’ trail or beyond.
8) Winkworth Arboretum
This is a beautiful place to take in all the colours of autumn. As well as walking routes to be explored, there's a wetlands area (including a bridge made from recycled plastic bottles) and a tea room to refuel. There's also a fun adventure playground to be explored, made using oak trees from the Arboretum.
9) Moors Valley Country Park & Forest, Hampshire
Pick up a trail map at the visitor centre and embark on a 1.5 mile adventure along a pushchair friendly route with the whole family. Take a trip on the Moors Valley Railway or make the most of the many cycle routes on site for a great family day out.